Substantive equality and affirmative action in the workplace
- Authors: Nconco, Mpumelelo
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Equality before the law -- South Africa , Discrimination in employment -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , Affirmative action programs -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , Labor laws and legislation -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , LLM
- Identifier: vital:10196 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1617 , Equality before the law -- South Africa , Discrimination in employment -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , Affirmative action programs -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , Labor laws and legislation -- South Africa
- Description: During the apartheid era in South Africa there was an unequivocal commitment to white supremacy, segregation and inequality. Discrimination but not on the basis of race was entrenched by the pre-democratic government. The 1980‟s saw the first steps towards reversing such practices through various measures, in the form of formal equality. Formal equality holds that the state must be act neutrally in relation to its employees and must favour no one above another. It assumes that all people are equal and that inequality can be eradicated simply by treating all people in the same way. Formal equality is therefore blind to structural inequality. Substantive equality in contrast to formal equality holds the value that equality is not simply a matter of likeness, that those who are different should be treated differently. The very essence of equality is to make distinction between groups and individual in order to accommodate their different needs and interests. It considers discrimination against groups which have been historically advantaged to be qualitatively aimed at remedying that disadvantage. The Constitution Act 108 of 1996 confers the right to equal protection and benefit of the law and the right to non discrimination. Prohibition of unfair discrimination in itself is insufficient to achieve true equality in a historically oppressed society. Hard affirmative action measures are required, the Constitution further explicitly endorses such restitutionary measures. Affirmative action is a systematic, planned process whereby the effects of colonialism and racial discrimination are being reversed in all areas if life. It is designed to achieve equal employment opportunities. In order to achieve this goal the barriers of the workplace which restrict employment and progressive opportunities have to be systematically eliminated through proactive programmes. Affirmative action is a delicate instrument of social engineering which must be used with caution. The Employment Equity Act 55 of 1998 gives effect to the constitutional provisions and to regulate affirmative action measures in employment. The Employment Equity Act spells out the beneficiaries, who should do the protection, and advancement and what may happen to employers if they fail to comply in the view of the Director-General of the Labour. However the explicit constitutional and legislative endorsement of affirmative action comes with its controversy and legal challenges and it has been left to the courts to resolve tension on the one hand and to ensure equal treatment on the other. , Abstract
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Nconco, Mpumelelo
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Equality before the law -- South Africa , Discrimination in employment -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , Affirmative action programs -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , Labor laws and legislation -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , LLM
- Identifier: vital:10196 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1617 , Equality before the law -- South Africa , Discrimination in employment -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , Affirmative action programs -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , Labor laws and legislation -- South Africa
- Description: During the apartheid era in South Africa there was an unequivocal commitment to white supremacy, segregation and inequality. Discrimination but not on the basis of race was entrenched by the pre-democratic government. The 1980‟s saw the first steps towards reversing such practices through various measures, in the form of formal equality. Formal equality holds that the state must be act neutrally in relation to its employees and must favour no one above another. It assumes that all people are equal and that inequality can be eradicated simply by treating all people in the same way. Formal equality is therefore blind to structural inequality. Substantive equality in contrast to formal equality holds the value that equality is not simply a matter of likeness, that those who are different should be treated differently. The very essence of equality is to make distinction between groups and individual in order to accommodate their different needs and interests. It considers discrimination against groups which have been historically advantaged to be qualitatively aimed at remedying that disadvantage. The Constitution Act 108 of 1996 confers the right to equal protection and benefit of the law and the right to non discrimination. Prohibition of unfair discrimination in itself is insufficient to achieve true equality in a historically oppressed society. Hard affirmative action measures are required, the Constitution further explicitly endorses such restitutionary measures. Affirmative action is a systematic, planned process whereby the effects of colonialism and racial discrimination are being reversed in all areas if life. It is designed to achieve equal employment opportunities. In order to achieve this goal the barriers of the workplace which restrict employment and progressive opportunities have to be systematically eliminated through proactive programmes. Affirmative action is a delicate instrument of social engineering which must be used with caution. The Employment Equity Act 55 of 1998 gives effect to the constitutional provisions and to regulate affirmative action measures in employment. The Employment Equity Act spells out the beneficiaries, who should do the protection, and advancement and what may happen to employers if they fail to comply in the view of the Director-General of the Labour. However the explicit constitutional and legislative endorsement of affirmative action comes with its controversy and legal challenges and it has been left to the courts to resolve tension on the one hand and to ensure equal treatment on the other. , Abstract
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Successful implementation of succession planning: second generation
- Authors: Fox, Roderick Charles
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Family-owned business enterprises -- Succession , Family corporations -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8771 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1012445 , Family-owned business enterprises -- Succession , Family corporations -- Management
- Description: Family businesses are prevalent in South Africa and throughout the world. Succession is one of the largest challenges facing family businesses. It has been estimated that only one third of family businesses survive to the second generation. This study attempts to determine what the main features are to promote successful family business succession and continuity. The family chosen for this research is the Venter family. The research has scaled the various influencing variables from the literature review into the following focus areas: relationships, conflict, vision, effective succession characteristics and continuity. The findings reflect many instances found in the literature, some are: individuals can manage themselves and have relationships with others; have the ability to resolve conflicts; have mutual support and trust; there is respect between the founder and successor; the business vision is clear; communication is open and clear and decisions are based on expertise and knowledge. Many other aspects are highlighted in the research that follows. In addition, the study attempts to identify the generational effects, the major characteristics of the family owned succession process and the views of the predecessors on the succession process and the post succession period.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Fox, Roderick Charles
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Family-owned business enterprises -- Succession , Family corporations -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8771 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1012445 , Family-owned business enterprises -- Succession , Family corporations -- Management
- Description: Family businesses are prevalent in South Africa and throughout the world. Succession is one of the largest challenges facing family businesses. It has been estimated that only one third of family businesses survive to the second generation. This study attempts to determine what the main features are to promote successful family business succession and continuity. The family chosen for this research is the Venter family. The research has scaled the various influencing variables from the literature review into the following focus areas: relationships, conflict, vision, effective succession characteristics and continuity. The findings reflect many instances found in the literature, some are: individuals can manage themselves and have relationships with others; have the ability to resolve conflicts; have mutual support and trust; there is respect between the founder and successor; the business vision is clear; communication is open and clear and decisions are based on expertise and knowledge. Many other aspects are highlighted in the research that follows. In addition, the study attempts to identify the generational effects, the major characteristics of the family owned succession process and the views of the predecessors on the succession process and the post succession period.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Sustainability, viability and stability : the case of income generating projects in the Nelson Mandela Bay
- Dikana, Zukisile Christopher
- Authors: Dikana, Zukisile Christopher
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Public investments -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Economic development projects -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Community development -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9157 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1019860
- Description: This study explores issues of sustainability, viability and stability in the projects funded by the Department of Social Development, situated in the Nelson Mandela Bay. The researcher makes use of a combination of qualitative and quantitative research designs to gather data. The sample consisted of about three members from each of the four projects selected, as well as two officials of the Department of Social Development in the Nelson Mandela Bay. The respondents participated in structured and semi-structured interviews exploring their demographic information, information about the project and how it is managed, views and opinions about differences between a business venture and a project, their understanding of what constitutes a sustainable, viable and stable income-generating project as well as their opinions about what would contribute to ensuring sustainability, viability and stability in these projects. The results of the study reveal that it is important to structure and run the income generating projects using business principles which include vigorous marketing and proper costing. There is also a need to train the participants in business management so that they can run the ventures successfully. It has also become apparent that a clear leader or manager is lacking and thus decision making process is too long, meaning a meeting must take place involving all project members before a decision that affects the operations can be made. Almost all key factors contributing to a sustainable and viable income generating project, as defined by Mango (2004) and Madi (2007) were also found to be lacking in these projects.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Dikana, Zukisile Christopher
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Public investments -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Economic development projects -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Community development -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9157 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1019860
- Description: This study explores issues of sustainability, viability and stability in the projects funded by the Department of Social Development, situated in the Nelson Mandela Bay. The researcher makes use of a combination of qualitative and quantitative research designs to gather data. The sample consisted of about three members from each of the four projects selected, as well as two officials of the Department of Social Development in the Nelson Mandela Bay. The respondents participated in structured and semi-structured interviews exploring their demographic information, information about the project and how it is managed, views and opinions about differences between a business venture and a project, their understanding of what constitutes a sustainable, viable and stable income-generating project as well as their opinions about what would contribute to ensuring sustainability, viability and stability in these projects. The results of the study reveal that it is important to structure and run the income generating projects using business principles which include vigorous marketing and proper costing. There is also a need to train the participants in business management so that they can run the ventures successfully. It has also become apparent that a clear leader or manager is lacking and thus decision making process is too long, meaning a meeting must take place involving all project members before a decision that affects the operations can be made. Almost all key factors contributing to a sustainable and viable income generating project, as defined by Mango (2004) and Madi (2007) were also found to be lacking in these projects.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Synthesis and characterisation of Pt-alloy oxygen reduction electrocatalysts for low temperature PEM fuel cells
