Agribusiness challenges to effectiveness of contract farming in commercialisation of small-scale vegetable farmers
- Authors: Khapayi, Musa
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Farms, Small -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Agriculture -- Economic aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Agricultural industries -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DTech
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/13981 , vital:27363
- Description: The spread of contract farming in South Africa in recent years has provoked an ideological debate in literature. Linking small-scale vegetable farmers with lucrative agricultural markets through agribusiness value chains is seen as one of the foremost emerging agricultural practices to develop the subsistence farming sector into a mainstream economic sector – thereby revitalising the rural economy and alleviating poverty levels in the developing rural areas of South Africa. However, the challenges agribusiness and small-scale farmers experience in contract farming engagement and the prospects for enhancing the inclusion of small-scale farmers into modern value chains remain open to debate – two decades after transition to democracy. Yet the factors and mechanisms influencing the effective application of contract farming in the transition to commercial farming by small-scale farmers have not been thoroughly explored in South African research. Despite the efforts and the substantial investments made and the various policies and initiatives instigated to fast-track the linkages of small-scale farmers into high-value markets, the success stories of previously disadvantaged farmers operating in commercial agri-food chains are rare. Given the millions of small-scale farmers in former homelands alone, the negligible number of small-scale farmers successfully operating in commercial agri-food chains shows that the objectives to enable small-scale farmers to improve their livelihoods through participation in commercial agri-food chains have not yet been met. The broad objectives of the study were therefore to investigate the agribusiness challenges inherent in contract farming and the conditions and incentives required by agribusiness firms to engage small-scale vegetable farmers in contract farming programmes. Furthermore, the study examined the role played by the South African government to reduce the high transaction costs incurred by agribusinesses when engaging small-scale farmers in contractual arrangements. The Amathole and Sarah Baartman (formerly Cacadu) district municipalities in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa were chosen as the composite survey area for this study. A predominantly qualitative research approach was applied to gather data on the phenomena under study. The following methodologies and research instruments and tools were selected. Firstly – as the secondary component of the research – a systematic review of literature to date was conducted to guide the empirical research and primary methodology. Secondly, the empirical component of the study comprised a questionnaire survey, unstructured interviews and focus group discussions. The questionnaire survey was used to collect data from the agribusiness firms in the area surveyed concerning the following aspects: the significant determinants of contract farming, the incentives required by the agribusiness firms to engage small-scale vegetable farmers in their contract farming programmes and the challenges faced by agribusiness firms in their interaction with small-scale farmers in contractual arrangements. Unstructured interviews were used to gather data from officials at each of the three levels of government – the Department of Rural Development and Land Reform nationally, Department of Agriculture and Land Reform provincially and (at local government level) two district municipalities – on the role played by government to reduce the high transaction costs incurred by agri-firms when procuring agricultural raw materials from small-scale vegetable farmers. Focus group discussions were conducted with small-scale farmers regarding their perspective on working with agribusiness firms and to establish the distinguishing characteristics of small-scale farmers in the area surveyed. Relevant policy documents collected from two of the three representative groups of the study population, i.e. agribusiness personnel and government officials, provided the essential context. The study revealed a limited number of contract farming business linkages between small-scale vegetable farmers and agribusiness firms in the survey area. Those that do exist are problematic to both the agribusiness firms and the small-scale farmers. It emerged that the contract farming environment in the area surveyed is highly polarised and characterised by a fundamental conflict of interest between agribusiness and farmer. Among the divergent key factors inhibiting contract farming engagement were a lack in terms of quality seeds, trust, entrepreneurial skills and formal contract agreements. Asset endowment (both land and non-land assets) was found to be significant pre-selection determinants in the farmer’s capacity to be contracted. Access to innovative technology, as well as government incentives such as production inputs, were found to be critical to agribusiness firms to engage smallscale farmers in their contract farming programmes. Government assistance in terms of high transaction costs to agribusiness firms working with large groups of small-scale farmers was found to be essential but inadequate under current policy. This impacts directly on the effectiveness and promotion of contract farming. Furthermore, the current results corroborate the findings of numerous South African studies in the vast body of worldwide research. Firstly, lack of land and non-land assets continue to be major impediments to the direct participa-tion of small-scale farmers in contract farming programmes and, secondly, the transaction and market information costs incurred by agribusiness prevent the participation of less endowed farmers in contract farming programmes. Conducted within the interpretivist paradigm, the explorative research identified wide-ranging challenges in the relationship between agri-business and small-scale farmers which directly impact the effective-ness of contract farming as a development and agrarian reform strategy. Despite their problematic relationship, however, agribusiness and small-scale contract farmers were in agreement that the government needs to expand its support for agri-firms to incentivise greater numbers of small-scale farmers having the opportunity to achieve commercial status through contract farming. The study therefore recommends a collaborative partnership between private firms and government, with state support through revised policies and development programmes. These amendments are crucial to enhancing the engagement of small-scale vegetable farmers in lucrative agri-food chains.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Khapayi, Musa
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Farms, Small -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Agriculture -- Economic aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Agricultural industries -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DTech
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/13981 , vital:27363
- Description: The spread of contract farming in South Africa in recent years has provoked an ideological debate in literature. Linking small-scale vegetable farmers with lucrative agricultural markets through agribusiness value chains is seen as one of the foremost emerging agricultural practices to develop the subsistence farming sector into a mainstream economic sector – thereby revitalising the rural economy and alleviating poverty levels in the developing rural areas of South Africa. However, the challenges agribusiness and small-scale farmers experience in contract farming engagement and the prospects for enhancing the inclusion of small-scale farmers into modern value chains remain open to debate – two decades after transition to democracy. Yet the factors and mechanisms influencing the effective application of contract farming in the transition to commercial farming by small-scale farmers have not been thoroughly explored in South African research. Despite the efforts and the substantial investments made and the various policies and initiatives instigated to fast-track the linkages of small-scale farmers into high-value markets, the success stories of previously disadvantaged farmers operating in commercial agri-food chains are rare. Given the millions of small-scale farmers in former homelands alone, the negligible number of small-scale farmers successfully operating in commercial agri-food chains shows that the objectives to enable small-scale farmers to improve their livelihoods through participation in commercial agri-food chains have not yet been met. The broad objectives of the study were therefore to investigate the agribusiness challenges inherent in contract farming and the conditions and incentives required by agribusiness firms to engage small-scale vegetable farmers in contract farming programmes. Furthermore, the study examined the role played by the South African government to reduce the high transaction costs incurred by agribusinesses when engaging small-scale farmers in contractual arrangements. The Amathole and Sarah Baartman (formerly Cacadu) district municipalities in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa were chosen as the composite survey area for this study. A predominantly qualitative research approach was applied to gather data on the phenomena under study. The following methodologies and research instruments and tools were selected. Firstly – as the secondary component of the research – a systematic review of literature to date was conducted to guide the empirical research and primary methodology. Secondly, the empirical component of the study comprised a questionnaire survey, unstructured interviews and focus group discussions. The questionnaire survey was used to collect data from the agribusiness firms in the area surveyed concerning the following aspects: the significant determinants of contract farming, the incentives required by the agribusiness firms to engage small-scale vegetable farmers in their contract farming programmes and the challenges faced by agribusiness firms in their interaction with small-scale farmers in contractual arrangements. Unstructured interviews were used to gather data from officials at each of the three levels of government – the Department of Rural Development and Land Reform nationally, Department of Agriculture and Land Reform provincially and (at local government level) two district municipalities – on the role played by government to reduce the high transaction costs incurred by agri-firms when procuring agricultural raw materials from small-scale vegetable farmers. Focus group discussions were conducted with small-scale farmers regarding their perspective on working with agribusiness firms and to establish the distinguishing characteristics of small-scale farmers in the area surveyed. Relevant policy documents collected from two of the three representative groups of the study population, i.e. agribusiness personnel and government officials, provided the essential context. The study revealed a limited number of contract farming business linkages between small-scale vegetable farmers and agribusiness firms in the survey area. Those that do exist are problematic to both the agribusiness firms and the small-scale farmers. It emerged that the contract farming environment in the area surveyed is highly polarised and characterised by a fundamental conflict of interest between agribusiness and farmer. Among the divergent key factors inhibiting contract farming engagement were a lack in terms of quality seeds, trust, entrepreneurial skills and formal contract agreements. Asset endowment (both land and non-land assets) was found to be significant pre-selection determinants in the farmer’s capacity to be contracted. Access to innovative technology, as well as government incentives such as production inputs, were found to be critical to agribusiness firms to engage smallscale farmers in their contract farming programmes. Government assistance in terms of high transaction costs to agribusiness firms working with large groups of small-scale farmers was found to be essential but inadequate under current policy. This impacts directly on the effectiveness and promotion of contract farming. Furthermore, the current results corroborate the findings of numerous South African studies in the vast body of worldwide research. Firstly, lack of land and non-land assets continue to be major impediments to the direct participa-tion of small-scale farmers in contract farming programmes and, secondly, the transaction and market information costs incurred by agribusiness prevent the participation of less endowed farmers in contract farming programmes. Conducted within the interpretivist paradigm, the explorative research identified wide-ranging challenges in the relationship between agri-business and small-scale farmers which directly impact the effective-ness of contract farming as a development and agrarian reform strategy. Despite their problematic relationship, however, agribusiness and small-scale contract farmers were in agreement that the government needs to expand its support for agri-firms to incentivise greater numbers of small-scale farmers having the opportunity to achieve commercial status through contract farming. The study therefore recommends a collaborative partnership between private firms and government, with state support through revised policies and development programmes. These amendments are crucial to enhancing the engagement of small-scale vegetable farmers in lucrative agri-food chains.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Agriculture vocational education programme and the promotion of job creation skills in the Free State Technical Vocational Education and Training College
- Authors: Thwala, William Mandla
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Vocational education -- South Africa -- Free State Job creation -- South Africa -- Free State
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/11172 , vital:37199
- Description: The aim of the study was to investigate agriculture educational programme and the promotion of job creation skills in the OFS FET College. The interpretivism paradigm and design approach were adopted in this qualitative research. The sample consisted of three final year students, three facilitators and one coordinator. The non-probability and purposive sampling techniques was used for the qualitative research. The qualitative data was descriptive, and thematically analysed. The study found that there is a big demand for agricultural professional in South Africa but very few are choosing this career. The quality of education in agricultural sector is not where it should be. The demand for skilled people in the sector is growing, while the number of students enrolling in agriculture-related training continues to decrease. Africa’s agricultural education is failing to produce a new wave of farmers. The study found that FET colleges did not train and provide enough skills to students to enhance development in agriculture sectors and therefore make students non-productive at labour market. The study also found that the FET colleges had left a trail of low skills, partially educated and jobless youth behind. The study also found that the curriculum tended to be outmoded, irrelevant to adequately address the challenges facing modern agriculture .The curriculum still focused on farm production rather than encompassing all segments of agricultural value chains, entrepreneurship, and agriculture business processing market. Agriculture forms the basic food security of every country .It contributes a large proportion of gross domestic product in many developing countries and is the source of income and subsistence for many of the poorest and most vulnerable individuals and households.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Thwala, William Mandla
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Vocational education -- South Africa -- Free State Job creation -- South Africa -- Free State
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/11172 , vital:37199
- Description: The aim of the study was to investigate agriculture educational programme and the promotion of job creation skills in the OFS FET College. The interpretivism paradigm and design approach were adopted in this qualitative research. The sample consisted of three final year students, three facilitators and one coordinator. The non-probability and purposive sampling techniques was used for the qualitative research. The qualitative data was descriptive, and thematically analysed. The study found that there is a big demand for agricultural professional in South Africa but very few are choosing this career. The quality of education in agricultural sector is not where it should be. The demand for skilled people in the sector is growing, while the number of students enrolling in agriculture-related training continues to decrease. Africa’s agricultural education is failing to produce a new wave of farmers. The study found that FET colleges did not train and provide enough skills to students to enhance development in agriculture sectors and therefore make students non-productive at labour market. The study also found that the FET colleges had left a trail of low skills, partially educated and jobless youth behind. The study also found that the curriculum tended to be outmoded, irrelevant to adequately address the challenges facing modern agriculture .The curriculum still focused on farm production rather than encompassing all segments of agricultural value chains, entrepreneurship, and agriculture business processing market. Agriculture forms the basic food security of every country .It contributes a large proportion of gross domestic product in many developing countries and is the source of income and subsistence for many of the poorest and most vulnerable individuals and households.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Am I my brother's keeper? learner leadership development in a secondary school in the Eastern Cape, South Africa
