The effectiveness of internal financial controls with specific reference to the Eastern Cape Provincial Department of Basic Education
- Authors: Tini, Sabelo
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Education -- Finance School management and organization -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/1896 , vital:27577
- Description: The purpose of this study was to assess the effectiveness of internal financial controls with specific reference to the Eastern Cape provincial department of basic education. A self-administered questionnaire was used to collect data. The questionnaire was filled by the respondents who are directly involved in processing payments and procuring for the departments. The findings have shown that Internal control system does exists within the department however the implementation and monitoring of its effectiveness needs to be strengthened. The findings show that the internal control system have an important role to play in attaining desired positive results within the department. Internal control effectiveness is one of the most important aspects in any organisation, whether in a private sector or in the public sector. It determines the stewardship of an entity’s management. The PFMA states that the accounting officer of a department must ensure that that department has and maintains effective, efficient and transparent systems of financial and risk management and internal control. If public officials could strictly adhere to the stipulated internal controls, there will be a positive response to accountability and also in service delivery as expected by the citizens. Public accountability gives a reflection on how does the entity conducts its business affairs in terms of adhering to the norms and standards as prescribed by the law and whether there are any strong controls to prevent acts of fraud and corruption.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Tini, Sabelo
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Education -- Finance School management and organization -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/1896 , vital:27577
- Description: The purpose of this study was to assess the effectiveness of internal financial controls with specific reference to the Eastern Cape provincial department of basic education. A self-administered questionnaire was used to collect data. The questionnaire was filled by the respondents who are directly involved in processing payments and procuring for the departments. The findings have shown that Internal control system does exists within the department however the implementation and monitoring of its effectiveness needs to be strengthened. The findings show that the internal control system have an important role to play in attaining desired positive results within the department. Internal control effectiveness is one of the most important aspects in any organisation, whether in a private sector or in the public sector. It determines the stewardship of an entity’s management. The PFMA states that the accounting officer of a department must ensure that that department has and maintains effective, efficient and transparent systems of financial and risk management and internal control. If public officials could strictly adhere to the stipulated internal controls, there will be a positive response to accountability and also in service delivery as expected by the citizens. Public accountability gives a reflection on how does the entity conducts its business affairs in terms of adhering to the norms and standards as prescribed by the law and whether there are any strong controls to prevent acts of fraud and corruption.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The effectiveness of research management at a selected higher education institution
- Authors: Koeberg, Algene Maria
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Research -- Management Education, Higher -- Research , Research institutes
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/47959 , vital:40456
- Description: Due to the importance of research in creating sustainability of knowledge, active research management has become a highly strategic function within progressive universities. The practice of research management and administration (RMA) in higher education and elsewhere has developed considerably over the last ten to fifteen years to become an activity that encompasses significant elements of institutional strategy, policy, governance, profile, finance, people management, postgraduate research, assessment, systems, and so on.The objective of the study was to improve research administration at the selected Higher Education Institution by investigating the role of strategic planning or an institutional research plan in the university‟s research portfolio and how effective and efficient it is in terms of research administration and service delivery to staff and students. A detailed literature review was conducted on the research trends in South Africa and globally, as well as on research management in higher education. A qualitative approach was used as the most appropriate research methodology for this study.In a selected South African university, the study investigated whether an Institutional Research Plan exists within its Research Office and whether the latter is effective and efficient with regards to research administration. A questionnaire was developed to survey the directors of the NMMU Research Office. Another questionnaire was developed to survey the postgraduate students‟ and staff members‟ perceptions about the quality of services that they received from the Research Office. The results were analysed and, based on the findings, recommendations were made for further research.The empirical results show that the selected higher education institution has an Institutional Research Plan located in the institution‟s Strategic Plan. Students and staff members surveyed in the study are largely satisfied with the services they received. The study also revealed factors that negatively impact the research office in this university, namely funding constraints due to historical political views about the institution; inadequate support from other support services within institutions; and uncompetitive salaries to attract and retain strong research academics. The study provides insights into the research function of the selected university and makes recommendations on how this function could be improved in other similar institutions. In this way, the study attempts to contribute to the body of knowledge on research management at higher education institutions.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Koeberg, Algene Maria
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Research -- Management Education, Higher -- Research , Research institutes
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/47959 , vital:40456
- Description: Due to the importance of research in creating sustainability of knowledge, active research management has become a highly strategic function within progressive universities. The practice of research management and administration (RMA) in higher education and elsewhere has developed considerably over the last ten to fifteen years to become an activity that encompasses significant elements of institutional strategy, policy, governance, profile, finance, people management, postgraduate research, assessment, systems, and so on.The objective of the study was to improve research administration at the selected Higher Education Institution by investigating the role of strategic planning or an institutional research plan in the university‟s research portfolio and how effective and efficient it is in terms of research administration and service delivery to staff and students. A detailed literature review was conducted on the research trends in South Africa and globally, as well as on research management in higher education. A qualitative approach was used as the most appropriate research methodology for this study.In a selected South African university, the study investigated whether an Institutional Research Plan exists within its Research Office and whether the latter is effective and efficient with regards to research administration. A questionnaire was developed to survey the directors of the NMMU Research Office. Another questionnaire was developed to survey the postgraduate students‟ and staff members‟ perceptions about the quality of services that they received from the Research Office. The results were analysed and, based on the findings, recommendations were made for further research.The empirical results show that the selected higher education institution has an Institutional Research Plan located in the institution‟s Strategic Plan. Students and staff members surveyed in the study are largely satisfied with the services they received. The study also revealed factors that negatively impact the research office in this university, namely funding constraints due to historical political views about the institution; inadequate support from other support services within institutions; and uncompetitive salaries to attract and retain strong research academics. The study provides insights into the research function of the selected university and makes recommendations on how this function could be improved in other similar institutions. In this way, the study attempts to contribute to the body of knowledge on research management at higher education institutions.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The effectiveness of school nutrition programme of the Eastern Cape Department of Education
- Authors: Ndilele, Theodora Zola
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: School children -- Food -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Children -- Nutrition -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/2005 , vital:27593
- Description: This dissertation is about the National School Nutrition Programme (NSNP) in South Africa. This Programme was introduced by government in 1994 with the aim of alleviating poverty; unemployment and improving learning capacity of children. Specifically, it is intended to help poor children and to empower poverty-stricken communities, particularly in the rural areas across all the nine provinces. The focus of this study is on the investigation of effectiveness and efficient management of the Programme in the Eastern Cape Province, with specific reference to Mhlontlo District. Mhlontlo district is one of the predominantly rural areas in the province of the Eastern Cape, a remote area characterized by high levels of poverty and unemployment, and low levels of infrastructural developments. Surrounding Schools in the area are also affected by these problems. Learners at these schools are from poor families. It is for this reason that this scheme becomes important as it is most needed and, to effectively and efficiently realise its intended objectives, it must be properly managed. The main theme of the study revolves around effective and efficient service delivery that must be taken as the first priority in the management of NSNP. Factors that contribute to efficiency and effectiveness must be taken into consideration by all stakeholders and are outlined as follows: The aims in this study is to assess the effectiveness of management of the National School Nutrition Programme at Mhlontlo district in the eastern Cape, to identity shortcomings in the management of the Programme and to suggest possible remedies to improve the management of the Programme to effective service delivery. Against the background of the problem statement, the following questions were posited. How can the management of the National School Nutrition Programme with specific reference to Mhlontlo district be enhanced to ensure that its intended objectives are realized? What effect will improved management have on service delivery in the National School Nutrition Programme? And how will adherence to the Batho Pele Principles improve service delivery in schools with regard to the National School Nutrition Programme? The target population in this study was the learners, teachers and community of Schools around Mhlontlo District whose children are being catered for at school as respondents. Statistics of learners who are beneficiaries of this programme were obtained from surrounding Schools. The percentage of the response to the questions led to the results that services are not delivered as effectively as expected. The study concluded by recommendations of what national and provincial department of Education are required to do together with the school, service providers and the community in order to improve service delivery in schools that participate in the NSNP. Finally, the NSNP is for the deprived citizens of South Africa. The onus is on the community of Mhlontlo District, service providers, teachers and education authorities responsible for the NSNP to work together to make the programme effective for advancing the development of young people.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Ndilele, Theodora Zola
