The effectiveness of schools-based National Arbor Week activities in greening of urban homesteads : a case study of Grahamstown, South Africa
- Parkin, Fiona, Shackleton, Charlie M, Schudel, Ingrid J
- Authors: Parkin, Fiona , Shackleton, Charlie M , Schudel, Ingrid J
- Date: 2006
- Language: English
- Type: Article
- Identifier: vital:6645 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1006885
- Description: Arbor Day, or Week, is a well-established greening initiative worldwide, focusing on tree planting and the benefits thereof. Frequently most effort is targeted at institutions such as schools and community groups. Yet there has been limited assessment of the success of Arbor Day, or Week, activities both at the schools, or the wider dissemination in neighbouring communities and suburbs. The objective of this study was to determine the influence of school-based Arbor Week activities on learners’ home-based practices regarding tree planting and urban forestry. Learners from three schools in Grahamstown, South Africa, with good Arbor Week participation, were assessed on their tree planting knowledge. The learners’ parents were also interviewed to determine whether the information obtained by the learners at school was taken home. A control group consisting of people with no children or very young children was also assessed. This study found that Arbor Week activities were, for the most part, successfully taught in the case study schools, and most of the learners stated that their knowledge of trees and their benefits came from their school activities. However, many learners could not remember the activities in which their schools partook the previous year. Whilst most learners were aware of the importance of trees, few had encouraged tree planting at home. However, over one-fifth of adults claimed that their knowledge of the benefits of trees was as a consequence of Arbor Day activities when they were young. Numerous constraints to tree planting were provided by learners and both the adult groups, the two most frequent being limited space and falling leaves making their yards untidy. External organisations should become more actively involved and provide much needed support systems if greening initiatives are to reach the wider community.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Parkin, Fiona , Shackleton, Charlie M , Schudel, Ingrid J
- Date: 2006
- Language: English
- Type: Article
- Identifier: vital:6645 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1006885
- Description: Arbor Day, or Week, is a well-established greening initiative worldwide, focusing on tree planting and the benefits thereof. Frequently most effort is targeted at institutions such as schools and community groups. Yet there has been limited assessment of the success of Arbor Day, or Week, activities both at the schools, or the wider dissemination in neighbouring communities and suburbs. The objective of this study was to determine the influence of school-based Arbor Week activities on learners’ home-based practices regarding tree planting and urban forestry. Learners from three schools in Grahamstown, South Africa, with good Arbor Week participation, were assessed on their tree planting knowledge. The learners’ parents were also interviewed to determine whether the information obtained by the learners at school was taken home. A control group consisting of people with no children or very young children was also assessed. This study found that Arbor Week activities were, for the most part, successfully taught in the case study schools, and most of the learners stated that their knowledge of trees and their benefits came from their school activities. However, many learners could not remember the activities in which their schools partook the previous year. Whilst most learners were aware of the importance of trees, few had encouraged tree planting at home. However, over one-fifth of adults claimed that their knowledge of the benefits of trees was as a consequence of Arbor Day activities when they were young. Numerous constraints to tree planting were provided by learners and both the adult groups, the two most frequent being limited space and falling leaves making their yards untidy. External organisations should become more actively involved and provide much needed support systems if greening initiatives are to reach the wider community.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
The emplacement of class 1 kimberlites: part 1, evidence of geological features
- Skinner, E M W, Marsh, Julian S
- Authors: Skinner, E M W , Marsh, Julian S
- Date: 2006
- Language: English
- Type: text , Long abstract
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/132729 , vital:36877
- Description: This paper has been prepared specifically for the September 2006, Kimberlite Emplacement Workshop, Saskatoon, Canada. To this end, emphasis is placed on a big bang/ bottom-up model for the emplacement of Class 1 kimbertite pipes first presented by Clement and Reid (1989) and reinforced by Skinner and Marsh (2004). In this part (Part 1) the evidence of various geological features is presented.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Skinner, E M W , Marsh, Julian S
- Date: 2006
- Language: English
- Type: text , Long abstract
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/132729 , vital:36877
- Description: This paper has been prepared specifically for the September 2006, Kimberlite Emplacement Workshop, Saskatoon, Canada. To this end, emphasis is placed on a big bang/ bottom-up model for the emplacement of Class 1 kimbertite pipes first presented by Clement and Reid (1989) and reinforced by Skinner and Marsh (2004). In this part (Part 1) the evidence of various geological features is presented.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
The emplacement of class 1 kimberlites: part 2, petrographic evidence
- Skinner, E M W, Marsh, Julian S
- Authors: Skinner, E M W , Marsh, Julian S
- Date: 2006
- Language: English
- Type: text , Long abstract
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/132740 , vital:36878
- Description: This paper has been prepared specifically for the September 2006, Kimberlite Emplacement Workshop, Saskatoon, Canada. To this end, emphasis is placed on a big bang/ bottom-up model for the emplacement of Class 1 kimberlite pipes first presented by Clement and Reid (1989) and reinforced by Skinner and Marsh (2004). In this part (Part 2) petrographic evidence is presented in support of evidence provided by the synthesis of specific geological features as presented in Part 1.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Skinner, E M W , Marsh, Julian S
- Date: 2006
- Language: English
- Type: text , Long abstract
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/132740 , vital:36878
- Description: This paper has been prepared specifically for the September 2006, Kimberlite Emplacement Workshop, Saskatoon, Canada. To this end, emphasis is placed on a big bang/ bottom-up model for the emplacement of Class 1 kimberlite pipes first presented by Clement and Reid (1989) and reinforced by Skinner and Marsh (2004). In this part (Part 2) petrographic evidence is presented in support of evidence provided by the synthesis of specific geological features as presented in Part 1.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
The establishment of normative data on Xhosa-speaking high school learners using the ImPACT 3.0 programme
- Salman-Godlo, Noluthando Cikizwa
- Authors: Salman-Godlo, Noluthando Cikizwa
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Brain -- Concussion -- South Africa , Sports -- Psychological aspects -- South Africa , Sports injuries -- Psychological spects , Neuropsychological tests , ImPACT 3.0
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:3048 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002557 , Brain -- Concussion -- South Africa , Sports -- Psychological aspects -- South Africa , Sports injuries -- Psychological spects , Neuropsychological tests , ImPACT 3.0
- Description: Concussion is a common form of brain injury, especially amongst sports players of all age groups. ImPACT is a valid and reliable measure of a variety of cognitive functions commonly affected by such injuries, which allows for objective return-to-play decision making (Iverson, Lovell, & Collins, 2003). However, studies show that the transfer of such tests from one ethnic group to another without appropriate standardization is highly problematic (Ardila, 1995). Thus, the relative absence of South African normative data for the ImPACT 3.0 programme is an issue for concern. Consequently, this study aimed to establish norms for semi-rural Xhosa-speaking schoolboys with an advantaged education (ages 14, 16 and 18) for the ImPACT 3.0 programme as administered in English. Administrative and linguistic difficulties that were experienced by individuals during completion of the battery were also identified. Finally, the study included a comparison of the percentile scores of this sample to the USA norms for boys of a similar age group. Subtests scores were generated for 70 schoolboys and the data were then subjected to statistical analysis. A significant difference between English proficiency of the Grade 8 and Grade 12 boys was found. This indicates the importance of including an English proficiency test with the ImPACT battery when assessing such populations. No other significant differences were found between these age group samples. Although this requires further investigation, the comparison of the USA and SA percentiles suggests the use of local norms for this population. South African boys in this study consistently scored lower than the USA sample. Finally, it is recommended that symptom selfreports should be verbally investigated with each boy after testing, given indications of comprehension problems. In closing, limitations and future possible studies are discussed.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Salman-Godlo, Noluthando Cikizwa
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Brain -- Concussion -- South Africa , Sports -- Psychological aspects -- South Africa , Sports injuries -- Psychological spects , Neuropsychological tests , ImPACT 3.0
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:3048 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002557 , Brain -- Concussion -- South Africa , Sports -- Psychological aspects -- South Africa , Sports injuries -- Psychological spects , Neuropsychological tests , ImPACT 3.0
- Description: Concussion is a common form of brain injury, especially amongst sports players of all age groups. ImPACT is a valid and reliable measure of a variety of cognitive functions commonly affected by such injuries, which allows for objective return-to-play decision making (Iverson, Lovell, & Collins, 2003). However, studies show that the transfer of such tests from one ethnic group to another without appropriate standardization is highly problematic (Ardila, 1995). Thus, the relative absence of South African normative data for the ImPACT 3.0 programme is an issue for concern. Consequently, this study aimed to establish norms for semi-rural Xhosa-speaking schoolboys with an advantaged education (ages 14, 16 and 18) for the ImPACT 3.0 programme as administered in English. Administrative and linguistic difficulties that were experienced by individuals during completion of the battery were also identified. Finally, the study included a comparison of the percentile scores of this sample to the USA norms for boys of a similar age group. Subtests scores were generated for 70 schoolboys and the data were then subjected to statistical analysis. A significant difference between English proficiency of the Grade 8 and Grade 12 boys was found. This indicates the importance of including an English proficiency test with the ImPACT battery when assessing such populations. No other significant differences were found between these age group samples. Although this requires further investigation, the comparison of the USA and SA percentiles suggests the use of local norms for this population. South African boys in this study consistently scored lower than the USA sample. Finally, it is recommended that symptom selfreports should be verbally investigated with each boy after testing, given indications of comprehension problems. In closing, limitations and future possible studies are discussed.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
The evaluation of environmental learning support materials : a case study of the AAWARE teacher's guide
- Authors: Glover, Dawn
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Environmental education -- South Africa -- Western Cape , Environmental education -- Curricula -- South Africa -- Western Cape , Teaching -- Aids and devices -- South Africa -- Western Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:1945 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1008064 , Environmental education -- South Africa -- Western Cape , Environmental education -- Curricula -- South Africa -- Western Cape , Teaching -- Aids and devices -- South Africa -- Western Cape