- Authors: Knott-Craig, Ian
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Student government -- South Africa , Student participation in administration -- South Africa , High school students -- South Africa , Student government -- South Africa -- Case studies , Student participation in administration -- South Africa -- Case studies , High school students -- South Africa -- Makhanda
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/54073 , vital:26387
- Description: Against the background of a re-emphasis of human rights, social justice and democracy, learner leadership has become a topic of interest and importance. An absence of any meaningful form of leadership development among learners in formerly disadvantaged schools in South Africa prompted this interest into exploring the development of learner leadership. A more recent approach to learner leadership in many countries, including South Africa, has been to look at providing the necessary platform for learners to experience a more shared, cooperative, transformative and service approach within schools in order for them to develop their capacity to lead. This is supported by theoretical developments in the field of leadership, such as Distributive Leadership and Servant Leadership, which emphasise shared leadership. These developments were based on dialogue and strong relationships, where learner leaders situated their practices in moral action, with signs of individual growth, social justice and democratic positioning. In spite of this, not much is known of learner leadership development in South Africa. There are very few studies, none using approaches which look at the context and situation holistically. Hence this study, using Cultural Historical Activity Theory and Critical Realism as under-labourer, for its stance on ontological, epistemological and principled expectations of reality and its understandings on agency and structure, is advanced. Transformational leadership theories, in particular Distributive and Servant Leadership, are used as lenses to help make sense of the nature of learner leaders’ practice and the development of leadership. The aim of the single case study was to discover and explore how and under what circumstances learner leadership could be developed. To this end the researcher established a leadership development group at a previously disadvantaged secondary school. This project provided the platform for leadership development initiatives and became the activity which is the focus of this research. The study examines how leadership is learned and practised, and how the participants interrelate and influence learning and practice in their activity system. It examines the challenges that the learner leaders faced within their communities and what the underlying causes of these challenges were. Qualitative semi-structured interviews, document analysis, direct observation and focus groups were used to collect data. Non-probability sampling, in particular purposive sampling, was used in selecting the sixteen learner leader volunteers who participated in the study. These learners represented various ages, gender and leadership positions that were held in the school. Using inductive, abductive and retroductive modes of inference, the data was abstracted and analysed. The Change Laboratory workshop was used to boost the growth of shared collective views of the learner leaders within the changing object and activity system, in order to build and develop new practices, tools and models. The study recognized that learner leadership was generated by numerous mechanisms, which included the need to overcome the calamitous scarcity of virtuous leadership within their communities; the need to address cultural and historical assumptions, prejudices, and values that existed which reinforced their existing perceptions and behaviour towards leadership; the need to create a space for learner leaders to share responsibilities, thoughts, and become reciprocally dependent on each other, developing together due to their cooperative efforts; the need to demonstrate a willingness and the necessary resilience to survive in an environment whose socioeconomic demands and effects are restrictive and disempowering; a need to respond to the demand for impartiality and access to leadership; and a need to know that one is able to transform the practice of leadership, without it necessarily affecting one’s culture, in such a way that the needs of the people are met. This thesis reports on encouraging signs of leadership growth within the activity, observed and documented over a period of three years. The intervention led to behaviour and attitudinal development that suggests transformative learning and agency. The study’s findings further clarify the many challenges the potential learner leaders faced. Chief among these was the lack of adequate and efficient structures and systems in their communities in order for effective leadership to be established and practised in their communities. These included weak social structures in homes that were unable to support and meet the needs of the learner leaders due to the breakdown of families. Negative forces included high levels of authoritarian leadership practised by a restrictive socialised patriarchy. The underlying causes of these challenges include the perceived threat to individual dignity and survival; the fear of change; the feeling of powerlessness; a lack of hope which fuelled an apathy, a low self-esteem and poor attitude to education; adverse socioeconomic conditions; poor communication skills; a lack of adult role models and willpower; the demand for impartiality and access to leadership knowledge. In order to encourage learner leaders to advance their practice of leadership, the study recommends that adolescents be made to feel valued and included in the development process of leadership so that their willingness to engage with the process becomes pre-emptive. Learner leaders prefer structure, so it becomes all the more important to ensure that any rules, policies and guidelines that are established exhibit a demonstration of transparency and accountability. The study also recommends that when developing an understanding of the learner leaders’ behaviour, using their socio-cultural and historical contexts, they are provided with a non-threatening platform. This enables them to become empowered to actively participate, debate and dialogue collaboratively. They have an opportunity to demonstrate a willingness to engage with each other over tensions that arise, breaking the bonds of socialized pathology.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Knott-Craig, Ian
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Student government -- South Africa , Student participation in administration -- South Africa , High school students -- South Africa , Student government -- South Africa -- Case studies , Student participation in administration -- South Africa -- Case studies , High school students -- South Africa -- Makhanda
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/54073 , vital:26387
- Description: Against the background of a re-emphasis of human rights, social justice and democracy, learner leadership has become a topic of interest and importance. An absence of any meaningful form of leadership development among learners in formerly disadvantaged schools in South Africa prompted this interest into exploring the development of learner leadership. A more recent approach to learner leadership in many countries, including South Africa, has been to look at providing the necessary platform for learners to experience a more shared, cooperative, transformative and service approach within schools in order for them to develop their capacity to lead. This is supported by theoretical developments in the field of leadership, such as Distributive Leadership and Servant Leadership, which emphasise shared leadership. These developments were based on dialogue and strong relationships, where learner leaders situated their practices in moral action, with signs of individual growth, social justice and democratic positioning. In spite of this, not much is known of learner leadership development in South Africa. There are very few studies, none using approaches which look at the context and situation holistically. Hence this study, using Cultural Historical Activity Theory and Critical Realism as under-labourer, for its stance on ontological, epistemological and principled expectations of reality and its understandings on agency and structure, is advanced. Transformational leadership theories, in particular Distributive and Servant Leadership, are used as lenses to help make sense of the nature of learner leaders’ practice and the development of leadership. The aim of the single case study was to discover and explore how and under what circumstances learner leadership could be developed. To this end the researcher established a leadership development group at a previously disadvantaged secondary school. This project provided the platform for leadership development initiatives and became the activity which is the focus of this research. The study examines how leadership is learned and practised, and how the participants interrelate and influence learning and practice in their activity system. It examines the challenges that the learner leaders faced within their communities and what the underlying causes of these challenges were. Qualitative semi-structured interviews, document analysis, direct observation and focus groups were used to collect data. Non-probability sampling, in particular purposive sampling, was used in selecting the sixteen learner leader volunteers who participated in the study. These learners represented various ages, gender and leadership positions that were held in the school. Using inductive, abductive and retroductive modes of inference, the data was abstracted and analysed. The Change Laboratory workshop was used to boost the growth of shared collective views of the learner leaders within the changing object and activity system, in order to build and develop new practices, tools and models. The study recognized that learner leadership was generated by numerous mechanisms, which included the need to overcome the calamitous scarcity of virtuous leadership within their communities; the need to address cultural and historical assumptions, prejudices, and values that existed which reinforced their existing perceptions and behaviour towards leadership; the need to create a space for learner leaders to share responsibilities, thoughts, and become reciprocally dependent on each other, developing together due to their cooperative efforts; the need to demonstrate a willingness and the necessary resilience to survive in an environment whose socioeconomic demands and effects are restrictive and disempowering; a need to respond to the demand for impartiality and access to leadership; and a need to know that one is able to transform the practice of leadership, without it necessarily affecting one’s culture, in such a way that the needs of the people are met. This thesis reports on encouraging signs of leadership growth within the activity, observed and documented over a period of three years. The intervention led to behaviour and attitudinal development that suggests transformative learning and agency. The study’s findings further clarify the many challenges the potential learner leaders faced. Chief among these was the lack of adequate and efficient structures and systems in their communities in order for effective leadership to be established and practised in their communities. These included weak social structures in homes that were unable to support and meet the needs of the learner leaders due to the breakdown of families. Negative forces included high levels of authoritarian leadership practised by a restrictive socialised patriarchy. The underlying causes of these challenges include the perceived threat to individual dignity and survival; the fear of change; the feeling of powerlessness; a lack of hope which fuelled an apathy, a low self-esteem and poor attitude to education; adverse socioeconomic conditions; poor communication skills; a lack of adult role models and willpower; the demand for impartiality and access to leadership knowledge. In order to encourage learner leaders to advance their practice of leadership, the study recommends that adolescents be made to feel valued and included in the development process of leadership so that their willingness to engage with the process becomes pre-emptive. Learner leaders prefer structure, so it becomes all the more important to ensure that any rules, policies and guidelines that are established exhibit a demonstration of transparency and accountability. The study also recommends that when developing an understanding of the learner leaders’ behaviour, using their socio-cultural and historical contexts, they are provided with a non-threatening platform. This enables them to become empowered to actively participate, debate and dialogue collaboratively. They have an opportunity to demonstrate a willingness to engage with each other over tensions that arise, breaking the bonds of socialized pathology.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
An analysis of formative assessment challenges facing English language (L2) secondary school teachers in the Makoni District of Zimbabwe : a study of five schools
- Authors: Mawuye, Enock Panganayi
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: English language -- Study and teaching -- Foreign speakers Teachers -- Training of -- Zimbabwe
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , Education
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/5058 , vital:29028
- Description: The purpose of this study was to analyse formative assessment challenges facing English Language (L2) Secondary school teachers in the Makoni District of Zimbabwe. Data were collected from 25 English Language secondary school teachers pooled from 5 secondary schools in the Makoni District. The study utilised the pragmatic paradigm which allowed the use of the mixed methods approach. The study used the survey research design. Quantitative data were collected through questionnaires while qualitative data were collected through follow-up interviews, documents and non-participant observations. Cross-tabulations were used to present data which were then reported mainly in percentages. While most of the qualitative data were used to buttress findings established through the questionnaires, the other data were categorised into themes and analysed accordingly. Major challenges that were revealed by this study were that teachers used the teacher – centred approach, feedback given to pupils was not detailed, there was less time to assess appropriately and that teachers were not motivated to assess effectively. Remedial activities were not being carried out and that teachers’ training in assessment was not thorough. Shortage of teaching and learning resources and high teacher – pupil ratios were some of the challenges that teachers faced. There was lack of coordination of agencies involved in assessment and that assessment was examinations – oriented. Assessment policy formulation did not involve teachers and that most pupils were not motivated to learn. On the basis of these findings, the study recommended the provision of adequate teaching and learning resources, provision of appropriate pre-service and in – service training programs as well as involving the teachers in the formulation of assessment policies.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Mawuye, Enock Panganayi
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: English language -- Study and teaching -- Foreign speakers Teachers -- Training of -- Zimbabwe
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , Education
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/5058 , vital:29028
- Description: The purpose of this study was to analyse formative assessment challenges facing English Language (L2) Secondary school teachers in the Makoni District of Zimbabwe. Data were collected from 25 English Language secondary school teachers pooled from 5 secondary schools in the Makoni District. The study utilised the pragmatic paradigm which allowed the use of the mixed methods approach. The study used the survey research design. Quantitative data were collected through questionnaires while qualitative data were collected through follow-up interviews, documents and non-participant observations. Cross-tabulations were used to present data which were then reported mainly in percentages. While most of the qualitative data were used to buttress findings established through the questionnaires, the other data were categorised into themes and analysed accordingly. Major challenges that were revealed by this study were that teachers used the teacher – centred approach, feedback given to pupils was not detailed, there was less time to assess appropriately and that teachers were not motivated to assess effectively. Remedial activities were not being carried out and that teachers’ training in assessment was not thorough. Shortage of teaching and learning resources and high teacher – pupil ratios were some of the challenges that teachers faced. There was lack of coordination of agencies involved in assessment and that assessment was examinations – oriented. Assessment policy formulation did not involve teachers and that most pupils were not motivated to learn. On the basis of these findings, the study recommended the provision of adequate teaching and learning resources, provision of appropriate pre-service and in – service training programs as well as involving the teachers in the formulation of assessment policies.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