- Authors: Mohamed, Rhiyaad
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Electrochemical analysis , Proton exchange membrane fuel cells
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:10428 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1018586
- Description: This dissertation the syntheses of Pt-based binary and ternary alloy electrocatalysts using the transition metals of Co and Ni are presented. These electrocatalysts were synthesised by an impregnation-reduction procedure at high temperature whereby Pt supported on carbon, (Pt/C (40 percent), was impregnated with the various metal and mixtures thereof and reduced at high temperatures in a H2 atmosphere. The procedure was also designed in such a way so as to prevent the oxidation of the support material (carbon black) during the alloy formation. The resultant nanoparticles (9-12 nm) of Pt3Co/C, Pt3Ni/C and Pt3Co0.5Ni0.5/C were also subjected to a post treatment procedure by acid washing (denoted AW) to produce electrocatalysts of Pt3Co/C-AW, Pt3Ni/C-AW and Pt3Co0.5Ni0.5/C-AW to study the effect of acid treatment on these electrocatalysts. The synthesised electrocatalysts were then characterised by a number of physical and electrochemical techniques and compared to that of commercial Pt/C (Pt/C-JM, HiSpec 4000) as well as Pt/C catalysts (Pt/C-900 and Pt/C-900-AW) treated under the same conditions used for the alloy synthesis. The electrocatalysts were then used to fabricate MEAs that were loaded into commercial single test cells and characterised by means of polarisation curves and Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS). The extensive physical characterisation included Powder X-Ray Diffraction (PXRD) analysis, Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), elemental analysis by Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (EDS) and metal loading by Thermo-Gravimetric Analysis (TGA). These studies showed that Pt-based alloy electrocatalysts were successfully synthesised with particle sizes ranging from 9 - 12 nm, within their respective atomic ratios and whereby no significant loss of carbon support occurred. This indicated that significant sintering or electrocatalyst particles occurred when compared to that of the starting Pt/C catalyst (3 – 4 nm). From the combined results of the physical characterisation procedures, it was also shown that leaching as a result of acid washing was catalyst dependent with Ni containing catalysts showing a significant degree of leaching compared to that of Co containing catalysts. Electrochemical characterisation in terms of Electrochemical Active Surface Area (ECSA) by Cyclic Voltammetry (CV) and ORR activity by Rotating Disc Electrode (RDE) analysis revealed that a significant decrease in the ECSA resulted from the increase in particle size and this had a major influence on the ORR activity. Furthermore it was found that a significant improvement in the ORR activity was achieved by the synthesis of Pt-based alloys. It was also found that catalytic properties of the acid washed electrocatalysts were substantially different from that of non-acid washed electrocatalysts. The experimental data confirmed that it was possibly to achieve better catalytic performance as compared to that of Pt/C at a lower material cost when Pt is alloyed with base transition metals. The trend observed from the ORR activity studies by RDE was successfully repeated in the in-situ fuel cell testing in terms of mass activity of the electrocatalysts. Of the electrocatalysts studied under „real‟ fuel cell conditions Pt/C-JM had the best performance compared to the others, with the ternary Pt3Co0.5Ni0.5/C showing better catalytic performance compared to the Pt3Co/C electrocatalyst. This was found to be due to a higher charge transfer resistance observed in Pt3Co/C as compared to that of Pt3Co0.5Ni0.5/C which was similar than that of the commercial Pt/C-JM catalyst with both Pt3Co/C and Pt3Co0.5Ni0.5/C-AW having similar but higher ohmic resistances than that of Pt/C-JM as determined by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. The results showed that a great potential exist to improve the catalytic performance of low temperature PEM fuel electrocatalysts at a reduced cost as compared to that of pure Pt provided a method of controlling the particle size was established.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Mohamed, Rhiyaad
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Electrochemical analysis , Proton exchange membrane fuel cells
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:10428 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1018586
- Description: This dissertation the syntheses of Pt-based binary and ternary alloy electrocatalysts using the transition metals of Co and Ni are presented. These electrocatalysts were synthesised by an impregnation-reduction procedure at high temperature whereby Pt supported on carbon, (Pt/C (40 percent), was impregnated with the various metal and mixtures thereof and reduced at high temperatures in a H2 atmosphere. The procedure was also designed in such a way so as to prevent the oxidation of the support material (carbon black) during the alloy formation. The resultant nanoparticles (9-12 nm) of Pt3Co/C, Pt3Ni/C and Pt3Co0.5Ni0.5/C were also subjected to a post treatment procedure by acid washing (denoted AW) to produce electrocatalysts of Pt3Co/C-AW, Pt3Ni/C-AW and Pt3Co0.5Ni0.5/C-AW to study the effect of acid treatment on these electrocatalysts. The synthesised electrocatalysts were then characterised by a number of physical and electrochemical techniques and compared to that of commercial Pt/C (Pt/C-JM, HiSpec 4000) as well as Pt/C catalysts (Pt/C-900 and Pt/C-900-AW) treated under the same conditions used for the alloy synthesis. The electrocatalysts were then used to fabricate MEAs that were loaded into commercial single test cells and characterised by means of polarisation curves and Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS). The extensive physical characterisation included Powder X-Ray Diffraction (PXRD) analysis, Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), elemental analysis by Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (EDS) and metal loading by Thermo-Gravimetric Analysis (TGA). These studies showed that Pt-based alloy electrocatalysts were successfully synthesised with particle sizes ranging from 9 - 12 nm, within their respective atomic ratios and whereby no significant loss of carbon support occurred. This indicated that significant sintering or electrocatalyst particles occurred when compared to that of the starting Pt/C catalyst (3 – 4 nm). From the combined results of the physical characterisation procedures, it was also shown that leaching as a result of acid washing was catalyst dependent with Ni containing catalysts showing a significant degree of leaching compared to that of Co containing catalysts. Electrochemical characterisation in terms of Electrochemical Active Surface Area (ECSA) by Cyclic Voltammetry (CV) and ORR activity by Rotating Disc Electrode (RDE) analysis revealed that a significant decrease in the ECSA resulted from the increase in particle size and this had a major influence on the ORR activity. Furthermore it was found that a significant improvement in the ORR activity was achieved by the synthesis of Pt-based alloys. It was also found that catalytic properties of the acid washed electrocatalysts were substantially different from that of non-acid washed electrocatalysts. The experimental data confirmed that it was possibly to achieve better catalytic performance as compared to that of Pt/C at a lower material cost when Pt is alloyed with base transition metals. The trend observed from the ORR activity studies by RDE was successfully repeated in the in-situ fuel cell testing in terms of mass activity of the electrocatalysts. Of the electrocatalysts studied under „real‟ fuel cell conditions Pt/C-JM had the best performance compared to the others, with the ternary Pt3Co0.5Ni0.5/C showing better catalytic performance compared to the Pt3Co/C electrocatalyst. This was found to be due to a higher charge transfer resistance observed in Pt3Co/C as compared to that of Pt3Co0.5Ni0.5/C which was similar than that of the commercial Pt/C-JM catalyst with both Pt3Co/C and Pt3Co0.5Ni0.5/C-AW having similar but higher ohmic resistances than that of Pt/C-JM as determined by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. The results showed that a great potential exist to improve the catalytic performance of low temperature PEM fuel electrocatalysts at a reduced cost as compared to that of pure Pt provided a method of controlling the particle size was established.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Teacher practices in the grade 10 first additional language classroom: a relevance study
- Authors: Naadirah, Abader
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Action research in education , Reflective teaching
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9438 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1011093 , Action research in education , Reflective teaching
- Description: Teachers are key figures in the English First Additional Language learning process, their influence is fundamental to their learners‟ progress, or lack thereof. I am of the opinion that literacy in itself is not sufficient, as success lies in the learners‟ application of appropriate learning techniques. The purpose of my study was to reflect on and improve my own teaching practice, improve my learners‟ participation and enhance their academic outcomes in the poetry classroom. My study required that I reflect on my classroom practice to facilitate the improvement thereof. Successful learning within the classroom therefore involves interaction and collaboration between the learner, the materials, the teacher and the context. Scaffolding is a technique I used to actualize my learners‟ potential. I chose action research, because I wanted to research an educational problem (as experienced by my learners and myself), critically reflect on my classroom practice, evaluate my teaching methods, and consider practical solutions. Action research allowed me to record the events and happenings in my location, my reflection, beliefs and teaching philosophies, my ideas and my insights about my practice. In my journal I reflected on the events that took place during my poetry lessons. Both positive and negative comments were noted and I tried to closely monitor my learners during the lessons. After marking my classroom assessments, I immediately shared my thoughts regarding the assessment outcomes. My reflections gave me a better understanding of my teaching practice. I used photovoice as a data collecting strategy which is the intermingling of images and words. The actions taken through photovoice, taking photographs and telling stories as they relate to the photographs, were empowering. My study enabled me to understand the many challenges of teaching poetry. I learnt that if I teach well, poetry can add important aspects to my learners‟ language skills, including understanding metaphors, connotations and symbolic meanings. The teaching of poetry should promote a pleasurable understanding of language. This means that the language of the poem is as important as the content of the poem.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Naadirah, Abader
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Action research in education , Reflective teaching
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9438 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1011093 , Action research in education , Reflective teaching
- Description: Teachers are key figures in the English First Additional Language learning process, their influence is fundamental to their learners‟ progress, or lack thereof. I am of the opinion that literacy in itself is not sufficient, as success lies in the learners‟ application of appropriate learning techniques. The purpose of my study was to reflect on and improve my own teaching practice, improve my learners‟ participation and enhance their academic outcomes in the poetry classroom. My study required that I reflect on my classroom practice to facilitate the improvement thereof. Successful learning within the classroom therefore involves interaction and collaboration between the learner, the materials, the teacher and the context. Scaffolding is a technique I used to actualize my learners‟ potential. I chose action research, because I wanted to research an educational problem (as experienced by my learners and myself), critically reflect on my classroom practice, evaluate my teaching methods, and consider practical solutions. Action research allowed me to record the events and happenings in my location, my reflection, beliefs and teaching philosophies, my ideas and my insights about my practice. In my journal I reflected on the events that took place during my poetry lessons. Both positive and negative comments were noted and I tried to closely monitor my learners during the lessons. After marking my classroom assessments, I immediately shared my thoughts regarding the assessment outcomes. My reflections gave me a better understanding of my teaching practice. I used photovoice as a data collecting strategy which is the intermingling of images and words. The actions taken through photovoice, taking photographs and telling stories as they relate to the photographs, were empowering. My study enabled me to understand the many challenges of teaching poetry. I learnt that if I teach well, poetry can add important aspects to my learners‟ language skills, including understanding metaphors, connotations and symbolic meanings. The teaching of poetry should promote a pleasurable understanding of language. This means that the language of the poem is as important as the content of the poem.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Teacher's and principal's perceptions of the integrated quality management system (IQMS) in three Butterworth District schools