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: School children -- Food -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Children -- Nutrition -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/2005 , vital:27593
- Description: This dissertation is about the National School Nutrition Programme (NSNP) in South Africa. This Programme was introduced by government in 1994 with the aim of alleviating poverty; unemployment and improving learning capacity of children. Specifically, it is intended to help poor children and to empower poverty-stricken communities, particularly in the rural areas across all the nine provinces. The focus of this study is on the investigation of effectiveness and efficient management of the Programme in the Eastern Cape Province, with specific reference to Mhlontlo District. Mhlontlo district is one of the predominantly rural areas in the province of the Eastern Cape, a remote area characterized by high levels of poverty and unemployment, and low levels of infrastructural developments. Surrounding Schools in the area are also affected by these problems. Learners at these schools are from poor families. It is for this reason that this scheme becomes important as it is most needed and, to effectively and efficiently realise its intended objectives, it must be properly managed. The main theme of the study revolves around effective and efficient service delivery that must be taken as the first priority in the management of NSNP. Factors that contribute to efficiency and effectiveness must be taken into consideration by all stakeholders and are outlined as follows: The aims in this study is to assess the effectiveness of management of the National School Nutrition Programme at Mhlontlo district in the eastern Cape, to identity shortcomings in the management of the Programme and to suggest possible remedies to improve the management of the Programme to effective service delivery. Against the background of the problem statement, the following questions were posited. How can the management of the National School Nutrition Programme with specific reference to Mhlontlo district be enhanced to ensure that its intended objectives are realized? What effect will improved management have on service delivery in the National School Nutrition Programme? And how will adherence to the Batho Pele Principles improve service delivery in schools with regard to the National School Nutrition Programme? The target population in this study was the learners, teachers and community of Schools around Mhlontlo District whose children are being catered for at school as respondents. Statistics of learners who are beneficiaries of this programme were obtained from surrounding Schools. The percentage of the response to the questions led to the results that services are not delivered as effectively as expected. The study concluded by recommendations of what national and provincial department of Education are required to do together with the school, service providers and the community in order to improve service delivery in schools that participate in the NSNP. Finally, the NSNP is for the deprived citizens of South Africa. The onus is on the community of Mhlontlo District, service providers, teachers and education authorities responsible for the NSNP to work together to make the programme effective for advancing the development of young people.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The effectiveness of technical analysis as an investment instrument in the financial markets
- Authors: Jacobs, Marius Stephen
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Technical analysis (Investment analysis) -- South Africa , Financial security -- South Africa , Futures -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/7473 , vital:21785
- Description: This study was conducted in order to assess the effectiveness of technical analysis as a tool for financial security price forecasting. This form of analysis was examined so as to determine whether or not any benefit could be attributed to an investor or financial trader who applied it. Two technical trading strategies, consisting of three indicators each, were applied to fifteen financial securities over a five year period; so as to observe the price forecasting signals offered by the technical indicators. The resulting technical signals offered by the trading strategies were recorded and assessed for accuracy; allowing for various observations to be made; namely the forecasting precision of the technical strategies, the application of technical analysis in the equity and foreign exchange markets, the use of single or multiple technical indicators within a strategy, and the combining of technical analysis with fundamental analysis. The results indicated that the effective implementation of technical analysis could very well benefit the price forecasting practices of financial analysts and investors. However, it was determined that a fair amount of discretion on behalf of the analyst would be required when examining the signals offered by the technical indicators for the purpose of predicting financial security price movements.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Jacobs, Marius Stephen
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Technical analysis (Investment analysis) -- South Africa , Financial security -- South Africa , Futures -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/7473 , vital:21785
- Description: This study was conducted in order to assess the effectiveness of technical analysis as a tool for financial security price forecasting. This form of analysis was examined so as to determine whether or not any benefit could be attributed to an investor or financial trader who applied it. Two technical trading strategies, consisting of three indicators each, were applied to fifteen financial securities over a five year period; so as to observe the price forecasting signals offered by the technical indicators. The resulting technical signals offered by the trading strategies were recorded and assessed for accuracy; allowing for various observations to be made; namely the forecasting precision of the technical strategies, the application of technical analysis in the equity and foreign exchange markets, the use of single or multiple technical indicators within a strategy, and the combining of technical analysis with fundamental analysis. The results indicated that the effective implementation of technical analysis could very well benefit the price forecasting practices of financial analysts and investors. However, it was determined that a fair amount of discretion on behalf of the analyst would be required when examining the signals offered by the technical indicators for the purpose of predicting financial security price movements.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The effectiveness of the concrete / semi-concrete / abstract (CSA) appoach and drill- practice on grade 10 learners' ability to simplify addition and subtraction algebraic fractions
- Authors: Awuah, Bernard Prince
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Algebra, Abstract
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Degree
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/5105 , vital:29076
- Description: This study was conducted in one of the education districts in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. The purpose was to analyse the effectiveness of the concrete/semi-concrete/abstract (CSA) approach and drill-practice instructional strategies on Grade 10 learners’ ability to simplify addition and subtraction of algebraic fractions. The following two objectives were set. First, to identify the learners’ challenges in studying addition and subtraction of algebraic fractions in grade 10; and second to analyse the effectiveness of the CSA approach and drill-practice instructional strategies on Grade 10 learners’ ability to simplify addition and subtraction of algebraic fractions. Both threshold concepts and troublesome knowledge, Polya’s problem-solving techniques, CSA Approach theory and Drill-practice theory were all pertinent as a theoretical framework for the study. Positivism research paradigm was adopted for the study and it afforded the researcher opportunity to employ quantitative research approach. Based on the research question of this study, an experimental design was chosen as a suitable descriptive design. Purposive sampling method was used to select three schools which involved 135 grade 10 mathematics learners. Stratified random sampling method was thereafter employed to select 45 learners from each school for the study. The learners were grouped in each school as top, average and weak based on their performance in Algebra in term one. Pre-questionnaire and post-questionnaire were used to obtain data regarding challenges learners experience in simplifying addition and subtraction of algebraic fractions. Ethical clearance from the relevant school and university authorities were obtained. On the first two days, the researcher briefed the school authorities and learners and explained to them the purpose and details of the study. Day three was used to administer the pre-questionnaire test, thereafter, the next ten days were used to teach addition and subtraction of both numeric and algebraic fractions with same and different numerators and denominators. The next two days were used for revision and the last day was used to administer the postquestionnaire test out 25 marks. The respondent rate was 98.5%. The data collected were analysed by using SPSS version 16.10. Both descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyse the data. The pre-questionnaire scores revealed that majority of the learners’ perceived fractions as two separate entities and as a result add or subtract numerator to numerator and denominator to denominator. It was also discovered that learners had a challenge in finding LCM of algebraic fractions. A t-Test for independent means was used to test the following hypotheses at 𝛼 = 0.05: 𝐇𝟎: The CSA approach and drill-practice intervention has no significant effect on Grade 10 learners’ ability to simplify addition and subtraction of algebraic fractions; 𝐇𝟏: The CSA approach and drill-practice will significantly enhance Grade 10 learners’ ability to simplify addition and subtraction of algebraic fractions. The t-Test revealed a p-value of 0.139 which was statistically significant at 𝛼 = 0.05. Therefore, the researcher rejected the null hypothesis and concluded that the CSA approach and drill-practice have significantly enhanced the Grade 10 learners’ ability to simplify algebraic fractions.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Awuah, Bernard Prince
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Algebra, Abstract
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Degree
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/5105 , vital:29076