An analysis of teachers' experiences in using English as medium of instruction among grade 4 learners in Maluti district
- Authors: Rabelemane, Tsielo Aron
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: English language -- Study and teaching Language and languages -- Study and teaching
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/8221 , vital:32058
- Description: The issue of medium of instruction has been a growing concern for most researchers, especially in contexts where English is used as medium of instruction at the expense of the learner’s mother tongue. In a South African context, the problem is being aggravated by the fact that English becomes a language of learning and teaching in Grade 4 whereas the learners’ medium of instruction in the lower grades has been their mother tongue and therefore did not have a firm grasp of the English language. Subsequently, there is a general outcry in South Africa that the shift from mother tongue to English as language of learning and teaching happens too early. The objectives in this thesis were to examine the experiences faced by Grade 4 teachers in using English as language of learning and teaching; to determine how these experiences impinge on learning and teaching in Grade 4 and to determine whether the teachers’ perceptions of English as the language of learning and teaching impinges on the success of the Grade 4 learners. The theoretical framework of this study is based on bilingualism and multilingualism theories. Qualitative and quantitative approaches were used in the study. The study followed a survey design and both purposive and convenience sampling techniques were used. A sample of 100 teachers from 30 selected schools was chosen. The researcher collected data using individual interviews, questionnaires and observation. The qualitative data was analysed thematically whereas SPSS was used for the quantitative data. The findings of the study revealed that learners lacked confidence in expressing themselves in English in front of their peers and as a result the majority of learners did not participate in class when teachers were teaching in English. The results further showed that learners were passive due to poor understanding of the English language which sometimes resulted in communication breakdown between the teacher and the learner. The researcher recommended that the Government should provide the teachers with workshops that will unpack the strategies of teaching Grade 4 learners in using English as a medium of instruction.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Rabelemane, Tsielo Aron
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: English language -- Study and teaching Language and languages -- Study and teaching
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/8221 , vital:32058
- Description: The issue of medium of instruction has been a growing concern for most researchers, especially in contexts where English is used as medium of instruction at the expense of the learner’s mother tongue. In a South African context, the problem is being aggravated by the fact that English becomes a language of learning and teaching in Grade 4 whereas the learners’ medium of instruction in the lower grades has been their mother tongue and therefore did not have a firm grasp of the English language. Subsequently, there is a general outcry in South Africa that the shift from mother tongue to English as language of learning and teaching happens too early. The objectives in this thesis were to examine the experiences faced by Grade 4 teachers in using English as language of learning and teaching; to determine how these experiences impinge on learning and teaching in Grade 4 and to determine whether the teachers’ perceptions of English as the language of learning and teaching impinges on the success of the Grade 4 learners. The theoretical framework of this study is based on bilingualism and multilingualism theories. Qualitative and quantitative approaches were used in the study. The study followed a survey design and both purposive and convenience sampling techniques were used. A sample of 100 teachers from 30 selected schools was chosen. The researcher collected data using individual interviews, questionnaires and observation. The qualitative data was analysed thematically whereas SPSS was used for the quantitative data. The findings of the study revealed that learners lacked confidence in expressing themselves in English in front of their peers and as a result the majority of learners did not participate in class when teachers were teaching in English. The results further showed that learners were passive due to poor understanding of the English language which sometimes resulted in communication breakdown between the teacher and the learner. The researcher recommended that the Government should provide the teachers with workshops that will unpack the strategies of teaching Grade 4 learners in using English as a medium of instruction.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
An analysis of the academic support policies and strategies for underperforming students at Limpopo universities
- Lavhelani, Nyawasedza Phellecy
- Authors: Lavhelani, Nyawasedza Phellecy
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Compensatory education--South Africa--Limpopo Universities and colleges--South Africa--Limpopo Support services (Management)--South Africa--Limpopo
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , Public Administration
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/11784 , vital:39106
- Description: The study sought to investigate academic support policies and strategies for underperforming students at Limpopo universities. By focusing on the University of Venda and that of Limpopo (which are located in rural settings), this study will contribute to the body of knowledge addressing the learning needs of underperforming students in resource constrained universities in South Africa. Qualitative research methodology was considered most appropriate in the present study. The researcher used various research instruments as the fact finding strategies. These comprised tools for data collection. The researcher used questionnaires and the survey of secondary sources for data collection. The researcher chose these instruments because this also means discussing the advantages of using questionnaires and reading, for example gaining an in-depth perspective regarding the actual experiences of students who underperform in their studies. The study focused on first year underperforming students, academic support policies and academic support programmes. Permission was sought from the two universities’ Research Departments to conduct this study. Once permission was granted, the questionnaire was sent out to prospective participants. In addition, the researcher involved intra-group despondence analysis. Since the bulk of the data from the questionnaires was qualitative, thematic analysis was utilised. This involved identifying patterns and emerging themes out of the differences and similarities from the despondences’ views. This study was conducted in the Limpopo Province, South Africa, where the two universities are situated.The study population were students, academics, Information Management Officer, CHETL staff and relevant personnel at the Limpopo. Universities. As envisaged, a total of 136 participants were chosen to participate in the study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Lavhelani, Nyawasedza Phellecy
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Compensatory education--South Africa--Limpopo Universities and colleges--South Africa--Limpopo Support services (Management)--South Africa--Limpopo
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , Public Administration
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/11784 , vital:39106
- Description: The study sought to investigate academic support policies and strategies for underperforming students at Limpopo universities. By focusing on the University of Venda and that of Limpopo (which are located in rural settings), this study will contribute to the body of knowledge addressing the learning needs of underperforming students in resource constrained universities in South Africa. Qualitative research methodology was considered most appropriate in the present study. The researcher used various research instruments as the fact finding strategies. These comprised tools for data collection. The researcher used questionnaires and the survey of secondary sources for data collection. The researcher chose these instruments because this also means discussing the advantages of using questionnaires and reading, for example gaining an in-depth perspective regarding the actual experiences of students who underperform in their studies. The study focused on first year underperforming students, academic support policies and academic support programmes. Permission was sought from the two universities’ Research Departments to conduct this study. Once permission was granted, the questionnaire was sent out to prospective participants. In addition, the researcher involved intra-group despondence analysis. Since the bulk of the data from the questionnaires was qualitative, thematic analysis was utilised. This involved identifying patterns and emerging themes out of the differences and similarities from the despondences’ views. This study was conducted in the Limpopo Province, South Africa, where the two universities are situated.The study population were students, academics, Information Management Officer, CHETL staff and relevant personnel at the Limpopo. Universities. As envisaged, a total of 136 participants were chosen to participate in the study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
An analysis of the implementation of the integrated approach in a Luganda language classroom in Uganda
- Authors: Ssembatya, Henry Hollan
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Ganda language -- Study and teaching -- Uganda African languages -- Study and teaching , Language acquisition
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/14422 , vital:27590
- Description: This qualitative study set out to examine how the integrated approach to language teaching led to an enhancement in Luganda language practices in selected ordinary level secondary schools in the Kampala district of Uganda. The study was positioned within an interpretive paradigm, and employed a phenomenological approach in its intention to uncover the lived experiences and common hidden meanings that participants attached to the phenomena. Purposeful sampling was used to identify 30 teachers from 15 schools and 3 inspectors of school curricula who participated in the study. Data generation strategies included personal interviews and observations which were analyzed according to transcendental phenomenological data analysis methods such as bracketing, horizontalization, clustering into themes, textual description, structural description and textual-structural essence of the study. This study is located in the field of language education and informed by the theoretical framework of the cognitive constructivist theory of learning. In terms of the integrated approach in a Luganda language classroom, the findings show firstly, that teachers held positive perceptions towards the integrated approach in a Luganda language classroom and, as such, they perceived it as a basis for teaching language content and literacy practices collectively through various interactive strategies. Secondly, teachers implemented the integrated approach in a Luganda language classroom as a practical-based activity where learners are engaged in tasks which promote meaningful and real communication in the form of content, task-based instruction, literary texts or readers and contextual or experiential learning. Thirdly, findings on the enhancement of language practices in an integrated Luganda language classroom show that if teachers adopted and implemented the principles of the integrated approach, learners would be motivated to acquire not only the four language practices, but also other related practices such as cognitive, social and interpersonal practices which collectively simplify the language use. Lastly, while teachers are aware of what learners could achieve in an integrated Luganda language classroom, findings indicate that they are demotivated by the many challenges in the implementation process which stem from the teachers, the education system, the learners, and the integrated approach itself. The major implications and recommendations of this study’s findings include: firstly, teachers’ perceptions on the use of the integrated approach in a Luganda language classroom imply that since language learning is a function of social and meaningful classroom interactions learning activities should recognize a teacher as a reflective practitioner, consultant or facilitator of learning rather than an instructor. Secondly, the implementation of the integrated approach in a language classroom would require teachers to be grounded in both practical and theoretical instructional strategies which form a basis for monitoring and engaging learners’ oral and interactive practices. Thirdly, the enhancement of language practices is an outcome of classroom motivation and active interactions which involve creative and critical thinking. Thus, creating and sustaining situations for the enhancement of language practices in a language classroom would require effective branding of learners’ interactive activities with ample opportunities for practice as well as instructional support. Fourthly, considering the perceived challenges in the implementation of the integrated approach, the overall recommendation would be that those challenges need to be resolved if the integrated approach is to be successfully implemented in the context of the Luganda language. An awareness of such challenges provides teachers, educators and policy-makers with insightful ideas in terms of how to manage or change instructional strategies in the classroom.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Ssembatya, Henry Hollan
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Ganda language -- Study and teaching -- Uganda African languages -- Study and teaching , Language acquisition
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/14422 , vital:27590
- Description: This qualitative study set out to examine how the integrated approach to language teaching led to an enhancement in Luganda language practices in selected ordinary level secondary schools in the Kampala district of Uganda. The study was positioned within an interpretive paradigm, and employed a phenomenological approach in its intention to uncover the lived experiences and common hidden meanings that participants attached to the phenomena. Purposeful sampling was used to identify 30 teachers from 15 schools and 3 inspectors of school curricula who participated in the study. Data generation strategies included personal interviews and observations which were analyzed according to transcendental phenomenological data analysis methods such as bracketing, horizontalization, clustering into themes, textual description, structural description and textual-structural essence of the study. This study is located in the field of language education and informed by the theoretical framework of the cognitive constructivist theory of learning. In terms of the integrated approach in a Luganda language classroom, the findings show firstly, that teachers held positive perceptions towards the integrated approach in a Luganda language classroom and, as such, they perceived it as a basis for teaching language content and literacy practices collectively through various interactive strategies. Secondly, teachers implemented the integrated approach in a Luganda language classroom as a practical-based activity where learners are engaged in tasks which promote meaningful and real communication in the form of content, task-based instruction, literary texts or readers and contextual or experiential learning. Thirdly, findings on the enhancement of language practices in an integrated Luganda language classroom show that if teachers adopted and implemented the principles of the integrated approach, learners would be motivated to acquire not only the four language practices, but also other related practices such as cognitive, social and interpersonal practices which collectively simplify the language use. Lastly, while teachers are aware of what learners could achieve in an integrated Luganda language classroom, findings indicate that they are demotivated by the many challenges in the implementation process which stem from the teachers, the education system, the learners, and the integrated approach itself. The major implications and recommendations of this study’s findings include: firstly, teachers’ perceptions on the use of the integrated approach in a Luganda language classroom imply that since language learning is a function of social and meaningful classroom interactions learning activities should recognize a teacher as a reflective practitioner, consultant or facilitator of learning rather than an instructor. Secondly, the implementation of the integrated approach in a language classroom would require teachers to be grounded in both practical and theoretical instructional strategies which form a basis for monitoring and engaging learners’ oral and interactive practices. Thirdly, the enhancement of language practices is an outcome of classroom motivation and active interactions which involve creative and critical thinking. Thus, creating and sustaining situations for the enhancement of language practices in a language classroom would require effective branding of learners’ interactive activities with ample opportunities for practice as well as instructional support. Fourthly, considering the perceived challenges in the implementation of the integrated approach, the overall recommendation would be that those challenges need to be resolved if the integrated approach is to be successfully implemented in the context of the Luganda language. An awareness of such challenges provides teachers, educators and policy-makers with insightful ideas in terms of how to manage or change instructional strategies in the classroom.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