- Description: This evaluative case study investigates the use of a specific learning support materials (LSMs) package, Animal Awareness for World and Regional Education (AA WARE), in the natural sciences, intermediate phase. Schools with access to the resource were canvassed through questionnaires to assess overall use in relation to distribution via workshop versus hand delivery, class size, availability of alternate LSMs and lastly the level of exposure to the distributing organisation. Three case studies were undertaken at three different schools. Data was generated through observations and interviews with the teacher undertaking the lesson observed. The aim of the case studies was to gain greater insight into AAWARE in practice and the factors that facilitated the use of the resource by these teachers. The research indicates that while AAWARE has overcome some inhibitors of resource use, its potential within Outcomes-Based Education (OBE) and the Revised National Curriculum Statements (RNCS) has not been achieved so far, except in a few isolated cases. Factors enabling the use of the resource are its user-friendly design, availability in all three languages spoken by the majority of Western Cape learners and the integration with education policy. Workshops, although not necessary for the utilisation of AA WARE in part, could enhance the integrated nature of the resource and introduce teachers to the potential of using the resource as an entire unit as opposed to a collection of separate lesson plans. A relationship is seen between exposure to the distributing organisation, the personal interest in wildlife of the teacher and the use of AAWARE. Finally recommendations are provided to increase the use of AA WARE. It is suggested that the resource undergoes a more effective alignment to RNCS content (RNCS policy was not an issue) now that RNCS implementation is completed. Further workshops should be offered in the use of AA WARE. Lastly a long-term strategy should be developed to enthuse schools and teachers about the intentions, goals and appropriateness of the resource.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Glover, Dawn
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Environmental education -- South Africa -- Western Cape , Environmental education -- Curricula -- South Africa -- Western Cape , Teaching -- Aids and devices -- South Africa -- Western Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:1945 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1008064 , Environmental education -- South Africa -- Western Cape , Environmental education -- Curricula -- South Africa -- Western Cape , Teaching -- Aids and devices -- South Africa -- Western Cape
- Description: This evaluative case study investigates the use of a specific learning support materials (LSMs) package, Animal Awareness for World and Regional Education (AA WARE), in the natural sciences, intermediate phase. Schools with access to the resource were canvassed through questionnaires to assess overall use in relation to distribution via workshop versus hand delivery, class size, availability of alternate LSMs and lastly the level of exposure to the distributing organisation. Three case studies were undertaken at three different schools. Data was generated through observations and interviews with the teacher undertaking the lesson observed. The aim of the case studies was to gain greater insight into AAWARE in practice and the factors that facilitated the use of the resource by these teachers. The research indicates that while AAWARE has overcome some inhibitors of resource use, its potential within Outcomes-Based Education (OBE) and the Revised National Curriculum Statements (RNCS) has not been achieved so far, except in a few isolated cases. Factors enabling the use of the resource are its user-friendly design, availability in all three languages spoken by the majority of Western Cape learners and the integration with education policy. Workshops, although not necessary for the utilisation of AA WARE in part, could enhance the integrated nature of the resource and introduce teachers to the potential of using the resource as an entire unit as opposed to a collection of separate lesson plans. A relationship is seen between exposure to the distributing organisation, the personal interest in wildlife of the teacher and the use of AAWARE. Finally recommendations are provided to increase the use of AA WARE. It is suggested that the resource undergoes a more effective alignment to RNCS content (RNCS policy was not an issue) now that RNCS implementation is completed. Further workshops should be offered in the use of AA WARE. Lastly a long-term strategy should be developed to enthuse schools and teachers about the intentions, goals and appropriateness of the resource.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
The evaluation of Phenrica sp.2 (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae: Alticinae), as a possible biological control agent for Madeira vine, Anredera cordifolia (Ten.) Steenis in South Africa
- Authors: Van der Westhuizen, Liamé
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Weeds -- Biological control -- South Africa , Biological pest control agents -- South Africa , Invasive plants -- Biological control -- South Africa , Chrysomelidae , Beetles , Flea beetles , Anredera cordifolia -- Biological control
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5689 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005375 , Weeds -- Biological control -- South Africa , Biological pest control agents -- South Africa , Invasive plants -- Biological control -- South Africa , Chrysomelidae , Beetles , Flea beetles , Anredera cordifolia -- Biological control
- Description: Anredera cordifolia (Basellaceae), Madeira vine, is a perennial, semi- succulent climber native from Paraguay to southern Brazil and northern Argentina. It has a history of weediness and difficulty of control once established. In South Africa Madeira vine has a wide range and distribution with altitudes ranging from 10-1800m above sea level. Described as a transformer species, its sheer weight is capable of breaking branches off trees, causing the potential collapse of forest canopies. Chemical and mechanical control methods are expensive, labour intensive and may provide only temporary relief. A biological control programme was therefore initiated in 2003. Cf Phenrica sp. 2 (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae: Alticinae), was field collected from A. cordifolia in Brazil, SSW of Cascavel in the Paraná Province during a survey in November 2003. Eggs are laid in groups of 16 with the average fertility rate being 89%. After going though three larval instars, the larvae pupate in the soil with the adults eclosing after a period of 17 days. The total developmental time for a generation from egg to egg ranges between 7-8 weeks. Biological traits that favour the flea beetle as a possible biological control agent include long-lived adults (up to 5 months) and multiple generations during the summer period. Both adults and larvae feed extensively on leaves and stems and although developmental rates will slow down during the winter period, no indication of a definite diapause was found under the prevailing laboratory conditions. After completing the larval no-choice trials with twenty-six plant species from 14 plant families Phenrica sp. 2 proved to be adequately host specific, as larval development was only supported by 3 Basellaceae species (including the control A. cordifolia) and one Portulacaceae species. All of these are introduced species in South Africa. The only indigenous Basella species could not be tested as it has a very marginal distribution, and because it’s inconspicuous nature, it is seldom seen or collected. Adult multi-choice trials were restricted to species that could sustain larval development to give some indication of the acceptability of these species for adult feeding and oviposition. Although adult feeding was initially concentrated on B. alba, the oviposition preference was clear-cut as females only oviposited on A. cordifolia. In order to quantify the impact of Phenrica sp. 2 on plant biomass and to assess the incidence and intensity of foliar damage, a pair of adults was confined to the host plant, for 2 generations, with different levels of larval densities. The results indicated that the host plant, due to both larval and adult feeding, suffered leaf losses of up to 55%. Anredera cordifolia was however still capable of enlarging the root mass despite suffering huge leaf losses. This would imply that A. cordifolia has an effective re-growth capacity and it will only be vulnerable to attack of the storage organs that enable re-growth, or to repeated attack of other plant parts through which reserves are exhausted. Unfortunately the period of exposure (24 days) was too short to prove that Phenrica sp. 2 impacts on the below ground dry mass, but should the plant be completely defoliated, as was observed in the field, the host plant would be forced to deplete stored resources. Phenrica sp.2 has shown to be very host specific and although A.cordifoia loses its leaves during the winter period in most provinces in South Africa, the adults are long-lived and should be able to survive the leafless periods. Further more the relatively short life cycle, high fecundity and 3 generations per year should theoretically insure a strong population build-up that would improve the chances of establishment in the field. All indications are that Phenrica sp. 2 is an agent well worth considering for the biological control of A. cordifolia.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Van der Westhuizen, Liamé
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Weeds -- Biological control -- South Africa , Biological pest control agents -- South Africa , Invasive plants -- Biological control -- South Africa , Chrysomelidae , Beetles , Flea beetles , Anredera cordifolia -- Biological control
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5689 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005375 , Weeds -- Biological control -- South Africa , Biological pest control agents -- South Africa , Invasive plants -- Biological control -- South Africa , Chrysomelidae , Beetles , Flea beetles , Anredera cordifolia -- Biological control
- Description: Anredera cordifolia (Basellaceae), Madeira vine, is a perennial, semi- succulent climber native from Paraguay to southern Brazil and northern Argentina. It has a history of weediness and difficulty of control once established. In South Africa Madeira vine has a wide range and distribution with altitudes ranging from 10-1800m above sea level. Described as a transformer species, its sheer weight is capable of breaking branches off trees, causing the potential collapse of forest canopies. Chemical and mechanical control methods are expensive, labour intensive and may provide only temporary relief. A biological control programme was therefore initiated in 2003. Cf Phenrica sp. 2 (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae: Alticinae), was field collected from A. cordifolia in Brazil, SSW of Cascavel in the Paraná Province during a survey in November 2003. Eggs are laid in groups of 16 with the average fertility rate being 89%. After going though three larval instars, the larvae pupate in the soil with the adults eclosing after a period of 17 days. The total developmental time for a generation from egg to egg ranges between 7-8 weeks. Biological traits that favour the flea beetle as a possible biological control agent include long-lived adults (up to 5 months) and multiple generations during the summer period. Both adults and larvae feed extensively on leaves and stems and although developmental rates will slow down during the winter period, no indication of a definite diapause was found under the prevailing laboratory conditions. After completing the larval no-choice trials with twenty-six plant species from 14 plant families Phenrica sp. 2 proved to be adequately host specific, as larval development was only supported by 3 Basellaceae species (including the control A. cordifolia) and one Portulacaceae species. All of these are introduced species in South Africa. The only indigenous Basella species could not be tested as it has a very marginal distribution, and because it’s inconspicuous nature, it is seldom seen or collected. Adult multi-choice trials were restricted to species that could sustain larval development to give some indication of the acceptability of these species for adult feeding and oviposition. Although adult feeding was initially concentrated on B. alba, the oviposition preference was clear-cut as females only oviposited on A. cordifolia. In order to quantify the impact of Phenrica sp. 2 on plant biomass and to assess the incidence and intensity of foliar damage, a pair of adults was confined to the host plant, for 2 generations, with different levels of larval densities. The results indicated that the host plant, due to both larval and adult feeding, suffered leaf losses of up to 55%. Anredera cordifolia was however still capable of enlarging the root mass despite suffering huge leaf losses. This would imply that A. cordifolia has an effective re-growth capacity and it will only be vulnerable to attack of the storage organs that enable re-growth, or to repeated attack of other plant parts through which reserves are exhausted. Unfortunately the period of exposure (24 days) was too short to prove that Phenrica sp. 2 impacts on the below ground dry mass, but should the plant be completely defoliated, as was observed in the field, the host plant would be forced to deplete stored resources. Phenrica sp.2 has shown to be very host specific and although A.cordifoia loses its leaves during the winter period in most provinces in South Africa, the adults are long-lived and should be able to survive the leafless periods. Further more the relatively short life cycle, high fecundity and 3 generations per year should theoretically insure a strong population build-up that would improve the chances of establishment in the field. All indications are that Phenrica sp. 2 is an agent well worth considering for the biological control of A. cordifolia.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