- Description: This study was conducted in one of the education districts in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. The purpose was to analyse the effectiveness of the concrete/semi-concrete/abstract (CSA) approach and drill-practice instructional strategies on Grade 10 learners’ ability to simplify addition and subtraction of algebraic fractions. The following two objectives were set. First, to identify the learners’ challenges in studying addition and subtraction of algebraic fractions in grade 10; and second to analyse the effectiveness of the CSA approach and drill-practice instructional strategies on Grade 10 learners’ ability to simplify addition and subtraction of algebraic fractions. Both threshold concepts and troublesome knowledge, Polya’s problem-solving techniques, CSA Approach theory and Drill-practice theory were all pertinent as a theoretical framework for the study. Positivism research paradigm was adopted for the study and it afforded the researcher opportunity to employ quantitative research approach. Based on the research question of this study, an experimental design was chosen as a suitable descriptive design. Purposive sampling method was used to select three schools which involved 135 grade 10 mathematics learners. Stratified random sampling method was thereafter employed to select 45 learners from each school for the study. The learners were grouped in each school as top, average and weak based on their performance in Algebra in term one. Pre-questionnaire and post-questionnaire were used to obtain data regarding challenges learners experience in simplifying addition and subtraction of algebraic fractions. Ethical clearance from the relevant school and university authorities were obtained. On the first two days, the researcher briefed the school authorities and learners and explained to them the purpose and details of the study. Day three was used to administer the pre-questionnaire test, thereafter, the next ten days were used to teach addition and subtraction of both numeric and algebraic fractions with same and different numerators and denominators. The next two days were used for revision and the last day was used to administer the postquestionnaire test out 25 marks. The respondent rate was 98.5%. The data collected were analysed by using SPSS version 16.10. Both descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyse the data. The pre-questionnaire scores revealed that majority of the learners’ perceived fractions as two separate entities and as a result add or subtract numerator to numerator and denominator to denominator. It was also discovered that learners had a challenge in finding LCM of algebraic fractions. A t-Test for independent means was used to test the following hypotheses at 𝛼 = 0.05: 𝐇𝟎: The CSA approach and drill-practice intervention has no significant effect on Grade 10 learners’ ability to simplify addition and subtraction of algebraic fractions; 𝐇𝟏: The CSA approach and drill-practice will significantly enhance Grade 10 learners’ ability to simplify addition and subtraction of algebraic fractions. The t-Test revealed a p-value of 0.139 which was statistically significant at 𝛼 = 0.05. Therefore, the researcher rejected the null hypothesis and concluded that the CSA approach and drill-practice have significantly enhanced the Grade 10 learners’ ability to simplify algebraic fractions.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The effects of emotional intelligence on entrepreneurial intention of university students in the Eastern Cape Province
- Authors: Kanonuhwa, Michelle
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Entrepreneurship -- Psychological aspects Emotional intelligence Businesspeople -- Psychology
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/8451 , vital:32833
- Description: Prompted by the various advantages presented by entrepreneurship, there has been an increase in studies investigating the factors that could influence entrepreneurial establishment and success. The purpose of this study was to determine whether emotional intelligence could stimulate entrepreneurial interest, thereby contributing to the literature on antecedents of entrepreneurship. This study tested the various socio-demographic characteristics of the sample and how each variable influenced entrepreneurial intent and emotional intelligence. A self-administered questionnaire was distributed to 385 students in the Eastern Cape Province using the purposive sampling method. Correlations, simple linear regression and multiple regressions were computed to test the hypotheses using the SPSS data analysis package. The findings of the study showed that there is a direct relationship between emotional intelligence and intention to become an entrepreneur. Furthermore, socio-demographic factors examined showed immense relevance to the development of entrepreneurial intent. As such the study suggested that apart from developing an effective entrepreneurship education program open to all individuals with a keen interest in the subject irrespective of academic merit; educators should create a learning environment that encourages effective expression and use of emotions to nurture the emotional intelligence of students. Moreover, mentorship relationships between students and local entrepreneurs should be highly encouraged.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Kanonuhwa, Michelle
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Entrepreneurship -- Psychological aspects Emotional intelligence Businesspeople -- Psychology
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/8451 , vital:32833
- Description: Prompted by the various advantages presented by entrepreneurship, there has been an increase in studies investigating the factors that could influence entrepreneurial establishment and success. The purpose of this study was to determine whether emotional intelligence could stimulate entrepreneurial interest, thereby contributing to the literature on antecedents of entrepreneurship. This study tested the various socio-demographic characteristics of the sample and how each variable influenced entrepreneurial intent and emotional intelligence. A self-administered questionnaire was distributed to 385 students in the Eastern Cape Province using the purposive sampling method. Correlations, simple linear regression and multiple regressions were computed to test the hypotheses using the SPSS data analysis package. The findings of the study showed that there is a direct relationship between emotional intelligence and intention to become an entrepreneur. Furthermore, socio-demographic factors examined showed immense relevance to the development of entrepreneurial intent. As such the study suggested that apart from developing an effective entrepreneurship education program open to all individuals with a keen interest in the subject irrespective of academic merit; educators should create a learning environment that encourages effective expression and use of emotions to nurture the emotional intelligence of students. Moreover, mentorship relationships between students and local entrepreneurs should be highly encouraged.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The effects of turtle-introduced nutrients on beach ecosystems
- Le Gouvello Du Timat, Diane Zelica Marie
- Authors: Le Gouvello Du Timat, Diane Zelica Marie
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Sea turtles , Sea turtles -- Conservation , Green turtle
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/6959 , vital:21175
- Description: Resource subsidies are flows of nutrients from one ecosystem to another. Sandy beach ecosystems are at the interface between land and sea and thus receive nutrients from both land/seascapes. The seasonal nesting of sea turtles introduces large inputs of eggs, and so nutrients, onto sandy beach ecosystems, but little is known about the effects of these spatially and temporally variable nutrient input pulses on the dynamics of consumers in the recipient system. In this study, I examined the ecological role of sea turtles as vectors of nutrients that introduce large amounts of nutrients (in the form of eggs) from distant foraging grounds into nutrient-poor beach ecosystems. Although some of the nutrients return to the sea in the form of hatchlings, nutrients from unhatched and depredated eggs, dead and predated hatchlings, as well as chorioallantoic fluid and egg shells remain on the beach and presumably enter sandy beach food webs. I hypothesized that turtle nutrients significantly increase the availability of nutrients to sandy beach ecosystems and that those nutrients are incorporated by both terrestrial and marine food webs. These hypotheses were tested by comparing isotopic signatures of 13C and 15N of consumers on beaches with high and low turtle nest densities. The response of meiofauna to the decomposition of turtle eggs was also investigated. I predicted that meiofaunal abundance is positively affected by turtle nutrients and that higher meiofaunal abundances will be obtained in decomposing, depredated nests. I tested this hypothesis by comparing meiofaunal abundance in naturally predated nests to densities away from turtle nests (as a control). An in situ experiment that mimics conditions of naturally predated sea turtle nest, was set up to test meiofaunal community responses to turtle nutrients over time. The study indicates that sea turtle eggs represent a short pulsed resource subsidy that increases the nutrient and energy budget of sandy beach ecosystems. The results show that of the five potential nutrient pathways tested, ghost crabs appear to consume egg nutrients in measurable quantities, altering their diet and feeding behaviour according to food availability. The study also showed that there was a strong, but short-lived positive response of meiofauna to the introduction of nutrients, with increased abundance of all taxa in predated nests and experimental treatments. This response was particularly strong for nematodes which peaked in abundance after seven days. I conclude that turtle-derived nutrients represent a pulsed resource subsidy that makes significant contribution to the energy budget of sandy beach/dune ecosystems.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Le Gouvello Du Timat, Diane Zelica Marie
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Sea turtles , Sea turtles -- Conservation , Green turtle
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/6959 , vital:21175
- Description: Resource subsidies are flows of nutrients from one ecosystem to another. Sandy beach ecosystems are at the interface between land and sea and thus receive nutrients from both land/seascapes. The seasonal nesting of sea turtles introduces large inputs of eggs, and so nutrients, onto sandy beach ecosystems, but little is known about the effects of these spatially and temporally variable nutrient input pulses on the dynamics of consumers in the recipient system. In this study, I examined the ecological role of sea turtles as vectors of nutrients that introduce large amounts of nutrients (in the form of eggs) from distant foraging grounds into nutrient-poor beach ecosystems. Although some of the nutrients return to the sea in the form of hatchlings, nutrients from unhatched and depredated eggs, dead and predated hatchlings, as well as chorioallantoic fluid and egg shells remain on the beach and presumably enter sandy beach food webs. I hypothesized that turtle nutrients significantly increase the availability of nutrients to sandy beach ecosystems and that those nutrients are incorporated by both terrestrial and marine food webs. These hypotheses were tested by comparing isotopic signatures of 13C and 15N of consumers on beaches with high and low turtle nest densities. The response of meiofauna to the decomposition of turtle eggs was also investigated. I predicted that meiofaunal abundance is positively affected by turtle nutrients and that higher meiofaunal abundances will be obtained in decomposing, depredated nests. I tested this hypothesis by comparing meiofaunal abundance in naturally predated nests to densities away from turtle nests (as a control). An in situ experiment that mimics conditions of naturally predated sea turtle nest, was set up to test meiofaunal community responses to turtle nutrients over time. The study indicates that sea turtle eggs represent a short pulsed resource subsidy that increases the nutrient and energy budget of sandy beach ecosystems. The results show that of the five potential nutrient pathways tested, ghost crabs appear to consume egg nutrients in measurable quantities, altering their diet and feeding behaviour according to food availability. The study also showed that there was a strong, but short-lived positive response of meiofauna to the introduction of nutrients, with increased abundance of all taxa in predated nests and experimental treatments. This response was particularly strong for nematodes which peaked in abundance after seven days. I conclude that turtle-derived nutrients represent a pulsed resource subsidy that makes significant contribution to the energy budget of sandy beach/dune ecosystems.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The efficacy of a community based eccentric hamstring strengthening program in peri-urban Black South African soccer players