An assessment of the implementation of human resource planning and development and its effect on service delivery in the ministry of health and social welfare in Tanzania
- Authors: Rwiza, Edith
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Personnel management--Tanzania Civil service--Tanzania Public health--Tanzania
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , Public Administration
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/11861 , vital:39113
- Description: Public health is a major concern to a number of countries, due to its ripple impact in the economy. The aim of this study was to investigate the factors that contribute to the implementation of HRP and D in the Tanzanian health sector. To achieve this, 22 respondents from the Ministry Secretariat and Directors were interviewed, and 355 questionnaires were administered to beneficiaries of the HRP and D. A mixed method approach was utilised to analyse the data collected from the respondents. The findings of the study pointed that males dominated the sample, with the majority holding postgraduate qualification. In terms of the implementation of the HRP, 49 percent of the respondents stated that it was satisfactory. While, in terms of capacity, 67 percent were of the view that there is a shortage of skilled staff. The challenges identified include inequality in the allocation of staff, lack of skills, knowledge and experience, and oversupply of staff in certain regions. Strategies proposed for enhancing the application of HRP and D include an overhaul in the organisation structure, solving staff welfare issues, ethics and values improvement, and management of staff. The study recommends that the government should allocate adequate budget to the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare to implement Human Resource Planning and Human Resource Development in all levels of the sector as directed by President’s Office, and the Public Service Management (PO-PSM). The study also recommends on the improvement of the Human Capital Management Information System (HCMIS) to assess health workers movement. Lastly, the study recommends that there should be good coordination, cooperation, and clear lines of authority between stakeholders of health system in supervision and regulation in the implementation of HRP and HRD plans.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Rwiza, Edith
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Personnel management--Tanzania Civil service--Tanzania Public health--Tanzania
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , Public Administration
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/11861 , vital:39113
- Description: Public health is a major concern to a number of countries, due to its ripple impact in the economy. The aim of this study was to investigate the factors that contribute to the implementation of HRP and D in the Tanzanian health sector. To achieve this, 22 respondents from the Ministry Secretariat and Directors were interviewed, and 355 questionnaires were administered to beneficiaries of the HRP and D. A mixed method approach was utilised to analyse the data collected from the respondents. The findings of the study pointed that males dominated the sample, with the majority holding postgraduate qualification. In terms of the implementation of the HRP, 49 percent of the respondents stated that it was satisfactory. While, in terms of capacity, 67 percent were of the view that there is a shortage of skilled staff. The challenges identified include inequality in the allocation of staff, lack of skills, knowledge and experience, and oversupply of staff in certain regions. Strategies proposed for enhancing the application of HRP and D include an overhaul in the organisation structure, solving staff welfare issues, ethics and values improvement, and management of staff. The study recommends that the government should allocate adequate budget to the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare to implement Human Resource Planning and Human Resource Development in all levels of the sector as directed by President’s Office, and the Public Service Management (PO-PSM). The study also recommends on the improvement of the Human Capital Management Information System (HCMIS) to assess health workers movement. Lastly, the study recommends that there should be good coordination, cooperation, and clear lines of authority between stakeholders of health system in supervision and regulation in the implementation of HRP and HRD plans.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
An assessment of the Millennium Development Goal's poverty reduction target in Ogun State, Nigeria
- Durokifa, Anuoluwapo Abosede
- Authors: Durokifa, Anuoluwapo Abosede
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Millennium Development Goals Economic development projects -- Nigeria Sustainable development -- Nigeria
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/4649 , vital:28483
- Description: Nigeria, like many nations of the world, is confronted with a high level of poverty. Over the years the country has taken several initiatives to reduce the incidence of poverty. Nigeria was one of the earliest countries to adopt the Millennium Development Goals [MDGs] as a strategy in reducing poverty and promoting development across the vast nation. The federating states have also rolled out a number of poverty reduction programmes tailored along the millennium development goals. This study, therefore, evaluates the achievement of the millennium development poverty reduction target in Ogun State, South west Nigeria. The study seeks to ascertain whether the state was able to significantly reduce poverty with the introduction of the MDGs. The study also attempts to establish difference or similarity (if any) between past poverty reduction policies in the state and the MDGs poverty reduction strategies. In carrying out this study, related literature on poverty, development and poverty reduction efforts (strategies and programmes) implemented in the state were extensively reviewed and relevant information retrieved for the study. This study employed the mixed method research, comprising both the quantitative and qualitative data. Quantitative data through the administration of a questionnaire was obtained from 232 respondents. While in-depth interview with seven participants provided the qualitative data. Quantitative data was analyzed using Descriptive statistics, and chi-square statistical technique was used to analyze the quantitative data while qualitative data analysis was carried out using transcription and thematic clusters. The findings of the study, in general, revealed that the MDG poverty reduction strategy did not make any significant contribution in reducing poverty in the state. The MDG strategy was not any different from past poverty reduction strategies implemented in the state. The findings of the research also strongly indicated that there was low awareness regarding the MDGs poverty reduction strategies set up amongst the citizens of the state. The low awareness emerged as a major hindrance to the success of the MDG programme. Based on the findings of this study, a sustainable development poverty reduction model was developed. The model gives room for programme awareness; people’s consultation and participation. It emphasizes the need to consider the community setting or environment factors in the planning and execution of poverty reduction programme. This model contend that aligning strategies to the peculiar need of each environment is a critical component for the sustenance of any poverty reduction programme.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Durokifa, Anuoluwapo Abosede
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Millennium Development Goals Economic development projects -- Nigeria Sustainable development -- Nigeria
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/4649 , vital:28483
- Description: Nigeria, like many nations of the world, is confronted with a high level of poverty. Over the years the country has taken several initiatives to reduce the incidence of poverty. Nigeria was one of the earliest countries to adopt the Millennium Development Goals [MDGs] as a strategy in reducing poverty and promoting development across the vast nation. The federating states have also rolled out a number of poverty reduction programmes tailored along the millennium development goals. This study, therefore, evaluates the achievement of the millennium development poverty reduction target in Ogun State, South west Nigeria. The study seeks to ascertain whether the state was able to significantly reduce poverty with the introduction of the MDGs. The study also attempts to establish difference or similarity (if any) between past poverty reduction policies in the state and the MDGs poverty reduction strategies. In carrying out this study, related literature on poverty, development and poverty reduction efforts (strategies and programmes) implemented in the state were extensively reviewed and relevant information retrieved for the study. This study employed the mixed method research, comprising both the quantitative and qualitative data. Quantitative data through the administration of a questionnaire was obtained from 232 respondents. While in-depth interview with seven participants provided the qualitative data. Quantitative data was analyzed using Descriptive statistics, and chi-square statistical technique was used to analyze the quantitative data while qualitative data analysis was carried out using transcription and thematic clusters. The findings of the study, in general, revealed that the MDG poverty reduction strategy did not make any significant contribution in reducing poverty in the state. The MDG strategy was not any different from past poverty reduction strategies implemented in the state. The findings of the research also strongly indicated that there was low awareness regarding the MDGs poverty reduction strategies set up amongst the citizens of the state. The low awareness emerged as a major hindrance to the success of the MDG programme. Based on the findings of this study, a sustainable development poverty reduction model was developed. The model gives room for programme awareness; people’s consultation and participation. It emphasizes the need to consider the community setting or environment factors in the planning and execution of poverty reduction programme. This model contend that aligning strategies to the peculiar need of each environment is a critical component for the sustenance of any poverty reduction programme.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
An assessment of the need for a monitoring model for public service training facilitators :|bthe case of a training agency at an Eastern Cape university
- Authors: Masha, Anthony Kambi
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Employees -- Training of Group facilitation Public administration
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/13138 , vital:39468
- Description: The purpose of this study was to assess the needs of a mentoring model for public service Training Facilitators. The study followed a qualitative interpretive research design whereby semi-structured interviews were used to gain answers from the three constructs addressing the research questions. The results of an assessment that was conducted by the researcher in this study indicate that there is a lack of a mentoring programme for FHS Training Facilitators and that the development of competencies and skills for Training Facilitators through mentoring is non-existent. It was through the findings that the need of mentoring was envisaged, leading to the creation of a comprehensive mentoring model for Leadership Development training. Findings relating to questions regarding the purpose of mentoring, knowledge of presenting training programmes on Leadership Development and requisite competencies and professionalism of Training Facilitators indicate that there is need for a mentoring programme for Leadership Development training at FHS. This study is therefore significant in that a mentoring model has been developed. The study is a new line of inquiry and will make an original contribution to literature on mentoring, proactive training methods and Leadership Development. There is little known on proactive training methods for Millenials on Leadership Development both in South Africa and internationally. This study had a bias towards the qualitative approach. It was conducted in the Eastern Cape Province. For this research, respondents were only Training Facilitators at FHS. The empirical study was limited to male or female Training Facilitators working for FHS and Training Facilitators who have worked for FHS for at least more than a year. The Management of FHS and administration staff members were excluded from the study since the study included only Training Facilitators from the Human Capital Training and Development Unit at FHS. The main focus of the study is mentoring, and does not include related aspects, such as career coaching, executive coaching, action learning and learnerships.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Masha, Anthony Kambi
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Employees -- Training of Group facilitation Public administration
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/13138 , vital:39468
- Description: The purpose of this study was to assess the needs of a mentoring model for public service Training Facilitators. The study followed a qualitative interpretive research design whereby semi-structured interviews were used to gain answers from the three constructs addressing the research questions. The results of an assessment that was conducted by the researcher in this study indicate that there is a lack of a mentoring programme for FHS Training Facilitators and that the development of competencies and skills for Training Facilitators through mentoring is non-existent. It was through the findings that the need of mentoring was envisaged, leading to the creation of a comprehensive mentoring model for Leadership Development training. Findings relating to questions regarding the purpose of mentoring, knowledge of presenting training programmes on Leadership Development and requisite competencies and professionalism of Training Facilitators indicate that there is need for a mentoring programme for Leadership Development training at FHS. This study is therefore significant in that a mentoring model has been developed. The study is a new line of inquiry and will make an original contribution to literature on mentoring, proactive training methods and Leadership Development. There is little known on proactive training methods for Millenials on Leadership Development both in South Africa and internationally. This study had a bias towards the qualitative approach. It was conducted in the Eastern Cape Province. For this research, respondents were only Training Facilitators at FHS. The empirical study was limited to male or female Training Facilitators working for FHS and Training Facilitators who have worked for FHS for at least more than a year. The Management of FHS and administration staff members were excluded from the study since the study included only Training Facilitators from the Human Capital Training and Development Unit at FHS. The main focus of the study is mentoring, and does not include related aspects, such as career coaching, executive coaching, action learning and learnerships.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
An assessment of the strategies for implementing inclusive education in teacher education in Zimbabwe
- Authors: Makiwa, Ellen
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Inclusive education -- Zimbabwe
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/5025 , vital:29013