The experience of adolescense girls regarding verbal bullying in secondary school
- Authors: Jacobs, Ruwayda
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Teenage girls -- Mental health -- South Africa , Bullying in schools -- South Africa , Psychiatric nursing -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCur
- Identifier: vital:10045 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/449 , Teenage girls -- Mental health -- South Africa , Bullying in schools -- South Africa , Psychiatric nursing -- South Africa
- Description: The experience of verbal bullying at school may cause a female adolescent much distress. This distress can result in the adolescent experiencing life as traumatic and may influence her sense of well being negatively. Verbal bullying usually takes the form of name-calling, put-downs and insults. This can be very traumatic for adolescents and can lower their self-esteem, which may eventually lead to mental illness. The parents of adolescent learners often have the misconception that bullying is a normal part of a teenager’s life and are unaware of the distress it may cause the adolescent. The victimized adolescent should, therefore, be provided with support in order to avert the occurrence of mental illness. The goals of this study were to: • Explore and describe the experiences of adolescent girls regarding verbal bullying in secondary school settings. • Develop guidelines to assist mental health nursing specialists in helping adolescent girls to cope with bullying in secondary schools. The researcher used a qualitative, explorative, descriptive and contextual design with a phenomenological approach. The research population consisted of female learners in a secondary school setting. Purposive sampling was used in this study to identify participants. Data was collected by means of naïve sketches, one-to-one-interviews and field notes based on observations. Data was analyzed using Tesch’s method (in Creswell, 1994:190) of descriptive analysis. The identified themes were compared to available literature. The data collected from this study was used to develop guidelines to aid mental health nursing specialists to help adolescents to cope with verbal bullying.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Jacobs, Ruwayda
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Teenage girls -- Mental health -- South Africa , Bullying in schools -- South Africa , Psychiatric nursing -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCur
- Identifier: vital:10045 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/449 , Teenage girls -- Mental health -- South Africa , Bullying in schools -- South Africa , Psychiatric nursing -- South Africa
- Description: The experience of verbal bullying at school may cause a female adolescent much distress. This distress can result in the adolescent experiencing life as traumatic and may influence her sense of well being negatively. Verbal bullying usually takes the form of name-calling, put-downs and insults. This can be very traumatic for adolescents and can lower their self-esteem, which may eventually lead to mental illness. The parents of adolescent learners often have the misconception that bullying is a normal part of a teenager’s life and are unaware of the distress it may cause the adolescent. The victimized adolescent should, therefore, be provided with support in order to avert the occurrence of mental illness. The goals of this study were to: • Explore and describe the experiences of adolescent girls regarding verbal bullying in secondary school settings. • Develop guidelines to assist mental health nursing specialists in helping adolescent girls to cope with bullying in secondary schools. The researcher used a qualitative, explorative, descriptive and contextual design with a phenomenological approach. The research population consisted of female learners in a secondary school setting. Purposive sampling was used in this study to identify participants. Data was collected by means of naïve sketches, one-to-one-interviews and field notes based on observations. Data was analyzed using Tesch’s method (in Creswell, 1994:190) of descriptive analysis. The identified themes were compared to available literature. The data collected from this study was used to develop guidelines to aid mental health nursing specialists to help adolescents to cope with verbal bullying.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
The experiences and perceptions of midwives at Provincial Hospitals in the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Municipality regarding exclusive breastfeeding by HIV positive first-time mothers
- Authors: Moobi, Emily Keadimilwe
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Breastfeeding -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Midwives -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- Attitudes , HIV infections -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- Prevention
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCur
- Identifier: vital:10016 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/427 , Breastfeeding -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Midwives -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- Attitudes , HIV infections -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- Prevention
- Description: The Department of Health in South Africa, as in many countries, has developed a policy guideline and recommendations for feeding of infants of HIV positive mothers. This is aimed at providing midwives with detailed and sound information about HIV and infant feeding practices based on current understanding of HIV and exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of the infant’s life. The policy states that breastfeeding is a significant and preventable mode of HIV transmission to infants and there is an urgent need to educate, counsel and support women and families, so that they can make decisions about how best to feed infants in the context of HIV (http://www.doh.gov.za/aids/doc/feeding/html.2005-03-07). Speaking to midwives from the Provincial Hospitals in the Nelson Mandela Metropole, the researcher became aware of the midwives’ often-expressed unhappiness about the new policy from the Department of Health on exclusive breastfeeding. Midwives complained about the dilemma with which they are faced regarding infant feeding practices. They could not understand the advocacy of exclusive breastfeeding, when breastfeeding is recognised as one of the modes of Mother-to-Child Transmission (MTCT) of HIV. The aim of the study was to help, support and encourage midwives to implement the policy of exclusive breastfeeding. The objectives of the study were to: • Explore and describe the experiences and perceptions of midwives related to promoting exclusive breastfeeding in HIV positive first-time mothers. • Make recommendations to the Department of Health regarding the support and help that can be given to midwives to encourage their implementation of the exclusive breastfeeding policy. The researcher made use of a qualitative, phenomenological, descriptive, explorative and contextual design. Permission for conducting the research was iv obtained from relevant authorities, and participants were asked to sign a consent form before the researcher proceeded with the study. Collection of data was done by means of unstructured interviews using an audiotape recorder. Once data was saturated, the interviews were transcribed verbatim and analysed, using the steps described by Tesch’s (1990 in Creswell, 1994: 153) method of descriptive analysis. Field notes were also taken to record non-verbal communication during the interviews. In order to ensure trustworthiness of the study, the ethical principles of Guba’s model (in Krefting, 1991:215), namely truth-value, applicability, consistency and neutrality were used. The services of an independent coder were utilised and a consensus meeting was held between the researcher and the independent coder in order to discuss the identified themes. Prior to the consensus meeting, the independent coder was provided with interview transcripts and a protocol to guide the data analysis. Following the data analysis, a literature control was undertaken to highlight the similarities and differences found in the data analysis. Three themes with sub-themes were identified. The participants expressed positive views on the policy of exclusive breastfeeding in HIV positive first-time mothers. They were satisfied with the policy and viewed the policy of exclusive breastfeeding as an effective contribution to feeding options of babies born of HIV positive first-time mothers. However, the participants identified several factors hindering the effective implementation of the policy of exclusive breastfeeding in HIV positive first-time mothers. Factors identified were staffshortages, lack of cooperation among staff members regarding promotion of exclusive breastfeeding, lack of information regarding the CD4 count of patients on admission in the ward, cultural beliefs, lack of training among staff members and inadequate counseling facilities to ensure privacy and confidentiality for mothers. Participants also experienced a variety of emotions related to exclusive breastfeeding such as happiness, confidence, helplessness, frustration, worry and concern, stress and exhaustion. Based on the findings of the study, guidelines were developed and recommendations made concerning nursing practice, nursing education and nursing research.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Moobi, Emily Keadimilwe
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Breastfeeding -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Midwives -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- Attitudes , HIV infections -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- Prevention
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCur
- Identifier: vital:10016 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/427 , Breastfeeding -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Midwives -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- Attitudes , HIV infections -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- Prevention
- Description: The Department of Health in South Africa, as in many countries, has developed a policy guideline and recommendations for feeding of infants of HIV positive mothers. This is aimed at providing midwives with detailed and sound information about HIV and infant feeding practices based on current understanding of HIV and exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of the infant’s life. The policy states that breastfeeding is a significant and preventable mode of HIV transmission to infants and there is an urgent need to educate, counsel and support women and families, so that they can make decisions about how best to feed infants in the context of HIV (http://www.doh.gov.za/aids/doc/feeding/html.2005-03-07). Speaking to midwives from the Provincial Hospitals in the Nelson Mandela Metropole, the researcher became aware of the midwives’ often-expressed unhappiness about the new policy from the Department of Health on exclusive breastfeeding. Midwives complained about the dilemma with which they are faced regarding infant feeding practices. They could not understand the advocacy of exclusive breastfeeding, when breastfeeding is recognised as one of the modes of Mother-to-Child Transmission (MTCT) of HIV. The aim of the study was to help, support and encourage midwives to implement the policy of exclusive breastfeeding. The objectives of the study were to: • Explore and describe the experiences and perceptions of midwives related to promoting exclusive breastfeeding in HIV positive first-time mothers. • Make recommendations to the Department of Health regarding the support and help that can be given to midwives to encourage their implementation of the exclusive breastfeeding policy. The researcher made use of a qualitative, phenomenological, descriptive, explorative and contextual design. Permission for conducting the research was iv obtained from relevant authorities, and participants were asked to sign a consent form before the researcher proceeded with the study. Collection of data was done by means of unstructured interviews using an audiotape recorder. Once data was saturated, the interviews were transcribed verbatim and analysed, using the steps described by Tesch’s (1990 in Creswell, 1994: 153) method of descriptive analysis. Field notes were also taken to record non-verbal communication during the interviews. In order to ensure trustworthiness of the study, the ethical principles of Guba’s model (in Krefting, 1991:215), namely truth-value, applicability, consistency and neutrality were used. The services of an independent coder were utilised and a consensus meeting was held between the researcher and the independent coder in order to discuss the identified themes. Prior to the consensus meeting, the independent coder was provided with interview transcripts and a protocol to guide the data analysis. Following the data analysis, a literature control was undertaken to highlight the similarities and differences found in the data analysis. Three themes with sub-themes were identified. The participants expressed positive views on the policy of exclusive breastfeeding in HIV positive first-time mothers. They were satisfied with the policy and viewed the policy of exclusive breastfeeding as an effective contribution to feeding options of babies born of HIV positive first-time mothers. However, the participants identified several factors hindering the effective implementation of the policy of exclusive breastfeeding in HIV positive first-time mothers. Factors identified were staffshortages, lack of cooperation among staff members regarding promotion of exclusive breastfeeding, lack of information regarding the CD4 count of patients on admission in the ward, cultural beliefs, lack of training among staff members and inadequate counseling facilities to ensure privacy and confidentiality for mothers. Participants also experienced a variety of emotions related to exclusive breastfeeding such as happiness, confidence, helplessness, frustration, worry and concern, stress and exhaustion. Based on the findings of the study, guidelines were developed and recommendations made concerning nursing practice, nursing education and nursing research.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