- Authors: Ryan, Bennett
- Date: 2016
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/3573 , vital:20526
- Description: Introduction: Hamstring injury prevalence in soccer remains a major concern. Research in this context has focused on Caucasian populations with little attention given to other ethnic groups. The compatibility and applicability of such research to the South African context, particularly at an amateur level, may be minimal due to fundamental differences in physical characteristics, as well as complexities with regards to implementation. The aim of this investigation was therefore twofold. 1) Identify the lower extremity strength and performance profile of Peri-urban Amateur South African Players, and 2) Assess the efficacy of a community based intervention through the use of the Nordic Hamstring Exercise. Methods: 19 Black male Eastern Cape amateur players participated in a 12 week randomly controlled trial (9 = Control, 10 = Intervention). All participants completed regular training, while the intervention group, in addition, performed the Nordic Hamstring exercise post warm up. The incremental program design was taken from Mjolsnes et al. (2004), with a progressive increase in both sets and repetitions. Compliance was defined as completion of the required exercises for that session. Isokinetic strength evaluations (at 60°.s-1 and 180°.s-1) including assessment of peak torque and total work, as well as performance measures of countermovement and squat jump, were completed pre and post intervention, with the profile of the Peri-urban player the combined responses of both groups at baseline. Additionally, both the functional ratio (Eccentric Hamstrings/Concentric Quadriceps) and eccentric utilization ratio (Countermovement Jump/Squat Jump) were calculated. Results: Concentric quadriceps peak torque at baseline reported values of 195 (±22) Nm and 141 (±21) Nm at 60°.s-1 and 180°.s-1. Values of 162 (±21) Nm were observed for peak torque of the eccentric hamstrings at 60°.s-1, while 157 (±18) Nm was indicated at 180°.s-1. Mean functional ratio responses were observed as 0.83 (±0.11) and 1.12 (±0.16) for 60°.s-1 and 180°.s-1 respectively. Additionally, the eccentric utilization ratio responses were recorded as 1.04 (±0.08). Regarding the intervention, concentric quadriceps total work of the dominant limb significantly improved over the time course of experimentation within the intervention group. Other quadriceps variables, concentric hamstrings, squat jump capability and performance measures all reported no significant changes (p>0.05) over the course of assessment when compared to the control. Eccentric hamstrings peak torque observed significant improvements (p<0.05) of between 5.72 and 12.82 % within the intervention group, while the countermovement jump indicated a significant 15.59 % increase (p<0.05). Additionally, the functional ratio and the eccentric utilization ratio both indicated no significant changes (p>0.05), with a 2.48-7.66 % and 5.33 % improvement noted following completion of assessment. Conclusion: Isokinetic responses at baseline observed decreased quadriceps strength, and increased hamstring strength when compared to both amateur and professional populations examined in previous studies, for both isokinetic testing speeds. Additionally, performance measures indicated similar responses to other amateur populations. Regarding the intervention, significant improvements in eccentric hamstring peak torque and countermovement jump indicate the partial success of the present intervention. Additionally, while the functional ratio and eccentric utilization ratio reported no significant changes, improvements were noted within the intervention group while the control noted no change. The Nordic hamstring lower therefore resulted in strength improvements within the eccentric hamstrings, reported as a significant factor for injury risk, however, such changes were not sufficient to significantly impact the functional ratio. It can be concluded that community based programs within South Africa have the potential to be effective; however, there are many barriers to implementation, including, language, ethnic and cultural differences, while a lack of resources and infrastructure play a significant role in a lack of development. More research of this nature is required to provide scientific support for structures and guidelines for the peri-urban community based South African player, to ensure the efficacy of internationally successful interventions such as the Nordic exercise.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Ryan, Bennett
- Date: 2016
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/3573 , vital:20526
- Description: Introduction: Hamstring injury prevalence in soccer remains a major concern. Research in this context has focused on Caucasian populations with little attention given to other ethnic groups. The compatibility and applicability of such research to the South African context, particularly at an amateur level, may be minimal due to fundamental differences in physical characteristics, as well as complexities with regards to implementation. The aim of this investigation was therefore twofold. 1) Identify the lower extremity strength and performance profile of Peri-urban Amateur South African Players, and 2) Assess the efficacy of a community based intervention through the use of the Nordic Hamstring Exercise. Methods: 19 Black male Eastern Cape amateur players participated in a 12 week randomly controlled trial (9 = Control, 10 = Intervention). All participants completed regular training, while the intervention group, in addition, performed the Nordic Hamstring exercise post warm up. The incremental program design was taken from Mjolsnes et al. (2004), with a progressive increase in both sets and repetitions. Compliance was defined as completion of the required exercises for that session. Isokinetic strength evaluations (at 60°.s-1 and 180°.s-1) including assessment of peak torque and total work, as well as performance measures of countermovement and squat jump, were completed pre and post intervention, with the profile of the Peri-urban player the combined responses of both groups at baseline. Additionally, both the functional ratio (Eccentric Hamstrings/Concentric Quadriceps) and eccentric utilization ratio (Countermovement Jump/Squat Jump) were calculated. Results: Concentric quadriceps peak torque at baseline reported values of 195 (±22) Nm and 141 (±21) Nm at 60°.s-1 and 180°.s-1. Values of 162 (±21) Nm were observed for peak torque of the eccentric hamstrings at 60°.s-1, while 157 (±18) Nm was indicated at 180°.s-1. Mean functional ratio responses were observed as 0.83 (±0.11) and 1.12 (±0.16) for 60°.s-1 and 180°.s-1 respectively. Additionally, the eccentric utilization ratio responses were recorded as 1.04 (±0.08). Regarding the intervention, concentric quadriceps total work of the dominant limb significantly improved over the time course of experimentation within the intervention group. Other quadriceps variables, concentric hamstrings, squat jump capability and performance measures all reported no significant changes (p>0.05) over the course of assessment when compared to the control. Eccentric hamstrings peak torque observed significant improvements (p<0.05) of between 5.72 and 12.82 % within the intervention group, while the countermovement jump indicated a significant 15.59 % increase (p<0.05). Additionally, the functional ratio and the eccentric utilization ratio both indicated no significant changes (p>0.05), with a 2.48-7.66 % and 5.33 % improvement noted following completion of assessment. Conclusion: Isokinetic responses at baseline observed decreased quadriceps strength, and increased hamstring strength when compared to both amateur and professional populations examined in previous studies, for both isokinetic testing speeds. Additionally, performance measures indicated similar responses to other amateur populations. Regarding the intervention, significant improvements in eccentric hamstring peak torque and countermovement jump indicate the partial success of the present intervention. Additionally, while the functional ratio and eccentric utilization ratio reported no significant changes, improvements were noted within the intervention group while the control noted no change. The Nordic hamstring lower therefore resulted in strength improvements within the eccentric hamstrings, reported as a significant factor for injury risk, however, such changes were not sufficient to significantly impact the functional ratio. It can be concluded that community based programs within South Africa have the potential to be effective; however, there are many barriers to implementation, including, language, ethnic and cultural differences, while a lack of resources and infrastructure play a significant role in a lack of development. More research of this nature is required to provide scientific support for structures and guidelines for the peri-urban community based South African player, to ensure the efficacy of internationally successful interventions such as the Nordic exercise.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The electrification of Ncerha Rural Village in the Eastern Cape
- Authors: Matshaya, Thanduxolo Buntu
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Rural electrification -- South Africa -- Buffalo City , Rural development -- South Africa -- Buffalo City
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/8069 , vital:24718
- Description: The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether the electrification of Ncera Village in the Eastern Cape Province will improve villagers’ productivity. The major findings indicated various benefits to Ncera Village as a result of the electrification of Ncera Village. These benefits include household food production, such as cooking and refrigeration as well as irrigation. The findings revealed that the electrification of Ncera village will improve the productive potential of the villagers and, at the same time, give them access to economic opportunities. As such, there is a need to speed up the rural electrification process.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Matshaya, Thanduxolo Buntu
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Rural electrification -- South Africa -- Buffalo City , Rural development -- South Africa -- Buffalo City
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/8069 , vital:24718
- Description: The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether the electrification of Ncera Village in the Eastern Cape Province will improve villagers’ productivity. The major findings indicated various benefits to Ncera Village as a result of the electrification of Ncera Village. These benefits include household food production, such as cooking and refrigeration as well as irrigation. The findings revealed that the electrification of Ncera village will improve the productive potential of the villagers and, at the same time, give them access to economic opportunities. As such, there is a need to speed up the rural electrification process.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The EPR paradox: back from the future
- Authors: Bryan, Kate Louise Halse
- Date: 2016
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/2881 , vital:20338
- Description: The Einstein-Podolsky-Rosen (EPR) thought experiment produced a problem regarding the interpretation of quantum mechanics provided for entangled systems. Although the thought experiment was reformulated mathematically in Bell's Theorem, the conclusion regarding entanglement correlations is still debated today. In an attempt to provide an explanation of how entangled systems maintain their correlations, this thesis investigates the theory of post-state teleportation as a possible interpretation of how information moves between entangled systems without resorting to nonlocal action. Post-state teleportation describes a method of communicating to the past via a quantum information channel. The resulting picture of the EPR thought experiment relied on information propagating backward from a final boundary condition to ensure all correlations were maintained. Similarities were found between this resolution of the EPR paradox and the final state solution to the black hole information paradox and the closely related firewall problem. The latter refers to an apparent conflict between unitary evaporation of a black hole and the strong subadditivity condition. The use of observer complementarity allows this solution of the black hole problem to be shown to be the same as a seemingly different solution known as “ER=EPR", where ‘ER’ refers to an Einstein-Rosen bridge or wormhole.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Bryan, Kate Louise Halse