- Authors: Ntshewula, Nombulelo
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Total quality management , Quality assurance -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Teachers -- Training -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Employees -- Rating of -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , School principals -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Educational evaluation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Ed
- Identifier: vital:16197 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1007301 , Total quality management , Quality assurance -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Teachers -- Training -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Employees -- Rating of -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , School principals -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Educational evaluation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: The researcher’s interest in this study is in teachers’ perceptions and principals of the Integrated Quality Management System (IQMS). This study examines teachers’ understandings of this quality management and performance appraisal system, how teachers perceive the instrument used to manage and monitor their performance and the performance of their schools, and what lessons may be learnt regarding the implementation process of the IQMS. The investigation was carried out in three Butterworth District schools in the Eastern Cape. The researcher made use of qualitative methodology to obtain data from a sample of 3 principals, 9 teachers and 1 district official. Data were collected from these respondents by means of in-depth, semi-structured interviews and through document analysis. The study found that some of the teachers and principals felt that they did not understand the IQMS, and they complained that the system is fraught with many obstacles that need to be addressed in order to promote the effectiveness of teaching and learning. The participants also spoke of multiple factors that contribute negatively to this phenomenon, which include the fact that the teachers’ workload is increased by the IQMS, time constraints, inadequate training, vague and unfamiliar language, the financial incentive that is attached to the instrument, and the many structures in the implementation process. In addition, the system seems to encourage a bureaucratic style of management. Teachers and principals also suggested ways in which the IQMS could be structured by the Department of Education for greater efficiency in education.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Ntshewula, Nombulelo
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Total quality management , Quality assurance -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Teachers -- Training -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Employees -- Rating of -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , School principals -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Educational evaluation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Ed
- Identifier: vital:16197 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1007301 , Total quality management , Quality assurance -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Teachers -- Training -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Employees -- Rating of -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , School principals -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Educational evaluation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: The researcher’s interest in this study is in teachers’ perceptions and principals of the Integrated Quality Management System (IQMS). This study examines teachers’ understandings of this quality management and performance appraisal system, how teachers perceive the instrument used to manage and monitor their performance and the performance of their schools, and what lessons may be learnt regarding the implementation process of the IQMS. The investigation was carried out in three Butterworth District schools in the Eastern Cape. The researcher made use of qualitative methodology to obtain data from a sample of 3 principals, 9 teachers and 1 district official. Data were collected from these respondents by means of in-depth, semi-structured interviews and through document analysis. The study found that some of the teachers and principals felt that they did not understand the IQMS, and they complained that the system is fraught with many obstacles that need to be addressed in order to promote the effectiveness of teaching and learning. The participants also spoke of multiple factors that contribute negatively to this phenomenon, which include the fact that the teachers’ workload is increased by the IQMS, time constraints, inadequate training, vague and unfamiliar language, the financial incentive that is attached to the instrument, and the many structures in the implementation process. In addition, the system seems to encourage a bureaucratic style of management. Teachers and principals also suggested ways in which the IQMS could be structured by the Department of Education for greater efficiency in education.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Teachers' leadership roles at a public rural school in the Ohangwena Region, Namibia
- Nauyoma-Hamupembe, Ladipaleni Ndadiinina
- Authors: Nauyoma-Hamupembe, Ladipaleni Ndadiinina
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Educational leadership -- Namibia -- Ohangwena Rural schools -- Namibia -- Ohangwena School management and organization -- Namibia -- Ohangwena Teachers -- Namibia -- Ohangwena Teacher-principal relationships -- Namibia -- Ohangwena
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:1794 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003679
- Description: The changing global and local circumstances and shift for democracy posed particular problems for school administration and leadership and made it difficult for principals to fulfil leadership responsibilities in schools alone. Hence principals require the assistance of all stakeholders in the school, and teachers in particular, to work together as a team and share the diverse leadership load for the improvement of schools. Thus, leadership in schools needs to be shared and distributed in a collaborative manner among teachers and principals working as a group to accomplish the primary objective of their schools, which is to improve learners’ achievement. For this idea to be embraced, I suggest it may require an urgent need for advanced knowledge and understanding of teacher leadership in schools, among teachers and principals, if schools are to thrive. This research studied the phenomenon of teacher leadership at a public rural school in the Ohangwena region of Namibia. It explored the teachers’ experiences of their leadership roles, and specifically the challenges inherent within the practice of teacher leadership in a school. A qualitative interpretive case study was conducted, employing document analysis, semi‐structured interviews and observations to produce data with regard to teachers’ experiences of their leadership roles, challenges inherent within its practice and possible strategies to promote teacher leadership. The analysis and the triangulation across the data sets suggested that teacher leadership existed in the case study school where it appeared in four different areas of leadership practice. These areas of leadership practices (Grant, 2008, p. 93) were, for example, in the classroom, outside the classroom in curricular and extra‐curricular activities, in school‐wide leadership development and between other neighbouring schools in the community. The school had a view of teacher leadership which was strongly located within the classroom and outside the classroom in curricular and extra‐curricular activities where teachers worked and interacted with their colleagues and learners. Teacher leadership was severely limited in the area of whole school development and almost non‐existent in the area outside the school between teachers across neighbouring schools, at circuit or district level and in the community. The study suggested that the nature of teacher leadership in the case study school was a restricted form of teacher leadership (Harris and Muijs, 2005) due to a range of factors which impeded its practice. The factors were, for example, a lack of involvement of all teachers in whole school leadership and school‐wide decision‐making. Other factors were limited time for teachers in the school, a lack of leadership development amongst the principal and teachers as well as resistance for teachers to leadership in the case study school.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Nauyoma-Hamupembe, Ladipaleni Ndadiinina
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Educational leadership -- Namibia -- Ohangwena Rural schools -- Namibia -- Ohangwena School management and organization -- Namibia -- Ohangwena Teachers -- Namibia -- Ohangwena Teacher-principal relationships -- Namibia -- Ohangwena
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:1794 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003679
- Description: The changing global and local circumstances and shift for democracy posed particular problems for school administration and leadership and made it difficult for principals to fulfil leadership responsibilities in schools alone. Hence principals require the assistance of all stakeholders in the school, and teachers in particular, to work together as a team and share the diverse leadership load for the improvement of schools. Thus, leadership in schools needs to be shared and distributed in a collaborative manner among teachers and principals working as a group to accomplish the primary objective of their schools, which is to improve learners’ achievement. For this idea to be embraced, I suggest it may require an urgent need for advanced knowledge and understanding of teacher leadership in schools, among teachers and principals, if schools are to thrive. This research studied the phenomenon of teacher leadership at a public rural school in the Ohangwena region of Namibia. It explored the teachers’ experiences of their leadership roles, and specifically the challenges inherent within the practice of teacher leadership in a school. A qualitative interpretive case study was conducted, employing document analysis, semi‐structured interviews and observations to produce data with regard to teachers’ experiences of their leadership roles, challenges inherent within its practice and possible strategies to promote teacher leadership. The analysis and the triangulation across the data sets suggested that teacher leadership existed in the case study school where it appeared in four different areas of leadership practice. These areas of leadership practices (Grant, 2008, p. 93) were, for example, in the classroom, outside the classroom in curricular and extra‐curricular activities, in school‐wide leadership development and between other neighbouring schools in the community. The school had a view of teacher leadership which was strongly located within the classroom and outside the classroom in curricular and extra‐curricular activities where teachers worked and interacted with their colleagues and learners. Teacher leadership was severely limited in the area of whole school development and almost non‐existent in the area outside the school between teachers across neighbouring schools, at circuit or district level and in the community. The study suggested that the nature of teacher leadership in the case study school was a restricted form of teacher leadership (Harris and Muijs, 2005) due to a range of factors which impeded its practice. The factors were, for example, a lack of involvement of all teachers in whole school leadership and school‐wide decision‐making. Other factors were limited time for teachers in the school, a lack of leadership development amongst the principal and teachers as well as resistance for teachers to leadership in the case study school.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Teachers’ perceptions of the mentoring of novice teachers in the King William’s Town District
- Authors: Dlani, Siyongwana Archibald
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Teachers -- Training of -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Teachers -- In-service training -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Mentoring in education -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , School management and organization -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Schools -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , King William's Town (South Africa)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Ed