The extent of discharge planning by nurses for patients who have undergone valvular surgery
- Authors: Verwey, Oriana
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Heart -- Surgery -- Nursing -- South Africa , Heart valves -- Surgery -- South Africa , Heart valves -- Surgery , Heart -- Surgery -- Patients -- Rehabilitation -- South Africa , Hospitals -- Admission and discharge -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCur
- Identifier: vital:10015 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/445 , Heart -- Surgery -- Nursing -- South Africa , Heart valves -- Surgery -- South Africa , Heart valves -- Surgery , Heart -- Surgery -- Patients -- Rehabilitation -- South Africa , Hospitals -- Admission and discharge -- South Africa
- Description: Valvular disorders can be corrected by means of surgery, after which very comprehensive discharge planning should be implemented to prevent the occurrence of post-operative complications. Advances in medical technology and intellect instigate earlier discharge for patients after they have undergone valvular surgery. The aim of this research study is to establish the extent of discharge planning by nurses for patients who have undergone valvular surgery, so that practice guidelines in the form of an in-service educational framework can be compiled for nurses in the management of these patients post-operatively. Patients, many of whom are from rural areas, are discharged without an adequate referral system. There are, currently, no set guidelines or referral persons to direct these patients during their rehabilitation period. Based on the researcher’s personal observations, it is evident that many patients suffer from bacterial endocarditis or clotted valves due to poor post-surgery management. However, both of these conditions could be avoided if proper health education was given to these patients. The study will take the form of a quantitative, exploratory, descriptive and contextual survey. Data will be collected by means of a structured questionnaire that will be completed by the nurses working in the cardiac general ward and the cardiac clinic. Findings of the research study will be used to assist the researcher in developing an in-service educational framework for staff that are both nursing and preparing post valvular surgery patients for discharge. The goal is to prevent complications such as clot formation and endocarditis and to enable patients to deal effectively with their rehabilitation period.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Verwey, Oriana
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Heart -- Surgery -- Nursing -- South Africa , Heart valves -- Surgery -- South Africa , Heart valves -- Surgery , Heart -- Surgery -- Patients -- Rehabilitation -- South Africa , Hospitals -- Admission and discharge -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCur
- Identifier: vital:10015 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/445 , Heart -- Surgery -- Nursing -- South Africa , Heart valves -- Surgery -- South Africa , Heart valves -- Surgery , Heart -- Surgery -- Patients -- Rehabilitation -- South Africa , Hospitals -- Admission and discharge -- South Africa
- Description: Valvular disorders can be corrected by means of surgery, after which very comprehensive discharge planning should be implemented to prevent the occurrence of post-operative complications. Advances in medical technology and intellect instigate earlier discharge for patients after they have undergone valvular surgery. The aim of this research study is to establish the extent of discharge planning by nurses for patients who have undergone valvular surgery, so that practice guidelines in the form of an in-service educational framework can be compiled for nurses in the management of these patients post-operatively. Patients, many of whom are from rural areas, are discharged without an adequate referral system. There are, currently, no set guidelines or referral persons to direct these patients during their rehabilitation period. Based on the researcher’s personal observations, it is evident that many patients suffer from bacterial endocarditis or clotted valves due to poor post-surgery management. However, both of these conditions could be avoided if proper health education was given to these patients. The study will take the form of a quantitative, exploratory, descriptive and contextual survey. Data will be collected by means of a structured questionnaire that will be completed by the nurses working in the cardiac general ward and the cardiac clinic. Findings of the research study will be used to assist the researcher in developing an in-service educational framework for staff that are both nursing and preparing post valvular surgery patients for discharge. The goal is to prevent complications such as clot formation and endocarditis and to enable patients to deal effectively with their rehabilitation period.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
The extent to which review for unreasonableness is meaningfully incorporated in the promotion of Administrative Justice Act no. 3 of 2000
- Authors: Bednar, Jeannine
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Administrative law Administrative law -- South Africa Judicial review of administrative acts -- South Africa Law reform -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , LLM
- Identifier: vital:3707 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1006515
- Description: Prior to the current constitutional dispensation, the development of South African administrative law was restricted by the doctrine of Parliamentary Sovereignty. Even in that comparatively 'hostile' environment, review for unreasonableness developed as an aspect of judicial review, and was applied as a check on the exercise of administrative power in certain circumstances. The principle of proportionality as an aspect of review for unreasonableness also developed during this period. With the advent of the new Constitutional dispensation, the framework within which administrative law in South Africa operates became one governed by Constitutional Supremacy. The Rights to Just Administrative Action, including a right to reasonable administrative action, were entrenched in the Constitution. Review for unreasonableness is an important aspect of administrative law in the present Constitutional dispensation as the mechanism for protecting the Constitutional right to reasonable administrative action. Proportionality is an important principle underlying the Bill of Rights as a whole, and it is an important aspect of the right to reasonable administrative action, and of review for unreasonableness. In early 2000, the Promotion of Administrative Justice Act No. 3 of 2000 ("the PAJA"), was passed by Parliament in fulfillment of the Constitutional requirement to pass legislation to give effect to the constitutional rights to Just Administrative Action. This thesis examines whether or not review for unreasonableness, and proportionality as an aspect of review for unreasonableness, have been meaningfully incorporated in the PAJA, and if they have not been, what potential remedies there might be. This is done by examining the basis of judicial review both before and under the current constitutional dispensation; defining unreasonableness, and proportionality; examining the content of the right to administrative action which is "justifiable in relation to the reasons given" in section 24(d) of the Interim Constitution and the right to reasonable administrative action in terms of section 33(1) of the Final Constitution; examining the application of review for unreasonableness and proportionality by the Courts both before and under the current constitutional dispensation; examining the content of judicial review incorporated in the PAJA and the drafting history of section 6(2) of the PAJA which relates to review for unreasonableness; drawing conclusions regarding whether or not review for unreasonableness and proportionality were meaningfully incorporated in the PAJA; and finally making recommendations with regard to review for unreasonableness and proportionality in light of the provisions of the PAJA.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Bednar, Jeannine
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Administrative law Administrative law -- South Africa Judicial review of administrative acts -- South Africa Law reform -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , LLM
- Identifier: vital:3707 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1006515
- Description: Prior to the current constitutional dispensation, the development of South African administrative law was restricted by the doctrine of Parliamentary Sovereignty. Even in that comparatively 'hostile' environment, review for unreasonableness developed as an aspect of judicial review, and was applied as a check on the exercise of administrative power in certain circumstances. The principle of proportionality as an aspect of review for unreasonableness also developed during this period. With the advent of the new Constitutional dispensation, the framework within which administrative law in South Africa operates became one governed by Constitutional Supremacy. The Rights to Just Administrative Action, including a right to reasonable administrative action, were entrenched in the Constitution. Review for unreasonableness is an important aspect of administrative law in the present Constitutional dispensation as the mechanism for protecting the Constitutional right to reasonable administrative action. Proportionality is an important principle underlying the Bill of Rights as a whole, and it is an important aspect of the right to reasonable administrative action, and of review for unreasonableness. In early 2000, the Promotion of Administrative Justice Act No. 3 of 2000 ("the PAJA"), was passed by Parliament in fulfillment of the Constitutional requirement to pass legislation to give effect to the constitutional rights to Just Administrative Action. This thesis examines whether or not review for unreasonableness, and proportionality as an aspect of review for unreasonableness, have been meaningfully incorporated in the PAJA, and if they have not been, what potential remedies there might be. This is done by examining the basis of judicial review both before and under the current constitutional dispensation; defining unreasonableness, and proportionality; examining the content of the right to administrative action which is "justifiable in relation to the reasons given" in section 24(d) of the Interim Constitution and the right to reasonable administrative action in terms of section 33(1) of the Final Constitution; examining the application of review for unreasonableness and proportionality by the Courts both before and under the current constitutional dispensation; examining the content of judicial review incorporated in the PAJA and the drafting history of section 6(2) of the PAJA which relates to review for unreasonableness; drawing conclusions regarding whether or not review for unreasonableness and proportionality were meaningfully incorporated in the PAJA; and finally making recommendations with regard to review for unreasonableness and proportionality in light of the provisions of the PAJA.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
