Investigating the impact of a psychometric assessment technique in the South African automotive industry
- Authors: Piro, Karen
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Automobile industry and trade -- South Africa -- Employees -- Ability testing , Automobile industry and trade -- South Africa -- Employees -- Training of
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: vital:9397 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1381 , Automobile industry and trade -- South Africa -- Employees -- Ability testing , Automobile industry and trade -- South Africa -- Employees -- Training of
- Description: This research takes place in a South African multinational automotive industry, which needs to be on the forefront for being globally competitive and sustainable to remain viable in the country. A strategic initiative was embarked upon to identify talent within their staff population, through the psychometric assessment of learning potential. The objective was to identify high potential employees and provide them with the requisite training and development to meet the demands of the rapidly advancing technology. The primary purpose of this study is to investigate the usefulness of the Ability, Process of Information and Learning Battery (APIL) as a psychometric assessment tool for identifying talent, within a heterogeneous workforce. This research adopts a cross-cultural approach as it is comparative in nature and addresses the adequacy of a psychometric instrument in a multicultural context. The Employment Equity Act has transformed the landscape of the use of psychological measurement in South Africa, in that it stipulates that no psychological test that is biased against any cultural group can be used. A sample of 841 heterogeneous staff employees was assessed with three major research objectives: (a) to ensure that the instrument could stand scientific scrutiny thereby complying with the Employment Equity Act; (b) to recommend ways the organisation can identify and understand employees’ talent more holistically; and (c) to manage talent more effectively. The heterogeneous sample was divided into six homogeneous subsets for statistical analysis. This research attempted to answer the first objective through the examination of internal consistency, bias and equivalence of the APIL. Results showed good internal consistency, very good construct equivalence and low item bias, demonstrating the APIL can be applied fairly in a multicultural industrial setting. The second objective was determined by investigating whether significant difference in mean learning potential scores occur among the identified subsets in the sample. Statistical analyses provide clear trend lines indicating that sociopolitical and socioeconomic factors of advantagement and disadvantagement, age and education influence learning potential. However it is also evident that there are individuals across all subsets that demonstrate strong cognitive potential. This supports the rationale on which the APIL was developed, in that it distinguishes people with high learning potential despite the fact that there may be gaps or limitations in skill repertoire due to past disadvantagement. Recommendations to address the third objective is provided by aligning learning potential with the performance management system to provide a holistic overview of the talent composition. This will assist in the identifying of strategic training and development interventions needed at the individual, functional and organisational level, which is key for the South African automotive industry to remain competitive and viable.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
- Authors: Piro, Karen
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Automobile industry and trade -- South Africa -- Employees -- Ability testing , Automobile industry and trade -- South Africa -- Employees -- Training of
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: vital:9397 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1381 , Automobile industry and trade -- South Africa -- Employees -- Ability testing , Automobile industry and trade -- South Africa -- Employees -- Training of
- Description: This research takes place in a South African multinational automotive industry, which needs to be on the forefront for being globally competitive and sustainable to remain viable in the country. A strategic initiative was embarked upon to identify talent within their staff population, through the psychometric assessment of learning potential. The objective was to identify high potential employees and provide them with the requisite training and development to meet the demands of the rapidly advancing technology. The primary purpose of this study is to investigate the usefulness of the Ability, Process of Information and Learning Battery (APIL) as a psychometric assessment tool for identifying talent, within a heterogeneous workforce. This research adopts a cross-cultural approach as it is comparative in nature and addresses the adequacy of a psychometric instrument in a multicultural context. The Employment Equity Act has transformed the landscape of the use of psychological measurement in South Africa, in that it stipulates that no psychological test that is biased against any cultural group can be used. A sample of 841 heterogeneous staff employees was assessed with three major research objectives: (a) to ensure that the instrument could stand scientific scrutiny thereby complying with the Employment Equity Act; (b) to recommend ways the organisation can identify and understand employees’ talent more holistically; and (c) to manage talent more effectively. The heterogeneous sample was divided into six homogeneous subsets for statistical analysis. This research attempted to answer the first objective through the examination of internal consistency, bias and equivalence of the APIL. Results showed good internal consistency, very good construct equivalence and low item bias, demonstrating the APIL can be applied fairly in a multicultural industrial setting. The second objective was determined by investigating whether significant difference in mean learning potential scores occur among the identified subsets in the sample. Statistical analyses provide clear trend lines indicating that sociopolitical and socioeconomic factors of advantagement and disadvantagement, age and education influence learning potential. However it is also evident that there are individuals across all subsets that demonstrate strong cognitive potential. This supports the rationale on which the APIL was developed, in that it distinguishes people with high learning potential despite the fact that there may be gaps or limitations in skill repertoire due to past disadvantagement. Recommendations to address the third objective is provided by aligning learning potential with the performance management system to provide a holistic overview of the talent composition. This will assist in the identifying of strategic training and development interventions needed at the individual, functional and organisational level, which is key for the South African automotive industry to remain competitive and viable.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
Time-driven activity-based costing for small to medium manufacturing enterprises in South Africa: an integrated balanced scorecard approach
- Authors: Reynolds, Arthur
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Activity-based costing , Managerial accounting Small business -- Finance Small business -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/35125 , vital:33630
- Description: The failure rate of small to medium enterprises in South Africa is very high. This is problematic as there is a large dependence on the ongoing success of small to medium enterprises from the economy and society. Increasing labour costs and inflationary pressure have contributed to the high failure rates of small to medium enterprises. In addition, the manufacturing sector for small to medium enterprises has showed a decline over recent years. There is thus a need to identify and manage the critical success factors (CSFs) for small to medium manufacturing enterprises. The balanced scorecard (BSC) has been used successfully to manage CSFs. Furthermore, research on time-driven activity-based costing (TDABC) has illustrated that this costing system could be implemented successfully at small to medium enterprises across the world to manage costs, and that the BSC could be used successfully together with TDABC. However, research has shown that implementing a BSC at small to medium enterprises could be challenging. As a result, the theory of constraints (TOC) that can be used to explain the phenomenon of constraints of resources is recognised as the underlying theory for this study. The availability of a generic yet adaptable BSC could potentially enable owners and managers of small to medium manufacturing enterprises to manage the CSFs that together with the TDABC system can lower costs and identify unused capacity. This study has developed and implemented a generic TDABC/BSC costing system by investigating literature and conducting a Delphi study and a case study at a small to medium enterprise specialising in manufacturing. Firstly, it was found that a generic BSC for small to medium manufacturing enterprises could be developed by using a Delphi study to create a BSC template with optional key metrics/key performance indicators (KPIs) to suit different types of manufacturing industries. Secondly, it was demonstrated in a case study that TDABC could still be beneficial for a small to medium manufacturing enterprise if focus is only on a single product. Thirdly, it became evident that the system could be used to manage the TOC. Finally, the case study shows that cost savings could be achieved in small to medium enterprise by using the integrated TDABC/BSC costing system and by that increase the success of the business.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Reynolds, Arthur
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Activity-based costing , Managerial accounting Small business -- Finance Small business -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/35125 , vital:33630
- Description: The failure rate of small to medium enterprises in South Africa is very high. This is problematic as there is a large dependence on the ongoing success of small to medium enterprises from the economy and society. Increasing labour costs and inflationary pressure have contributed to the high failure rates of small to medium enterprises. In addition, the manufacturing sector for small to medium enterprises has showed a decline over recent years. There is thus a need to identify and manage the critical success factors (CSFs) for small to medium manufacturing enterprises. The balanced scorecard (BSC) has been used successfully to manage CSFs. Furthermore, research on time-driven activity-based costing (TDABC) has illustrated that this costing system could be implemented successfully at small to medium enterprises across the world to manage costs, and that the BSC could be used successfully together with TDABC. However, research has shown that implementing a BSC at small to medium enterprises could be challenging. As a result, the theory of constraints (TOC) that can be used to explain the phenomenon of constraints of resources is recognised as the underlying theory for this study. The availability of a generic yet adaptable BSC could potentially enable owners and managers of small to medium manufacturing enterprises to manage the CSFs that together with the TDABC system can lower costs and identify unused capacity. This study has developed and implemented a generic TDABC/BSC costing system by investigating literature and conducting a Delphi study and a case study at a small to medium enterprise specialising in manufacturing. Firstly, it was found that a generic BSC for small to medium manufacturing enterprises could be developed by using a Delphi study to create a BSC template with optional key metrics/key performance indicators (KPIs) to suit different types of manufacturing industries. Secondly, it was demonstrated in a case study that TDABC could still be beneficial for a small to medium manufacturing enterprise if focus is only on a single product. Thirdly, it became evident that the system could be used to manage the TOC. Finally, the case study shows that cost savings could be achieved in small to medium enterprise by using the integrated TDABC/BSC costing system and by that increase the success of the business.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
Factors affecting effective ecological restoration of Portulacaria afra (spekboom)-rich subtropical thicket and aboveground carbon endpoint projections
- Van der Vyver, Marius Lodewyk
- Authors: Van der Vyver, Marius Lodewyk
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Restoration ecology , Plant conservation -- South Africa Portulacaria afra -- South Africa Shrubs -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/23250 , vital:30468