- Identifier: vital:16184 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1006244 , Teachers -- Training of -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Teachers -- In-service training -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Mentoring in education -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , School management and organization -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Schools -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , King William's Town (South Africa)
- Description: The aim of the study was to investigate the teachers‟ perceptions of thementoring of novice teachers in the King William‟s Town District. Inorder to understand how the teachers viewed novice teacher mentoringthe study adopted a qualitative approach. Interviews anddocumentsanalysis were used as data collection instruments. The purpose of the study was to investigate the teachers‟ perceptions on mentoring of novice teachers in schools. The respondents provided their explanationsof mentoring and also said what they think is the importance of mentoring. The teachers also had to give their mentoring experiences at school and District levels. Two schools in the King William‟s Town District were purposivelyselected to form the context of the study. The respondents were 6 educators, three from a primary school and three from a high school. Principals of the two selected schools were also included asrespondents in the study. The results of the study revealed that mentoring was taking place informally in the schools through sharing ofthe teaching challenges. Mentoring was also taking place through theteachers mentoring each other as Subject and Phase teachers supervised by Heads of Department. Most teachers understoodmentoring as giving guidance and help.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Dlani, Siyongwana Archibald
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Teachers -- Training of -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Teachers -- In-service training -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Mentoring in education -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , School management and organization -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Schools -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , King William's Town (South Africa)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Ed
- Identifier: vital:16184 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1006244 , Teachers -- Training of -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Teachers -- In-service training -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Mentoring in education -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , School management and organization -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Schools -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , King William's Town (South Africa)
- Description: The aim of the study was to investigate the teachers‟ perceptions of thementoring of novice teachers in the King William‟s Town District. Inorder to understand how the teachers viewed novice teacher mentoringthe study adopted a qualitative approach. Interviews anddocumentsanalysis were used as data collection instruments. The purpose of the study was to investigate the teachers‟ perceptions on mentoring of novice teachers in schools. The respondents provided their explanationsof mentoring and also said what they think is the importance of mentoring. The teachers also had to give their mentoring experiences at school and District levels. Two schools in the King William‟s Town District were purposivelyselected to form the context of the study. The respondents were 6 educators, three from a primary school and three from a high school. Principals of the two selected schools were also included asrespondents in the study. The results of the study revealed that mentoring was taking place informally in the schools through sharing ofthe teaching challenges. Mentoring was also taking place through theteachers mentoring each other as Subject and Phase teachers supervised by Heads of Department. Most teachers understoodmentoring as giving guidance and help.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Teachers’ perspectives of learners’ indiscipline on Grade 12 academic performance: a case of the Libode District
- Authors: Tuta, Thamsanqa Clifford
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Indiscipline -- Learners Academic performance -- Grade twelve -- Learners School discipline -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Classroom management -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Ed
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/11260/889 , vital:30007
- Description: Evidence of the effects of indiscipline on the academic performance of grade 12 learners has been mixed. This study examined how indiscipline in the forms of disruptive, aggressive behaviour, alcohol and drug abuse affected levels of academic performance in a case study of public Senior Secondary Schools of the Libode Education District, Eastern Cape Province in the Republic of South Africa. A total of 25 teachers from two selected schools in the Libode District (10 men and 15 women) were randomly assigned to participate in both the quantitative and qualitative interview surveys conducted by the researcher. The study relied substantially on teacher ratings. The data were collected using interviews which were synthesized, analysed, presented and discussed within a specified time frame. The results adequately reflected on the three research questions of the study which were: To what extent do learners‘ aggressive and violent behaviour impede academic performance? Does imbibing alcohol and drugs influence learners‘ academic performance? To what extent does learners‘ disruptive behaviour affect their academic performance? It has been clearly indicated that disruptive, aggressive behaviour and alcohol and drug abuse have a negative impact on academic performance. The factors (disruptive, aggressive behaviour, alcohol and drug abuse) used in the analysis were identified as the main challenges to the educational development and academic achievement among learners; they pose a serious threat and have negative effects on students, teachers, the school environment and society. They originate from the same sources, however; these are mainly family background, society, cultural values, beliefs, technology, peer pressure and classroom management strategies employed by educators. Findings were discussed in the context of the main and sub research questions and recommendations were made.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Tuta, Thamsanqa Clifford
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Indiscipline -- Learners Academic performance -- Grade twelve -- Learners School discipline -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Classroom management -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Ed
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/11260/889 , vital:30007
- Description: Evidence of the effects of indiscipline on the academic performance of grade 12 learners has been mixed. This study examined how indiscipline in the forms of disruptive, aggressive behaviour, alcohol and drug abuse affected levels of academic performance in a case study of public Senior Secondary Schools of the Libode Education District, Eastern Cape Province in the Republic of South Africa. A total of 25 teachers from two selected schools in the Libode District (10 men and 15 women) were randomly assigned to participate in both the quantitative and qualitative interview surveys conducted by the researcher. The study relied substantially on teacher ratings. The data were collected using interviews which were synthesized, analysed, presented and discussed within a specified time frame. The results adequately reflected on the three research questions of the study which were: To what extent do learners‘ aggressive and violent behaviour impede academic performance? Does imbibing alcohol and drugs influence learners‘ academic performance? To what extent does learners‘ disruptive behaviour affect their academic performance? It has been clearly indicated that disruptive, aggressive behaviour and alcohol and drug abuse have a negative impact on academic performance. The factors (disruptive, aggressive behaviour, alcohol and drug abuse) used in the analysis were identified as the main challenges to the educational development and academic achievement among learners; they pose a serious threat and have negative effects on students, teachers, the school environment and society. They originate from the same sources, however; these are mainly family background, society, cultural values, beliefs, technology, peer pressure and classroom management strategies employed by educators. Findings were discussed in the context of the main and sub research questions and recommendations were made.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Teaching and learning electrostatics using everyday knowledge, indigenous knowledge and scientific argumentation
- Authors: Loggenberg, Ernest Wilfred
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Electrostatics , Ethnoscience
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:9505 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1008412 , Electrostatics , Ethnoscience
- Description: South African School Curriculum, calls for the integration of IKS within school science (Department of Education, 2006, Department of Basic Education, 2011). Lightning is an area of high interest in the Eastern Cape and is used as the topic in this study which focuses on the integration of indigenous knowledge systems in science education. The study investigated the impact of an intervention strategy framed around the use of scientific argumentation and the integration of everyday knowledge and indigenous knowledge systems (IKS) into the teaching of electrostatics at Grade Ten level. The impact focused on the teachers’ ability to implement the strategy, the electrostatics knowledge gained by learners, the learners’ argumentation ability, and the motivational and confidence levels of both teachers and learners. The sample comprised eight schools (the science teachers and their Grade Ten Physical Science learners) in the Uitenhage District of Education of the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. Qualitative data were generated via interviews, classroom observations, pre- and post test questionnaires with open-ended questions to evoke meaningful responses that could not be anticipated by the research, and argumentation writing frames for both teachers and learners. Limited quantitative data were generated via the argumentation writing frames and the more close-ended questionnaire questions. The findings of the teacher and learner argumentation frames and the teacher checklists which revealed that the intervention impacted positively on the teachers’ ability to integrate IKS into their teaching practice. The use indigenous knowledge as the context for argumentation appears to have been a more effective way of introducing the concept than doing so within a scientific context (which the learners found difficult). The intervention facilitated an enhanced level of understanding on lightning, and assisted with the creation of the “third space” and border crossing between IKS and western science. The individual interviews disclosed the teachers’ improved ability to integrate IKS, IKS improving the facilitation of the argumentation strategy, and their improved motivation and confidence.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Loggenberg, Ernest Wilfred
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Electrostatics , Ethnoscience
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:9505 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1008412 , Electrostatics , Ethnoscience
- Description: South African School Curriculum, calls for the integration of IKS within school science (Department of Education, 2006, Department of Basic Education, 2011). Lightning is an area of high interest in the Eastern Cape and is used as the topic in this study which focuses on the integration of indigenous knowledge systems in science education. The study investigated the impact of an intervention strategy framed around the use of scientific argumentation and the integration of everyday knowledge and indigenous knowledge systems (IKS) into the teaching of electrostatics at Grade Ten level. The impact focused on the teachers’ ability to implement the strategy, the electrostatics knowledge gained by learners, the learners’ argumentation ability, and the motivational and confidence levels of both teachers and learners. The sample comprised eight schools (the science teachers and their Grade Ten Physical Science learners) in the Uitenhage District of Education of the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. Qualitative data were generated via interviews, classroom observations, pre- and post test questionnaires with open-ended questions to evoke meaningful responses that could not be anticipated by the research, and argumentation writing frames for both teachers and learners. Limited quantitative data were generated via the argumentation writing frames and the more close-ended questionnaire questions. The findings of the teacher and learner argumentation frames and the teacher checklists which revealed that the intervention impacted positively on the teachers’ ability to integrate IKS into their teaching practice. The use indigenous knowledge as the context for argumentation appears to have been a more effective way of introducing the concept than doing so within a scientific context (which the learners found difficult). The intervention facilitated an enhanced level of understanding on lightning, and assisted with the creation of the “third space” and border crossing between IKS and western science. The individual interviews disclosed the teachers’ improved ability to integrate IKS, IKS improving the facilitation of the argumentation strategy, and their improved motivation and confidence.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Teaching strategies in Grade 11 multilingual Life Sciences classrooms: a case of two schools in East London District