The fisheries potential of Marcusenius pongolensis, Oreochromis mossambicus and Schilbe intermedius in Mnjoli dam, Swaziland
- Authors: Khumalo, Nokuthula
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Mozambique tilapia , Marcusenius pongolensis , Schilbe intermedius , Fishes -- Swaziland , Fisheries -- Swaziland , Tilapia -- Swaziland
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5283 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005127 , Mozambique tilapia , Marcusenius pongolensis , Schilbe intermedius , Fishes -- Swaziland , Fisheries -- Swaziland , Tilapia -- Swaziland
- Description: This thesis investigates aspects of the diversity, abundance and biology of the fish species inhabiting Mnjoli Dam, an irrigation dam that is located in the rural lowveld region of Swaziland. Specific objectives for this thesis were: to determine the fish species present and select three principal species based on their abundance; to investigate the relative abundance and distribution of the three selected species; and to describe key population parameters, such as growth, maturity, reproductive seasonality and mortality. The three dominant species were selected on their fisheries potential. These were Marcusenius pongolensis, Oreochromis mossambicus and Schilbe intermedius. Marcusenius pongolensis was the most abundant species in terms of both catch per unit effort and mass. Catch rates were shown to vary according to habitat type. Age and growth parameters were obtained from sectioned otoliths. Marginal zone analysis showed that annulus formation occurred in winter for all three species. The maximum-recorded ages were 8, 6 and 8 for M. pongolensis, O. mossambicus and S. intermedius, respectively. Growth for the three species was best described by the three parameter von Bertalanffy growth model as Lt = 1.88.67(1- exp⁻¹·⁴⁸⁽t⁺°·⁶⁷⁾) mm FL for M. pongolensis; Lt = 226.83(1- exp⁻°·⁴⁽t⁺²·°²⁾) mm TL for O. mossambicus and Lt = 214.59(1- exp⁻°·⁶°⁽t⁺¹·²°⁾) mm FL for S. intermedius. Sexual maturity was estimated for male and female M. pongolensis at 134 mm FL and 119 mm FL, respectively. Oreochromis mossambicus matured at 239 mm TL and S. intermedius at 205 mm FL. Two spawning peaks for M. pongolensis and S. intermedius were observed, one at the onset of summer (November) and the second at the beginning of autumn (February-March). Oreochromis mossambicus also exhibited two spawning peaks, one in spring (September) and the second in autumn (February –March). Mean mortality rate (Z), estimated using catch curve analysis was 0.77 year⁻¹ for M. pongolensis, 0.49 year⁻¹ for O. mossambicus and 0.79 year⁻¹ for S. intermedius. Natural mortality was assumed to be equal to Z since there is no fishery activity at the dam. Size specific selectivity curves were developed for each species. Of all the mesh sizes used, the 44 mm mesh size net had the highest catch rates in terms of numbers for M. pongolensis and S. intermedius. The 75mm mesh caught the highest catch rates for O. mossambicus. . The 44mm and 75 mm meshes seem to be the most suitable mesh sizes for harvesting the candidate species. It is concluded that no commercial fishery should be established on the dam, yet a small subsistence fishery could be a possible option. Management options such as input controls, open and closed seasons and areas and minimum sizes are discussed.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Khumalo, Nokuthula
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Mozambique tilapia , Marcusenius pongolensis , Schilbe intermedius , Fishes -- Swaziland , Fisheries -- Swaziland , Tilapia -- Swaziland
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5283 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005127 , Mozambique tilapia , Marcusenius pongolensis , Schilbe intermedius , Fishes -- Swaziland , Fisheries -- Swaziland , Tilapia -- Swaziland
- Description: This thesis investigates aspects of the diversity, abundance and biology of the fish species inhabiting Mnjoli Dam, an irrigation dam that is located in the rural lowveld region of Swaziland. Specific objectives for this thesis were: to determine the fish species present and select three principal species based on their abundance; to investigate the relative abundance and distribution of the three selected species; and to describe key population parameters, such as growth, maturity, reproductive seasonality and mortality. The three dominant species were selected on their fisheries potential. These were Marcusenius pongolensis, Oreochromis mossambicus and Schilbe intermedius. Marcusenius pongolensis was the most abundant species in terms of both catch per unit effort and mass. Catch rates were shown to vary according to habitat type. Age and growth parameters were obtained from sectioned otoliths. Marginal zone analysis showed that annulus formation occurred in winter for all three species. The maximum-recorded ages were 8, 6 and 8 for M. pongolensis, O. mossambicus and S. intermedius, respectively. Growth for the three species was best described by the three parameter von Bertalanffy growth model as Lt = 1.88.67(1- exp⁻¹·⁴⁸⁽t⁺°·⁶⁷⁾) mm FL for M. pongolensis; Lt = 226.83(1- exp⁻°·⁴⁽t⁺²·°²⁾) mm TL for O. mossambicus and Lt = 214.59(1- exp⁻°·⁶°⁽t⁺¹·²°⁾) mm FL for S. intermedius. Sexual maturity was estimated for male and female M. pongolensis at 134 mm FL and 119 mm FL, respectively. Oreochromis mossambicus matured at 239 mm TL and S. intermedius at 205 mm FL. Two spawning peaks for M. pongolensis and S. intermedius were observed, one at the onset of summer (November) and the second at the beginning of autumn (February-March). Oreochromis mossambicus also exhibited two spawning peaks, one in spring (September) and the second in autumn (February –March). Mean mortality rate (Z), estimated using catch curve analysis was 0.77 year⁻¹ for M. pongolensis, 0.49 year⁻¹ for O. mossambicus and 0.79 year⁻¹ for S. intermedius. Natural mortality was assumed to be equal to Z since there is no fishery activity at the dam. Size specific selectivity curves were developed for each species. Of all the mesh sizes used, the 44 mm mesh size net had the highest catch rates in terms of numbers for M. pongolensis and S. intermedius. The 75mm mesh caught the highest catch rates for O. mossambicus. . The 44mm and 75 mm meshes seem to be the most suitable mesh sizes for harvesting the candidate species. It is concluded that no commercial fishery should be established on the dam, yet a small subsistence fishery could be a possible option. Management options such as input controls, open and closed seasons and areas and minimum sizes are discussed.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
The forensic aesthetic in art
- Authors: Spargo, Natascha
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Violence in art Psychic trauma -- Pictorial works Aesthetics Human figure in art Smith, Kathryn, 1975-
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MFA
- Identifier: vital:2435 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1004624
- Description: From Introduction: The 'forensic aesthetic' presents the viewer with traces and debris - the residue that haunts sites of transgression, violence and death. In his book Scene of the Crime, art critic and curator Ralph Rugoff (1997:62) defines the forensic aesthetic as follows: "Inextricably linked to an unseen history, this type of art embodies a fractured relationship to time. Like a piece of evidence, its present appearance is haunted by an indeterminate past, which we confront in the alienated form of fossilized and fragmented remnants." Through its play on seemingly insignificant detail&, clues and traces, the forensic aesthetic suggests that meaning is dispersed, fragmentary and uncertain. According to Rugoff (1997:17), the forensic aesthetic "aims to engage the viewer in a process of mental reconstruction". It compels the viewer to adopt a 'forensic gaze' : to sift through broken narratives and fragments of information, reading the artwork as one might read a sample of evidence. Rugoff (1997:62) argues that: "[S]uch art insists that 'content is something that can't be seen' ... it requires that the viewer arrive at an interpretation by examining traces and marks and reading them as clues. In addition, it is marked by a strong sense of aftermath. ... Taken as a whole, this art puts us in a position akin to that of [the] forensic anthropologist or scientist, forcing us to speculatively piece together histories that remain largely invisible to the eye." One might argue that some of the earliest known examples of the forensic aesthetic in art presented themselves in the Renaissance period in the form of the pseudo-forensic anatomical drawings of Leonardo da Vinci. In his Studies of the Hand (fig. 1), for example, Da Vinci methodically represents the underlying structures of the human hand in a series of drawings that are scattered intermittently across the page. The remainder of the page is covered with hand-written notations. In this work, the artist approaches the human body with a scientific, almost forensic, gaze. Here the body is presented in fragments, rather than as a whole. According to Rugoff (1997:86&88), the forensic aesthetic addresses the body "not as a coherent whole but as a site of prior actions ... as a dispersed territory of clues and traces". When read in terms of the mode of the forensic aesthetic, Da Vinci's Studies of the Hand may be said to look at the human body as forensic object. In this way, this work may be said to speak of the manner in which the forensic gaze operates in the context of the artwork. Throughout the following essay, I discuss the various ways in which the forensic aesthetic manifests itself in art. I have necessarily been selective in the artworks that I have chosen for discussion, as this topic is very broad indeed. In Chapter One, I explore the tradition of the forensic aesthetic in art by way of a select number of artworks. This chapter focuses on investigating the way in which these works, whether consciously or unconsciously, speak of associations between violence and representation through the mode of the forensic aesthetic. The contents of Chapter Two concentrate on the work of South African artist Kathryn Smith. Smith's work may be said to possess a forensic quality, in that it references forensic practices and techniques. Her work has not been the topic of a lengthy monograph, but it has been considered in various exhibition catalogues, reviews and articles. For example, an essay by Colin Richards entitled 'Dead Certainties' (2004) investigates the forensic quality of Smith's imagery in terms of its play on notions of the trace. Similarly, an article by Maureen de Jager, entitled 'Evidence and Artifice' (2004), examines the manner in which Smith's work transgresses the boundaries between 'forensics and fantasy'. In her book, Through the Looking Glass (2004), Brenda Schmahmann addresses Smith's Still Life series (figs. 9, 10, 11) in relation to the issue of self-representation, exploring the relationship between the 'self' and the body as 'other'. Lastly, a review by James Sey, which was published in Art/South Africa (2004), considers Smith's work in terms of its aesthetic appeal, which serves as a framing device for the uncomfortable subject matter that informs the bulk of her imagery. My reading of Kathryn Smith's work departs from and expands on the available literature in that it focuses on the manner in which her images comment self-critically on the act of representation. I have chosen to focus on Smith's work in particular, as it uses the mode of the forensic aesthetic to speak of the field of artistic practice - a motif that runs throughout my own body of work as well. Moreover, Smith's work, like my own work, may be said to engage with the forensic aesthetic in a South African context. In Chapter Two, I compare a number of Smith's works to the artworks discussed in Chapter One, and examine the manner in which they speak of the links between art and crime. Chapter Three concentrates on outlining the ways in which my own work reads off the conventions of forensic investigation. In this chapter I discuss the manner in which my work, by way of a forensic approach, draws parallels between the medium of photography and the mechanisms of trauma. I focus on works that have been included in my Master's exhibition, Vigil (2005). The following essay is a study in representations of violence in art. In the course of this essay, I contextualize the forensic aesthetic as a mode of representation, as well as address the manner in which the forensic aesthetic seems to allow for, even facilitate, self-conscious reflection on the practices of representation itself.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Spargo, Natascha
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Violence in art Psychic trauma -- Pictorial works Aesthetics Human figure in art Smith, Kathryn, 1975-
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MFA
- Identifier: vital:2435 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1004624