- Description: Among the requirements to achieve effective ecological restoration on a landscape scale are a scientific underpinning, strong adaptive management and the setting of realistic endpoints. Efficacy and success depend on a complex interplay of factors of both local and regional influence. Biome-wide restoration experiments are rare, but valuable for evaluating efficacy of different protocols according to local context. The Thicket-wide Plot (TWP) experiment was initiated by the Subtropical Thicket Restoration Programme to inform landscape-scale ecological restoration of degraded Portulacaria afra (spekboom)-rich Subtropical Thicket. Thirteen different planting treatments of Portulacaria afra (spekboom) truncheons were planted as replicated rows on 0.25 ha fenced plots across the distribution range of spekboom-rich thicket habitat to better establish effective restoration protocols. I used a rule-based learning ensemble algorithm to evaluate 60 different predictors that potentially impact effective restoration, covering a range of climatic, topographic, edaphic, ecological and management related factors observed at 227 of these TWP plots. Percentage survivorship and aboveground biomass carbon sequestration rate (ABCsr) were taken as proxies for efficacy derived from subsequent monitoring data gathered 2 - 5 years after establishment, and a new allometric model I developed for spekboom. I found herbivory and identification of target habitat the two most important predictors of restoration efficacy, both well within the control of the practitioner. Highest survivorship and ABCsr were associated with larger truncheons planted deeper. The only exception to this pattern was found amongst the two smallest size truncheon categories. The application of external rooting hormone or watering treatment to truncheons were found of no significance to effective restoration, while all the pruned treatments were, in association with lesser planting depth, found to be significantly less effective than untreated truncheons planted deeper. When the restoration protocol is optimal (largest truncheons planted deepest in target habitats and protected from herbivory), my results show higher annual carbon sequestration rates (1.46 - 3.7 t C ha−1 yr−1 in aboveground biomass) than most older restoration sites that have been identified as benchmarks of success. In order to project ABC endpoints, I generated 40 new species-specific allometric models and used them to estimate biomass and carbon of intact and degraded stands on five sites spread out across the region. The highest AGC for stands in both intact and degraded states were estimated at 42.96 t Cha−1 and 12.98 t C ha−1 respectively, and the lowest at 26.32 t C ha−1 and 2.52 t C ha−1. Large canopy dominant (LCD) species contributed the largest AGC portion at three intact stands. The second largest portion was recorded for spekboom. The difference between paired stands on each sample site ranged between 23.8 and 32.8 t C ha−1, which provide a realistic target for biome-wide restoration that, when adopted together with current protocols, may be reached within three decades of inception.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Van der Vyver, Marius Lodewyk
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Restoration ecology , Plant conservation -- South Africa Portulacaria afra -- South Africa Shrubs -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/23250 , vital:30468
- Description: Among the requirements to achieve effective ecological restoration on a landscape scale are a scientific underpinning, strong adaptive management and the setting of realistic endpoints. Efficacy and success depend on a complex interplay of factors of both local and regional influence. Biome-wide restoration experiments are rare, but valuable for evaluating efficacy of different protocols according to local context. The Thicket-wide Plot (TWP) experiment was initiated by the Subtropical Thicket Restoration Programme to inform landscape-scale ecological restoration of degraded Portulacaria afra (spekboom)-rich Subtropical Thicket. Thirteen different planting treatments of Portulacaria afra (spekboom) truncheons were planted as replicated rows on 0.25 ha fenced plots across the distribution range of spekboom-rich thicket habitat to better establish effective restoration protocols. I used a rule-based learning ensemble algorithm to evaluate 60 different predictors that potentially impact effective restoration, covering a range of climatic, topographic, edaphic, ecological and management related factors observed at 227 of these TWP plots. Percentage survivorship and aboveground biomass carbon sequestration rate (ABCsr) were taken as proxies for efficacy derived from subsequent monitoring data gathered 2 - 5 years after establishment, and a new allometric model I developed for spekboom. I found herbivory and identification of target habitat the two most important predictors of restoration efficacy, both well within the control of the practitioner. Highest survivorship and ABCsr were associated with larger truncheons planted deeper. The only exception to this pattern was found amongst the two smallest size truncheon categories. The application of external rooting hormone or watering treatment to truncheons were found of no significance to effective restoration, while all the pruned treatments were, in association with lesser planting depth, found to be significantly less effective than untreated truncheons planted deeper. When the restoration protocol is optimal (largest truncheons planted deepest in target habitats and protected from herbivory), my results show higher annual carbon sequestration rates (1.46 - 3.7 t C ha−1 yr−1 in aboveground biomass) than most older restoration sites that have been identified as benchmarks of success. In order to project ABC endpoints, I generated 40 new species-specific allometric models and used them to estimate biomass and carbon of intact and degraded stands on five sites spread out across the region. The highest AGC for stands in both intact and degraded states were estimated at 42.96 t Cha−1 and 12.98 t C ha−1 respectively, and the lowest at 26.32 t C ha−1 and 2.52 t C ha−1. Large canopy dominant (LCD) species contributed the largest AGC portion at three intact stands. The second largest portion was recorded for spekboom. The difference between paired stands on each sample site ranged between 23.8 and 32.8 t C ha−1, which provide a realistic target for biome-wide restoration that, when adopted together with current protocols, may be reached within three decades of inception.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
Health information technologies for improved continuity of care: a South African perspective
- Authors: Mostert-Phipps, Nicolette
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Medical records -- Data processing , Medical technology -- South Africa , Medical innovations -- South Africa , Health -- Information services
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: vital:9730 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1619 , Medical records -- Data processing , Medical technology -- South Africa , Medical innovations -- South Africa , Health -- Information services
- Description: The fragmented nature of modern health care provision makes it increasingly difficult to achieve continuity of care. This is equally true in the context of the South African healthcare landscape. This results in a strong emphasis on the informational dimension of continuity of care which highlights the importance of the continuity of medical records. Paper-based methods of record keeping are inadequate to support informational continuity of care which leads to an increased interest in electronic methods of record keeping through the adoption of various Health Information Technologies (HITs). This research project investigates the role that various HITs such as Personal Health Records (PHRs), Electronic Medical Records (EMRs), and Health Information Exchanges (HIEs) can play in improving informational continuity of care resulting in the development of a standards-based technological model for the South African healthcare sector. This technological model employs appropriate HITs to address the problem of informational continuity of care in the South African healthcare landscape The benefits that are possible through the adoption of the proposed technological model can only be realized if the proposed HITs are used in a meaningful manner once adopted and implemented. The Delphi method is employed to identify factors that need to be addressed to encourage the adoption and meaningful use of such HITs in the South African healthcare landscape. Lastly, guidelines are formulated to encourage the adoption and meaningful use of HITs in the South African healthcare landscape to improve the continuity of care. The guidelines address both the technological requirements on a high level, as well as the factors that need to be addressed to encourage the adoption and meaningful use of the technological components suggested. These guidelines will play a significant role in raising awareness of the factors that need to be addressed to create an environment conducive to the adoption and meaningful use of appropriate HITs in order to improve the continuity of care in the South African healthcare landscape.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
- Authors: Mostert-Phipps, Nicolette
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Medical records -- Data processing , Medical technology -- South Africa , Medical innovations -- South Africa , Health -- Information services
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: vital:9730 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1619 , Medical records -- Data processing , Medical technology -- South Africa , Medical innovations -- South Africa , Health -- Information services
- Description: The fragmented nature of modern health care provision makes it increasingly difficult to achieve continuity of care. This is equally true in the context of the South African healthcare landscape. This results in a strong emphasis on the informational dimension of continuity of care which highlights the importance of the continuity of medical records. Paper-based methods of record keeping are inadequate to support informational continuity of care which leads to an increased interest in electronic methods of record keeping through the adoption of various Health Information Technologies (HITs). This research project investigates the role that various HITs such as Personal Health Records (PHRs), Electronic Medical Records (EMRs), and Health Information Exchanges (HIEs) can play in improving informational continuity of care resulting in the development of a standards-based technological model for the South African healthcare sector. This technological model employs appropriate HITs to address the problem of informational continuity of care in the South African healthcare landscape The benefits that are possible through the adoption of the proposed technological model can only be realized if the proposed HITs are used in a meaningful manner once adopted and implemented. The Delphi method is employed to identify factors that need to be addressed to encourage the adoption and meaningful use of such HITs in the South African healthcare landscape. Lastly, guidelines are formulated to encourage the adoption and meaningful use of HITs in the South African healthcare landscape to improve the continuity of care. The guidelines address both the technological requirements on a high level, as well as the factors that need to be addressed to encourage the adoption and meaningful use of the technological components suggested. These guidelines will play a significant role in raising awareness of the factors that need to be addressed to create an environment conducive to the adoption and meaningful use of appropriate HITs in order to improve the continuity of care in the South African healthcare landscape.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
Behaviour-based health and safety management in construction: a leadership-focused approach
- Authors: Okorie, Victor Nnannaya
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Construction industry -- Safety measures , Construction industry -- Accidents -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: vital:9676 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021034
- Description: The construction industry remains a pillar in the South African economy, generating employment and wealth. Nonetheless, the industry is reportedly bedevilled by a high rate of accidents and serious injuries that often lead to permanent deformation and fatalities among workers and the general public. These accidents and injuries manifest due to poor construction health and safety (H&S) performance that is often related to poor H&S leadership of the key project leaders involved in the construction business. Shortcomings pertain to client leadership in terms of involvement and commitment to H&S and project H&S related decisions of professionals (designers, project managers, quantity surveyors and engineers). They also pertain to contractor related aspects such as H&S management systems and leadership at all levels of management. In addition, contractors’ inadequacies of H&S management relative to workplace planning and materials related issues have continued to marginalise H&S performance in construction. The H&S leadership of key project leaders is very important in creating a culture of H&S in the workplace. This study examined the H&S management practices and leadership of the key project leaders that contribute to at-risk work practices or unsafe behaviour of workers. Presently, there is limited or no research in South African construction on how the H&S leadership of the key project leaders contributes to at-risk work practices or unsafe behaviour of workers. The methodology employed in the study included an extensive review of relevant literature, which enabled the field work to proceed unhindered. The quantitative survey and qualitative inquiry was conducted with the key construction participants in South African construction. Focus group discussions and interviews were used in a complementary manner. Accordingly, the sampling technique for the study comprised simple random and purposive sampling. The study revealed apparent poor leadership and lack of involvement and commitment to workers’ H&S by the key project leaders. Notably, there is statistical evidence of poor H&S management practices among contractors in terms of top management commitment to and involvement in project H&S. This statistical evidence includes poor H&S education and training of workers and lack of workers’ involvement and participation in H&S matters, which is the tenet of behaviour-based H&S anagement. The model of leadership influence on worker H&S behaviour developed in this research constitutes an innovative contribution to construction H&S performance improvement through a leadership-focused approach. The study has established a basic level of awareness and understanding among key project leaders in that their upstream decisions during the project planning and construction phases have significant influence on workers’ safe or unsafe behaviour or at-risk work practices. The study strongly advocates transparent leadership, ethical behaviour among clients in public and private sectors, designers’ critical H&S decisions, project managers’ and quantity surveyors’ commitment towards project H&S and contractors’ adoption and implementation of behaviour-based H&S management systems. The developed leadership influence model of worker H&S behaviour in the study provides a useful guide for the key project leaders to realise the desired H&S performance improvement in the South African construction industry.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Okorie, Victor Nnannaya