- Date: 2016
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/2881 , vital:20338
- Description: The Einstein-Podolsky-Rosen (EPR) thought experiment produced a problem regarding the interpretation of quantum mechanics provided for entangled systems. Although the thought experiment was reformulated mathematically in Bell's Theorem, the conclusion regarding entanglement correlations is still debated today. In an attempt to provide an explanation of how entangled systems maintain their correlations, this thesis investigates the theory of post-state teleportation as a possible interpretation of how information moves between entangled systems without resorting to nonlocal action. Post-state teleportation describes a method of communicating to the past via a quantum information channel. The resulting picture of the EPR thought experiment relied on information propagating backward from a final boundary condition to ensure all correlations were maintained. Similarities were found between this resolution of the EPR paradox and the final state solution to the black hole information paradox and the closely related firewall problem. The latter refers to an apparent conflict between unitary evaporation of a black hole and the strong subadditivity condition. The use of observer complementarity allows this solution of the black hole problem to be shown to be the same as a seemingly different solution known as “ER=EPR", where ‘ER’ refers to an Einstein-Rosen bridge or wormhole.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The evaluation of a talent management programme within a global multinational organisation: a case study
- Authors: Ferguson, Alana Paulette
- Date: 2016
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/64747 , vital:28597
- Description: Expected release date-May 2018
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Ferguson, Alana Paulette
- Date: 2016
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/64747 , vital:28597
- Description: Expected release date-May 2018
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The experience of recovering from a substance use disorder
- Authors: van der Schyff, Brett Carl
- Date: 2016
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/4016 , vital:20585
- Description: Substance use disorder is an intricate societal phenomenon resulting from psychological and physiological dependence. The aim of this study was to gain an in-depth understanding of the lived experiences of individuals recovering from a substance use disorder. An interpretive phenomenological method was used to elicit the fundamentals of recovery as experienced by the participants. Random purposeful sampling was used and guaranteed that appropriate participants were selected. Data was collected through the use of semi-structured, in-depth, face-to-face interviews with four individuals. The collected data was then processed according to the three interpretive phenomenological principles namely, phenomenology, hermeneutics and idiography. Analysis was thereafter conducted using five steps, which led to two main themes emerged. The two thematic categories that emerged were (1) the ex-users’ experiences of using substances and (2) experiences of recovering from a substance use disorder. Within the first thematic category two sub-themes developed which included: reasons for using substances, and when substance use became a dependency. The sub-themes that emerged in the second thematic category included: initiating recovery, recovery and treatment models, post-treatment, risk factors in recovery and supportive and protective factors in recovery.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: van der Schyff, Brett Carl
- Date: 2016
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/4016 , vital:20585
- Description: Substance use disorder is an intricate societal phenomenon resulting from psychological and physiological dependence. The aim of this study was to gain an in-depth understanding of the lived experiences of individuals recovering from a substance use disorder. An interpretive phenomenological method was used to elicit the fundamentals of recovery as experienced by the participants. Random purposeful sampling was used and guaranteed that appropriate participants were selected. Data was collected through the use of semi-structured, in-depth, face-to-face interviews with four individuals. The collected data was then processed according to the three interpretive phenomenological principles namely, phenomenology, hermeneutics and idiography. Analysis was thereafter conducted using five steps, which led to two main themes emerged. The two thematic categories that emerged were (1) the ex-users’ experiences of using substances and (2) experiences of recovering from a substance use disorder. Within the first thematic category two sub-themes developed which included: reasons for using substances, and when substance use became a dependency. The sub-themes that emerged in the second thematic category included: initiating recovery, recovery and treatment models, post-treatment, risk factors in recovery and supportive and protective factors in recovery.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The experiences of men who have sex with men (MSM) in accessing public primary health care services in the Eastern Cape province, South Africa
- Authors: Kose, Zamakayise Zukisa
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Primary health care -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Gay men -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Discrimination -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/4698 , vital:20652
- Description: Background: Research has shown that men who have sex with men (MSM) experience stigma, discrimination, negative and judgmental attitudes and homophobia when accessing health care services. This has resulted in limited uptake of existing HIV and AIDS services. Further, the experiences serve as barriers to seeking and accessing public primary health care services. Negative psychological outcomes and in unique cases, adverse mental health outcomes have resulted from these experiences. Aim: The study aimed to explore and describe the experiences of a sample of MSM when accessing public health care services in Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality (NMBM). Method: A purposive sample of twenty-one MSM aged 22 to 30+ years, mainly black who lived in NMBM participated in semi-structured in-depth interviews. The study used the exploratory-descriptive qualitative design and thematic analysis was used to summarize findings. Findings: Findings from the study showed that MSM experience internalized stigma, perceived stigma, experienced stigma and HIV related stigma, resulting in minority stress. Experiences with health care services included long waiting time, lack of supplies, being attended to by different health care providers, health care provider insensitivity, comfort with health care provider and a need for integrating health services for MSM with general health services. Effects of stigma expressed by the men were non-disclosure of sexual orientation, reluctance to use public health facilities, negative mental health outcome and conformity to society. Conclusion: The study suggests that MSM public health services need to be improved and barriers to health access among MSM need to be addressed. Lastly, there is a need to address the health, psychological and social effects of stigma suffered by MSM.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Kose, Zamakayise Zukisa
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Primary health care -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Gay men -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Discrimination -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/4698 , vital:20652
- Description: Background: Research has shown that men who have sex with men (MSM) experience stigma, discrimination, negative and judgmental attitudes and homophobia when accessing health care services. This has resulted in limited uptake of existing HIV and AIDS services. Further, the experiences serve as barriers to seeking and accessing public primary health care services. Negative psychological outcomes and in unique cases, adverse mental health outcomes have resulted from these experiences. Aim: The study aimed to explore and describe the experiences of a sample of MSM when accessing public health care services in Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality (NMBM). Method: A purposive sample of twenty-one MSM aged 22 to 30+ years, mainly black who lived in NMBM participated in semi-structured in-depth interviews. The study used the exploratory-descriptive qualitative design and thematic analysis was used to summarize findings. Findings: Findings from the study showed that MSM experience internalized stigma, perceived stigma, experienced stigma and HIV related stigma, resulting in minority stress. Experiences with health care services included long waiting time, lack of supplies, being attended to by different health care providers, health care provider insensitivity, comfort with health care provider and a need for integrating health services for MSM with general health services. Effects of stigma expressed by the men were non-disclosure of sexual orientation, reluctance to use public health facilities, negative mental health outcome and conformity to society. Conclusion: The study suggests that MSM public health services need to be improved and barriers to health access among MSM need to be addressed. Lastly, there is a need to address the health, psychological and social effects of stigma suffered by MSM.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The experiences of non-psychiatric trained nurses caring for mental health care users on 72 hour observations in a listed Hospital in the O R Tambo District
- Authors: Dubo, Siyabonga
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Mental Health care -- Hospital
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Cur
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/11260/688 , vital:27769
- Description: Nurses are an integral part of the health care system and their job encompasses a wide range of responsibilities including the promotion of health, prevention of illness and care for physically, mentally ill and disabled people. Nurses have a mandate to be responsible and accountable to the public they serve. For these reasons, it is crucial that nurses possess attitudes that allow them to provide optimal care in a supportive manner for patients. Despite the fact that considerable research on the experiences of nurses caring for the mentally ill in general hospitals has been done globally, none has been conducted in the Eastern Cape, South Africa. Additionally, no studies could be obtained from anywhere in the world on the experiences of non-psychiatric trained nurses caring for mental health care users on 72 hour observations. Studies indicated that nurses have different experiences when caring for mental health care users. It was therefore considered necessary to find out how non-psychiatric trained nurses perceive the caring of mental health care users during the 72 hour observations. The research design used to explore and describe their experiences was qualitative, descriptive, explorative, phenomenological and contextual in character. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with eight (8) participants who were purposively selected. This was done after necessary permission from the Department of Health and informed consent from the research participants. Steps were taken throughout the course of the study to ensure trustworthiness. Data were analysed using Tesch’s methods and the services of an independent coder were used. The results indicate that there are different experiences with regard to the caring for mental health care users during the 72 hour observations. The major themes identified are: feelings experienced by these nurses, lack of knowledge, challenges and strategies used for coping with a violent user, need for support from security staff and lack of policies. v Guidelines as a supportive action are suggested. From the results of the study recommendations are made in the areas of nursing education, nursing practice and nursing research. It is concluded that for non-psychiatric trained nurses to provide optimal care to mental health care users, the nurses need knowledge and skills in order to facilitate the promotion, maintenance and restoration of mental health of these patients as an integral part of health.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Dubo, Siyabonga