- Description: Inclusive education has become a global trend in the 21st century and is seen as a way of addressing barriers to learning for children with diverse backgrounds, needs, abilities and learning styles. The key to the success of the implementation of inclusive education lies in teacher education as this is where teachers are trained. Teacher education is thus expected to equip pre-service teacher trainees with relevant and effective strategies to enable them to implement inclusive education effectively in the schools in response to learner diversity. This study therefore focused on assessing the strategies for implementing inclusive education that teacher educators equip their pre-service trainees with in the primary teacher training colleges in Zimbabwe. The research was grounded in the pragmatist paradigm and the mixed method approach was employed. Data were collected from two primary teacher training colleges in Zimbabwe and in primary schools in the Harare Metropolitan Province. The participants were lecturers (teacher educators), pre-service trainees in the final phase of the course and qualified teachers who trained with the two colleges and are teaching in the Mbare-Hatfield District of the Harare Metropolitan Province. The study found out that most of the lecturers, pre-service teacher trainees and qualified teachers knew about inclusive education although some had a narrow view of the extent to which learner diversity entails. Therefore, this could affect the way these educators perceive inclusive teaching strategies in the implementation of inclusive education. The main finding was that the teaching strategies that pre-service trainees were equipped with were not quite effective for inclusive classrooms. The study also unveiled that lecturers in the primary teacher training colleges were aware of different teaching strategies with which pre-service trainees can be equipped and exposed to in order for effective teaching and learning to take place. They, however, did not differentiate between those strategies for regular classes and those for inclusive ones. Although the lecturers were aware of inclusive teaching strategies, they did not do much to equip their trainees with these due to challenges which include lack of coordinated programmes in lecturing in the different subject areas; lack of integration in topics taught in the different subject areas; loaded timetables in the teacher education curriculum; the nature of the teacher education curriculum which is not flexible as it focuses on examinations; inadequate resources and high lecturer-student ratio in the colleges; and high teacher-pupil ratio in the primary schools where the pre-service trainees do their teaching practice. The researcher made some recommendations from the conclusions drawn from the research findings. The recommendations included that there is need for adequate teacher preparation and training to enable teachers to be flexible, accommodative and reflective in their practice in terms of employing teaching strategies. The researcher also recommended a review of the primary teacher education curriculum in its entirety to accommodate fully the teaching of inclusive education.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Makiwa, Ellen
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Inclusive education -- Zimbabwe
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/5025 , vital:29013
- Description: Inclusive education has become a global trend in the 21st century and is seen as a way of addressing barriers to learning for children with diverse backgrounds, needs, abilities and learning styles. The key to the success of the implementation of inclusive education lies in teacher education as this is where teachers are trained. Teacher education is thus expected to equip pre-service teacher trainees with relevant and effective strategies to enable them to implement inclusive education effectively in the schools in response to learner diversity. This study therefore focused on assessing the strategies for implementing inclusive education that teacher educators equip their pre-service trainees with in the primary teacher training colleges in Zimbabwe. The research was grounded in the pragmatist paradigm and the mixed method approach was employed. Data were collected from two primary teacher training colleges in Zimbabwe and in primary schools in the Harare Metropolitan Province. The participants were lecturers (teacher educators), pre-service trainees in the final phase of the course and qualified teachers who trained with the two colleges and are teaching in the Mbare-Hatfield District of the Harare Metropolitan Province. The study found out that most of the lecturers, pre-service teacher trainees and qualified teachers knew about inclusive education although some had a narrow view of the extent to which learner diversity entails. Therefore, this could affect the way these educators perceive inclusive teaching strategies in the implementation of inclusive education. The main finding was that the teaching strategies that pre-service trainees were equipped with were not quite effective for inclusive classrooms. The study also unveiled that lecturers in the primary teacher training colleges were aware of different teaching strategies with which pre-service trainees can be equipped and exposed to in order for effective teaching and learning to take place. They, however, did not differentiate between those strategies for regular classes and those for inclusive ones. Although the lecturers were aware of inclusive teaching strategies, they did not do much to equip their trainees with these due to challenges which include lack of coordinated programmes in lecturing in the different subject areas; lack of integration in topics taught in the different subject areas; loaded timetables in the teacher education curriculum; the nature of the teacher education curriculum which is not flexible as it focuses on examinations; inadequate resources and high lecturer-student ratio in the colleges; and high teacher-pupil ratio in the primary schools where the pre-service trainees do their teaching practice. The researcher made some recommendations from the conclusions drawn from the research findings. The recommendations included that there is need for adequate teacher preparation and training to enable teachers to be flexible, accommodative and reflective in their practice in terms of employing teaching strategies. The researcher also recommended a review of the primary teacher education curriculum in its entirety to accommodate fully the teaching of inclusive education.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
An evaluation of the impact of the Consumer Protection Act 68 of 2008 on the relationship between franchisors and franchisees
- Authors: Biggs, Lynn
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: South Africa -- Consumer Protection Act, 2008 Consumer protection -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , Franchises (Retail trade) -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/14642 , vital:27810
- Description: The franchising business model is an attractive option for both franchisors and franchisees. Franchisors grant the rights to use their intellectual property and business system to franchisees for a fee. Franchisees buy into the tried-and-tested business system, receive ongoing training and support and operate under an established trade mark or trade name. Fundamental characteristics of the franchise relationship include: the contractual nature thereof, the use of the franchisor‘s intellectual property by the franchisee, operating the franchise outlet according to the franchisor‘s business system, providing training and support to the franchisee, and paying for the use of the franchisor‘s intellectual property and business system. These characteristics have resulted in inherent tensions between franchisors and franchisees, which arise by virtue of, inter alia, the control exercised by the franchisor over the use of its intellectual property, franchisor opportunism, poor franchisee selection, franchisee free-riding, inadequate training and support, or the sunk investments made by the franchisee. The franchisor and franchisee generally use a franchise agreement to regulate their relationship. However, the franchise agreement itself can also lead to conflict between the parties, such as that arising from poor drafted clauses relating to territorial rights, renewal, payment, termination, restraint of trade, or confidentiality. The franchise agreement is typically drafted in the standard-form, resulting in franchisees faced with unequal bargaining power. The common law of contract is based on principles of freedom of contract and sanctity of contract and is, therefore, limited in its ability to resolve the tensions between the parties. Various models for regulating the franchising industry can be adopted, for example, self-regulation, statutory regulation, or co-regulation. Australia and Canada have adopted the statutory model by enacting franchise-specific legislation and New Zealand has followed the self-regulation model with no legislation regulating its franchising industry. South Africa did not formally regulate the franchise relationship through legislation until the enactment of its consumer protection legislation, the Consumer Protection Act 68 of 2008 (CPA), which includes a franchisee within the definition of consumer. This entails that all franchisees enjoy the protection of the CPA and all franchise agreements must comply with the provisions of the CPA. The South African economy is unique in that it is burdened by the social ills of its discriminatory past, such as high levels of unemployment, illiteracy and inequality. The country is faced with a slow growing economy with little development and promotion of entrepreneurship among small businesses. Despite the burdensome economy within which the franchising industry is required to operate, the industry‘s contribution to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of the country has remained stable. The South African government has identified the franchising industry as an opportunity for job creation, economic empowerment and promotion of entrepreneurship. The aim of the study is to ascertain whether the CPA is the correct legislative vehicle to regulate the franchise relationship, while enhancing the growth and development of the franchising industry. This thesis concludes that the introduction of fundamental consumer rights and rights of redress for franchisees through the provisions of the CPA has contributed to, or assisted in, the removal of the tensions inherent in the franchise relationship. In particular, the CPA has adequately addressed the lack of formal regulation of the franchise relationship through its disclosure requirements and its regulations. The thesis also proposes amendments to some of the CPA regulations, which will further enhance the disclosure requirements, and aid in curtailing the conflict caused by the terms of the franchise agreement. The thesis further proposes that the application of the CPA to franchise agreements should be limited to small, inexperienced or unsophisticated franchisees that are in need of the protection. An essential premise is that the CPA aims to protect ordinary consumers, including juristic persons, in day-to-day transactions (up to the threshold amount), to avoid suppliers taking advantage of them. Larger, more sophisticated or experienced franchisees, with stronger bargaining power and access to legal advice, do not necessarily require the protection of the CPA. The criteria relating to the size of class of micro-, very small and small enterprises, but not medium enterprises, within the different sectors or sub-sectors in terms of the National Small Enterprises Act, 102 of 1996, should be considered and used as a guide to determine whether the CPA applies to a franchise agreement. The development, growth and success of the franchising industry depends on the education of prospective franchisees wanting to adopt the franchising business model and invest in the industry. The CPA does not recognise or promote the roles of the various stakeholders (franchisors, franchisees and the government) with regard to the provision of education, training, ongoing support and assistance to prospective franchisees. This thesis proposes that mechanisms to enhance the education of prospective franchisees should be promoted, such as tandem franchising, obtaining advice undertakings from prospective franchisees before concluding franchise agreements, and increasing the role of the Consumer Commission in providing franchising education.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Biggs, Lynn
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: South Africa -- Consumer Protection Act, 2008 Consumer protection -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , Franchises (Retail trade) -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/14642 , vital:27810
- Description: The franchising business model is an attractive option for both franchisors and franchisees. Franchisors grant the rights to use their intellectual property and business system to franchisees for a fee. Franchisees buy into the tried-and-tested business system, receive ongoing training and support and operate under an established trade mark or trade name. Fundamental characteristics of the franchise relationship include: the contractual nature thereof, the use of the franchisor‘s intellectual property by the franchisee, operating the franchise outlet according to the franchisor‘s business system, providing training and support to the franchisee, and paying for the use of the franchisor‘s intellectual property and business system. These characteristics have resulted in inherent tensions between franchisors and franchisees, which arise by virtue of, inter alia, the control exercised by the franchisor over the use of its intellectual property, franchisor opportunism, poor franchisee selection, franchisee free-riding, inadequate training and support, or the sunk investments made by the franchisee. The franchisor and franchisee generally use a franchise agreement to regulate their relationship. However, the franchise agreement itself can also lead to conflict between the parties, such as that arising from poor drafted clauses relating to territorial rights, renewal, payment, termination, restraint of trade, or confidentiality. The franchise agreement is typically drafted in the standard-form, resulting in franchisees faced with unequal bargaining power. The common law of contract is based on principles of freedom of contract and sanctity of contract and is, therefore, limited in its ability to resolve the tensions between the parties. Various models for regulating the franchising industry can be adopted, for example, self-regulation, statutory regulation, or co-regulation. Australia and Canada have adopted the statutory model by enacting franchise-specific legislation and New Zealand has followed the self-regulation model with no legislation regulating its franchising industry. South Africa did not formally regulate the franchise relationship through legislation until the enactment of its consumer protection legislation, the Consumer Protection Act 68 of 2008 (CPA), which includes a franchisee within the definition of consumer. This entails that all franchisees enjoy the protection of the CPA and all franchise agreements must comply with the provisions of the CPA. The South African economy is unique in that it is burdened by the social ills of its discriminatory past, such as high levels of unemployment, illiteracy and inequality. The country is faced with a slow growing economy with little development and promotion of entrepreneurship among small businesses. Despite the burdensome economy within which the franchising industry is required to operate, the industry‘s contribution to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of the country has remained stable. The South African government has identified the franchising industry as an opportunity for job creation, economic empowerment and promotion of entrepreneurship. The aim of the study is to ascertain whether the CPA is the correct legislative vehicle to regulate the franchise relationship, while enhancing the growth and development of the franchising industry. This thesis concludes that the introduction of fundamental consumer rights and rights of redress for franchisees through the provisions of the CPA has contributed to, or assisted in, the removal of the tensions inherent in the franchise relationship. In particular, the CPA has adequately addressed the lack of formal regulation of the franchise relationship through its disclosure requirements and its regulations. The thesis also proposes amendments to some of the CPA regulations, which will further enhance the disclosure requirements, and aid in curtailing the conflict caused by the terms of the franchise agreement. The thesis further proposes that the application of the CPA to franchise agreements should be limited to small, inexperienced or unsophisticated franchisees that are in need of the protection. An essential premise is that the CPA aims to protect ordinary consumers, including juristic persons, in day-to-day transactions (up to the threshold amount), to avoid suppliers taking advantage of them. Larger, more sophisticated or experienced franchisees, with stronger bargaining power and access to legal advice, do not necessarily require the protection of the CPA. The criteria relating to the size of class of micro-, very small and small enterprises, but not medium enterprises, within the different sectors or sub-sectors in terms of the National Small Enterprises Act, 102 of 1996, should be considered and used as a guide to determine whether the CPA applies to a franchise agreement. The development, growth and success of the franchising industry depends on the education of prospective franchisees wanting to adopt the franchising business model and invest in the industry. The CPA does not recognise or promote the roles of the various stakeholders (franchisors, franchisees and the government) with regard to the provision of education, training, ongoing support and assistance to prospective franchisees. This thesis proposes that mechanisms to enhance the education of prospective franchisees should be promoted, such as tandem franchising, obtaining advice undertakings from prospective franchisees before concluding franchise agreements, and increasing the role of the Consumer Commission in providing franchising education.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
An evaluation of the implementation of phase 1 of the National Health Insurance Policy in South Africa
- Ntlangula, Margaret Nokuzola
- Authors: Ntlangula, Margaret Nokuzola
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: National health insurance -- South Africa Medical policy -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , Development Studies
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/8714 , vital:33439