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Construction industry -- Safety measures , Construction industry -- Accidents -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: vital:9676 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021034
- Description: The construction industry remains a pillar in the South African economy, generating employment and wealth. Nonetheless, the industry is reportedly bedevilled by a high rate of accidents and serious injuries that often lead to permanent deformation and fatalities among workers and the general public. These accidents and injuries manifest due to poor construction health and safety (H&S) performance that is often related to poor H&S leadership of the key project leaders involved in the construction business. Shortcomings pertain to client leadership in terms of involvement and commitment to H&S and project H&S related decisions of professionals (designers, project managers, quantity surveyors and engineers). They also pertain to contractor related aspects such as H&S management systems and leadership at all levels of management. In addition, contractors’ inadequacies of H&S management relative to workplace planning and materials related issues have continued to marginalise H&S performance in construction. The H&S leadership of key project leaders is very important in creating a culture of H&S in the workplace. This study examined the H&S management practices and leadership of the key project leaders that contribute to at-risk work practices or unsafe behaviour of workers. Presently, there is limited or no research in South African construction on how the H&S leadership of the key project leaders contributes to at-risk work practices or unsafe behaviour of workers. The methodology employed in the study included an extensive review of relevant literature, which enabled the field work to proceed unhindered. The quantitative survey and qualitative inquiry was conducted with the key construction participants in South African construction. Focus group discussions and interviews were used in a complementary manner. Accordingly, the sampling technique for the study comprised simple random and purposive sampling. The study revealed apparent poor leadership and lack of involvement and commitment to workers’ H&S by the key project leaders. Notably, there is statistical evidence of poor H&S management practices among contractors in terms of top management commitment to and involvement in project H&S. This statistical evidence includes poor H&S education and training of workers and lack of workers’ involvement and participation in H&S matters, which is the tenet of behaviour-based H&S anagement. The model of leadership influence on worker H&S behaviour developed in this research constitutes an innovative contribution to construction H&S performance improvement through a leadership-focused approach. The study has established a basic level of awareness and understanding among key project leaders in that their upstream decisions during the project planning and construction phases have significant influence on workers’ safe or unsafe behaviour or at-risk work practices. The study strongly advocates transparent leadership, ethical behaviour among clients in public and private sectors, designers’ critical H&S decisions, project managers’ and quantity surveyors’ commitment towards project H&S and contractors’ adoption and implementation of behaviour-based H&S management systems. The developed leadership influence model of worker H&S behaviour in the study provides a useful guide for the key project leaders to realise the desired H&S performance improvement in the South African construction industry.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
Conflict and sustainable development: the case of the great Limpompo Transfrontier Park (GLTP), Southern Africa
- Authors: Muboko, Never
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Conflict management , Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Limpopo , Great Limpopo Transfrontier Park
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: vital:8158 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1357 , Conflict management , Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Limpopo , Great Limpopo Transfrontier Park
- Description: Conflict is inevitable but sustainable development is achievable. An analysis of the mix between development and conflict in two communities revealed the imperatives needed to strike a balance between conflict and sustainable development. While conflicts over natural resources are neither a new phenomenon nor are they inevitable, it is the approaches adopted to manage them that generate interests and makes a difference between peace and violence. Thus, conflicts associated with wilderness or TFCA development initiatives such as the Great Limpopo Transfrontier Park (GLTP) have attracted significant interest from various stakeholders. While the GLTP is a flagship conservation initiative in Southern Africa designed to integrate different land uses for socio-economic development, it is littered with conflicts. Through documenting the experiences of two communities involved in development conflicts, a determination was sought to understand the efficacy of approaches used to manage the conflict. Using mainly questionnaires and personal interviews, perceptions and attitudes of key informants were solicited. Unresolved historical problems reincarnated to haunt current conservation projects as memories of unresolved past events reflected negatively on new related initiatives. Different approaches adopted in managing these conflicts resulted in significantly different outcomes. Local stakeholder involvements were inadequate, but were identified as pertinent to successful sustainable conservation and development. Unless local communities are assured of real benefits from new conservation initiatives it became evident that recurrent conflicts would be inevitable. The findings reveal that current conservation initiatives should be underpinned by emerging inclusivity theories in the conservation discourse. A broad range of stakeholders should embrace this new paradigm based on the philosophy that conservation efforts that exclude local communities are bound to be unsustainable. We found out that it is in the interests of all for policy makers to come up with policies that recognise the critical role local communities play, while subscribing to the regional and international standards for best practices in the conservation business.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
- Authors: Muboko, Never
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Conflict management , Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Limpopo , Great Limpopo Transfrontier Park
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: vital:8158 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1357 , Conflict management , Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Limpopo , Great Limpopo Transfrontier Park
- Description: Conflict is inevitable but sustainable development is achievable. An analysis of the mix between development and conflict in two communities revealed the imperatives needed to strike a balance between conflict and sustainable development. While conflicts over natural resources are neither a new phenomenon nor are they inevitable, it is the approaches adopted to manage them that generate interests and makes a difference between peace and violence. Thus, conflicts associated with wilderness or TFCA development initiatives such as the Great Limpopo Transfrontier Park (GLTP) have attracted significant interest from various stakeholders. While the GLTP is a flagship conservation initiative in Southern Africa designed to integrate different land uses for socio-economic development, it is littered with conflicts. Through documenting the experiences of two communities involved in development conflicts, a determination was sought to understand the efficacy of approaches used to manage the conflict. Using mainly questionnaires and personal interviews, perceptions and attitudes of key informants were solicited. Unresolved historical problems reincarnated to haunt current conservation projects as memories of unresolved past events reflected negatively on new related initiatives. Different approaches adopted in managing these conflicts resulted in significantly different outcomes. Local stakeholder involvements were inadequate, but were identified as pertinent to successful sustainable conservation and development. Unless local communities are assured of real benefits from new conservation initiatives it became evident that recurrent conflicts would be inevitable. The findings reveal that current conservation initiatives should be underpinned by emerging inclusivity theories in the conservation discourse. A broad range of stakeholders should embrace this new paradigm based on the philosophy that conservation efforts that exclude local communities are bound to be unsustainable. We found out that it is in the interests of all for policy makers to come up with policies that recognise the critical role local communities play, while subscribing to the regional and international standards for best practices in the conservation business.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
Caregivers’ and parents’ views about preschool education as a school readiness programme in the Queenstown Education District
- Mtyuda, Pamela Nomonde Pettina
- Authors: Mtyuda, Pamela Nomonde Pettina
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Education, Preschool Readiness for school
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/16166 , vital:40674
- Description: The aim of this study was to uncover preschool caregivers’ and parents’ views about preschool education as a preschool readiness programme in the Queenstown education district. The research study addressed the following specific objectives, to determine: the caregivers’ and parents’ understanding of school readiness nature of preschool education; the extent to which the caregivers’ practices can make children ready for formal schooling; the parents’ assessment of the preschool centres as places that make children ready for formal schooling; caregivers’ and parents’ views on the challenges facing preschool centres against making children ready for formal schooling; and lastly, the possible solutions to the challenges facing preschool centres. In the present study, both qualitative and quantitative data were collected. Quantitative data were gathered through questionnaires from 40 preschool caregivers at preschools and 40 parents of the children in those preschools that were chosen by the caregivers on the basis of parents who are highly committed in the education of their children. The qualitative data were gathered through focus group discussions with 2 focus groups located in the Queenstown Education district. Twelve participants were interviewed, and these comprised 6 caregivers that formed the focus group discussion 1 and 6 parents that formed the focus group discussion 2, using the interview schedules as guides. Purposive sampling to select the participants was used. Triangulation design was used to gather both quantitative and qualitative data at the same time and to integrate the two forms of data in order to have a better understanding of the research objectives. The research findings indicated that the most frequently reported issues by the participants were the problems with some caregivers who had limited knowledge to make children ready for formal schooling. Some of the parents and caregivers do not understand the importance of the domains of development in making children fully ready for formal schooling. There is still lack of parental involvement in those centres; no effective communication between parents and staff; caregivers are not aware of the policies that govern the preschools; poverty and unemployment are factors that inhibit the right of young children to education; no proper resources in preschools and the unregistered preschools also still need to be helped by coordinated efforts from communities and the government bodies. It was concluded that the quality of early childhood development(ECD) programmes in Queenstown preschools was still compromised. The study recommended extensive investment in infrastructure and learning and teaching support materials is necessary; there should be sufficient staffing with ECD expertise; programmes should be designed in order to educate and encourage parents to actively involve themselves with preschool activities.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Mtyuda, Pamela Nomonde Pettina
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Education, Preschool Readiness for school