- Authors: Jekwa, Noxolo
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Life sciences -- Study and teaching (Secondary) -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Effective teaching -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Ed
- Identifier: vital:16169 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/488 , Life sciences -- Study and teaching (Secondary) -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Effective teaching -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: It is important to find strategies to assist learners who are taught in English especially as learners show different levels of English proficiency. English is taught as an Additional Language in many South African schools. Code switching is a well documented and researched strategy that teachers use in multilingual classrooms where the language of teaching and learning is not the learners’ home language. The study is concerned with and seeks to investigate the teaching strategies that Life Science teachers use in multilingual classes in addition to code switching. A case study of two Grade 11 Life Science teachers was conducted. The study adopts classroom observations and face-to-face interviews as qualitative data – gathering methods. The findings of this study, among other issues, reveal that in addition to code switching teachers use a variety of teaching strategies that include the use of textbooks, preparing notes for students, etc. Evidence available further suggests that the choice of teaching strategies is examination oriented rather than based on an understanding of current thinking on the ways of learning Life Sciences.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Jekwa, Noxolo
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Life sciences -- Study and teaching (Secondary) -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Effective teaching -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Ed
- Identifier: vital:16169 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/488 , Life sciences -- Study and teaching (Secondary) -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Effective teaching -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: It is important to find strategies to assist learners who are taught in English especially as learners show different levels of English proficiency. English is taught as an Additional Language in many South African schools. Code switching is a well documented and researched strategy that teachers use in multilingual classrooms where the language of teaching and learning is not the learners’ home language. The study is concerned with and seeks to investigate the teaching strategies that Life Science teachers use in multilingual classes in addition to code switching. A case study of two Grade 11 Life Science teachers was conducted. The study adopts classroom observations and face-to-face interviews as qualitative data – gathering methods. The findings of this study, among other issues, reveal that in addition to code switching teachers use a variety of teaching strategies that include the use of textbooks, preparing notes for students, etc. Evidence available further suggests that the choice of teaching strategies is examination oriented rather than based on an understanding of current thinking on the ways of learning Life Sciences.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Termination of employment contract by operation of law in the education sector: the constitutionality and validity of the deeming provisions
- Authors: Mpati, Lungisa
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Employees -- Dismissal of -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , Labor contract -- South Africa , Unfair labor practices -- South Africa , Educational law and legislation -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , LLM
- Identifier: vital:10200 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1600 , Employees -- Dismissal of -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , Labor contract -- South Africa , Unfair labor practices -- South Africa , Educational law and legislation -- South Africa
- Description: Fundamental to any contract of employment is the obligation that rests on an employee not to be absent from work without justification. Under the common law, if an employee did that, the employer would be entitled to dismiss him or her on notice. The International Labour Organization Convention (ILO) 158 of 1982 provides that the employer must have a reason for a dismissal and sets out broad categories or reasons for dismissals . Section 23 of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996(Act 108 of 1998) provides that “Everyone has the right to fair labour practices”. Section 33 of the Constitution provides that “Everyone has the right to administrative action that is lawful, reasonable and procedurally fair. The Promotion of Administrative Justice Act 3 of 2000 (PAJA) is designed to give effect to just administrative action. Section 1 and 3 of the Labour Relations Act,1995(Act 66 of 1995)(LRA) require compliance with Article 7 and 8 of the ILO Convention 158 of 1982, when the employment of a worker has been terminated by his or her employer. The LRA protects employees against unfair dismissal. In the Department of Education, Section 14(1)(a) of the Employment of Educators Act, 1998 provides for the discharge of an educator in the event that he or she absents himself or herself from work for a period exceeding 14 consecutive days without the permission of the employer. A similar provision, Section 17(5)(a)(i) of the Public Service Act, 1994 provides for the discharge of an officer other than an educator who absents himself or herself from his or her official duties without the permission of the Head of Department for a period exceeding one calendar month. Section 14(2) of the Employment of Educators Act, 1998 and 17(5)(b) of the Public Service Act,1994 afford an employee who has been deemed discharged to show good cause why he or she should be reinstated. Against this background, the critical legal question is the constitutionality of the deeming provisions. The study will examine the validity of these provisions in relation to the ILO Conventions, Constitution, LRA and PAJA.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Mpati, Lungisa
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Employees -- Dismissal of -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , Labor contract -- South Africa , Unfair labor practices -- South Africa , Educational law and legislation -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , LLM
- Identifier: vital:10200 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1600 , Employees -- Dismissal of -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , Labor contract -- South Africa , Unfair labor practices -- South Africa , Educational law and legislation -- South Africa
- Description: Fundamental to any contract of employment is the obligation that rests on an employee not to be absent from work without justification. Under the common law, if an employee did that, the employer would be entitled to dismiss him or her on notice. The International Labour Organization Convention (ILO) 158 of 1982 provides that the employer must have a reason for a dismissal and sets out broad categories or reasons for dismissals . Section 23 of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996(Act 108 of 1998) provides that “Everyone has the right to fair labour practices”. Section 33 of the Constitution provides that “Everyone has the right to administrative action that is lawful, reasonable and procedurally fair. The Promotion of Administrative Justice Act 3 of 2000 (PAJA) is designed to give effect to just administrative action. Section 1 and 3 of the Labour Relations Act,1995(Act 66 of 1995)(LRA) require compliance with Article 7 and 8 of the ILO Convention 158 of 1982, when the employment of a worker has been terminated by his or her employer. The LRA protects employees against unfair dismissal. In the Department of Education, Section 14(1)(a) of the Employment of Educators Act, 1998 provides for the discharge of an educator in the event that he or she absents himself or herself from work for a period exceeding 14 consecutive days without the permission of the employer. A similar provision, Section 17(5)(a)(i) of the Public Service Act, 1994 provides for the discharge of an officer other than an educator who absents himself or herself from his or her official duties without the permission of the Head of Department for a period exceeding one calendar month. Section 14(2) of the Employment of Educators Act, 1998 and 17(5)(b) of the Public Service Act,1994 afford an employee who has been deemed discharged to show good cause why he or she should be reinstated. Against this background, the critical legal question is the constitutionality of the deeming provisions. The study will examine the validity of these provisions in relation to the ILO Conventions, Constitution, LRA and PAJA.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
The "realisation company" concept in South African income tax law
- Authors: Grobler, Daniel Jacques
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Income tax -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:8951 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/2118 , Income tax -- South Africa
- Description: The Supreme Court of Appeal has revisited the issue that has attracted the most litigation in South African tax law: whether gains from the disposal of an asset are of a capital or of a revenue nature. In CSARS V Founders Hill (509/10) [2011] ZASCA 66, 73 SATC 183 the court held that „intention‟ is not conclusive in the enquiry and cannot be the litmus test in determining the nature of proceeds from the sale of an asset. This judgement relegates intention to only one of the factors to be considered as it was held that it should be considered objectively whether the taxpayer is actually trading or not. The court also indicated that a „realisation company‟ would only act on capital account if it is formed for the purpose of facilitating the realisation of property which could not otherwise be dealt with satisfactorily. This treatise was primarily aimed at an analysis of the court cases which dealt with the „realisation company‟ concept in South African income tax law. In analysing the „realisation company‟ concept through case law culminating in Founders Hill, it was found that in every instance where „realisation company‟ x had won the argument, there had been compelling reasons why the owners of the assets had found it necessary to realise the asset through an interposed company established for that purpose. These reasons include: to facilitate the sale of property previously held by different people and to consolidate and conveniently administer the interests of beneficiaries under different wills. Furthermore, this treatise criticised „intention‟ as the primary test in determining the nature of proceeds from the sale of a capital asset and examined the objective approach to the inquiry as advocated in CSARS v Founders Hill. A discussion on the advantages of this approach indicated that it will certainly obviate a number of difficulties that arise from invoking „intention‟ as the litmus test.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Grobler, Daniel Jacques
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Income tax -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:8951 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/2118 , Income tax -- South Africa
- Description: The Supreme Court of Appeal has revisited the issue that has attracted the most litigation in South African tax law: whether gains from the disposal of an asset are of a capital or of a revenue nature. In CSARS V Founders Hill (509/10) [2011] ZASCA 66, 73 SATC 183 the court held that „intention‟ is not conclusive in the enquiry and cannot be the litmus test in determining the nature of proceeds from the sale of an asset. This judgement relegates intention to only one of the factors to be considered as it was held that it should be considered objectively whether the taxpayer is actually trading or not. The court also indicated that a „realisation company‟ would only act on capital account if it is formed for the purpose of facilitating the realisation of property which could not otherwise be dealt with satisfactorily. This treatise was primarily aimed at an analysis of the court cases which dealt with the „realisation company‟ concept in South African income tax law. In analysing the „realisation company‟ concept through case law culminating in Founders Hill, it was found that in every instance where „realisation company‟ x had won the argument, there had been compelling reasons why the owners of the assets had found it necessary to realise the asset through an interposed company established for that purpose. These reasons include: to facilitate the sale of property previously held by different people and to consolidate and conveniently administer the interests of beneficiaries under different wills. Furthermore, this treatise criticised „intention‟ as the primary test in determining the nature of proceeds from the sale of a capital asset and examined the objective approach to the inquiry as advocated in CSARS v Founders Hill. A discussion on the advantages of this approach indicated that it will certainly obviate a number of difficulties that arise from invoking „intention‟ as the litmus test.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