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Mental Health care -- Hospital
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Cur
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/11260/688 , vital:27769
- Description: Nurses are an integral part of the health care system and their job encompasses a wide range of responsibilities including the promotion of health, prevention of illness and care for physically, mentally ill and disabled people. Nurses have a mandate to be responsible and accountable to the public they serve. For these reasons, it is crucial that nurses possess attitudes that allow them to provide optimal care in a supportive manner for patients. Despite the fact that considerable research on the experiences of nurses caring for the mentally ill in general hospitals has been done globally, none has been conducted in the Eastern Cape, South Africa. Additionally, no studies could be obtained from anywhere in the world on the experiences of non-psychiatric trained nurses caring for mental health care users on 72 hour observations. Studies indicated that nurses have different experiences when caring for mental health care users. It was therefore considered necessary to find out how non-psychiatric trained nurses perceive the caring of mental health care users during the 72 hour observations. The research design used to explore and describe their experiences was qualitative, descriptive, explorative, phenomenological and contextual in character. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with eight (8) participants who were purposively selected. This was done after necessary permission from the Department of Health and informed consent from the research participants. Steps were taken throughout the course of the study to ensure trustworthiness. Data were analysed using Tesch’s methods and the services of an independent coder were used. The results indicate that there are different experiences with regard to the caring for mental health care users during the 72 hour observations. The major themes identified are: feelings experienced by these nurses, lack of knowledge, challenges and strategies used for coping with a violent user, need for support from security staff and lack of policies. v Guidelines as a supportive action are suggested. From the results of the study recommendations are made in the areas of nursing education, nursing practice and nursing research. It is concluded that for non-psychiatric trained nurses to provide optimal care to mental health care users, the nurses need knowledge and skills in order to facilitate the promotion, maintenance and restoration of mental health of these patients as an integral part of health.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The experiences of older persons and their adult children on maintaining positive parent-child relationships
- Authors: Boshoff, Marcelle Dianne
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Parent and adult child , Fammilies -- Psychological aspects , Adult children -- Psychology
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/4631 , vital:20624
- Description: The incidence of increased life span as well as a lack of care for older persons, gave rise to the South African Older persons Act (Act No 13 of 2006), which guides society in how our older persons should be treated. This Act also provides a clear indication of the expectations of caring for older persons within communities and families. Many older persons people rely on the relationships they have with their children in their golden years, to be fulfilling and loving. This study therefore aimed to explore the experiences of older persons and their adult children on maintaining positive relationships in order for the relationship to be most beneficial for both older persons and their adult children. The quality of relationships between adult children and older persons according to Newby (2010) can ease participation of adult children in the lives of older persons. This study was conducted from a qualitative research perspective that is exploratory, descriptive and contextual in nature. The exploratory-descriptive design allowed the researcher to understand the topic by using a narrative strategy of inquiry. A non-probability purposive sampling method was applied to identify five older persons as well as the adult children of these older persons who are retirees of an automotive company in South Africa. Individual, semi-structured face to face interviews were conducted with older persons as well as with at least one of their adult children who did not reside with them. Thematic data analysis technique was used to analyse the data collected. The study is viewed as significant in enhancing the understanding of satisfying and caring relationships between older persons and their adult children in order to add to the body of existing knowledge in social gerontology and to improve direct social work practice with older persons.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Boshoff, Marcelle Dianne
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Parent and adult child , Fammilies -- Psychological aspects , Adult children -- Psychology
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/4631 , vital:20624
- Description: The incidence of increased life span as well as a lack of care for older persons, gave rise to the South African Older persons Act (Act No 13 of 2006), which guides society in how our older persons should be treated. This Act also provides a clear indication of the expectations of caring for older persons within communities and families. Many older persons people rely on the relationships they have with their children in their golden years, to be fulfilling and loving. This study therefore aimed to explore the experiences of older persons and their adult children on maintaining positive relationships in order for the relationship to be most beneficial for both older persons and their adult children. The quality of relationships between adult children and older persons according to Newby (2010) can ease participation of adult children in the lives of older persons. This study was conducted from a qualitative research perspective that is exploratory, descriptive and contextual in nature. The exploratory-descriptive design allowed the researcher to understand the topic by using a narrative strategy of inquiry. A non-probability purposive sampling method was applied to identify five older persons as well as the adult children of these older persons who are retirees of an automotive company in South Africa. Individual, semi-structured face to face interviews were conducted with older persons as well as with at least one of their adult children who did not reside with them. Thematic data analysis technique was used to analyse the data collected. The study is viewed as significant in enhancing the understanding of satisfying and caring relationships between older persons and their adult children in order to add to the body of existing knowledge in social gerontology and to improve direct social work practice with older persons.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The exploration of a relationship between leadership styles and organizational commitment of Richards Bay Coal Terminal employees
- Authors: Khoali, Bafokeng Ngcobile
- Date: 2016
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:870 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1021315
- Description: Richards Bay Coal Terminal (RBCT) is situated in the South African deep water harbour of KwaZulu- Natal. The company provides coal mining organizations a strategic logistics link to international coal markets by enabling the use of a coal exporting facility. RBCT recognizes that its lifeblood is the human capital it retains and that achieving a competitive edge equitably and fairly through its people is a priority (du Preez, 2012). In the modern organization operating in an environment of uncertainty and constant change, employee’s commitment to the organization can be a critical determinant of its success or failure in anchoring a competitive advantage (Ulrich, 1998). The current study explored a relationship between the full range leadership styles of supervisors and the organizational commitment of the subordinates to the organization. The literature reviewed in the study includes two models; the first model is by Bass and Avolio and is referred to as the full range leadership model (FRL). This is the independent variable of the research. The dependent variable is organizational commitment, which belongs to the three component model by Meyer and Allen. These models each contain an instrument which was used on a sample of 120 non-supervisory employees. The independent variable used an instrument called the multifactor leadership questionnaire (MLQ) and the dependent used the organizational commitment questionnaire (OCQ). The data collected with these two questionnaires was then subjected to statistical scrutiny. A two-tailed Pearson correlation analysis was conducted to ascertain the strength and direction of the linear relationship, but most importantly to, at 95%-99% confidence, ascertain the statistical significance of the relationships. The findings of the study reflected no statistically significant relationships between transactional leadership and all of the three components of organizational commitment. The two components; affective and normative commitment, both reported a significant relationship with laissez-faire, whilst continuance commitment reflected insignificance. A positive significant relationship between transformational leadership and affective commitment was evident. This leadership style demonstrated no statistically significant relationship between it and continuance and normative commitment. The combined findings suggested that transactional leadership style of supervisors is somewhat unrelated to the subordinate’s need, desire and or sense of obligation to remain employed. A more transformational style of leadership appears to inspire a desire to sustain employment and affectively commit to the organization, whilst this style bears no relation to the need and sense of moral obligation of the subordinate to maintain employment. Laissez-faire reported a weak insignificant negative relationship with continuance commitment. The result suggests the independence of the subordinates’ need to maintain employment to the lack of leadership presence of the supervision. The significant relationship between laissez-faire and normative commitment may be accepted as indicative of how the absence of leadership is related to the employee’s recognition of no developmental intentions demonstrated by the supervisor. Although weak, the relationship between laissez-faire and affective commitment entails that the more prevalent the non-leadership (absence of leadership) style of the supervisor, the less desire do subordinates demonstrate to remain employed.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Khoali, Bafokeng Ngcobile
- Date: 2016
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:870 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1021315