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/16166 , vital:40674
- Description: The aim of this study was to uncover preschool caregivers’ and parents’ views about preschool education as a preschool readiness programme in the Queenstown education district. The research study addressed the following specific objectives, to determine: the caregivers’ and parents’ understanding of school readiness nature of preschool education; the extent to which the caregivers’ practices can make children ready for formal schooling; the parents’ assessment of the preschool centres as places that make children ready for formal schooling; caregivers’ and parents’ views on the challenges facing preschool centres against making children ready for formal schooling; and lastly, the possible solutions to the challenges facing preschool centres. In the present study, both qualitative and quantitative data were collected. Quantitative data were gathered through questionnaires from 40 preschool caregivers at preschools and 40 parents of the children in those preschools that were chosen by the caregivers on the basis of parents who are highly committed in the education of their children. The qualitative data were gathered through focus group discussions with 2 focus groups located in the Queenstown Education district. Twelve participants were interviewed, and these comprised 6 caregivers that formed the focus group discussion 1 and 6 parents that formed the focus group discussion 2, using the interview schedules as guides. Purposive sampling to select the participants was used. Triangulation design was used to gather both quantitative and qualitative data at the same time and to integrate the two forms of data in order to have a better understanding of the research objectives. The research findings indicated that the most frequently reported issues by the participants were the problems with some caregivers who had limited knowledge to make children ready for formal schooling. Some of the parents and caregivers do not understand the importance of the domains of development in making children fully ready for formal schooling. There is still lack of parental involvement in those centres; no effective communication between parents and staff; caregivers are not aware of the policies that govern the preschools; poverty and unemployment are factors that inhibit the right of young children to education; no proper resources in preschools and the unregistered preschools also still need to be helped by coordinated efforts from communities and the government bodies. It was concluded that the quality of early childhood development(ECD) programmes in Queenstown preschools was still compromised. The study recommended extensive investment in infrastructure and learning and teaching support materials is necessary; there should be sufficient staffing with ECD expertise; programmes should be designed in order to educate and encourage parents to actively involve themselves with preschool activities.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
The role of apex predators in ecosystem function: fear triggered cascades regulated by differential prey vulnerability
- Authors: Le Roux, Elizabeth
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Top predators -- Ecology Predation (Biology)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/14774 , vital:27849
- Description: Trophic cascades involving large terrestrial mammals are very seldom empirically demonstrated. The high species diversity often associated with terrestrial systems is thought to modulate the strength of trophic cascades. In speciose systems, species often vary in vulnerability to consumption, hence some species are less responsive to top-down pressure. African large mammalian herbivores are highly diverse and vary greatly in body size, a characteristic linked to vulnerability to predation. Moreover, Africa is one of the last places to still support megaherbivores, species that have grown large enough to be practically impervious to non-human predation. Thus an African ecosystem is the ideal setting to explore trophic cascades in speciose terrestrial systems. In this study I explored patterns in trophic interaction amongst carnivores, vulnerable mesoherbivore and predator-invulnerable megaherbivores in an intact African savanna at a variety of spatial scales. I examined the mechanistic links between trophic levels at the patch scale through fine scale empirical manipulation of predation risk. In addition, I assessed the landscape scale biological relevance of these trophic interactions through correlative observations over large spatiotemporal scales. I present the first evidence of community level trophic cascades explicitly involving megaherbivores. I demonstrate how megaherbivores’ disregard of predation risk masks the effects of predator-triggered trophic cascades and weakens their impact on the ecosystem. The risk of predation triggered a spatial response in vulnerable species, driving them into safe areas, yet did not influence the space use of megaherbivores. This species-specific spatial response had contrasting effects on nutrient distribution. Vulnerable herbivores’ fear-induced foraging behaviour led to localised nutrient accumulation whereas the foraging behaviour of predator-invulnerable megaherbivores led to nutrient redistribution across the landscape. In addition, the fear-driven spatial differences in mesoherbivore grazing impact and nutrient deposition led to landscape scale changes in the distribution and persistence of herbivore maintained grass communities, so-called grazing lawns. However, the grazing activity of the in-vulnerable megagrazer, white rhino (Ceratotherium simum) weakened the effect of this trophic cascade by creating and maintaining grazing lawns within the risky habitat avoided by mesograzers. This study contributes to our understanding of what drives the variation among patterns of trophic control and provides the first evidence of the modulating influence that megaherbivores have on predator-triggered trophic cascades.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Le Roux, Elizabeth
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Top predators -- Ecology Predation (Biology)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/14774 , vital:27849
- Description: Trophic cascades involving large terrestrial mammals are very seldom empirically demonstrated. The high species diversity often associated with terrestrial systems is thought to modulate the strength of trophic cascades. In speciose systems, species often vary in vulnerability to consumption, hence some species are less responsive to top-down pressure. African large mammalian herbivores are highly diverse and vary greatly in body size, a characteristic linked to vulnerability to predation. Moreover, Africa is one of the last places to still support megaherbivores, species that have grown large enough to be practically impervious to non-human predation. Thus an African ecosystem is the ideal setting to explore trophic cascades in speciose terrestrial systems. In this study I explored patterns in trophic interaction amongst carnivores, vulnerable mesoherbivore and predator-invulnerable megaherbivores in an intact African savanna at a variety of spatial scales. I examined the mechanistic links between trophic levels at the patch scale through fine scale empirical manipulation of predation risk. In addition, I assessed the landscape scale biological relevance of these trophic interactions through correlative observations over large spatiotemporal scales. I present the first evidence of community level trophic cascades explicitly involving megaherbivores. I demonstrate how megaherbivores’ disregard of predation risk masks the effects of predator-triggered trophic cascades and weakens their impact on the ecosystem. The risk of predation triggered a spatial response in vulnerable species, driving them into safe areas, yet did not influence the space use of megaherbivores. This species-specific spatial response had contrasting effects on nutrient distribution. Vulnerable herbivores’ fear-induced foraging behaviour led to localised nutrient accumulation whereas the foraging behaviour of predator-invulnerable megaherbivores led to nutrient redistribution across the landscape. In addition, the fear-driven spatial differences in mesoherbivore grazing impact and nutrient deposition led to landscape scale changes in the distribution and persistence of herbivore maintained grass communities, so-called grazing lawns. However, the grazing activity of the in-vulnerable megagrazer, white rhino (Ceratotherium simum) weakened the effect of this trophic cascade by creating and maintaining grazing lawns within the risky habitat avoided by mesograzers. This study contributes to our understanding of what drives the variation among patterns of trophic control and provides the first evidence of the modulating influence that megaherbivores have on predator-triggered trophic cascades.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The classification of fuzzy groups of finite cyclic groups Zpn Zqm Zr and Zp1 Zp2 Zpn for distinct prime numbers p; q; r; p1; p2; ; pn and n;m 2 Z+
- Authors: Munywoki, Michael Mbindyo
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Fuzzy sets Finite groups
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/17817 , vital:41295
- Description: Let G be the cyclic group Zpn _ Zqm _ Zr where p; q; r are distinct primes and n;m 2 Z+. Using the criss-cut method by Murali and Makamba, we determine in general the number of distinct fuzzy subgroups of G. This is achieved by using the maximal chains of subgroups of the respective groups, and the equivalence relation given in their research papers. For cases of m, the number of fuzzy subgroups is _rst given, from which the general pattern for G is achieved. Murali and Makamba discussed the number of fuzzy subgroups of Zpn _ Zqm using the cross-cut method. A brief revisit of the group Zpn _Zqm is done using the criss-cut method. The formulae for _nding the number of distinct fuzzy subgroups in each of the cases is given and proofs provided. Furthermore, we classify the fuzzy subgroups of the group Zp1_Zp2__ _ __Zpn for p1; p2; _ _ _ ; pn distinct primes and n 2 Z+ using the criss-cut method. An algorithm for counting the distinct fuzzy subgroups of this group is developed.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Munywoki, Michael Mbindyo
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Fuzzy sets Finite groups
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/17817 , vital:41295
- Description: Let G be the cyclic group Zpn _ Zqm _ Zr where p; q; r are distinct primes and n;m 2 Z+. Using the criss-cut method by Murali and Makamba, we determine in general the number of distinct fuzzy subgroups of G. This is achieved by using the maximal chains of subgroups of the respective groups, and the equivalence relation given in their research papers. For cases of m, the number of fuzzy subgroups is _rst given, from which the general pattern for G is achieved. Murali and Makamba discussed the number of fuzzy subgroups of Zpn _ Zqm using the cross-cut method. A brief revisit of the group Zpn _Zqm is done using the criss-cut method. The formulae for _nding the number of distinct fuzzy subgroups in each of the cases is given and proofs provided. Furthermore, we classify the fuzzy subgroups of the group Zp1_Zp2__ _ __Zpn for p1; p2; _ _ _ ; pn distinct primes and n 2 Z+ using the criss-cut method. An algorithm for counting the distinct fuzzy subgroups of this group is developed.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
The influence of service performance measurement on service delivery: expectations of university students in Kenya
- Authors: Mbuthia, Lydia Muthoni
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Universities and colleges -- Kenya -- Administration
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: vital:9233 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021064
- Description: The demand for university education has increased at a higher rate than the resources available for universities to offer the required services. In Kenya, the demand for university education has continued to rise with university enrolment increasing tremendously over the last four decades. This growth calls for an investigation to find out the impact of this expansion on service delivery in universities. Kenya has thirty-nine fully-fledged universities that have been accredited by the Commission for University Education (as at 31st March 2013). Twelve others are operating with interim letters of authority (ILO). This development has created competition amongst universities and, as a result, necessitated the development of strategies to ensure survival in this changing environment. The review of existing literature on this subject has established that service delivery is a service differentiator and therefore could be utilised by universities to gain a competitive advantage and therefore enhance their overall performances. Based on this background, this study sought to establish the influence of service performance measurement on service delivery in relation to the expectations of university students in Kenya. Secondary sources were used to formulate a theoretical model of the influence of service performance measurement on service delivery that guided this study. The theoretical model indicates that non-academic aspects, academic aspects, reputation, programme issues and access factors may influence service delivery at the university. These five dimensions were used in the study as the independent variables of service delivery at the university. The outcomes of service delivery at the university were identified as student expectations, student satisfaction, student loyalty and student retention in the theoretical model; these were treated as dependent variables. Hypotheses were formulated that proposed relationships between the independent variables and service delivery. Hypotheses in respect of relationships between service delivery and the outcomes were also developed. A quantitative research approach was adopted to empirically evaluate the relationships between service delivery and the variables in this study. Data for the study was collected through the use of a structured self-administered questionnaire that was distributed to 720 university students in Kenya. Six hundred and thirty useful survey responses were received from fifteen universities. The data collected was subjected to factor analysis and multiple regression analysis to test the hypothesised relationships between the variables and service delivery. Descriptive statistics were also obtained from the raw data. The findings of this study indicate that non-academic aspects, academic aspects and access factors have positive and significant influence on service delivery in Kenyan universities. The quality and adequacy of academic, entertainment and sports facilities together with increased accessibility to services by students are important factors that influence service delivery at a university. The university students would like to be treated with respect and courtesy by academic and administrative staff during these service encounters. The empirical results of the study also reveal that student perceptions of service delivery impacts positively on student expectations, student loyalty and student retention related to convenience as well as student retention related to quality assurance.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Mbuthia, Lydia Muthoni