- Description: From Introduction: The 'forensic aesthetic' presents the viewer with traces and debris - the residue that haunts sites of transgression, violence and death. In his book Scene of the Crime, art critic and curator Ralph Rugoff (1997:62) defines the forensic aesthetic as follows: "Inextricably linked to an unseen history, this type of art embodies a fractured relationship to time. Like a piece of evidence, its present appearance is haunted by an indeterminate past, which we confront in the alienated form of fossilized and fragmented remnants." Through its play on seemingly insignificant detail&, clues and traces, the forensic aesthetic suggests that meaning is dispersed, fragmentary and uncertain. According to Rugoff (1997:17), the forensic aesthetic "aims to engage the viewer in a process of mental reconstruction". It compels the viewer to adopt a 'forensic gaze' : to sift through broken narratives and fragments of information, reading the artwork as one might read a sample of evidence. Rugoff (1997:62) argues that: "[S]uch art insists that 'content is something that can't be seen' ... it requires that the viewer arrive at an interpretation by examining traces and marks and reading them as clues. In addition, it is marked by a strong sense of aftermath. ... Taken as a whole, this art puts us in a position akin to that of [the] forensic anthropologist or scientist, forcing us to speculatively piece together histories that remain largely invisible to the eye." One might argue that some of the earliest known examples of the forensic aesthetic in art presented themselves in the Renaissance period in the form of the pseudo-forensic anatomical drawings of Leonardo da Vinci. In his Studies of the Hand (fig. 1), for example, Da Vinci methodically represents the underlying structures of the human hand in a series of drawings that are scattered intermittently across the page. The remainder of the page is covered with hand-written notations. In this work, the artist approaches the human body with a scientific, almost forensic, gaze. Here the body is presented in fragments, rather than as a whole. According to Rugoff (1997:86&88), the forensic aesthetic addresses the body "not as a coherent whole but as a site of prior actions ... as a dispersed territory of clues and traces". When read in terms of the mode of the forensic aesthetic, Da Vinci's Studies of the Hand may be said to look at the human body as forensic object. In this way, this work may be said to speak of the manner in which the forensic gaze operates in the context of the artwork. Throughout the following essay, I discuss the various ways in which the forensic aesthetic manifests itself in art. I have necessarily been selective in the artworks that I have chosen for discussion, as this topic is very broad indeed. In Chapter One, I explore the tradition of the forensic aesthetic in art by way of a select number of artworks. This chapter focuses on investigating the way in which these works, whether consciously or unconsciously, speak of associations between violence and representation through the mode of the forensic aesthetic. The contents of Chapter Two concentrate on the work of South African artist Kathryn Smith. Smith's work may be said to possess a forensic quality, in that it references forensic practices and techniques. Her work has not been the topic of a lengthy monograph, but it has been considered in various exhibition catalogues, reviews and articles. For example, an essay by Colin Richards entitled 'Dead Certainties' (2004) investigates the forensic quality of Smith's imagery in terms of its play on notions of the trace. Similarly, an article by Maureen de Jager, entitled 'Evidence and Artifice' (2004), examines the manner in which Smith's work transgresses the boundaries between 'forensics and fantasy'. In her book, Through the Looking Glass (2004), Brenda Schmahmann addresses Smith's Still Life series (figs. 9, 10, 11) in relation to the issue of self-representation, exploring the relationship between the 'self' and the body as 'other'. Lastly, a review by James Sey, which was published in Art/South Africa (2004), considers Smith's work in terms of its aesthetic appeal, which serves as a framing device for the uncomfortable subject matter that informs the bulk of her imagery. My reading of Kathryn Smith's work departs from and expands on the available literature in that it focuses on the manner in which her images comment self-critically on the act of representation. I have chosen to focus on Smith's work in particular, as it uses the mode of the forensic aesthetic to speak of the field of artistic practice - a motif that runs throughout my own body of work as well. Moreover, Smith's work, like my own work, may be said to engage with the forensic aesthetic in a South African context. In Chapter Two, I compare a number of Smith's works to the artworks discussed in Chapter One, and examine the manner in which they speak of the links between art and crime. Chapter Three concentrates on outlining the ways in which my own work reads off the conventions of forensic investigation. In this chapter I discuss the manner in which my work, by way of a forensic approach, draws parallels between the medium of photography and the mechanisms of trauma. I focus on works that have been included in my Master's exhibition, Vigil (2005). The following essay is a study in representations of violence in art. In the course of this essay, I contextualize the forensic aesthetic as a mode of representation, as well as address the manner in which the forensic aesthetic seems to allow for, even facilitate, self-conscious reflection on the practices of representation itself.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
The four cycles of Herakles : towards the visual articulation of myth as psychological process
- Authors: Wentzel, Andrieta
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Art -- Philosophy , Psychoanalysis and the arts , Mythology -- Psychological aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:8500 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/642 , Art -- Philosophy , Psychoanalysis and the arts , Mythology -- Psychological aspects
- Description: My research involves the reassertion of mythic experience in a manner considered contemporaneously relevant. The relevancy resides in the Jungian assumption that myth structures psychic experience to the benefit of the individual and ultimately, society. To this end, I have taken the hero myth of Heracles, and, by filtering it through Jung’s system promoting psychological maturation, that is what he called the individuation process, I have reconfigured it in fine art form
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Wentzel, Andrieta
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Art -- Philosophy , Psychoanalysis and the arts , Mythology -- Psychological aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:8500 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/642 , Art -- Philosophy , Psychoanalysis and the arts , Mythology -- Psychological aspects
- Description: My research involves the reassertion of mythic experience in a manner considered contemporaneously relevant. The relevancy resides in the Jungian assumption that myth structures psychic experience to the benefit of the individual and ultimately, society. To this end, I have taken the hero myth of Heracles, and, by filtering it through Jung’s system promoting psychological maturation, that is what he called the individuation process, I have reconfigured it in fine art form
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
The geology and geochemistry of the Palaeoproterozoic Makganyene diamictite
- Polteau, S, Moore, John M, Tsikos, Harilaos
- Authors: Polteau, S , Moore, John M , Tsikos, Harilaos
- Date: 2006
- Language: English
- Type: Article
- Identifier: vital:6740 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1007556
- Description: The Palaeoproterozoic Earth experienced a global glacial event at 2400 Ma that occurred during the transitional period from anoxic to aerobic conditions in the atmosphere and oceans. The Transvaal Supergroup in the Griqualand West Basin, South Africa, hosts glacial deposits and associated major iron and manganese deposits that are apparently related to these global changes. The focus of this study is to assess the stratigraphy and geochemistry of the glaciogenic Makganyene Formation, in order to constrain its palaeoenvironmental settings. The Makganyene Formation forms the base of the Postmasburg Group and has been regarded as resting on an erosive regional unconformity throughout the Northern Cape Province. Systematic regional field observations and regional mapping carried out during this study demonstrate that this stratigraphic relationship is not universal. The Makganyene Formation is, in fact, conformable with underlying formations of the Koegas Subgroup in the deep southern Prieska basin and rests on an unconformity only on the shallow Ghaap platform to the north-east. The Makganyene Formation displays lateral facies changes that reflect the palaeogeography of the study area, and the advance and retreat of ice sheets/shelves. Geochemical investigations of glacial strata of the Makganyene Formation demonstrate that underlying banded iron formations of the Transvaal Supergroup acted as the main clastic source for the diamictite detritus. Geographic variations in bulk composition of the diamictites correlate well with field observations, and show that sorting processes were controlled largely by the morphology of the palaeobasin. Carbon isotope results emphasize the transitional nature of the Makganyene Formation in terms of the environmental conditions that resulted in widespread global glaciation in the Palaeoproterozoic. On the basis of the above geological evidence, it is proposed that the Transvaal Supergroup in the Northern Cape Province represents a continuous depositional event that lasted approximately 250 Ma and hence provides a unique opportunity for assessing the transitional changes experienced by the Palaeoproterozoic Earth.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Polteau, S , Moore, John M , Tsikos, Harilaos
- Date: 2006
- Language: English
- Type: Article
- Identifier: vital:6740 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1007556
- Description: The Palaeoproterozoic Earth experienced a global glacial event at 2400 Ma that occurred during the transitional period from anoxic to aerobic conditions in the atmosphere and oceans. The Transvaal Supergroup in the Griqualand West Basin, South Africa, hosts glacial deposits and associated major iron and manganese deposits that are apparently related to these global changes. The focus of this study is to assess the stratigraphy and geochemistry of the glaciogenic Makganyene Formation, in order to constrain its palaeoenvironmental settings. The Makganyene Formation forms the base of the Postmasburg Group and has been regarded as resting on an erosive regional unconformity throughout the Northern Cape Province. Systematic regional field observations and regional mapping carried out during this study demonstrate that this stratigraphic relationship is not universal. The Makganyene Formation is, in fact, conformable with underlying formations of the Koegas Subgroup in the deep southern Prieska basin and rests on an unconformity only on the shallow Ghaap platform to the north-east. The Makganyene Formation displays lateral facies changes that reflect the palaeogeography of the study area, and the advance and retreat of ice sheets/shelves. Geochemical investigations of glacial strata of the Makganyene Formation demonstrate that underlying banded iron formations of the Transvaal Supergroup acted as the main clastic source for the diamictite detritus. Geographic variations in bulk composition of the diamictites correlate well with field observations, and show that sorting processes were controlled largely by the morphology of the palaeobasin. Carbon isotope results emphasize the transitional nature of the Makganyene Formation in terms of the environmental conditions that resulted in widespread global glaciation in the Palaeoproterozoic. On the basis of the above geological evidence, it is proposed that the Transvaal Supergroup in the Northern Cape Province represents a continuous depositional event that lasted approximately 250 Ma and hence provides a unique opportunity for assessing the transitional changes experienced by the Palaeoproterozoic Earth.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
The ichthyofauna in a small temporarily open/closed Eastern Cape estuary, South Africa
- Authors: Lukey, James Robert