- Description: Richards Bay Coal Terminal (RBCT) is situated in the South African deep water harbour of KwaZulu- Natal. The company provides coal mining organizations a strategic logistics link to international coal markets by enabling the use of a coal exporting facility. RBCT recognizes that its lifeblood is the human capital it retains and that achieving a competitive edge equitably and fairly through its people is a priority (du Preez, 2012). In the modern organization operating in an environment of uncertainty and constant change, employee’s commitment to the organization can be a critical determinant of its success or failure in anchoring a competitive advantage (Ulrich, 1998). The current study explored a relationship between the full range leadership styles of supervisors and the organizational commitment of the subordinates to the organization. The literature reviewed in the study includes two models; the first model is by Bass and Avolio and is referred to as the full range leadership model (FRL). This is the independent variable of the research. The dependent variable is organizational commitment, which belongs to the three component model by Meyer and Allen. These models each contain an instrument which was used on a sample of 120 non-supervisory employees. The independent variable used an instrument called the multifactor leadership questionnaire (MLQ) and the dependent used the organizational commitment questionnaire (OCQ). The data collected with these two questionnaires was then subjected to statistical scrutiny. A two-tailed Pearson correlation analysis was conducted to ascertain the strength and direction of the linear relationship, but most importantly to, at 95%-99% confidence, ascertain the statistical significance of the relationships. The findings of the study reflected no statistically significant relationships between transactional leadership and all of the three components of organizational commitment. The two components; affective and normative commitment, both reported a significant relationship with laissez-faire, whilst continuance commitment reflected insignificance. A positive significant relationship between transformational leadership and affective commitment was evident. This leadership style demonstrated no statistically significant relationship between it and continuance and normative commitment. The combined findings suggested that transactional leadership style of supervisors is somewhat unrelated to the subordinate’s need, desire and or sense of obligation to remain employed. A more transformational style of leadership appears to inspire a desire to sustain employment and affectively commit to the organization, whilst this style bears no relation to the need and sense of moral obligation of the subordinate to maintain employment. Laissez-faire reported a weak insignificant negative relationship with continuance commitment. The result suggests the independence of the subordinates’ need to maintain employment to the lack of leadership presence of the supervision. The significant relationship between laissez-faire and normative commitment may be accepted as indicative of how the absence of leadership is related to the employee’s recognition of no developmental intentions demonstrated by the supervisor. Although weak, the relationship between laissez-faire and affective commitment entails that the more prevalent the non-leadership (absence of leadership) style of the supervisor, the less desire do subordinates demonstrate to remain employed.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The GARCH-EVT-Copula model and simulation in scenario-based asset allocation
- McEwan, Peter Gareth Fredric
- Authors: McEwan, Peter Gareth Fredric
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Extreme value theory GARCH model
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/11732 , vital:26961
- Description: Financial market integration, in particular, portfolio allocations from advanced economies to South African markets, continues to strengthen volatility linkages and quicken volatility transmissions between participating markets. Largely as a result, South African portfolios are net recipients of returns and volatility shocks emanating from major world markets. In light of these, and other, sources of risk, this dissertation proposes a methodology to improve risk management systems in funds by building a contemporary asset allocation framework that offers practitioners an opportunity to explicitly model combinations of hypothesised global risks and the effects on their investments. The framework models portfolio return variables and their key risk driver variables separately and then joins them to model their combined dependence structure. The separate modelling of univariate and multivariate (MV) components admits the benefit of capturing the data generating processes with improved accuracy. Univariate variables were modelled using ARMA-GARCH-family structures paired with a variety of skewed and leptokurtic conditional distributions. Model residuals were fit using the Peaks-over-Threshold method from Extreme Value Theory for the tails and a non-parametric, kernel density for the interior, forming a completed semi-parametric distribution (SPD) for each variable. Asset and risk factor returns were then combined and their dependence structure jointly modelled with a MV Student t copula. Finally, the SPD margins and Student t copula were used to construct a MV meta t distribution. Monte Carlo simulations were generated from the fitted MV meta t distribution on which an out-of-sample test was conducted. The 2014-to-2015 horizon served to proxy as an out-of-sample, forward-looking scenario for a set of key risk factors against which a hypothetical, diversified portfolio was optimised. Traditional mean-variance and contemporary mean-CVaR optimisation techniques were used and their results compared. As an addendum, performance over the in-sample 2008 financial crisis was reported. The final Objective (7) addressed management and conservation strategies for the NMBM. The NMBM wetland database that was produced during this research is currently being used by the Municipality and will be added to the latest National Wetland Map. From the database, and tools developed in this research, approximately 90 wetlands have been identified as being highly vulnerable due to anthropogenic and environmental factors (Chapter 6) and should be earmarked as key conservation priority areas. Based on field experience and data collected, this study has also made conservation and rehabilitation recommendations for eight locations. Recommendations are also provided for six more wetland systems (or regions) that should be prioritised for further research, as these systems lack fundamental information on where the threat of anthropogenic activities affecting them is greatest. This study has made a significant contribution to understanding the underlying geomorphological processes in depressions, seeps and wetland flats. The desktop mapping component of this study illustrated the dominance of wetlands in the wetter parts of the Municipality. Perched wetland systems were identified in the field, on shallow bedrock, calcrete or clay. The prevalence of these perches in depressions, seeps and wetland flats also highlighted the importance of rainfall in driving wetland formation, by allowing water to pool on these perches, in the NMBM. These perches are likely to be a key factor in the high number of small, ephemeral wetlands that were observed in the study area, compared to other semi-arid regions. Therefore, this research highlights the value of multi-faceted and multi-scalar wetland research and how similar approaches should be used in future research methods has been highlighted. The approach used, along with the tools/methods developed in this study have facilitated the establishment of priority areas for conservation and management within the NMBM. Furthermore, the research approach has revealed emergent wetland properties that are only apparent when looking at different spatial scales. This research has highlighted the complex biological and geomorphological interactions between wetlands that operate over various spatial and temporal scales. As such, wetland management should occur across a wetland complex, rather than individual sites, to account for these multi-scalar influences.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: McEwan, Peter Gareth Fredric
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Extreme value theory GARCH model
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/11732 , vital:26961
- Description: Financial market integration, in particular, portfolio allocations from advanced economies to South African markets, continues to strengthen volatility linkages and quicken volatility transmissions between participating markets. Largely as a result, South African portfolios are net recipients of returns and volatility shocks emanating from major world markets. In light of these, and other, sources of risk, this dissertation proposes a methodology to improve risk management systems in funds by building a contemporary asset allocation framework that offers practitioners an opportunity to explicitly model combinations of hypothesised global risks and the effects on their investments. The framework models portfolio return variables and their key risk driver variables separately and then joins them to model their combined dependence structure. The separate modelling of univariate and multivariate (MV) components admits the benefit of capturing the data generating processes with improved accuracy. Univariate variables were modelled using ARMA-GARCH-family structures paired with a variety of skewed and leptokurtic conditional distributions. Model residuals were fit using the Peaks-over-Threshold method from Extreme Value Theory for the tails and a non-parametric, kernel density for the interior, forming a completed semi-parametric distribution (SPD) for each variable. Asset and risk factor returns were then combined and their dependence structure jointly modelled with a MV Student t copula. Finally, the SPD margins and Student t copula were used to construct a MV meta t distribution. Monte Carlo simulations were generated from the fitted MV meta t distribution on which an out-of-sample test was conducted. The 2014-to-2015 horizon served to proxy as an out-of-sample, forward-looking scenario for a set of key risk factors against which a hypothetical, diversified portfolio was optimised. Traditional mean-variance and contemporary mean-CVaR optimisation techniques were used and their results compared. As an addendum, performance over the in-sample 2008 financial crisis was reported. The final Objective (7) addressed management and conservation strategies for the NMBM. The NMBM wetland database that was produced during this research is currently being used by the Municipality and will be added to the latest National Wetland Map. From the database, and tools developed in this research, approximately 90 wetlands have been identified as being highly vulnerable due to anthropogenic and environmental factors (Chapter 6) and should be earmarked as key conservation priority areas. Based on field experience and data collected, this study has also made conservation and rehabilitation recommendations for eight locations. Recommendations are also provided for six more wetland systems (or regions) that should be prioritised for further research, as these systems lack fundamental information on where the threat of anthropogenic activities affecting them is greatest. This study has made a significant contribution to understanding the underlying geomorphological processes in depressions, seeps and wetland flats. The desktop mapping component of this study illustrated the dominance of wetlands in the wetter parts of the Municipality. Perched wetland systems were identified in the field, on shallow bedrock, calcrete or clay. The prevalence of these perches in depressions, seeps and wetland flats also highlighted the importance of rainfall in driving wetland formation, by allowing water to pool on these perches, in the NMBM. These perches are likely to be a key factor in the high number of small, ephemeral wetlands that were observed in the study area, compared to other semi-arid regions. Therefore, this research highlights the value of multi-faceted and multi-scalar wetland research and how similar approaches should be used in future research methods has been highlighted. The approach used, along with the tools/methods developed in this study have facilitated the establishment of priority areas for conservation and management within the NMBM. Furthermore, the research approach has revealed emergent wetland properties that are only apparent when looking at different spatial scales. This research has highlighted the complex biological and geomorphological interactions between wetlands that operate over various spatial and temporal scales. As such, wetland management should occur across a wetland complex, rather than individual sites, to account for these multi-scalar influences.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The Health and Wellness programme in the Department of Roads and Public Works