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Universities and colleges -- Kenya -- Administration
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: vital:9233 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021064
- Description: The demand for university education has increased at a higher rate than the resources available for universities to offer the required services. In Kenya, the demand for university education has continued to rise with university enrolment increasing tremendously over the last four decades. This growth calls for an investigation to find out the impact of this expansion on service delivery in universities. Kenya has thirty-nine fully-fledged universities that have been accredited by the Commission for University Education (as at 31st March 2013). Twelve others are operating with interim letters of authority (ILO). This development has created competition amongst universities and, as a result, necessitated the development of strategies to ensure survival in this changing environment. The review of existing literature on this subject has established that service delivery is a service differentiator and therefore could be utilised by universities to gain a competitive advantage and therefore enhance their overall performances. Based on this background, this study sought to establish the influence of service performance measurement on service delivery in relation to the expectations of university students in Kenya. Secondary sources were used to formulate a theoretical model of the influence of service performance measurement on service delivery that guided this study. The theoretical model indicates that non-academic aspects, academic aspects, reputation, programme issues and access factors may influence service delivery at the university. These five dimensions were used in the study as the independent variables of service delivery at the university. The outcomes of service delivery at the university were identified as student expectations, student satisfaction, student loyalty and student retention in the theoretical model; these were treated as dependent variables. Hypotheses were formulated that proposed relationships between the independent variables and service delivery. Hypotheses in respect of relationships between service delivery and the outcomes were also developed. A quantitative research approach was adopted to empirically evaluate the relationships between service delivery and the variables in this study. Data for the study was collected through the use of a structured self-administered questionnaire that was distributed to 720 university students in Kenya. Six hundred and thirty useful survey responses were received from fifteen universities. The data collected was subjected to factor analysis and multiple regression analysis to test the hypothesised relationships between the variables and service delivery. Descriptive statistics were also obtained from the raw data. The findings of this study indicate that non-academic aspects, academic aspects and access factors have positive and significant influence on service delivery in Kenyan universities. The quality and adequacy of academic, entertainment and sports facilities together with increased accessibility to services by students are important factors that influence service delivery at a university. The university students would like to be treated with respect and courtesy by academic and administrative staff during these service encounters. The empirical results of the study also reveal that student perceptions of service delivery impacts positively on student expectations, student loyalty and student retention related to convenience as well as student retention related to quality assurance.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Culturally-informed coping strategies of posttraumatic stress disorders among the black Africans in the greater Accra region of Ghana and black Africans in the eastern cape of South Africa
- Authors: Thompson, Sandra
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Post-traumatic stress disorder -- Ghana -- Accra , Post-traumatic stress disorder -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Cultural psychiatry Psychoanalysis and culture
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/45160 , vital:38259
- Description: The influence of culture in coping with Posttraumatic Stress Disorders (PTSD) has been highlighted in literature. However, these culture specific coping strategies are not as yet, extensively explored. The research sought to explore and describe the culturally-informed coping strategies of PTSD among the black Africans in the Greater Accra Region of Ghana and black Africans in the Eastern Cape of South Africa. A qualitative methodological approach was used to explore the phenomenon under study. Purposive non-probability sampling was employed to obtain access to participants who could inform the objectives of the study. Data was collected using semi-structured interviews with traumatised individuals and focus group discussions with cultural leaders. All interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, translated and analysed using thematic content analysis to facilitate the description and comparison of the similarities and distinctive features emerging from the two African communities. The findings indicated that a number of cultural factors influence interpretation of symptoms of PTSD and the adopted coping strategies. Participants’ understanding of symptoms of PTSD relied heavily on Christian Religious and African cultural understandings. It was evident that almost all explanations were purely spiritual and minimal knowledge was expressed on cognitive interpretations. A great deal of emphasis by the Ghanaians and isiXhosa of South Africa, was on dreams and such interpretations were deferred to an authoritative individual (especially the traditional healer). An obvious hierarchy for coping emerged with the traditional healer playing a major role for the Ghanaian and isiXhosa participants. Performing rites and the use of plants were essential to healing for these group of individuals. Whereas, the Coloured-Afrikaans made reference to a higher power “God”. An outstanding observation was the extent to which Ghanaian and isiXhosa participants have incorporated Christian and traditional practices (i.e. praying to God, performing rites and using herbs or plants). Even where an individual did not wish to mix practice because of upbringing, they acknowledged the existence and effectiveness of these practices. Colonisation was drawn on as an explanation for such mixed practices. The advent of Christianity was explained as having established Western culture (specifically Christianity) that is incorporated by participants. The Coloured-Afrikaans on the other hand, were consistent with the Christian practices “prayers to God”. A great deal of consistency however existed among all participants. Social support was considered very important. Talking with family and friends were relevant to the healing process as it gets rid of distorted thought patterns and avoids isolation considered as a serious current threat to healing. While there was an element of cognitive understanding, Western based treatment using cognitive restructuring was not a treatment option. Clinical practitioners or Psychologists that come into contact with the black Ghanaians and black South Africans should consider collaborative treatment strategies using the draft checklist as a guide.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Thompson, Sandra
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Post-traumatic stress disorder -- Ghana -- Accra , Post-traumatic stress disorder -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Cultural psychiatry Psychoanalysis and culture
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/45160 , vital:38259
- Description: The influence of culture in coping with Posttraumatic Stress Disorders (PTSD) has been highlighted in literature. However, these culture specific coping strategies are not as yet, extensively explored. The research sought to explore and describe the culturally-informed coping strategies of PTSD among the black Africans in the Greater Accra Region of Ghana and black Africans in the Eastern Cape of South Africa. A qualitative methodological approach was used to explore the phenomenon under study. Purposive non-probability sampling was employed to obtain access to participants who could inform the objectives of the study. Data was collected using semi-structured interviews with traumatised individuals and focus group discussions with cultural leaders. All interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, translated and analysed using thematic content analysis to facilitate the description and comparison of the similarities and distinctive features emerging from the two African communities. The findings indicated that a number of cultural factors influence interpretation of symptoms of PTSD and the adopted coping strategies. Participants’ understanding of symptoms of PTSD relied heavily on Christian Religious and African cultural understandings. It was evident that almost all explanations were purely spiritual and minimal knowledge was expressed on cognitive interpretations. A great deal of emphasis by the Ghanaians and isiXhosa of South Africa, was on dreams and such interpretations were deferred to an authoritative individual (especially the traditional healer). An obvious hierarchy for coping emerged with the traditional healer playing a major role for the Ghanaian and isiXhosa participants. Performing rites and the use of plants were essential to healing for these group of individuals. Whereas, the Coloured-Afrikaans made reference to a higher power “God”. An outstanding observation was the extent to which Ghanaian and isiXhosa participants have incorporated Christian and traditional practices (i.e. praying to God, performing rites and using herbs or plants). Even where an individual did not wish to mix practice because of upbringing, they acknowledged the existence and effectiveness of these practices. Colonisation was drawn on as an explanation for such mixed practices. The advent of Christianity was explained as having established Western culture (specifically Christianity) that is incorporated by participants. The Coloured-Afrikaans on the other hand, were consistent with the Christian practices “prayers to God”. A great deal of consistency however existed among all participants. Social support was considered very important. Talking with family and friends were relevant to the healing process as it gets rid of distorted thought patterns and avoids isolation considered as a serious current threat to healing. While there was an element of cognitive understanding, Western based treatment using cognitive restructuring was not a treatment option. Clinical practitioners or Psychologists that come into contact with the black Ghanaians and black South Africans should consider collaborative treatment strategies using the draft checklist as a guide.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
The economic and ecological trade-offs of wetland conversion for development projects: the case of the Kampala–Mukono corridor
- Authors: Wasswa, Hannington
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Wetland ecology -- Uganda -- Kampala , Wetlands -- Uganda -- Kampala Wetland management -- Uganda -- Kampala Hydrogeology
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/36409 , vital:33939