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Estuarine fishes -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Marine fishes -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Estuaries -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Estuarine fishes -- Habitat -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Fish populations -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Fishes -- Growth -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5287 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005131 , Estuarine fishes -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Marine fishes -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Estuaries -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Estuarine fishes -- Habitat -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Fish populations -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Fishes -- Growth -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: The ichthyofaunal community structure, population dynamics and movement patterns in the small temporarily open/closed (TOCE) Grant’s Valley estuary, situated along the Eastern Cape coastline, were investigated over the period May 2004 to April 2005. Community structure in the littoral zone was assessed, while growth of selected ichthyofaunal species was investigated using the MULTIFAN model. Population size was assessed using mark recapture models and movement within the estuary using the Hilborn (1990) model. Total ichthyofaunal densities and biomass within the littoral zone ranged between 0.31 to 21.45 fish m⁻² and 0.20 to 4.67 g wwt m⁻², with the highest values typically recorded during the summer. Results of the study indicated that the ichthyofaunal community structure within the estuary was closely linked to the mouth phase and the establishment of a link to the marine environment via overtopping events. In the absence of any link to the sea, the ichthyofaunal community was numerically dominated by estuarine resident species, mainly Gilchristella aestuaria and to a lesser extent, by the river goby, Glossogobius callidus which collectively comprised ca. 88% of all fish sampled. The establishment of the link to the marine environment contributed to an increased contribution of marine breeding species (e.g. Rhabdosargus holubi, Myxus capensis and Atherina breviceps) to the total ichthyofaunal abundances. In contrast, total ichthyofaunal biomass was almost always dominated by marine breeding species by virtue of their larger sizes. Results of hierarchical cluster analyses did not identify any spatial patterns in the ichthyofaunal community within the littoral zone. Results of MULTIFAN analysis indicated estuarine resident fish species bred over an extended period with peaks occurring in the summer months. Conversely, marine breeding fish were shown to recruit into the estuary following overtopping and breaching events. Results of the mark-recapture experiment indicated a population of ca. 12 000 (11 219 – 13 311) individuals greater than 50mm SL. Marine-breeding species (R. holubi, Monodactylus falciformis, and two mullet species) numerically dominated the ichthyofauna, possibly as a result of their effective use of overtopping events. The two mullet species, M. capensis and Liza richardsonii, and the Cape stumpnose, R. holubi moved extensively throughout the estuary, while the remaining species exhibited restricted movement patterns possibly due to the preference for refuge and foraging areas associated with reed beds. The observed movement patterns of individual fish species appeared to be associated with both foraging behaviour and habitat selection.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Lukey, James Robert
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Estuarine fishes -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Marine fishes -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Estuaries -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Estuarine fishes -- Habitat -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Fish populations -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Fishes -- Growth -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5287 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005131 , Estuarine fishes -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Marine fishes -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Estuaries -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Estuarine fishes -- Habitat -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Fish populations -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Fishes -- Growth -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: The ichthyofaunal community structure, population dynamics and movement patterns in the small temporarily open/closed (TOCE) Grant’s Valley estuary, situated along the Eastern Cape coastline, were investigated over the period May 2004 to April 2005. Community structure in the littoral zone was assessed, while growth of selected ichthyofaunal species was investigated using the MULTIFAN model. Population size was assessed using mark recapture models and movement within the estuary using the Hilborn (1990) model. Total ichthyofaunal densities and biomass within the littoral zone ranged between 0.31 to 21.45 fish m⁻² and 0.20 to 4.67 g wwt m⁻², with the highest values typically recorded during the summer. Results of the study indicated that the ichthyofaunal community structure within the estuary was closely linked to the mouth phase and the establishment of a link to the marine environment via overtopping events. In the absence of any link to the sea, the ichthyofaunal community was numerically dominated by estuarine resident species, mainly Gilchristella aestuaria and to a lesser extent, by the river goby, Glossogobius callidus which collectively comprised ca. 88% of all fish sampled. The establishment of the link to the marine environment contributed to an increased contribution of marine breeding species (e.g. Rhabdosargus holubi, Myxus capensis and Atherina breviceps) to the total ichthyofaunal abundances. In contrast, total ichthyofaunal biomass was almost always dominated by marine breeding species by virtue of their larger sizes. Results of hierarchical cluster analyses did not identify any spatial patterns in the ichthyofaunal community within the littoral zone. Results of MULTIFAN analysis indicated estuarine resident fish species bred over an extended period with peaks occurring in the summer months. Conversely, marine breeding fish were shown to recruit into the estuary following overtopping and breaching events. Results of the mark-recapture experiment indicated a population of ca. 12 000 (11 219 – 13 311) individuals greater than 50mm SL. Marine-breeding species (R. holubi, Monodactylus falciformis, and two mullet species) numerically dominated the ichthyofauna, possibly as a result of their effective use of overtopping events. The two mullet species, M. capensis and Liza richardsonii, and the Cape stumpnose, R. holubi moved extensively throughout the estuary, while the remaining species exhibited restricted movement patterns possibly due to the preference for refuge and foraging areas associated with reed beds. The observed movement patterns of individual fish species appeared to be associated with both foraging behaviour and habitat selection.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
The identification of mammalian species through the classification of hair patterns using image pattern recognition
- Moyo, Thamasanqa, Bangay, Shaun D, Foster, Gregory G
- Authors: Moyo, Thamasanqa , Bangay, Shaun D , Foster, Gregory G
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/432938 , vital:72914 , https://doi.org/10.1145/1108590.1108619
- Description: The identification of mammals through the use of their hair is important in the fields of forensics and ecology. The application of computer pattern recognition techniques to this process provides a means of reducing the subjectivity found in the process, as manual techniques rely on the interpretation of a human expert rather than quantitative measures. The first application of image pattern recognition techniques to the classification of African mammalian species using hair patterns is presented. This application uses a 2D Gabor filter-bank and motivates the use of moments to classify hair scale patterns. Application of a 2D Gabor filter-bank to hair scale processing provides results of 52% accuracy when using a filter-bank of size four and 72% accuracy when using a filter-bank of size eight. These initial results indicate that 2D Gabor filters produce information that may be successfully used to classify hair according to images of its patterns.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Moyo, Thamasanqa , Bangay, Shaun D , Foster, Gregory G
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/432938 , vital:72914 , https://doi.org/10.1145/1108590.1108619
- Description: The identification of mammals through the use of their hair is important in the fields of forensics and ecology. The application of computer pattern recognition techniques to this process provides a means of reducing the subjectivity found in the process, as manual techniques rely on the interpretation of a human expert rather than quantitative measures. The first application of image pattern recognition techniques to the classification of African mammalian species using hair patterns is presented. This application uses a 2D Gabor filter-bank and motivates the use of moments to classify hair scale patterns. Application of a 2D Gabor filter-bank to hair scale processing provides results of 52% accuracy when using a filter-bank of size four and 72% accuracy when using a filter-bank of size eight. These initial results indicate that 2D Gabor filters produce information that may be successfully used to classify hair according to images of its patterns.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
The impact of cost saving on service quailty
- Authors: Van Rayner, Fiona Mary
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Service industries -- South Africa -- Cost control , Service industries -- South Africa -- Quality control , Employee morale , Job satisfaction
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8751 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/631 , Service industries -- South Africa -- Cost control , Service industries -- South Africa -- Quality control , Employee morale , Job satisfaction
- Description: The aim of all companies is continuously to improve their products and/or services. Managers need to understand what service quality entails and what measures to take to ensure that quality is upheld and employees are satisfied. Cost-saving initiatives often require certain changes to take place within the organisation. In the event of such changes, the psychological contract is often violated, which may have a positive or negative effect on the affected individuals. Management expects to get more work done with fewer employees, who in turn are expected to keep up the service quality. The current shortage of medical technologists in the country has made it impossible for them to cope with the heavy workload. As a result, many leave the profession and venture into something completely different. Those that are left become completely demotivated; they experience less job satisfaction and show less commitment to their work. However, some may even embrace the changes because to them it may mean bigger and better challenges. The aim of this study is to identify which approaches management took to ensure cost saving and how these approaches impacted on the behaviour of employees. A literature review was conducted to determine what the theory reveals about cost saving and its impact on employee behaviour. This was followed by an empirical survey conducted within the National Health Laboratory Services in the Ibhayi region. Finally, the practical findings and literary theory were compared to make recommendations to management on how to ensure positive employee behaviour and boost employee morale.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Van Rayner, Fiona Mary
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Service industries -- South Africa -- Cost control , Service industries -- South Africa -- Quality control , Employee morale , Job satisfaction
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8751 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/631 , Service industries -- South Africa -- Cost control , Service industries -- South Africa -- Quality control , Employee morale , Job satisfaction
- Description: The aim of all companies is continuously to improve their products and/or services. Managers need to understand what service quality entails and what measures to take to ensure that quality is upheld and employees are satisfied. Cost-saving initiatives often require certain changes to take place within the organisation. In the event of such changes, the psychological contract is often violated, which may have a positive or negative effect on the affected individuals. Management expects to get more work done with fewer employees, who in turn are expected to keep up the service quality. The current shortage of medical technologists in the country has made it impossible for them to cope with the heavy workload. As a result, many leave the profession and venture into something completely different. Those that are left become completely demotivated; they experience less job satisfaction and show less commitment to their work. However, some may even embrace the changes because to them it may mean bigger and better challenges. The aim of this study is to identify which approaches management took to ensure cost saving and how these approaches impacted on the behaviour of employees. A literature review was conducted to determine what the theory reveals about cost saving and its impact on employee behaviour. This was followed by an empirical survey conducted within the National Health Laboratory Services in the Ibhayi region. Finally, the practical findings and literary theory were compared to make recommendations to management on how to ensure positive employee behaviour and boost employee morale.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