- Description: The purpose of this study was to evaluate how Phase 1 of the National Health Insurance Policy in South Africa was implemented. This evaluation focused on evaluation of reengineering of the primary health care system which is listed as one of the areas that was highlighted by the Department as needing attention during the implementation of Phase 1 of NHI. Reengineering of Primary Health Care was pronounced as the heart-beat of NHI. This is the approach that South Africa chose to implement to strengthen the current health care system. Specific measures that were selected to strengthen the current health system would be prioritized in Phase 1. Re-engineering of Primary Health Care is trusted with making a contribution to creation of a unified health care system. These areas would assist to close gaps which are a result of the current fragmented health care system. Inherited from the apartheid government of South Africa the current health care system has two fragments. One fragment is a highly resourced private health sector which provides quality health care for only 16 percent of the population while leaving 84percent of South Africans to access health care from the under-resourced public health sector. Fragmentation has contributed to inefficiencies in provision of health care. Post 1994 the Constitution outlawed discrimination based on economic and socioeconomic status which paved a way for progressive provision of universal coverage. To operationalize provisions of the Constitution of South Africa, the democratic government is implementing NHI which is a United Nations programme. To achieve a sustainable NHI, Phase 1 implementation also focused on strengthening the current health system. Through phased NHI implementation health financing reforms will become a reality. South Africa is implementing National Health Insurance policy to strategically redress health care financing which has resulted into an unequally fragmented health system. The end of a fragmented health system will give way to the birth of an ideal unified health system and universal coverage. The aim of this study was to evaluate how Phase 1 of National Health Insurance was implemented. Document method was used to collect documents, select and analyze data. This evaluation complements other studies which have contributed to the body of knowledge about implementation of programmes which will bring about realization of universal coverage.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Ntlangula, Margaret Nokuzola
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: National health insurance -- South Africa Medical policy -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , Development Studies
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/8714 , vital:33439
- Description: The purpose of this study was to evaluate how Phase 1 of the National Health Insurance Policy in South Africa was implemented. This evaluation focused on evaluation of reengineering of the primary health care system which is listed as one of the areas that was highlighted by the Department as needing attention during the implementation of Phase 1 of NHI. Reengineering of Primary Health Care was pronounced as the heart-beat of NHI. This is the approach that South Africa chose to implement to strengthen the current health care system. Specific measures that were selected to strengthen the current health system would be prioritized in Phase 1. Re-engineering of Primary Health Care is trusted with making a contribution to creation of a unified health care system. These areas would assist to close gaps which are a result of the current fragmented health care system. Inherited from the apartheid government of South Africa the current health care system has two fragments. One fragment is a highly resourced private health sector which provides quality health care for only 16 percent of the population while leaving 84percent of South Africans to access health care from the under-resourced public health sector. Fragmentation has contributed to inefficiencies in provision of health care. Post 1994 the Constitution outlawed discrimination based on economic and socioeconomic status which paved a way for progressive provision of universal coverage. To operationalize provisions of the Constitution of South Africa, the democratic government is implementing NHI which is a United Nations programme. To achieve a sustainable NHI, Phase 1 implementation also focused on strengthening the current health system. Through phased NHI implementation health financing reforms will become a reality. South Africa is implementing National Health Insurance policy to strategically redress health care financing which has resulted into an unequally fragmented health system. The end of a fragmented health system will give way to the birth of an ideal unified health system and universal coverage. The aim of this study was to evaluate how Phase 1 of National Health Insurance was implemented. Document method was used to collect documents, select and analyze data. This evaluation complements other studies which have contributed to the body of knowledge about implementation of programmes which will bring about realization of universal coverage.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
An evaluation of the implementation of the South African Police Service Sector policing in the Eastern Cape
- Authors: Lamana, Andile Robert
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: South African Police Service Police -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/5271 , vital:29180
- Description: This study focussed on the evaluation of the implementation of the South African Police Service sector policing in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa. A mixed methods approach was used to gather, collect and analyse data for this study. The data were collected through semi-structured in-depth interviews, focus groups discussions and a survey. The quantitative approach dominated in data collection, whilst the qualitative approach was used to corroborate the quantitative findings. For the quantitative approach, 265 questionnaires were administered to 121 volunteer participants targeting the station commanders, cluster commanders and sector commanders. A hundred and forty questionnaires were also administered to the Sector Crime Forum chairpersons who were selected using simple random sampling from 32 police stations. The sector commanders were used for in depth interviews. The rationale behind was that the sector commanders are playing a key role in the implementation of sector policing. Simple random sampling was used to select the participants. The study area was in the Eastern Cape, where the research sample and participants were drawn. The findings of the study indicated that although sector policing minimum standards have been achieved by many stations, the study found out that there are some stations that have not yet attained the policy goals in terms of optimal implementation of sector policing in the Eastern Cape Province. The study established that the farm and rural and remote police stations were not complying with the minimum standards laid down in the National Instruction 3/2009. The problem of non-compliance emanates from the shortages of resources. Further findings on this study were based on the experiences and challenges of the implementers of sector policing. The study found that there were challenges confronted by them in the implementation process. Although some of the participants were indicating their enjoying working closely with their communities, there were some major challenges that they experienced in the process of executing their duties. The results of the study indicate that resources were not adequate to ensure that this new policing strategy is properly executed. Another important finding which was identified by the study was the fact that sector policing, as a new policing strategy, was not adequately communicated and marketed for it to be accepted and to for it to achieve the necessary buy in from stakeholders. The study further established that training, development and capacity building were lacking to capacitate the implementers of the new policing strategy. Further, sector to sector collaboration was identified as another challenge by the study. Team work was very much limited. The study further revealed that command and control was not enhanced by the sector commanders in their sectors. The sector patrol reports were not available in the files and AVL reports were also not retrieved and monitored. The factors highlighted above have a negative bearing on the reduction of crime. Poor police visibility and stakeholder participation in crime prevention programmes are not reducing crime.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Lamana, Andile Robert
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: South African Police Service Police -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/5271 , vital:29180
- Description: This study focussed on the evaluation of the implementation of the South African Police Service sector policing in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa. A mixed methods approach was used to gather, collect and analyse data for this study. The data were collected through semi-structured in-depth interviews, focus groups discussions and a survey. The quantitative approach dominated in data collection, whilst the qualitative approach was used to corroborate the quantitative findings. For the quantitative approach, 265 questionnaires were administered to 121 volunteer participants targeting the station commanders, cluster commanders and sector commanders. A hundred and forty questionnaires were also administered to the Sector Crime Forum chairpersons who were selected using simple random sampling from 32 police stations. The sector commanders were used for in depth interviews. The rationale behind was that the sector commanders are playing a key role in the implementation of sector policing. Simple random sampling was used to select the participants. The study area was in the Eastern Cape, where the research sample and participants were drawn. The findings of the study indicated that although sector policing minimum standards have been achieved by many stations, the study found out that there are some stations that have not yet attained the policy goals in terms of optimal implementation of sector policing in the Eastern Cape Province. The study established that the farm and rural and remote police stations were not complying with the minimum standards laid down in the National Instruction 3/2009. The problem of non-compliance emanates from the shortages of resources. Further findings on this study were based on the experiences and challenges of the implementers of sector policing. The study found that there were challenges confronted by them in the implementation process. Although some of the participants were indicating their enjoying working closely with their communities, there were some major challenges that they experienced in the process of executing their duties. The results of the study indicate that resources were not adequate to ensure that this new policing strategy is properly executed. Another important finding which was identified by the study was the fact that sector policing, as a new policing strategy, was not adequately communicated and marketed for it to be accepted and to for it to achieve the necessary buy in from stakeholders. The study further established that training, development and capacity building were lacking to capacitate the implementers of the new policing strategy. Further, sector to sector collaboration was identified as another challenge by the study. Team work was very much limited. The study further revealed that command and control was not enhanced by the sector commanders in their sectors. The sector patrol reports were not available in the files and AVL reports were also not retrieved and monitored. The factors highlighted above have a negative bearing on the reduction of crime. Poor police visibility and stakeholder participation in crime prevention programmes are not reducing crime.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
An experimental study of self-regulated learning with mathematically gifted pupils in Nigerian primary schools
- Authors: Zaram, Gyang Nyam
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Mathematics -- Study and teaching (Elementary) -- Nigeria , Numeracy -- Study and teaching (Elementary) -- Nigeria Gifted children -- Education -- Curricula Gifted children -- Nigeria
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/13381 , vital:27180
- Description: The purpose of this study was to determine whether gifted pupils can master an enriched advanced level curriculum in mathematics using self-regulated learning strategies. A mathematics curriculum for class five primary school learners in Nigeria was developed for this study. An empirical study was conducted on primary five pupils who were seen to be significantly gifted in mathematics. The study employed the quantitative method of research, that is, the true experimental research. The pre-test, post-test control group design was used. Sixty gifted pupils who participated in a mathematics enrichment programme (MEP) were assigned into two groups of the control group and experimental group with thirty pupils forming each group. The control group was exposed to direct teaching (DT) while the experimental group used self-regulated learning (SRL) strategies. Four teachers served as facilitators in the MEP. The teaching and learning activities were carried out at a higher cognitive level as opposed to the regular curriculum, ensuring that the contents of the MEP were enriched and accelerated. Pupils in both the experimental group and the control group were administered a pre-test, problem-solving exercises, and post-test. These pupils also completed an attitudinal questionnaire to provide feedback about the MEP. The empirical results show that gifted pupils in primary five are capable of self-regulating their own learning through self-monitoring, self-evaluation, and self-reinforcement. The empirical results also show that there is a significant relationship between self-regulated learning, gifted learners, and an enriched advanced level differentiated curriculum as a realistic alternative to the present regular curriculum for gifted pupils in the mainstream of education. The findings further show that the lack of differentiation of instruction, lack of facilities such as libraries, media centres, and support materials contributes to low achievement of gifted pupils. Furthermore, the findings show that pupils were challenged and motivated with the MEP to the extent that they were engaged to think divergently and applied their metacognitive skills in finding solutions to mathematical problems. Therefore, the findings of this study could have significant implications for the future direction of gifted primary school education as well as teacher education. This study has made a significant contribution to the existing body of knowledge for implementing an enriched advanced level curriculum using SRL strategies for mathematically gifted pupils in the mainstream of primary school education.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Zaram, Gyang Nyam
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Mathematics -- Study and teaching (Elementary) -- Nigeria , Numeracy -- Study and teaching (Elementary) -- Nigeria Gifted children -- Education -- Curricula Gifted children -- Nigeria
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/13381 , vital:27180
- Description: The purpose of this study was to determine whether gifted pupils can master an enriched advanced level curriculum in mathematics using self-regulated learning strategies. A mathematics curriculum for class five primary school learners in Nigeria was developed for this study. An empirical study was conducted on primary five pupils who were seen to be significantly gifted in mathematics. The study employed the quantitative method of research, that is, the true experimental research. The pre-test, post-test control group design was used. Sixty gifted pupils who participated in a mathematics enrichment programme (MEP) were assigned into two groups of the control group and experimental group with thirty pupils forming each group. The control group was exposed to direct teaching (DT) while the experimental group used self-regulated learning (SRL) strategies. Four teachers served as facilitators in the MEP. The teaching and learning activities were carried out at a higher cognitive level as opposed to the regular curriculum, ensuring that the contents of the MEP were enriched and accelerated. Pupils in both the experimental group and the control group were administered a pre-test, problem-solving exercises, and post-test. These pupils also completed an attitudinal questionnaire to provide feedback about the MEP. The empirical results show that gifted pupils in primary five are capable of self-regulating their own learning through self-monitoring, self-evaluation, and self-reinforcement. The empirical results also show that there is a significant relationship between self-regulated learning, gifted learners, and an enriched advanced level differentiated curriculum as a realistic alternative to the present regular curriculum for gifted pupils in the mainstream of education. The findings further show that the lack of differentiation of instruction, lack of facilities such as libraries, media centres, and support materials contributes to low achievement of gifted pupils. Furthermore, the findings show that pupils were challenged and motivated with the MEP to the extent that they were engaged to think divergently and applied their metacognitive skills in finding solutions to mathematical problems. Therefore, the findings of this study could have significant implications for the future direction of gifted primary school education as well as teacher education. This study has made a significant contribution to the existing body of knowledge for implementing an enriched advanced level curriculum using SRL strategies for mathematically gifted pupils in the mainstream of primary school education.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