- Description: Wetland diminution for development projects (DPs) in the Kampala–Mukono Corridor (KMC) continues to pose threats to the socio-economic and ecological benefits of wetlands because decision-makers and wetland users at various levels often have insufficient knowledge of these benefits. This situation has resulted in unsustainable development decisions that accord little weight to wetlands and have allocated many of them to DPs. In order to inform decision making for optimal development in the KMC, the present study analysed the spatial and temporal wetland loss to DPs, estimated the economic value of the KMC wetlands, and assessed the environmental consequences of wetland conversion for DPs. Sets of ortho-rectified and cloud-free multi-temporal Landsat MSS (1974) and Landsat TM/ETM+ images (30m) for 1986, 2006, and 2013 were analysed in a spatial and temporal framework. The 79m Landsat image (MSS) of 1974 was resampled and later filtered with subsequent 30m images using a majority filter method. An unsupervised classification approach was employed to characterize the wetlands and associated DPs. The classified DPs and wetland cover types were validated by reference to topographical maps (sheets) of 1974 at a scale of 1:50,000 obtained from Uganda Lands and Surveys, apriori knowledge and Google earth images corresponding to the same spatial and temporal frames. The IDRISI Selva-based Markov Chain model was employed to model future wetland loss to DPs. The Total Economic Valuation Approach (TEV) was employed to quantify selected use values of wetland economic benefits using the market price, replacement cost and contingent valuation techniques. The ecological implications of wetland loss focused on soil organic carbon (SOC) and hydrological impacts in the KMC wetlands. The estimated SOC was assessed with climatic data in order to infer the implication of SOC loss for local climate variability. The manual wet chemistry/oxidation method by Walkley-Black (1934) was adopted to estimate SOC in various wetland cover types. Hydrological impact assessments focused on water quality analysis in various wetland cover types, with major parameters being total nitrogen (TN), total phosphorous (TP) total dissolved solids – (TDS) and total suspended sediments (TSS). Hydrologic flow data parameters across the different wetland cover types in the KMC focused on water level, speed, stream width, and bed load. Results from analysis of the spatial-temporal wetland change revealed that by 2013 the KMC wetlands had lost almost half (47%) of their 1974 areal coverage, with 56% of this loss resulting from conversion to DPs. It is projected that 26% of the KMC wetlands will be lost to more DPs by 2040. Wetland loss is attributed to intensified economic activity and preference of Kampala as an industrial zone, weakness in the previous spatial planning of Kampala, and the general lack of information flow to various institutions involved in the establishment of DPs. The KMC wetlands provide a flow of economic benefits at a minimum approximated value of US$ 3,418 / ha / per year. It is revealed that a great deal of these economic benefits (88%) accrues to the local subsistence level in the form of livelihood products, incomes, and employment benefits. The 56% wetlands loss to DPs in the KMC by 2013 brings the minimum economic value lost to US$ 19,311,700 in the sampled wetlands, and projections of future wetland loss put the minimum economic loss at US$ 48,368,118 by 2040. Continuous degradation of these wetlands means serious economic costs to the government and local communities, as reflected in high replacement expenditures for wetland services, foregone incomes, subsistence livelihood support and alternative employment. The highest carbon (C) sinks were identified in forest swamps, palms, thickets and wetlands converted to agriculture, which accounted for 25% of the KMC wetlands by 2013, while the lowest total soil organic carbon (TSOC) range occurred in converted wetland cover types (converted wetlands to industrial and settlements) that occupied 47% of the study area. A general decrease in SOC sequestration from 1974 to 2013 across the KMC wetlands is identified, with the lowest C pool registered in 2013. The dwindling SOC banks are considered to be partly responsible for varying climate and related feedbacks on wetland benefits in the KMC. The hydrologic impacts of wetland loss are felt mainly in converted wetland cover types, in the form of compromised water quality, with increased nutrient pollution and TSS. These all create negative impacts on wetland hydrological services, particularly filtration, flood attenuation, recharge and discharge benefits, all of which have profound effects on biodiversity. There is an urgent need to reduce the scale of wetland diminution in the KMC. This will be achieved if mitigation and conservation measures are undertaken. Mitigation measures should include a revision of development plans, user sensitization on wetland economic values and enforcement of regulatory mechanisms. Conservation strategies should involve the use of economic incentives and disincentives which include: a revision of historic property rights to regulate wetland use, performance bonds or subsidies for environmentally friendly activities and taxes, fees or fines for unacceptable levels of degradation and tradable permits that utilise the concept of ‘wetland banks’ to ensure no further loss of the KMC wetlands to DPs. Future research should focus on modelling the response of wetland ecosystems to multiple threats and management interventions, and on a feasibility study of wetland restoration options and the implications for local people’s livelihoods in the KMC.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Wasswa, Hannington
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Wetland ecology -- Uganda -- Kampala , Wetlands -- Uganda -- Kampala Wetland management -- Uganda -- Kampala Hydrogeology
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/36409 , vital:33939
- Description: Wetland diminution for development projects (DPs) in the Kampala–Mukono Corridor (KMC) continues to pose threats to the socio-economic and ecological benefits of wetlands because decision-makers and wetland users at various levels often have insufficient knowledge of these benefits. This situation has resulted in unsustainable development decisions that accord little weight to wetlands and have allocated many of them to DPs. In order to inform decision making for optimal development in the KMC, the present study analysed the spatial and temporal wetland loss to DPs, estimated the economic value of the KMC wetlands, and assessed the environmental consequences of wetland conversion for DPs. Sets of ortho-rectified and cloud-free multi-temporal Landsat MSS (1974) and Landsat TM/ETM+ images (30m) for 1986, 2006, and 2013 were analysed in a spatial and temporal framework. The 79m Landsat image (MSS) of 1974 was resampled and later filtered with subsequent 30m images using a majority filter method. An unsupervised classification approach was employed to characterize the wetlands and associated DPs. The classified DPs and wetland cover types were validated by reference to topographical maps (sheets) of 1974 at a scale of 1:50,000 obtained from Uganda Lands and Surveys, apriori knowledge and Google earth images corresponding to the same spatial and temporal frames. The IDRISI Selva-based Markov Chain model was employed to model future wetland loss to DPs. The Total Economic Valuation Approach (TEV) was employed to quantify selected use values of wetland economic benefits using the market price, replacement cost and contingent valuation techniques. The ecological implications of wetland loss focused on soil organic carbon (SOC) and hydrological impacts in the KMC wetlands. The estimated SOC was assessed with climatic data in order to infer the implication of SOC loss for local climate variability. The manual wet chemistry/oxidation method by Walkley-Black (1934) was adopted to estimate SOC in various wetland cover types. Hydrological impact assessments focused on water quality analysis in various wetland cover types, with major parameters being total nitrogen (TN), total phosphorous (TP) total dissolved solids – (TDS) and total suspended sediments (TSS). Hydrologic flow data parameters across the different wetland cover types in the KMC focused on water level, speed, stream width, and bed load. Results from analysis of the spatial-temporal wetland change revealed that by 2013 the KMC wetlands had lost almost half (47%) of their 1974 areal coverage, with 56% of this loss resulting from conversion to DPs. It is projected that 26% of the KMC wetlands will be lost to more DPs by 2040. Wetland loss is attributed to intensified economic activity and preference of Kampala as an industrial zone, weakness in the previous spatial planning of Kampala, and the general lack of information flow to various institutions involved in the establishment of DPs. The KMC wetlands provide a flow of economic benefits at a minimum approximated value of US$ 3,418 / ha / per year. It is revealed that a great deal of these economic benefits (88%) accrues to the local subsistence level in the form of livelihood products, incomes, and employment benefits. The 56% wetlands loss to DPs in the KMC by 2013 brings the minimum economic value lost to US$ 19,311,700 in the sampled wetlands, and projections of future wetland loss put the minimum economic loss at US$ 48,368,118 by 2040. Continuous degradation of these wetlands means serious economic costs to the government and local communities, as reflected in high replacement expenditures for wetland services, foregone incomes, subsistence livelihood support and alternative employment. The highest carbon (C) sinks were identified in forest swamps, palms, thickets and wetlands converted to agriculture, which accounted for 25% of the KMC wetlands by 2013, while the lowest total soil organic carbon (TSOC) range occurred in converted wetland cover types (converted wetlands to industrial and settlements) that occupied 47% of the study area. A general decrease in SOC sequestration from 1974 to 2013 across the KMC wetlands is identified, with the lowest C pool registered in 2013. The dwindling SOC banks are considered to be partly responsible for varying climate and related feedbacks on wetland benefits in the KMC. The hydrologic impacts of wetland loss are felt mainly in converted wetland cover types, in the form of compromised water quality, with increased nutrient pollution and TSS. These all create negative impacts on wetland hydrological services, particularly filtration, flood attenuation, recharge and discharge benefits, all of which have profound effects on biodiversity. There is an urgent need to reduce the scale of wetland diminution in the KMC. This will be achieved if mitigation and conservation measures are undertaken. Mitigation measures should include a revision of development plans, user sensitization on wetland economic values and enforcement of regulatory mechanisms. Conservation strategies should involve the use of economic incentives and disincentives which include: a revision of historic property rights to regulate wetland use, performance bonds or subsidies for environmentally friendly activities and taxes, fees or fines for unacceptable levels of degradation and tradable permits that utilise the concept of ‘wetland banks’ to ensure no further loss of the KMC wetlands to DPs. Future research should focus on modelling the response of wetland ecosystems to multiple threats and management interventions, and on a feasibility study of wetland restoration options and the implications for local people’s livelihoods in the KMC.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
β-N-Methylamino-L-Alanine is a developmental neurotoxin
- Authors: Scott, Laura Louise
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Neurotoxic agents , Nervous system -- Diseases
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/43633 , vital:36949
- Description: β-N-methylamino-L-alanine (BMAA) has been implicated in the development of the neurodegenerative diseases Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis/Parkinsonism Dementia Complex (ALS/PDC), Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) and Alzheimer’s Disease (AD), but to date no animal model has adequately substantiated this link at environmentally relevant or even exaggerated BMAA exposure levels. The resulting controversy over a possible role for BMAA in neurodegenerative diseases was further hampered by a lack of evidence for mechanistic explanation for the disease pathology associated with these diseases However, the different responses to BMAA that have been observed in neonatal compared to adult rats, together with the findings of epidemiological studies that exposure to environmental factors in utero or in the early stages of life may be important for the development of ALS several years later, suggested that age of exposure might be the determining factor of BMAA neurotoxicity. This study therefore specifically addresses the developmental nature of BMAA as a neurotoxin, and investigates the pathology and progressive nature of that pathology after exposure to the toxin at the most susceptible age. This study demonstrated the importance of BMAA exposure age over total BMAA dose by showing that the administration of a single neonatal dose of BMAA to rodents on postnatal day (PND) 3, 4 and 5, and not prenatally or on PND 6, 7 and 10, caused behavioural, locomotor, emotional and long-term cognitive deficits, clinical symptoms of neurodegeneration as well as pathological hallmarks of AD, PD and ALS in the central nervous system. Furthermore, the observed behavioural deficits and distribution of neuronal loss and proteinopathies in the rodent central nervous system following exposure to BMAA on PND 3, 4 and 5 (corresponding to the developing age of an infant during the third trimester of pregnancy) is consistent with that typically associated with the disruption of normal dopamine and/or serotonin signaling in the brain and the consequent alteration in normal hippocampal and striatal neurogenesis that is modulated, in part, by dopamine. The pattern of spread and rate of propagation of pathology in this neonatal rat BMAA model provided further evidence that BMAA potentially exerts its effect by acting on neurotransmitter signaling. The observed late onset of typical ALS symptoms and pathology suggest that in this BMAA model AD and/or PD related symptoms develop first, followed by the start of ALS symptoms only after the AD and/or PD neuropathological deficits have severely progressed. This study also demonstrated that BMAA exposure at different doses and at different developmental ages resulted in the development of different combinations of either AD and/or PD and/or ALS pathology and/or symptoms in rats, and it is therefore feasible that in humans the age and/or frequency of exposure as well as the BMAA dose might similarly be a major determinant of the variant of AD, PD and/or ALS that might develop in adulthood. Based on the low BMAA dose that was able to cause AD and/or PD-like neuropathological abnormalities in rats in this study, it is feasible that a pregnant human could over the course of her pregnancy, and specifically during the third trimester of pregnancy, consume sufficient BMAA to result in her unborn child developing AD and/or PD and/or ALS up to 30-50 years later. This neonatal BMAA model is the only non-transgenic rodent model that reproduces the behavioural deficits, neuropathology and clinical symptoms that are typically associated with AD, PD and ALS in humans and that, more importantly, mimics the delayed onset of disease symptoms and typical slow progression of these neurodegenerative diseases with age. It now seems very likely that BMAA is a developmental neurotoxin that, as a result of perinatal, but probably prenatal exposure, causes or contributes significantly to the development of neurodegenerative diseases in humans.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Scott, Laura Louise