The accelerated life cycle testing and modelling of Li-ion cells used in electric vehicle applications
- Authors: Rossouw, Claire Angela
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Lithium Ions , Electric batteries , Energy storage , Electric vehicles -- Power supply
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:10417 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1012709 , Lithium Ions , Electric batteries , Energy storage , Electric vehicles -- Power supply
- Description: Li-ion batteries have become one of the chosen energy storage devices that are used in applications such as power tools, cellular phones and electric vehicles (EV). With the demand for portable high energy density devices, the rechargeable Li-ion battery has become one of the more viable energy storage systems for large scale commercial EVs because of their higher energy density to weight or volume ratio when compared to other current commercial battery energy storage systems. Various safety procedures for the use of Li-ion batteries in both consumer and EV applications have been developed by the international associations. The test procedures studied in this dissertation demonstrated the importance of determining the true capacity of a cell at various discharge rates. For this, the well known Peukert test was demonstrated. The study also showed that cells with different battery geometries and chemistries would demonstrate different thermal heating during discharge and slightly different Ragone results if different test methods were used as reported in the literature. Accelerated ageing tests were done on different cells at different Depth-of-Discharge (DoD) regions. The different DoD regions were determined according to expected stresses the electrode material in a cell would experience when discharged to specific DoD that follows the discharge voltage profile. Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS) was used to measure various electrochemical changes within these cells. The EIS results showed that certain observed modelled parameters would change similarly to the ageing of the cell as it aged due to the accelerated testing. EIS was also done on cells at different State-of-Charge (SoC) and temperatures. The results showed that EIS can be used as an effective technique to observe changes within a Li-ion cell as the SoC or temperature changed. For automotive vehicles that are powered by a fuel cell or battery, a supercapacitor can be coupled to a battery in order to increase and optimize the energy and power densities of the drive systems. A test procedure in the literature that evaluated the use of capacitors with Pb-acid batteries was applied to Li-ion type cells in order to quantify the increased power due to the use of a supercapacitor with a Li-ion cell. Both a cylindrical LiCoO2 cell and a VRLA Pb-acid cell showed some additional charge acceptance and delivery when connected to the supercapacitors. A LiMn2O4 pouch cell showed significant charge acceptance and delivery when connected to supercapacitors. The amount of additional charge acceptance and delivery of the different combinations could be explained by EIS, in particular, the resistance and capacitance of the cell in comparison to the combination of the cell and supercapacitor. A large capacity LiCoO2 cell showed high charge acceptance and delivery without connection with a supercapacitor. The study proved that EIS can be used to model the changes within cells under the different conditions and using different test procedures.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Rossouw, Claire Angela
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Lithium Ions , Electric batteries , Energy storage , Electric vehicles -- Power supply
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:10417 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1012709 , Lithium Ions , Electric batteries , Energy storage , Electric vehicles -- Power supply
- Description: Li-ion batteries have become one of the chosen energy storage devices that are used in applications such as power tools, cellular phones and electric vehicles (EV). With the demand for portable high energy density devices, the rechargeable Li-ion battery has become one of the more viable energy storage systems for large scale commercial EVs because of their higher energy density to weight or volume ratio when compared to other current commercial battery energy storage systems. Various safety procedures for the use of Li-ion batteries in both consumer and EV applications have been developed by the international associations. The test procedures studied in this dissertation demonstrated the importance of determining the true capacity of a cell at various discharge rates. For this, the well known Peukert test was demonstrated. The study also showed that cells with different battery geometries and chemistries would demonstrate different thermal heating during discharge and slightly different Ragone results if different test methods were used as reported in the literature. Accelerated ageing tests were done on different cells at different Depth-of-Discharge (DoD) regions. The different DoD regions were determined according to expected stresses the electrode material in a cell would experience when discharged to specific DoD that follows the discharge voltage profile. Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS) was used to measure various electrochemical changes within these cells. The EIS results showed that certain observed modelled parameters would change similarly to the ageing of the cell as it aged due to the accelerated testing. EIS was also done on cells at different State-of-Charge (SoC) and temperatures. The results showed that EIS can be used as an effective technique to observe changes within a Li-ion cell as the SoC or temperature changed. For automotive vehicles that are powered by a fuel cell or battery, a supercapacitor can be coupled to a battery in order to increase and optimize the energy and power densities of the drive systems. A test procedure in the literature that evaluated the use of capacitors with Pb-acid batteries was applied to Li-ion type cells in order to quantify the increased power due to the use of a supercapacitor with a Li-ion cell. Both a cylindrical LiCoO2 cell and a VRLA Pb-acid cell showed some additional charge acceptance and delivery when connected to the supercapacitors. A LiMn2O4 pouch cell showed significant charge acceptance and delivery when connected to supercapacitors. The amount of additional charge acceptance and delivery of the different combinations could be explained by EIS, in particular, the resistance and capacitance of the cell in comparison to the combination of the cell and supercapacitor. A large capacity LiCoO2 cell showed high charge acceptance and delivery without connection with a supercapacitor. The study proved that EIS can be used to model the changes within cells under the different conditions and using different test procedures.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
The adequacy of national student financial aid scheme towards qualification completion at Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University
- Authors: Nzuzo, Nomakhaya Olivia
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Student financial aid administration -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Dropouts -- Prevention , Student aid -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: vital:8291 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1018686
- Description: NSFAS is a government-funded scheme that was established in 1996 with the objective of assisting financially needy students who are able to perform well academically, but are financially disadvantaged, and cannot afford higher education. The scheme was introduced as a mechanism to develop the country’s human capital and to also eradicate inequalities leading to poverty, crime, skill shortages and high levels of unemployment. This research was encouraged by the realization of the high drop-out rates amongst students funded by NSFAS. The research, therefore, wanted to investigate the adequacy of NSFAS in qualification completion, specifically at NMMU. In order to elicit responses from participants, a mixed method, with both quantitative and qualitative approaches was preferred. Questionnaires containing closed and open-ended questions were used as instruments for collecting data from participants. The study used a selected group of participants, with certain characteristics; and hence, the study was a purposive study. Five main areas were formulated as a framework to present the findings. The five areas involved the economic background of parents of NSFAS recipients, challenges faced by NSFAS recipients, as well as to determine whether NSFAS recipients were motivated to work hard as a result of attaining financial assistance. The last two areas involved reasons for NSFAS recipients to drop out and lastly the available support for NSFAS recipients. In relation to the economic background of parents of NSFAS recipients, findings revealed that almost 50 percent of their guardians were employed, with 26 percent of them being in skilled positions. The challenges faced by NSFAS recipients, were revealed, as being both academic and financial. About 52 percent of participants did not obtain full funding; and therefore, were expected to contribute towards their uncovered expenses. These participants were eventually faced with financial challenges that led them to drop out. To determine whether participants were motivated to work hard, as a result of acquiring financial assistance from NSFAS, about 52 percent of participants agreed to have received financial relief from NSFAS, but were not motivated to work hard. Findings revealed different reasons that led students funded by NSFAS to drop out before qualifying. The reasons included less Lecturer support (17.6 percent), unbearable workload (51.8 percent), bad qualification choice and financial challenges (21.4 percent). The last main area focused on available support from NSFAS as an Organisation to its recipients. Findings revealed no structured support system in place from NSFAS that was directed specifically to see its recipients succeed. Findings of the study can be used to identify students funded by NSFAS who might drop out before finishing their intended qualification. The findings could also guide NSFAS on what the student requirements are – in order to qualify. Recommendations on drop-out reductions and retention successes from local and international countries are provided. Further recommendations directed to NSFAS as a provider and it’s recipients are also provided.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Nzuzo, Nomakhaya Olivia
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Student financial aid administration -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Dropouts -- Prevention , Student aid -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: vital:8291 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1018686
- Description: NSFAS is a government-funded scheme that was established in 1996 with the objective of assisting financially needy students who are able to perform well academically, but are financially disadvantaged, and cannot afford higher education. The scheme was introduced as a mechanism to develop the country’s human capital and to also eradicate inequalities leading to poverty, crime, skill shortages and high levels of unemployment. This research was encouraged by the realization of the high drop-out rates amongst students funded by NSFAS. The research, therefore, wanted to investigate the adequacy of NSFAS in qualification completion, specifically at NMMU. In order to elicit responses from participants, a mixed method, with both quantitative and qualitative approaches was preferred. Questionnaires containing closed and open-ended questions were used as instruments for collecting data from participants. The study used a selected group of participants, with certain characteristics; and hence, the study was a purposive study. Five main areas were formulated as a framework to present the findings. The five areas involved the economic background of parents of NSFAS recipients, challenges faced by NSFAS recipients, as well as to determine whether NSFAS recipients were motivated to work hard as a result of attaining financial assistance. The last two areas involved reasons for NSFAS recipients to drop out and lastly the available support for NSFAS recipients. In relation to the economic background of parents of NSFAS recipients, findings revealed that almost 50 percent of their guardians were employed, with 26 percent of them being in skilled positions. The challenges faced by NSFAS recipients, were revealed, as being both academic and financial. About 52 percent of participants did not obtain full funding; and therefore, were expected to contribute towards their uncovered expenses. These participants were eventually faced with financial challenges that led them to drop out. To determine whether participants were motivated to work hard, as a result of acquiring financial assistance from NSFAS, about 52 percent of participants agreed to have received financial relief from NSFAS, but were not motivated to work hard. Findings revealed different reasons that led students funded by NSFAS to drop out before qualifying. The reasons included less Lecturer support (17.6 percent), unbearable workload (51.8 percent), bad qualification choice and financial challenges (21.4 percent). The last main area focused on available support from NSFAS as an Organisation to its recipients. Findings revealed no structured support system in place from NSFAS that was directed specifically to see its recipients succeed. Findings of the study can be used to identify students funded by NSFAS who might drop out before finishing their intended qualification. The findings could also guide NSFAS on what the student requirements are – in order to qualify. Recommendations on drop-out reductions and retention successes from local and international countries are provided. Further recommendations directed to NSFAS as a provider and it’s recipients are also provided.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