The impact of inbound logistics activities on the operational performance of the postal services organization in South Africa
- Authors: Tabeni, Mvelo
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: South African Post Office Postal service -- South Africa Business logistics Business logistics -- Cost effectiveness Delivery of goods -- Management Physical distribution of goods Customer services -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:797 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1004577
- Description: Introduction and Relevant Details: This research investigates the impact of inbound logistics' activities on the operational performance of the business within the branches of the South African Post Office (SAPO) in the Eastern Cape Province. The study basically hypothesises a statistically significant positive correlation between inbound logistics' activities and the operational performance of the business with regards to revenue generation and operational costs in particular. A sample of 100 branch offices was randomly selected. A 50-item questionnaire was administered by mail to the branches to collect the data during September 2005, and statistical tests for correlation were conducted on at least five dependent variables; stock procurement costs, effects on revenue, number of stock variation occurrences, order variation occurrences and the stock holding effects. Results of Data Analysis: The results of 88 respondents (88%) showed the existence of the significant positive relationship between the inbound logistics activities and the operational performance of the business at the South African Post Office branches as proposed by the study. The Spearman Rank Correlation tests were above 0.7 for most of the tested variables, showing a strong relationship. The inbound logistics' activities were also found to be positively correlated to revenue generation as well as to the operational expenses of the business. Conclusion and Recommendations: The findings allowed the researcher to conclude also that whatever improvements are made to the inbound logistics will also impact on the operational performance of the business, while failures in the inbound logistics will do so negatively. Business endeavours to maximise revenue and minimise costs are directly affected by the inbound logistics' activities. The branches of the SAPO seemed to be dissatisfied with most of the services rendered by the Supply Distribution Centre (SOC) of the SAPO, and such services have negatively affected the achievement of revenue targets at the branches as well as the operational costs. Holistic approaches to developing positive perceptions in the branches together with improving service activities at the SOC are recommended. Collaborative initiatives between branches and the SOC, reviewing the lead-times and the establishment of proper structures to handle supply chain queries, enhanced by information system technology to provide accurate and up-to-date information to branches and related parties about stock order issues are required . Areas of further research highlighted include the inbound logistics' activities of the SOC and the effectiveness of company policies as a guide to Supply Chain Management (SCM).
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Tabeni, Mvelo
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: South African Post Office Postal service -- South Africa Business logistics Business logistics -- Cost effectiveness Delivery of goods -- Management Physical distribution of goods Customer services -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:797 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1004577
- Description: Introduction and Relevant Details: This research investigates the impact of inbound logistics' activities on the operational performance of the business within the branches of the South African Post Office (SAPO) in the Eastern Cape Province. The study basically hypothesises a statistically significant positive correlation between inbound logistics' activities and the operational performance of the business with regards to revenue generation and operational costs in particular. A sample of 100 branch offices was randomly selected. A 50-item questionnaire was administered by mail to the branches to collect the data during September 2005, and statistical tests for correlation were conducted on at least five dependent variables; stock procurement costs, effects on revenue, number of stock variation occurrences, order variation occurrences and the stock holding effects. Results of Data Analysis: The results of 88 respondents (88%) showed the existence of the significant positive relationship between the inbound logistics activities and the operational performance of the business at the South African Post Office branches as proposed by the study. The Spearman Rank Correlation tests were above 0.7 for most of the tested variables, showing a strong relationship. The inbound logistics' activities were also found to be positively correlated to revenue generation as well as to the operational expenses of the business. Conclusion and Recommendations: The findings allowed the researcher to conclude also that whatever improvements are made to the inbound logistics will also impact on the operational performance of the business, while failures in the inbound logistics will do so negatively. Business endeavours to maximise revenue and minimise costs are directly affected by the inbound logistics' activities. The branches of the SAPO seemed to be dissatisfied with most of the services rendered by the Supply Distribution Centre (SOC) of the SAPO, and such services have negatively affected the achievement of revenue targets at the branches as well as the operational costs. Holistic approaches to developing positive perceptions in the branches together with improving service activities at the SOC are recommended. Collaborative initiatives between branches and the SOC, reviewing the lead-times and the establishment of proper structures to handle supply chain queries, enhanced by information system technology to provide accurate and up-to-date information to branches and related parties about stock order issues are required . Areas of further research highlighted include the inbound logistics' activities of the SOC and the effectiveness of company policies as a guide to Supply Chain Management (SCM).
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
The impact of media commercialization on public service broadcasting : the case of Radio Zimbabwe after the adoption of the Commercialisation Act (No 26) of 2001
- Authors: Saurombe, Memory
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation , Broadcasting -- Zimbabwe , Mass media -- Social aspects -- Zimbabwe , Public broadcasting -- Zimbabwe -- History -- 20th century
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:8410 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/601 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1011671 , Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation , Broadcasting -- Zimbabwe , Mass media -- Social aspects -- Zimbabwe , Public broadcasting -- Zimbabwe -- History -- 20th century
- Description: Cultural and educational functions of public service broadcasting come at a fortuitous time, as the changing environment of broadcasting is on various agendas. At the heart of this is the question of the present and future status of public service broadcasting. Major changes have taken place in the political economy of the media and the world economy at large, technological advancement has resulted in privatization and commercialization of the media. In most societies where these changes have taken place, public service broadcasting has been threatened by the rapid rise of commercial institutions, resulting in stiff competition for audiences. This study will examine the extent to which the adoption of the Commercialization Act (No 26) of 2001 in Zimbabwe has affected Radio Zimbabwe’s role as a public broadcaster. The study is based on the hypothesis that with the adoption of the Commercialization Act, Radio Zimbabwe is no longer playing its public service role effectively. The current nature of programming at Radio Zimbabwe as the research hopes to show will highlight tremendous changes towards a commercial logic. The study uses a combination of document analysis, secondary literature and qualitative interviews.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Saurombe, Memory
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation , Broadcasting -- Zimbabwe , Mass media -- Social aspects -- Zimbabwe , Public broadcasting -- Zimbabwe -- History -- 20th century
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:8410 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/601 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1011671 , Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation , Broadcasting -- Zimbabwe , Mass media -- Social aspects -- Zimbabwe , Public broadcasting -- Zimbabwe -- History -- 20th century
- Description: Cultural and educational functions of public service broadcasting come at a fortuitous time, as the changing environment of broadcasting is on various agendas. At the heart of this is the question of the present and future status of public service broadcasting. Major changes have taken place in the political economy of the media and the world economy at large, technological advancement has resulted in privatization and commercialization of the media. In most societies where these changes have taken place, public service broadcasting has been threatened by the rapid rise of commercial institutions, resulting in stiff competition for audiences. This study will examine the extent to which the adoption of the Commercialization Act (No 26) of 2001 in Zimbabwe has affected Radio Zimbabwe’s role as a public broadcaster. The study is based on the hypothesis that with the adoption of the Commercialization Act, Radio Zimbabwe is no longer playing its public service role effectively. The current nature of programming at Radio Zimbabwe as the research hopes to show will highlight tremendous changes towards a commercial logic. The study uses a combination of document analysis, secondary literature and qualitative interviews.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
The impact of total productive maintenance (TPM) on manufacturing performance at the Colt Section of DaimlerChrysler in the Eastern Cape
- Authors: Ncube, Mfowabo
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Total productive maintenance , Plant maintenance -- Management , Automobile industry and trade -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8560 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/579 , Total productive maintenance , Plant maintenance -- Management , Automobile industry and trade -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: Today's successful manufacturing organisations require a significant competitive advantage, hence the need to implement and develop a Total Productive Maintenance (TPM) strategy. This research paper addresses the impact of TPM on manufacturing performance at the Colt production facility (DCSA). A literature survey was undertaken into the elements and benefits of TPM. Questionaires were also sent to all levels of people at the Colt production facility for their views on TPM and the impact, they believe, it has had on manufacturing performance. In conclusion, this research paper has also led to the development of recommendations to improve TPM activities at the Colt production facility. From the research, it was shown that top management support for TPM activities is needed and that training is an essential factor for TPM's success in improving manufacturing performance.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Ncube, Mfowabo
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Total productive maintenance , Plant maintenance -- Management , Automobile industry and trade -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8560 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/579 , Total productive maintenance , Plant maintenance -- Management , Automobile industry and trade -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: Today's successful manufacturing organisations require a significant competitive advantage, hence the need to implement and develop a Total Productive Maintenance (TPM) strategy. This research paper addresses the impact of TPM on manufacturing performance at the Colt production facility (DCSA). A literature survey was undertaken into the elements and benefits of TPM. Questionaires were also sent to all levels of people at the Colt production facility for their views on TPM and the impact, they believe, it has had on manufacturing performance. In conclusion, this research paper has also led to the development of recommendations to improve TPM activities at the Colt production facility. From the research, it was shown that top management support for TPM activities is needed and that training is an essential factor for TPM's success in improving manufacturing performance.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006