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Neurotoxic agents , Nervous system -- Diseases
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/43633 , vital:36949
- Description: β-N-methylamino-L-alanine (BMAA) has been implicated in the development of the neurodegenerative diseases Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis/Parkinsonism Dementia Complex (ALS/PDC), Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) and Alzheimer’s Disease (AD), but to date no animal model has adequately substantiated this link at environmentally relevant or even exaggerated BMAA exposure levels. The resulting controversy over a possible role for BMAA in neurodegenerative diseases was further hampered by a lack of evidence for mechanistic explanation for the disease pathology associated with these diseases However, the different responses to BMAA that have been observed in neonatal compared to adult rats, together with the findings of epidemiological studies that exposure to environmental factors in utero or in the early stages of life may be important for the development of ALS several years later, suggested that age of exposure might be the determining factor of BMAA neurotoxicity. This study therefore specifically addresses the developmental nature of BMAA as a neurotoxin, and investigates the pathology and progressive nature of that pathology after exposure to the toxin at the most susceptible age. This study demonstrated the importance of BMAA exposure age over total BMAA dose by showing that the administration of a single neonatal dose of BMAA to rodents on postnatal day (PND) 3, 4 and 5, and not prenatally or on PND 6, 7 and 10, caused behavioural, locomotor, emotional and long-term cognitive deficits, clinical symptoms of neurodegeneration as well as pathological hallmarks of AD, PD and ALS in the central nervous system. Furthermore, the observed behavioural deficits and distribution of neuronal loss and proteinopathies in the rodent central nervous system following exposure to BMAA on PND 3, 4 and 5 (corresponding to the developing age of an infant during the third trimester of pregnancy) is consistent with that typically associated with the disruption of normal dopamine and/or serotonin signaling in the brain and the consequent alteration in normal hippocampal and striatal neurogenesis that is modulated, in part, by dopamine. The pattern of spread and rate of propagation of pathology in this neonatal rat BMAA model provided further evidence that BMAA potentially exerts its effect by acting on neurotransmitter signaling. The observed late onset of typical ALS symptoms and pathology suggest that in this BMAA model AD and/or PD related symptoms develop first, followed by the start of ALS symptoms only after the AD and/or PD neuropathological deficits have severely progressed. This study also demonstrated that BMAA exposure at different doses and at different developmental ages resulted in the development of different combinations of either AD and/or PD and/or ALS pathology and/or symptoms in rats, and it is therefore feasible that in humans the age and/or frequency of exposure as well as the BMAA dose might similarly be a major determinant of the variant of AD, PD and/or ALS that might develop in adulthood. Based on the low BMAA dose that was able to cause AD and/or PD-like neuropathological abnormalities in rats in this study, it is feasible that a pregnant human could over the course of her pregnancy, and specifically during the third trimester of pregnancy, consume sufficient BMAA to result in her unborn child developing AD and/or PD and/or ALS up to 30-50 years later. This neonatal BMAA model is the only non-transgenic rodent model that reproduces the behavioural deficits, neuropathology and clinical symptoms that are typically associated with AD, PD and ALS in humans and that, more importantly, mimics the delayed onset of disease symptoms and typical slow progression of these neurodegenerative diseases with age. It now seems very likely that BMAA is a developmental neurotoxin that, as a result of perinatal, but probably prenatal exposure, causes or contributes significantly to the development of neurodegenerative diseases in humans.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Studies on acoustic properties of non-woven fabrics
- Authors: Mvubu, Mlando Basel
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Needlepunch (Nonwoven fabric) Nonwoven fabrics , Textile fabrics
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/19387 , vital:28866
- Description: This study is divided in to two main parts. The first part deals with the optimization of process parameters of needle-punched non-woven fabrics for achieving maximum sound absorption by employing a Box-Behnken factorial design. The influence of fibre type, depth of needle penetration and stroke frequency on sound absorption properties were studied. These parameters were varied at three levels during experimental trials. From multiple regression analysis, it was observed that the depth of needle penetration alone was the most dominant factor among the selected parameters, which was followed by the interaction between depth of needle penetration and stroke frequency. Fibre type was the least dominant parameter affecting sound absorption. A maximum sound absorption coefficient of 47% (0.47) was obtained from the selected parameters. The results showed that for a process such as needle-punching, which is influenced by multiple variables, it is important to also study the interactive effects of process parameters for achieving optimum sound absorption. The second part of the study deals with the effect of type of natural fibre (fineness), and the blending ratio (with PET fibres) on the air permeability of the needle-punched non-woven fabrics and then it proceeds to study the effect of the air-gap, type of natural fibre (fineness) and blending ratio (with PET fibres) on sound absorption of needle-punched non-woven fabrics. These parameters are tested individually and their two way interaction (synergy) effect using ANOVA. The air-gap was varied from 0mm to 25mm with 5mm increments, three natural fibre types were used and all were blended with polyester fibres at three blending ratios for each natural fibre type. The Univariate Tests of Significance shows that all three parameters have a significant effect on sound absorption together with two two-way interactions, with the exception of the Blend Ratio × Air Gap two-way interaction which was not significant. It was found that the sound absorption improves with the increase in the air-gap size up to 15mm after which sound absorption decreased slightly with the further increase in the air-gap up to 25mm.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Mvubu, Mlando Basel
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Needlepunch (Nonwoven fabric) Nonwoven fabrics , Textile fabrics
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/19387 , vital:28866
- Description: This study is divided in to two main parts. The first part deals with the optimization of process parameters of needle-punched non-woven fabrics for achieving maximum sound absorption by employing a Box-Behnken factorial design. The influence of fibre type, depth of needle penetration and stroke frequency on sound absorption properties were studied. These parameters were varied at three levels during experimental trials. From multiple regression analysis, it was observed that the depth of needle penetration alone was the most dominant factor among the selected parameters, which was followed by the interaction between depth of needle penetration and stroke frequency. Fibre type was the least dominant parameter affecting sound absorption. A maximum sound absorption coefficient of 47% (0.47) was obtained from the selected parameters. The results showed that for a process such as needle-punching, which is influenced by multiple variables, it is important to also study the interactive effects of process parameters for achieving optimum sound absorption. The second part of the study deals with the effect of type of natural fibre (fineness), and the blending ratio (with PET fibres) on the air permeability of the needle-punched non-woven fabrics and then it proceeds to study the effect of the air-gap, type of natural fibre (fineness) and blending ratio (with PET fibres) on sound absorption of needle-punched non-woven fabrics. These parameters are tested individually and their two way interaction (synergy) effect using ANOVA. The air-gap was varied from 0mm to 25mm with 5mm increments, three natural fibre types were used and all were blended with polyester fibres at three blending ratios for each natural fibre type. The Univariate Tests of Significance shows that all three parameters have a significant effect on sound absorption together with two two-way interactions, with the exception of the Blend Ratio × Air Gap two-way interaction which was not significant. It was found that the sound absorption improves with the increase in the air-gap size up to 15mm after which sound absorption decreased slightly with the further increase in the air-gap up to 25mm.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Pope John Paul II: a psychobiographical study
- Authors: Navsaria, Koneshverrie
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: John Paul, II, Pope, 1920-2005 , Psychology -- Biographical methods , Faith development
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/3539 , vital:20440
- Description: This psychobiography is focussed on the life of Pope John Paul II, whose historical personage epitomises the redemptive theme of triumph over tragedy and eternal hope. A phenomenological approach to the study allowed the researcher to observe the subject’s lived experience through the theoretical lens of Erik Erikson’s psychosocial development theory as well has having his faith development illuminated by Fowler’s faith development theory. Together, these theories highlighted significant aspects of Pope John Paul II’s personality development, for the greater purpose of uncovering the significance of his historical personage by reconciling his spiritual, political and academic attributes. This psychobiographical undertaking was grounded in qualitative research in the form of a single case. Two methodological strategies were used in this study. Firstly, Alexander’s model was used to organise, extract, prioritise and analyse data. The indicators of salience ensured that all significant parts of biographical data were carefully considered for analysis. Guba’s criteria for trustworthiness guided the methodology to ensure reliable data extraction and interpretation. Posing specific questions to the data enabled the researcher to extract units of analysis relevant to the aim of the study. Secondly, the use of conceptual frameworks and matrices enabled the longitudinal exploration, categorisation and description of the stages of psychosocial and faith development. The findings of this psychobiographical study of Pope John Paul II strongly support the importance of Erikson’s (1950) theory in understanding the processes of personality development in an individual life. In this psychobiographical study, the complex process of adaption and growth was highlighted by Erikson’s (1950) theory and placed periods of Pope John Paul II’s development in context. This study also demonstrated that gaining meaning in life through faith (Fowler, 1981) provides the individual with greater internal support when adjusting to life changes. Furthermore, greater intentionality on the part of therapists to thread faith and spirituality into their practice, is evidence of the eugraphic impact of this study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Navsaria, Koneshverrie
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: John Paul, II, Pope, 1920-2005 , Psychology -- Biographical methods , Faith development
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/3539 , vital:20440