- Authors: Mali, Thobela Charlotte
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Employee assistance programs -- South Africa Employee health promotion -- South Africa , Employee motivation -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/40856 , vital:36244
- Description: After 20 years of political democracy, South Africa is still faced with a variety of organisational challenges. Such challenges include crime, poverty, increasing unemployment rate, discrimination of employees in the workplace, the steadily increasing spread of HIV/AIDS and inequalities in the workplace. All these and others not mentioned, coupled with the inherited vast inequalities contribute to the increasing social and economic imbalances in the country. The Health and Wellness Programme of the Department of Roads and Public Works focuses on ensuring health and productivity within the employees of the department to help assist with the minimisation of absenteeism, diminished work performance and dissatisfaction of employees. The Health and Wellness Programme has identified, through its interventions, that there are tremendous factors that directly and indirectly plays a role on the productivity of employees within the workplace. This resulted in the formulation and implementation of various legislative frameworks after such challenges transpired. During the study, it has transpired that the majority of the employees within the Department of Roads and Public Works are not making use of the Health and Wellness Programmes due to lack of knowledge. This has resulted to absenteeism and insufficient productivity in the workplace. It is recommended that there should be coordination of the health education and promotion programmes. This includes health screenings, health promotion activities and medical surveillance. If these programmes are conducted promptly in the workplace, the chances of sick employees will be minimised and some sicknesses such as diabetes and high and low blood pressure can be detected early and treated before it becomes chronic.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Mali, Thobela Charlotte
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Employee assistance programs -- South Africa Employee health promotion -- South Africa , Employee motivation -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/40856 , vital:36244
- Description: After 20 years of political democracy, South Africa is still faced with a variety of organisational challenges. Such challenges include crime, poverty, increasing unemployment rate, discrimination of employees in the workplace, the steadily increasing spread of HIV/AIDS and inequalities in the workplace. All these and others not mentioned, coupled with the inherited vast inequalities contribute to the increasing social and economic imbalances in the country. The Health and Wellness Programme of the Department of Roads and Public Works focuses on ensuring health and productivity within the employees of the department to help assist with the minimisation of absenteeism, diminished work performance and dissatisfaction of employees. The Health and Wellness Programme has identified, through its interventions, that there are tremendous factors that directly and indirectly plays a role on the productivity of employees within the workplace. This resulted in the formulation and implementation of various legislative frameworks after such challenges transpired. During the study, it has transpired that the majority of the employees within the Department of Roads and Public Works are not making use of the Health and Wellness Programmes due to lack of knowledge. This has resulted to absenteeism and insufficient productivity in the workplace. It is recommended that there should be coordination of the health education and promotion programmes. This includes health screenings, health promotion activities and medical surveillance. If these programmes are conducted promptly in the workplace, the chances of sick employees will be minimised and some sicknesses such as diabetes and high and low blood pressure can be detected early and treated before it becomes chronic.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The impact of credible municipal budget planning and implementation on service delivery: a comparative study of two municipalities
- Sikuza, Pumeza Ndabakazi Vuyelwa
- Authors: Sikuza, Pumeza Ndabakazi Vuyelwa
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Municipal services -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Local budgets -- Political aspects -- South Africa , Public administration -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/12725 , vital:27115
- Description: Poor service delivery in South Africa is a serious problem.The poor delivery of services by municipalities has left many communities dissatisfied and even led to service delivery protests. The delivery of services to municipalities is financed through municipal budgets and this study evaluated the quality of the municipal budgets of two municipalities with one budget being credible and the other not being credible. Selected municipal conditional grant spending as well as the findings of the Auditor General’s office against each municipality were assessed and compared with each other. The purpose of this study was to assess whether a municipality with a credible budget achieved more of its service delivery targets than one which had a budget which was not credible. The findings of this study were that the municipality with the credible budget performed better, in terms of conditional grant spending and against predetermined objectives, than the municipality with the budget which was not credible. Therefore, more concerted efforts should be made by all relevant spheres of government to improve the quality of municipal budgets as this will ultimately lead to improved service delivery.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Sikuza, Pumeza Ndabakazi Vuyelwa
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Municipal services -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Local budgets -- Political aspects -- South Africa , Public administration -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/12725 , vital:27115
- Description: Poor service delivery in South Africa is a serious problem.The poor delivery of services by municipalities has left many communities dissatisfied and even led to service delivery protests. The delivery of services to municipalities is financed through municipal budgets and this study evaluated the quality of the municipal budgets of two municipalities with one budget being credible and the other not being credible. Selected municipal conditional grant spending as well as the findings of the Auditor General’s office against each municipality were assessed and compared with each other. The purpose of this study was to assess whether a municipality with a credible budget achieved more of its service delivery targets than one which had a budget which was not credible. The findings of this study were that the municipality with the credible budget performed better, in terms of conditional grant spending and against predetermined objectives, than the municipality with the budget which was not credible. Therefore, more concerted efforts should be made by all relevant spheres of government to improve the quality of municipal budgets as this will ultimately lead to improved service delivery.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The impact of gain-sharing on employee job satisfaction at a manufacturing company in Nelson Mandela Bay
- Authors: Mbotshelwa, Sipo Victor
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Gain sharing -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality Employee loyalty -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality Job satisfaction -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/11691 , vital:26955
- Description: In this economically challenging era, companies have got to find the best system that can help to enhance productivity. A very important method is by encouraging takeholders through various forms of incentives. The gain-sharing incentive has been adopted by many organisations today to enhance staff loyalty and productivity. A gain-sharing programme ensures that both the organisation and team members benefit from the expected performances, rather than an individual or group incentive which is given based on a specific finite goal which could be achieved at the cost of other key critical business need. A couple of years ago Autocast Aluminium decided to enhance employee performance by initiating the gain-sharing incentive programme. After the programme was rolled out, the organisation is yet to examine the extent to which it enhances job satisfaction in the organisation. The primary objective or aim of the study is to examine the extent to which gain-sharing at Autocast meets the purpose for which it was created. The sample of the study was 176 of the employees at Autocast Aluminium; however 130 questionnaires were distributed. A total of 88 questionnaires were returned, of which 80 were usable, whilst eight were scrapped due to more half of the questionnaire having missing data. This resulted in a 68 % response rate. A framework has been developed to measure to what extent does the programme enable employees to feel satisfied with their jobs. The empirical results revealed that out of six independent variables tested: fair payment, involvement, personal growth, communication, job security and leadership style, only three that plays significant role on employee job satisfaction. These are fair payment, communication and leadership style.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Mbotshelwa, Sipo Victor
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Gain sharing -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality Employee loyalty -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality Job satisfaction -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/11691 , vital:26955
- Description: In this economically challenging era, companies have got to find the best system that can help to enhance productivity. A very important method is by encouraging takeholders through various forms of incentives. The gain-sharing incentive has been adopted by many organisations today to enhance staff loyalty and productivity. A gain-sharing programme ensures that both the organisation and team members benefit from the expected performances, rather than an individual or group incentive which is given based on a specific finite goal which could be achieved at the cost of other key critical business need. A couple of years ago Autocast Aluminium decided to enhance employee performance by initiating the gain-sharing incentive programme. After the programme was rolled out, the organisation is yet to examine the extent to which it enhances job satisfaction in the organisation. The primary objective or aim of the study is to examine the extent to which gain-sharing at Autocast meets the purpose for which it was created. The sample of the study was 176 of the employees at Autocast Aluminium; however 130 questionnaires were distributed. A total of 88 questionnaires were returned, of which 80 were usable, whilst eight were scrapped due to more half of the questionnaire having missing data. This resulted in a 68 % response rate. A framework has been developed to measure to what extent does the programme enable employees to feel satisfied with their jobs. The empirical results revealed that out of six independent variables tested: fair payment, involvement, personal growth, communication, job security and leadership style, only three that plays significant role on employee job satisfaction. These are fair payment, communication and leadership style.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016