An exploration of the prior conceptual understanding of measurement of first year national certificate (vocational) Engineering students
- Authors: Vale, Pamela
- Date: 2017
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/8033 , vital:21337
- Description: Measurement is acknowledged to be a critical component in mathematics education and is particularly important for vocational Engineering students, for whom this is a key skill required in the workplace. The goal of this research was to explore the existing measurement conceptualisations of vocational Engineering students at the outset of their course, as evident in their engagement with mediated measurement tasks. The focus on students’ prior knowledge in measurement, was for the value that this awareness holds in understanding the learning needs of the students. Students participated in five measurement tasks. Four took the form of dynamically assessed task-based interviews, and the fifth was a written test assessing what they had learned during their Mathematics classes. Domains of measurement that were assessed in these tasks included length, area, surface area, volume and flow rate. The interviewer took the role of mediator and students were assessed according to the number of moments of mediation and the degree of mediation required to successfully complete the task. Students’ responsiveness to this mediation provided insight as to their conceptualisations of the measurements relevant to the task. This research was exploratory in nature and adopted an open and flexible approach to the data analysis. Critical incidents were identified and coded according to the mediation offered and the actions of the students during the measuring activity. This allowed patterns to emerge that revealed stable and emerging conceptualisations that related to embodied and symbolic aspects of measurement. Evidence was found that for many of these students the link between the embodied and symbolic aspects of the concept was broken. This insight allowed suggestions to be formulated about how better to facilitate these students’ learning of measurement.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Vale, Pamela
- Date: 2017
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/8033 , vital:21337
- Description: Measurement is acknowledged to be a critical component in mathematics education and is particularly important for vocational Engineering students, for whom this is a key skill required in the workplace. The goal of this research was to explore the existing measurement conceptualisations of vocational Engineering students at the outset of their course, as evident in their engagement with mediated measurement tasks. The focus on students’ prior knowledge in measurement, was for the value that this awareness holds in understanding the learning needs of the students. Students participated in five measurement tasks. Four took the form of dynamically assessed task-based interviews, and the fifth was a written test assessing what they had learned during their Mathematics classes. Domains of measurement that were assessed in these tasks included length, area, surface area, volume and flow rate. The interviewer took the role of mediator and students were assessed according to the number of moments of mediation and the degree of mediation required to successfully complete the task. Students’ responsiveness to this mediation provided insight as to their conceptualisations of the measurements relevant to the task. This research was exploratory in nature and adopted an open and flexible approach to the data analysis. Critical incidents were identified and coded according to the mediation offered and the actions of the students during the measuring activity. This allowed patterns to emerge that revealed stable and emerging conceptualisations that related to embodied and symbolic aspects of measurement. Evidence was found that for many of these students the link between the embodied and symbolic aspects of the concept was broken. This insight allowed suggestions to be formulated about how better to facilitate these students’ learning of measurement.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
An historical perspective on the evolution of the United States internal revenue code from 1981-2001
- Authors: Johnson, Ryan A
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: United States -- Economic conditions -- 1981-2001 , Income tax -- Law and legislation -- United States , Internal revenue law -- United States , Taxtion -- Law and legislation -- United States , United States. Economic Recovery Tax Act of 1981 , United States. Tax Reform Act of 1986 , United States. Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1993 , United States. Economic Growth and Tax Relief Reconciliation Act of 2001
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/7384 , vital:21251
- Description: The purpose of this study was to identify and analyse in an historical context the major changes to the United States’ Internal Revenue Code during the period 1981-2001. This qualitative study relied on historical and legal interpretative approaches to better understand the political forces, personalities, and interactions that helped shape the legislative changes during this time period. The study focused on deep analysis of primary sources that best illuminated the latent narrative of four major tax actions: The Economic Recovery Tax Act of 1981, the Tax Reform Act of 1986, The Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1993, and The Economic Growth and Tax Relief Reconciliation Act of 2001. Archives, periodicals, and political rhetoric were examined in order to help shape the historical narrative. In addition, this study sought to identify major trends and paradigm shifts in the way United States tax policy was formed during the time period examined. The study identified several key trends that emerged in United States’ tax policy during this period: the use of budget deficits as political tools; factors associated with accomplishing tax reform; gaps between political rhetoric of individual politicians and their political action; and the virtual disappearance of a political middle ground in United States budget politics. The study concluded by noting the economic and political significance of budget deficits and stressing the need for fundamental changes in voter responsibility in helping achieve lasting, broad-based tax reform and budgetary responsibility in the United States.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
An historical perspective on the evolution of the United States internal revenue code from 1981-2001
- Authors: Johnson, Ryan A
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: United States -- Economic conditions -- 1981-2001 , Income tax -- Law and legislation -- United States , Internal revenue law -- United States , Taxtion -- Law and legislation -- United States , United States. Economic Recovery Tax Act of 1981 , United States. Tax Reform Act of 1986 , United States. Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1993 , United States. Economic Growth and Tax Relief Reconciliation Act of 2001
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/7384 , vital:21251
- Description: The purpose of this study was to identify and analyse in an historical context the major changes to the United States’ Internal Revenue Code during the period 1981-2001. This qualitative study relied on historical and legal interpretative approaches to better understand the political forces, personalities, and interactions that helped shape the legislative changes during this time period. The study focused on deep analysis of primary sources that best illuminated the latent narrative of four major tax actions: The Economic Recovery Tax Act of 1981, the Tax Reform Act of 1986, The Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1993, and The Economic Growth and Tax Relief Reconciliation Act of 2001. Archives, periodicals, and political rhetoric were examined in order to help shape the historical narrative. In addition, this study sought to identify major trends and paradigm shifts in the way United States tax policy was formed during the time period examined. The study identified several key trends that emerged in United States’ tax policy during this period: the use of budget deficits as political tools; factors associated with accomplishing tax reform; gaps between political rhetoric of individual politicians and their political action; and the virtual disappearance of a political middle ground in United States budget politics. The study concluded by noting the economic and political significance of budget deficits and stressing the need for fundamental changes in voter responsibility in helping achieve lasting, broad-based tax reform and budgetary responsibility in the United States.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
An HRM model for enhancing psychological capital in South African organisations during a psychological recession
- Theron, Anthonie Van Straaten
- Authors: Theron, Anthonie Van Straaten
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Industrial psychology Personnel management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/20823 , vital:29404
- Description: The rationale behind this study was to identify various positive Human Resource Management (HRM) practices that contribute to the development and enhancement of psychological capital (PsyCap) during a psychological recession. A psychological recession, which is defined as a negative cognitive and emotional condition perpetuated by prolonged socio-economic hardships and amplified by the media, (Bardwick, 2008) could negatively affect employees’ PsyCap. While there has been no systematic study of the impact of various HRM practices on PsyCap (Gupta, 2013), a need existed to investigate and formulate best HRM practices for the development of employees’ PsyCap during a psychological recession. Furthermore, this study also aimed to investigate the potential buffering effect of HRM practices on the negative experiences and perceptions associated with a psychological recession. This research study took the form of a quantitative, cross-sectional design, using a composite questionnaire to measure personal vulnerability and exposure to the negative experiences associated with a psychological recession, the organisation’s application of various positive HRM practices, and employees’ levels of PsyCap. The target population consisted of all permanent and contract clinical and support staff employed at 43 fixed Primary Health Care (PHC) clinics situated in the West Rand District Municipality (WRDM) (n = 318). Exploratory factor analysis (EFA) was employed to determine the factor loadings on the overall scales and based on these factor loadings, main factors were extracted. Reliability analysis indicated that the newly structured measurement instruments would produce consistent results with continued application. The hypotheses were tested through the application of Pearson’s product moment correlation analysis, structural equation modelling (SEM), multiple regression analysis and a one-sample t-test. The empirical results indicated that all respondents included in the study experienced some degree of a psychological recession. Although significant correlations were uncovered between psychological recession and PsyCap, personal exposure and vulnerability with regards to organisational change and psychological uncertainty was identified as a major factor that negatively affected employees’ PsyCap. The inferential results identified competence development practices as a crucial intervention for the enhancement of PsyCap during a psychological recession. Lastly, the inferential results revealed that employee recognition and empowerment are fundamental practices in order to negate the negative impact of a psychological recession. Based on the results of this study, organisations have to proactively respond to a psychological recession by re-evaluating the effectiveness of their HRM actions and practices, in order to effectively enhance and maintain the PsyCap of their employees during a psychological recession.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Theron, Anthonie Van Straaten
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Industrial psychology Personnel management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/20823 , vital:29404
- Description: The rationale behind this study was to identify various positive Human Resource Management (HRM) practices that contribute to the development and enhancement of psychological capital (PsyCap) during a psychological recession. A psychological recession, which is defined as a negative cognitive and emotional condition perpetuated by prolonged socio-economic hardships and amplified by the media, (Bardwick, 2008) could negatively affect employees’ PsyCap. While there has been no systematic study of the impact of various HRM practices on PsyCap (Gupta, 2013), a need existed to investigate and formulate best HRM practices for the development of employees’ PsyCap during a psychological recession. Furthermore, this study also aimed to investigate the potential buffering effect of HRM practices on the negative experiences and perceptions associated with a psychological recession. This research study took the form of a quantitative, cross-sectional design, using a composite questionnaire to measure personal vulnerability and exposure to the negative experiences associated with a psychological recession, the organisation’s application of various positive HRM practices, and employees’ levels of PsyCap. The target population consisted of all permanent and contract clinical and support staff employed at 43 fixed Primary Health Care (PHC) clinics situated in the West Rand District Municipality (WRDM) (n = 318). Exploratory factor analysis (EFA) was employed to determine the factor loadings on the overall scales and based on these factor loadings, main factors were extracted. Reliability analysis indicated that the newly structured measurement instruments would produce consistent results with continued application. The hypotheses were tested through the application of Pearson’s product moment correlation analysis, structural equation modelling (SEM), multiple regression analysis and a one-sample t-test. The empirical results indicated that all respondents included in the study experienced some degree of a psychological recession. Although significant correlations were uncovered between psychological recession and PsyCap, personal exposure and vulnerability with regards to organisational change and psychological uncertainty was identified as a major factor that negatively affected employees’ PsyCap. The inferential results identified competence development practices as a crucial intervention for the enhancement of PsyCap during a psychological recession. Lastly, the inferential results revealed that employee recognition and empowerment are fundamental practices in order to negate the negative impact of a psychological recession. Based on the results of this study, organisations have to proactively respond to a psychological recession by re-evaluating the effectiveness of their HRM actions and practices, in order to effectively enhance and maintain the PsyCap of their employees during a psychological recession.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
An ICT strategy for sustainable tourism in Zimbabwe
- Authors: Tsokota, Theo
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Information technology -- Zimbabwe , Technological innovations -- Zimbabwe Tourism -- Zimbabwe -- Computer network resources Tourism -- Zimbabwe -- Data processing Tourism -- Environmental aspects -- Zimbabwe Sustainable tourism -- Zimbabwe
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/21340 , vital:29479