The AIDS of aid?: long-term organisation challenges of a CBO dealing with HIV/AIDS, poverty and donor aid
- Authors: Shelver, Amy
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Communicable diseases -- Prevention , Public health -- International cooperation , Economic assistance, Domestic , Community-based social services , AIDS (Disease) -- Prevention , HIV infections -- Prevention , Nonprofit organizations
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9103 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1012321 , Communicable diseases -- Prevention , Public health -- International cooperation , Economic assistance, Domestic , Community-based social services , AIDS (Disease) -- Prevention , HIV infections -- Prevention , Nonprofit organizations
- Description: The following treatise first frames the role of CBOs in responding to the HIV/Aids crisis in relation to their position in the global health governance system through a literature survey that moves from an analysis of the global structures down to the local. The survey covers the role of international organisations, international NGOs (INGOs), national governments, local NGOs and CBOs and outlines the context in which Masizakhe is working within the global health governance structure. Secondly the research design and methodology are outlined focusing on the longitudinal, case study and participant--‐observation approaches. Hypotheses, conceptualisation, definitions, key variables are described and data collection methods and fieldwork practice extrapolated upon. Following that data capturing, editing and analysis are discussed in conjunction with shortcomings and sources of error. In the fourth chapter the research discusses the history, structure and outlines the research findings by comparing what has changed within the organisation over time, presenting and discussing the results. The outcomes of this research have shown that existing problems in this particular CBO are very difficult to overcome without committed, sustained support from donors, government, community and the organisation’s members. CBOs are often hamstrung by a series of intersecting factors which hamper their ability to problem--‐solve, even when the route to overcoming the problem is clear, particularly when the capacity and will to do so is not always present from both within the organisation and from outside support systems. These challenges then impact on the overall quality of and ability to deliver the services the organisation is structured to deliver. The major challenge for the organisation remains the inconsistent donor cycle and resultant instability thus created within an organisation already working in a highly volatile, unstable situation marked by poverty and disease. Thus the title, The Aids of Aid?, captures the essence of Masizakhe’s struggle with its own syndrome of problems. It summarises a comment made by the project secretary said that: “Sometimes it feels like we are not only fighting for the health of our people – We are fighting for the health of our organisation. We are a sick organisation trying to help sick people. All we need is donors and funding –we can’t live without them, and when they don't give, we get sick” (Stamper, Pers Comm, 2011). The other emergent challenges were a battle internally with ‘founder syndrome’, lack of management transparency and a dysfunctional board.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Shelver, Amy
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Communicable diseases -- Prevention , Public health -- International cooperation , Economic assistance, Domestic , Community-based social services , AIDS (Disease) -- Prevention , HIV infections -- Prevention , Nonprofit organizations
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9103 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1012321 , Communicable diseases -- Prevention , Public health -- International cooperation , Economic assistance, Domestic , Community-based social services , AIDS (Disease) -- Prevention , HIV infections -- Prevention , Nonprofit organizations
- Description: The following treatise first frames the role of CBOs in responding to the HIV/Aids crisis in relation to their position in the global health governance system through a literature survey that moves from an analysis of the global structures down to the local. The survey covers the role of international organisations, international NGOs (INGOs), national governments, local NGOs and CBOs and outlines the context in which Masizakhe is working within the global health governance structure. Secondly the research design and methodology are outlined focusing on the longitudinal, case study and participant--‐observation approaches. Hypotheses, conceptualisation, definitions, key variables are described and data collection methods and fieldwork practice extrapolated upon. Following that data capturing, editing and analysis are discussed in conjunction with shortcomings and sources of error. In the fourth chapter the research discusses the history, structure and outlines the research findings by comparing what has changed within the organisation over time, presenting and discussing the results. The outcomes of this research have shown that existing problems in this particular CBO are very difficult to overcome without committed, sustained support from donors, government, community and the organisation’s members. CBOs are often hamstrung by a series of intersecting factors which hamper their ability to problem--‐solve, even when the route to overcoming the problem is clear, particularly when the capacity and will to do so is not always present from both within the organisation and from outside support systems. These challenges then impact on the overall quality of and ability to deliver the services the organisation is structured to deliver. The major challenge for the organisation remains the inconsistent donor cycle and resultant instability thus created within an organisation already working in a highly volatile, unstable situation marked by poverty and disease. Thus the title, The Aids of Aid?, captures the essence of Masizakhe’s struggle with its own syndrome of problems. It summarises a comment made by the project secretary said that: “Sometimes it feels like we are not only fighting for the health of our people – We are fighting for the health of our organisation. We are a sick organisation trying to help sick people. All we need is donors and funding –we can’t live without them, and when they don't give, we get sick” (Stamper, Pers Comm, 2011). The other emergent challenges were a battle internally with ‘founder syndrome’, lack of management transparency and a dysfunctional board.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
The analysis of the strain level and the predicted human error probability for critical hospital tasks
- Authors: Burford, Eva-Maria
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Nursing errors -- South Africa -- Prevention , Nursing -- South Africa -- Psychological aspects , Hospitals -- Employees -- Health and hygiene -- South Africa , Nursing -- Job stress -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5104 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005182 , Nursing errors -- South Africa -- Prevention , Nursing -- South Africa -- Psychological aspects , Hospitals -- Employees -- Health and hygiene -- South Africa , Nursing -- Job stress -- South Africa
- Description: South African hospitals, as a result of numerous factors, have the problem of an increasing workload for nursing staff, which in turn may affect patient treatment quality. This project aimed at addressing patient treatment quality specifically from the perspective of worker capabilities by investigating the strain level and predicted human error probability associated with specific patient-centered tasks in the South African health care sector. This was achieved through two independent yet interlinked studies which focused on seven patient-centred tasks. The tasks analysed were the tasks of setting up and changing intravenous medication, administering injection and pill medication, measuring blood glucose, temperature and heart rate and blood pressure. In the first study, work environment and task characteristics, task structure and execution were analysed. In addition to the task execution, the resulting strain levels, in the form of heart rate measures and subjective ratings of workload, were studied. The second study determined the error protocols and predictive error probability within the healthcare environment for the seven pre-defined tasks. The results for the first study established that different organizational and environment factors could affect task complexity and workload. The individual task components and information processing requirements for each task was also established. For the strain analysis, significant results for the tasks were determined for heart rate frequency and the heart rate variability measures, but some of these were contradictory. For the second study, specific error protocols and error reporting data were determined for the hospital where this research was conducted. Additionally the predictive error probability for the pre-defined tasks was determined. This combined approach and collective results indicate that strain and predictive error probability as a result of task workload can be determined in the field as well as being able to identify which factors have an effect on task strain and error probability. The value of this research lies in the foundation that the gathered information provides and the numerous potential applications of this data. These applications include providing recommendations aimed at improving nursing work environment with regards to workload, improving patient treatment as a result of a reduction in errors and the potential foundation these results provide for future research
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Burford, Eva-Maria
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Nursing errors -- South Africa -- Prevention , Nursing -- South Africa -- Psychological aspects , Hospitals -- Employees -- Health and hygiene -- South Africa , Nursing -- Job stress -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5104 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005182 , Nursing errors -- South Africa -- Prevention , Nursing -- South Africa -- Psychological aspects , Hospitals -- Employees -- Health and hygiene -- South Africa , Nursing -- Job stress -- South Africa
- Description: South African hospitals, as a result of numerous factors, have the problem of an increasing workload for nursing staff, which in turn may affect patient treatment quality. This project aimed at addressing patient treatment quality specifically from the perspective of worker capabilities by investigating the strain level and predicted human error probability associated with specific patient-centered tasks in the South African health care sector. This was achieved through two independent yet interlinked studies which focused on seven patient-centred tasks. The tasks analysed were the tasks of setting up and changing intravenous medication, administering injection and pill medication, measuring blood glucose, temperature and heart rate and blood pressure. In the first study, work environment and task characteristics, task structure and execution were analysed. In addition to the task execution, the resulting strain levels, in the form of heart rate measures and subjective ratings of workload, were studied. The second study determined the error protocols and predictive error probability within the healthcare environment for the seven pre-defined tasks. The results for the first study established that different organizational and environment factors could affect task complexity and workload. The individual task components and information processing requirements for each task was also established. For the strain analysis, significant results for the tasks were determined for heart rate frequency and the heart rate variability measures, but some of these were contradictory. For the second study, specific error protocols and error reporting data were determined for the hospital where this research was conducted. Additionally the predictive error probability for the pre-defined tasks was determined. This combined approach and collective results indicate that strain and predictive error probability as a result of task workload can be determined in the field as well as being able to identify which factors have an effect on task strain and error probability. The value of this research lies in the foundation that the gathered information provides and the numerous potential applications of this data. These applications include providing recommendations aimed at improving nursing work environment with regards to workload, improving patient treatment as a result of a reduction in errors and the potential foundation these results provide for future research