- Description: This research sought to develop an ICT strategy for sustainable tourism in Zimbabwe. The Government of Zimbabwe has identified ICT and tourism both as strategic industries and pillars for economic revival. The tourism sector was identified as an essential source of foreign exchange earnings and as a means to drive the economy to greater heights and reduce poverty through direct employment in down-stream and up-stream industries. Despite being endowed with rich natural resources that include five World Natural Heritage sites, exquisite flora and fauna. Zimbabwe is not performing well in the world tourism sector. The Southern African country continues to be ranked low on World Economic Forum Travel and Tourism Competitiveness Index. Despite the country‘s strengths, in terms of endowments, the low Tourism and Travel Competitiveness Index suggests weaknesses in related areas. There is currently no clear strategy for the sustainable use of ICT in the tourism sector in Zimbabwe. Despite huge investments and advances in ICT, services in the tourism sector in Zimbabwe continue to be delivered manually and in traditional ways. Therefore, this research sought to propose a strategy for the sustainable use of ICT in the tourism sector in Zimbabwe. However, this strategy had to be informed and supported by an empirical study of the shortcomings in the existing situation in the tourism sector. In order to achieve this objective, this research, which is a comprehensive case study on the tourism sector in Zimbabwe, deployed semi-structured interviews, questionnaires, observations and netnography to collect data. The case study was carried out in accordance with the steps for conducting a case as outlined by Yin guided by an interpretive paradigm. The entities and organisations that formed part of the case study were purposefully chosen to provide a representative sample of the tourism role-players in Zimbabwe. The samples were based on sample variation and feasibility (taking into consideration factors such as geographical location, organisational thrust and size). Data collection involved semi-structured interviews with various role-players in the tourism sector. The role-players interviewed included officials from the government, the regulator and from the service providers. The interviews were held in Harare, Bulawayo, Gweru, Chinhoyi, Matopos, Hwange and Victoria Falls. A Zimbabwe annual premier tourism expo, Sanganai/Hlanganani World Travel and Tourism Africa Fair, was also attended in order to interact with various players and to conduct formal and informal interviews. The questionnaires, which were completed by tourists, were administered in Harare, Hwange, Victoria Falls, Matopos, and the Beitbridge and Kazungula border posts. An online version of the questionnaire was also administered. The questionnaire link was e-mailed to tourists, as some of them did not have enough time to complete them during their stay in Zimbabwe and agreed to do so via email. The data was analysed in two phases - structured coding and thematic analysis. . Key factors were identified through structural coding and thematic analysis. Country-specific, sector-specific and organisationalspecific factors were identified for tourists, the government, the regulator and service providers. After a further analysis of the results, those that pointed to the same factors were grouped together and a deduction was made as a diagnosis of the problem was identified. The identified problems were synthesised into seven diagnostics: (i) lack of infrastructure and enabling services; (ii) e-customer relationship management; (iii) lack of collaboration and poor systems integration, (iv) policy and regulation; (v) lack of financial resources; (vi) poor ICT governance and (vii) poor human resource development. A guiding policy was then identified for each of the diagnostics, leading to a set of coherent actions. The research also showed the implementation of this set of actions that consisting of three layers, namely, government, regulator and service providers. This research contributes to the existing body of knowledge by providing a clear strategy formulation model and showing how the implementation will be rolled out. The ICT-related challenges were diagnosed, guiding policies formulated to address the situation and required coherent actions suggested. This research is deemed to be significant for understanding the future of ICT use in developing countries like Zimbabwe.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Tsokota, Theo
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Information technology -- Zimbabwe , Technological innovations -- Zimbabwe Tourism -- Zimbabwe -- Computer network resources Tourism -- Zimbabwe -- Data processing Tourism -- Environmental aspects -- Zimbabwe Sustainable tourism -- Zimbabwe
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/21340 , vital:29479
- Description: This research sought to develop an ICT strategy for sustainable tourism in Zimbabwe. The Government of Zimbabwe has identified ICT and tourism both as strategic industries and pillars for economic revival. The tourism sector was identified as an essential source of foreign exchange earnings and as a means to drive the economy to greater heights and reduce poverty through direct employment in down-stream and up-stream industries. Despite being endowed with rich natural resources that include five World Natural Heritage sites, exquisite flora and fauna. Zimbabwe is not performing well in the world tourism sector. The Southern African country continues to be ranked low on World Economic Forum Travel and Tourism Competitiveness Index. Despite the country‘s strengths, in terms of endowments, the low Tourism and Travel Competitiveness Index suggests weaknesses in related areas. There is currently no clear strategy for the sustainable use of ICT in the tourism sector in Zimbabwe. Despite huge investments and advances in ICT, services in the tourism sector in Zimbabwe continue to be delivered manually and in traditional ways. Therefore, this research sought to propose a strategy for the sustainable use of ICT in the tourism sector in Zimbabwe. However, this strategy had to be informed and supported by an empirical study of the shortcomings in the existing situation in the tourism sector. In order to achieve this objective, this research, which is a comprehensive case study on the tourism sector in Zimbabwe, deployed semi-structured interviews, questionnaires, observations and netnography to collect data. The case study was carried out in accordance with the steps for conducting a case as outlined by Yin guided by an interpretive paradigm. The entities and organisations that formed part of the case study were purposefully chosen to provide a representative sample of the tourism role-players in Zimbabwe. The samples were based on sample variation and feasibility (taking into consideration factors such as geographical location, organisational thrust and size). Data collection involved semi-structured interviews with various role-players in the tourism sector. The role-players interviewed included officials from the government, the regulator and from the service providers. The interviews were held in Harare, Bulawayo, Gweru, Chinhoyi, Matopos, Hwange and Victoria Falls. A Zimbabwe annual premier tourism expo, Sanganai/Hlanganani World Travel and Tourism Africa Fair, was also attended in order to interact with various players and to conduct formal and informal interviews. The questionnaires, which were completed by tourists, were administered in Harare, Hwange, Victoria Falls, Matopos, and the Beitbridge and Kazungula border posts. An online version of the questionnaire was also administered. The questionnaire link was e-mailed to tourists, as some of them did not have enough time to complete them during their stay in Zimbabwe and agreed to do so via email. The data was analysed in two phases - structured coding and thematic analysis. . Key factors were identified through structural coding and thematic analysis. Country-specific, sector-specific and organisationalspecific factors were identified for tourists, the government, the regulator and service providers. After a further analysis of the results, those that pointed to the same factors were grouped together and a deduction was made as a diagnosis of the problem was identified. The identified problems were synthesised into seven diagnostics: (i) lack of infrastructure and enabling services; (ii) e-customer relationship management; (iii) lack of collaboration and poor systems integration, (iv) policy and regulation; (v) lack of financial resources; (vi) poor ICT governance and (vii) poor human resource development. A guiding policy was then identified for each of the diagnostics, leading to a set of coherent actions. The research also showed the implementation of this set of actions that consisting of three layers, namely, government, regulator and service providers. This research contributes to the existing body of knowledge by providing a clear strategy formulation model and showing how the implementation will be rolled out. The ICT-related challenges were diagnosed, guiding policies formulated to address the situation and required coherent actions suggested. This research is deemed to be significant for understanding the future of ICT use in developing countries like Zimbabwe.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
An ICT strategy to support a patient-centred approach to diabetes care
- Authors: Petratos, Anastasia
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Medical care -- Technological innovations -- Developing countries Health services administration -- Developing countries -- Data processing , Telecommunication in medicine Diabetes -- Treatment
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/14466 , vital:27650
- Description: Factors such as poverty, ethnicity, socio-economic status, poor infrastructure and governance, etc., are some of the reasons that effective and proven prevention and treatment interventions for most of the major causes of mortality and morbidity in the developing world continue to fail. Chronic diseases require complex interventions that these countries simply cannot maintain. Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a chronic disease that is on the rise worldwide. This disease is a lifestyle disease, which means, that it is brought on by poor health habits. Statistics show that 285 million (6.4%) people aged between 20 and 79 years will be affected by Diabetes in 2010 and a staggering 439 million (7.7%) by 2030. This is a projected growth of 69% in developing countries and 20% in developed countries. The findings from studies conducted from 1993 to 2003 in Sub-Saharan Africa, particularly in South Africa, around the health care services for diabetes highlights many challenges. Sadly, the challenges 10 years after that study, are very similar. The conditions of people with Diabetes can be improved through regular monitoring of patients, improvement and monitoring of health care provided, education on healthy lifestyle, as well as education on the importance of adherence to treatment plans for the successful management of the condition. The diabetes endemic in South Africa is exacerbated by the manual functions that are performed in all aspects of monitoring and management of the disease. With the advancements that have been made in ICT and the many apps that already exist for healthcare, it is sensible to state that ICT can assist in the monitoring and management of diabetes. Another factor that is considered is that of patient-centred care. The huge number of people who need acute care and treatment in hospitals and clinics have forced a previously caring environment, to turn into a cold, almost production line affair. The sick wait in long queues and are ushered in and out of the consulting rooms as fast as possible without even as much as a “hallo”. This has left a void in the healthcare delivery to South Africans which should never have been removed in the first place, namely patient-centred care. This means that the patient is at the centre of the treatment and fully involved in the decisions about his/her health. Every patient deserves to be recognised as a human-being and treated with dignity and respect. Treatment plans for long term chronic care patients such as diabetics, should be thoroughly discussed with the patient and they should believe and comit themselves to the treatment plan. These plans are life-long and require dedication and as it is vital that patients are part of decision making and understand fully what they are expected to do. Bearing this in mind, this study has investigated the needs and care plans for people with diabetes. Specialist in the field of diabetes were interviewed and recognised care plans for diabetes such as those from WHO, IDF and SEMSDA were studied. This study also established, that by practising a patient-centred approach the adherence to a treatment plan is likely to be higher. The strategy developed involves the person with diabetes, the healthcare worker and the support structure in the care plan of the diabetic. The use of ICT as part of the solution must consider the patient-centred requirements for using IT so that the people using the strategy are comfortable and not intimidated by the technology. The need to incorporate e-health into governments’ healthcare plans has been growing over the last decade. The GSMA conducted research into mobile health opportunities in South Africa and found that SA now has a penetration of 98% and that this is the ideal medium to address the inaccessibility and inequality of healthcare in SA. The causes identified as playing a major role in the rise in diabetes were identified and it was determined that through the implementation of an ICT strategy for diabetes care, many of these can be addressed. These include the use of technology for, improved monitoring and management, increased diabetes awareness and education, and promotion of healthy lifestyle. The study focuses on the self-management aspect of diabetes and produces a strategy that incorporates various ICT solutions that would assist in the daily aspects of diabetes care, as well as follow a patient-centred approach to diabetes care. This strategy developed in this study does not need any intervention from government as it is driven by the people who have diabetes and their healthcare workers, with the aid of the technology that they currently have on hand.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Petratos, Anastasia
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Medical care -- Technological innovations -- Developing countries Health services administration -- Developing countries -- Data processing , Telecommunication in medicine Diabetes -- Treatment
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/14466 , vital:27650
- Description: Factors such as poverty, ethnicity, socio-economic status, poor infrastructure and governance, etc., are some of the reasons that effective and proven prevention and treatment interventions for most of the major causes of mortality and morbidity in the developing world continue to fail. Chronic diseases require complex interventions that these countries simply cannot maintain. Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a chronic disease that is on the rise worldwide. This disease is a lifestyle disease, which means, that it is brought on by poor health habits. Statistics show that 285 million (6.4%) people aged between 20 and 79 years will be affected by Diabetes in 2010 and a staggering 439 million (7.7%) by 2030. This is a projected growth of 69% in developing countries and 20% in developed countries. The findings from studies conducted from 1993 to 2003 in Sub-Saharan Africa, particularly in South Africa, around the health care services for diabetes highlights many challenges. Sadly, the challenges 10 years after that study, are very similar. The conditions of people with Diabetes can be improved through regular monitoring of patients, improvement and monitoring of health care provided, education on healthy lifestyle, as well as education on the importance of adherence to treatment plans for the successful management of the condition. The diabetes endemic in South Africa is exacerbated by the manual functions that are performed in all aspects of monitoring and management of the disease. With the advancements that have been made in ICT and the many apps that already exist for healthcare, it is sensible to state that ICT can assist in the monitoring and management of diabetes. Another factor that is considered is that of patient-centred care. The huge number of people who need acute care and treatment in hospitals and clinics have forced a previously caring environment, to turn into a cold, almost production line affair. The sick wait in long queues and are ushered in and out of the consulting rooms as fast as possible without even as much as a “hallo”. This has left a void in the healthcare delivery to South Africans which should never have been removed in the first place, namely patient-centred care. This means that the patient is at the centre of the treatment and fully involved in the decisions about his/her health. Every patient deserves to be recognised as a human-being and treated with dignity and respect. Treatment plans for long term chronic care patients such as diabetics, should be thoroughly discussed with the patient and they should believe and comit themselves to the treatment plan. These plans are life-long and require dedication and as it is vital that patients are part of decision making and understand fully what they are expected to do. Bearing this in mind, this study has investigated the needs and care plans for people with diabetes. Specialist in the field of diabetes were interviewed and recognised care plans for diabetes such as those from WHO, IDF and SEMSDA were studied. This study also established, that by practising a patient-centred approach the adherence to a treatment plan is likely to be higher. The strategy developed involves the person with diabetes, the healthcare worker and the support structure in the care plan of the diabetic. The use of ICT as part of the solution must consider the patient-centred requirements for using IT so that the people using the strategy are comfortable and not intimidated by the technology. The need to incorporate e-health into governments’ healthcare plans has been growing over the last decade. The GSMA conducted research into mobile health opportunities in South Africa and found that SA now has a penetration of 98% and that this is the ideal medium to address the inaccessibility and inequality of healthcare in SA. The causes identified as playing a major role in the rise in diabetes were identified and it was determined that through the implementation of an ICT strategy for diabetes care, many of these can be addressed. These include the use of technology for, improved monitoring and management, increased diabetes awareness and education, and promotion of healthy lifestyle. The study focuses on the self-management aspect of diabetes and produces a strategy that incorporates various ICT solutions that would assist in the daily aspects of diabetes care, as well as follow a patient-centred approach to diabetes care. This strategy developed in this study does not need any intervention from government as it is driven by the people who have diabetes and their healthcare workers, with the aid of the technology that they currently have on hand.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017