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
The assessment of the international organisations high performance strategy, through global business unit managers
- Authors: Van den Heever, Andette
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Organisation Effectiviness , Management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8837 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1019966
- Description: In today’s competitive global environment it is vital for businesses to continuously outperform their competitors, making each business more and more dependent upon product quality and the ability to adjust rapidly to change. To survive, businesses more and more depend on the creativity, initiative and problem-solving abilities of their employees. The research in this treatise will focus on the components of a high performance organisation, when assessing the international high performance strategy of Company A, developed by top management. The implementation of Company A’s strategy relies on how well the organisation fosters an environment which is conducive to high performance. At this stage it is not clear if the chosen strategy will succeed and direct the organisation towards sustainable high performance in the long run. Hence, the research question, which is the crux of this study, is to assess the effectiveness of Company A’s international high performance strategy in creating a sustainable high performance organisation in the long run. To achieve the primary objective of this research study, the researcher compared various prominent models of high performance organisations with one another. Despite the limitations, the researcher believes that the significance of De Waal’s model is that he managed to identify the factors involved in creating a high performance organisation. Based on the quantitative and qualitative comparisons, the researcher decided to use the research conducted by De Waal as the framework for the basis of this study. The Delphi Technique was used to identify the effectiveness of the strategy through a consensus seeking and commitment building process. Contrary to expectations, the empirical results indicated that Company A’s strategy does clearly indicate a high percentage of effectiveness. Although it definitely indicates that there is still a long road ahead of Company A to reach ultimate sustainable high performance, it definitely is on the right track. The research highlighted a few areas of concern, but with continuous adjustment and alignment of their strategy Company A would have a solid framework to work towards high performance in the long run.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Van den Heever, Andette
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Organisation Effectiviness , Management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8837 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1019966
- Description: In today’s competitive global environment it is vital for businesses to continuously outperform their competitors, making each business more and more dependent upon product quality and the ability to adjust rapidly to change. To survive, businesses more and more depend on the creativity, initiative and problem-solving abilities of their employees. The research in this treatise will focus on the components of a high performance organisation, when assessing the international high performance strategy of Company A, developed by top management. The implementation of Company A’s strategy relies on how well the organisation fosters an environment which is conducive to high performance. At this stage it is not clear if the chosen strategy will succeed and direct the organisation towards sustainable high performance in the long run. Hence, the research question, which is the crux of this study, is to assess the effectiveness of Company A’s international high performance strategy in creating a sustainable high performance organisation in the long run. To achieve the primary objective of this research study, the researcher compared various prominent models of high performance organisations with one another. Despite the limitations, the researcher believes that the significance of De Waal’s model is that he managed to identify the factors involved in creating a high performance organisation. Based on the quantitative and qualitative comparisons, the researcher decided to use the research conducted by De Waal as the framework for the basis of this study. The Delphi Technique was used to identify the effectiveness of the strategy through a consensus seeking and commitment building process. Contrary to expectations, the empirical results indicated that Company A’s strategy does clearly indicate a high percentage of effectiveness. Although it definitely indicates that there is still a long road ahead of Company A to reach ultimate sustainable high performance, it definitely is on the right track. The research highlighted a few areas of concern, but with continuous adjustment and alignment of their strategy Company A would have a solid framework to work towards high performance in the long run.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
The biota of the Swartkops Solar Saltworks and their potential for producing biofuels
- Authors: De Lauwere, Monique Simone
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Organisms , Biomass energy
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:10625 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1011657 , Organisms , Biomass energy
- Description: The Swartkops and Missionvale salinas in Port Elizabeth on the east coast of South Africa are surrounding by large informal settlements. The runoff from these settlements contributes largely to the eutrophication of the solar saltworks which in turn has an effect on the biotic functioning of the systems, ultimately affecting the quantity and quality of the salt produced. Inorganic nutrients and organic composition, as well as important biological groups were examined within the brine with the aim of comparing the current condition of the same salinas to their condition twelve years ago. Comparisons between inorganic nutrient concentrations and biological groups showed significantly higher inorganic nutrients, with chlorophyll a concentrations in the Swartkops salina in 2011 being significantly higher than in 2012 and the 1999 and 2011 chlorophyll a concentrations being significantly higher than 2012 in the Missionvale salina. Microalgae found in the salinas were cultured in four different growth media. Cells were stained with Nile Red fluorescent dye in order to estimate the extent of lipids production. Five of the most promising lipid producing species were isolated into a monoculture and grown at different salinities to establish the growth and lipid production in response to salinity. Halamphora coffeaeformis and Navicula sp. were found to be the best candidate species. They grew best at salinities between 50 and 70 psu and produced lipid vesicles consuming approximately 10 percent of the cell.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: De Lauwere, Monique Simone
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Organisms , Biomass energy
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:10625 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1011657 , Organisms , Biomass energy
- Description: The Swartkops and Missionvale salinas in Port Elizabeth on the east coast of South Africa are surrounding by large informal settlements. The runoff from these settlements contributes largely to the eutrophication of the solar saltworks which in turn has an effect on the biotic functioning of the systems, ultimately affecting the quantity and quality of the salt produced. Inorganic nutrients and organic composition, as well as important biological groups were examined within the brine with the aim of comparing the current condition of the same salinas to their condition twelve years ago. Comparisons between inorganic nutrient concentrations and biological groups showed significantly higher inorganic nutrients, with chlorophyll a concentrations in the Swartkops salina in 2011 being significantly higher than in 2012 and the 1999 and 2011 chlorophyll a concentrations being significantly higher than 2012 in the Missionvale salina. Microalgae found in the salinas were cultured in four different growth media. Cells were stained with Nile Red fluorescent dye in order to estimate the extent of lipids production. Five of the most promising lipid producing species were isolated into a monoculture and grown at different salinities to establish the growth and lipid production in response to salinity. Halamphora coffeaeformis and Navicula sp. were found to be the best candidate species. They grew best at salinities between 50 and 70 psu and produced lipid vesicles consuming approximately 10 percent of the cell.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
The columnist as trickster: satire and subversion in literary journalism
- Authors: Douglas, Greig
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Satire , Race relations , Journalism
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:8387 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1008397 , Satire , Race relations , Journalism
- Description: This project examines facets of racial identity as they emerge in a contemporary South African context, and considers how instances of local satire both subtly resist and support white normativity. It consists of two separate sections: firstly, a self-reflective essay that, employing current theories from the academic field of whiteness studies, assesses South African satire’s relation to and negotiation of race and identity politics; and secondly, The Weekly Crab, my own creative response to the genre of satire. Using contemporary theories of racial construction, the first section will delineate whiteness as a dominant but invisible identification, and as a social construction underpinned by an inherited and continually reproduced privilege. Satire, in turn, will be described as a mode of rhetorical and conceptual attack that is capable of cultivating an understanding of how whiteness functions as a cultural construct, as well as foster a sensitivity to how its cultural dynamics shape and inform racial politics in the South African context. The first section will identify the website Hayibo.com as a source of local satire whose satirising of current events is often complicit in the perpetuation of white normativity. I will point to moments in its work where white expectations, fears and social mores are left unexamined, and, indeed, become an unspoken part of their critiquing lens rather than the focus of it. An accompanying critical breakdown of my own satire in The Weekly Crab will show my work to be a countertext to Hayibo. As I will make clear, I am not saying that I successfully fill a gap in the landscape of South African satire. Instead, in comparing my work to the satire that Hayibo produces, and by providing, in the second section, a creative response to that particular approach to satire, I am trying to circumscribe a blind spot in South African literary journalism : that is, the paucity of satire that aggressively subverts the normativity of whiteness.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Douglas, Greig
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Satire , Race relations , Journalism
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:8387 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1008397 , Satire , Race relations , Journalism
- Description: This project examines facets of racial identity as they emerge in a contemporary South African context, and considers how instances of local satire both subtly resist and support white normativity. It consists of two separate sections: firstly, a self-reflective essay that, employing current theories from the academic field of whiteness studies, assesses South African satire’s relation to and negotiation of race and identity politics; and secondly, The Weekly Crab, my own creative response to the genre of satire. Using contemporary theories of racial construction, the first section will delineate whiteness as a dominant but invisible identification, and as a social construction underpinned by an inherited and continually reproduced privilege. Satire, in turn, will be described as a mode of rhetorical and conceptual attack that is capable of cultivating an understanding of how whiteness functions as a cultural construct, as well as foster a sensitivity to how its cultural dynamics shape and inform racial politics in the South African context. The first section will identify the website Hayibo.com as a source of local satire whose satirising of current events is often complicit in the perpetuation of white normativity. I will point to moments in its work where white expectations, fears and social mores are left unexamined, and, indeed, become an unspoken part of their critiquing lens rather than the focus of it. An accompanying critical breakdown of my own satire in The Weekly Crab will show my work to be a countertext to Hayibo. As I will make clear, I am not saying that I successfully fill a gap in the landscape of South African satire. Instead, in comparing my work to the satire that Hayibo produces, and by providing, in the second section, a creative response to that particular approach to satire, I am trying to circumscribe a blind spot in South African literary journalism : that is, the paucity of satire that aggressively subverts the normativity of whiteness.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012