- Description: This psychobiography is focussed on the life of Pope John Paul II, whose historical personage epitomises the redemptive theme of triumph over tragedy and eternal hope. A phenomenological approach to the study allowed the researcher to observe the subject’s lived experience through the theoretical lens of Erik Erikson’s psychosocial development theory as well has having his faith development illuminated by Fowler’s faith development theory. Together, these theories highlighted significant aspects of Pope John Paul II’s personality development, for the greater purpose of uncovering the significance of his historical personage by reconciling his spiritual, political and academic attributes. This psychobiographical undertaking was grounded in qualitative research in the form of a single case. Two methodological strategies were used in this study. Firstly, Alexander’s model was used to organise, extract, prioritise and analyse data. The indicators of salience ensured that all significant parts of biographical data were carefully considered for analysis. Guba’s criteria for trustworthiness guided the methodology to ensure reliable data extraction and interpretation. Posing specific questions to the data enabled the researcher to extract units of analysis relevant to the aim of the study. Secondly, the use of conceptual frameworks and matrices enabled the longitudinal exploration, categorisation and description of the stages of psychosocial and faith development. The findings of this psychobiographical study of Pope John Paul II strongly support the importance of Erikson’s (1950) theory in understanding the processes of personality development in an individual life. In this psychobiographical study, the complex process of adaption and growth was highlighted by Erikson’s (1950) theory and placed periods of Pope John Paul II’s development in context. This study also demonstrated that gaining meaning in life through faith (Fowler, 1981) provides the individual with greater internal support when adjusting to life changes. Furthermore, greater intentionality on the part of therapists to thread faith and spirituality into their practice, is evidence of the eugraphic impact of this study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
Creating value through experiential marketing for mobile network operators in Ghana
- Authors: Yiadom, Michael Boakye
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Target marketing -- Ghana , Branding (Marketing) -- Ghana Marketing -- Ghana Telecommunication -- Ghana
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/44357 , vital:37158
- Description: Experiential marketing and value creation have become paramount for businesses, worldwide, to remain competitive and sustainable. Due to the global economic crisis which put all public and private sector businesses under financial stress, experiential marketing has become necessary as a mechanism in facilitating value creation for the mobile network operators (MNOs) in Ghana to survive and to outdo their counterparts in the industry. The effective and efficient implementation of the experiential marketing programmes and campaigns, aside from helping these businesses in deriving value, could further assist the government of Ghana in its quest to develop the telecommunications industry. The government has stated that the mobile network industry of the country should be based upon the principles of open markets and fair competition, which requires strong policies and strategies in experiential marketing to create value as well as to survive. It must be noted that a unique product or service experience creates a memorable customer experience where emotion has a significant impact on business performance in terms of customer satisfaction, retention, and loyalty, as well as growth in sales and revenue and return on capital employed (ROCE). It is of the utmost importance, therefore, that network operators have the necessary resources and techniques in experiential marketing to facilitate sustainable value creation in the industry, as a lack of proper resources and implementation strategies can hinder the successful creation of value. Given this situation, this study sought to create value through experiential marketing for MNOs in Ghana. The study sought to empirically test a hypothetical model reflecting 11 independent variables on experiential marketing (i.e. mediating variables), particularly with proper attention to the experiential value gained by consumers after consumption. Also, the study addressed the contribution of all mobile components, namely processes, physical evidence, and people, in experiential marketing and creating value for businesses. The remaining hypothesis aimed at identifying the impact of the mediating variable (i.e. experiential marketing) on the dependent variable (i.e. business value) to assess how value is created through experiential marketing for MNOs in Ghana. The outcome of the primary research helped in recommending strategies that could be employed by businesses for improving competitiveness and sustainability. The debate about value creation through experiential marketing to MNOs in Ghana is not available. Consequently, this study attempted to develop a hypothetical model to provide a scientific, theoretical, and empirical contribution to MNOs, other businesses, and the entire telecommunications industry of Ghana in order to aid them in creating value through experiential marketing. To achieve the objectives of this study, a quantitative approach using a face-to-face self-administered questionnaire was adopted to test the hypotheses. The participants were randomly selected based on the 10 regions to which they belong in the country. With a visit to the regional offices of the mobile operators, the questionnaires were conveniently administered. A total of 384 participants were selected through a stratification sampling and, in addition, a total of 31 participants were conveniently added, producing a total of 415 respondents who completed the survey. Based on the analysis of various secondary sources, a hypothetical model regarding creating value through experiential marketing for MNOs in Ghana was constructed. The proposed hypothetical model indicated that the mediating variable of experiential marketing, with sub-variables related to experiential mix (i.e. sense, feel, think, act, and relate) and experiential value (i.e. emotional, functional, and social), is possibly influenced by the independent variables. This influence is also known as the mobile mix, namely 1) physical evidence with sub-variables related to the physical environment, building and spatial layout, and corporate branding; 2) process with sub-variables related to technology development, research and development, and machines and operation; and 3) people with sub-elements related to input and output logistics, marketing and customers services, human resource management, and procurement managing. The business value (i.e. the dependent variables) was identified as consisting of sales value, growth value, and return on capital employed value (ROEV). IBM’s SPSS AMOS (Version 25) was utilised for data analysis. Descriptive statistics were used to summarise the data of respondents leading to easy interpretation by the researcher. Inferential statistical analysis was utilised to test for relationships between identified variables by using a validity test, a reliability test, correlation, and a structural equation model (SEM). The empirical results revealed that the mobile mix (i.e. the independent variables) has a significant positive influence and relationship with experiential marketing (i.e. the mediating variables). On the other hand, experiential marketing was identified as having a significant positive influence on business value (i.e. the dependent variables). The majority of the respondents agreed concerning the variable items measuring experiential marketing and its influence on creating value to MNOs in Ghana. It is envisaged that the empirical evidence provided in this study could assist MNOs in Ghana in understanding the factors influencing experiential marketing and its role in creating value and, thereby, assist these businesses in strategy development and decision-making. This study provides relevant and practical recommendations that could make MNOs in Ghana generate sustainable long-term value. Thus, the objectives of this study were achieved, and the research problem was answered. This study could also act as a foundation for other studies, thereby contributing to the body of knowledge in this regard.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Yiadom, Michael Boakye
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Target marketing -- Ghana , Branding (Marketing) -- Ghana Marketing -- Ghana Telecommunication -- Ghana
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/44357 , vital:37158
- Description: Experiential marketing and value creation have become paramount for businesses, worldwide, to remain competitive and sustainable. Due to the global economic crisis which put all public and private sector businesses under financial stress, experiential marketing has become necessary as a mechanism in facilitating value creation for the mobile network operators (MNOs) in Ghana to survive and to outdo their counterparts in the industry. The effective and efficient implementation of the experiential marketing programmes and campaigns, aside from helping these businesses in deriving value, could further assist the government of Ghana in its quest to develop the telecommunications industry. The government has stated that the mobile network industry of the country should be based upon the principles of open markets and fair competition, which requires strong policies and strategies in experiential marketing to create value as well as to survive. It must be noted that a unique product or service experience creates a memorable customer experience where emotion has a significant impact on business performance in terms of customer satisfaction, retention, and loyalty, as well as growth in sales and revenue and return on capital employed (ROCE). It is of the utmost importance, therefore, that network operators have the necessary resources and techniques in experiential marketing to facilitate sustainable value creation in the industry, as a lack of proper resources and implementation strategies can hinder the successful creation of value. Given this situation, this study sought to create value through experiential marketing for MNOs in Ghana. The study sought to empirically test a hypothetical model reflecting 11 independent variables on experiential marketing (i.e. mediating variables), particularly with proper attention to the experiential value gained by consumers after consumption. Also, the study addressed the contribution of all mobile components, namely processes, physical evidence, and people, in experiential marketing and creating value for businesses. The remaining hypothesis aimed at identifying the impact of the mediating variable (i.e. experiential marketing) on the dependent variable (i.e. business value) to assess how value is created through experiential marketing for MNOs in Ghana. The outcome of the primary research helped in recommending strategies that could be employed by businesses for improving competitiveness and sustainability. The debate about value creation through experiential marketing to MNOs in Ghana is not available. Consequently, this study attempted to develop a hypothetical model to provide a scientific, theoretical, and empirical contribution to MNOs, other businesses, and the entire telecommunications industry of Ghana in order to aid them in creating value through experiential marketing. To achieve the objectives of this study, a quantitative approach using a face-to-face self-administered questionnaire was adopted to test the hypotheses. The participants were randomly selected based on the 10 regions to which they belong in the country. With a visit to the regional offices of the mobile operators, the questionnaires were conveniently administered. A total of 384 participants were selected through a stratification sampling and, in addition, a total of 31 participants were conveniently added, producing a total of 415 respondents who completed the survey. Based on the analysis of various secondary sources, a hypothetical model regarding creating value through experiential marketing for MNOs in Ghana was constructed. The proposed hypothetical model indicated that the mediating variable of experiential marketing, with sub-variables related to experiential mix (i.e. sense, feel, think, act, and relate) and experiential value (i.e. emotional, functional, and social), is possibly influenced by the independent variables. This influence is also known as the mobile mix, namely 1) physical evidence with sub-variables related to the physical environment, building and spatial layout, and corporate branding; 2) process with sub-variables related to technology development, research and development, and machines and operation; and 3) people with sub-elements related to input and output logistics, marketing and customers services, human resource management, and procurement managing. The business value (i.e. the dependent variables) was identified as consisting of sales value, growth value, and return on capital employed value (ROEV). IBM’s SPSS AMOS (Version 25) was utilised for data analysis. Descriptive statistics were used to summarise the data of respondents leading to easy interpretation by the researcher. Inferential statistical analysis was utilised to test for relationships between identified variables by using a validity test, a reliability test, correlation, and a structural equation model (SEM). The empirical results revealed that the mobile mix (i.e. the independent variables) has a significant positive influence and relationship with experiential marketing (i.e. the mediating variables). On the other hand, experiential marketing was identified as having a significant positive influence on business value (i.e. the dependent variables). The majority of the respondents agreed concerning the variable items measuring experiential marketing and its influence on creating value to MNOs in Ghana. It is envisaged that the empirical evidence provided in this study could assist MNOs in Ghana in understanding the factors influencing experiential marketing and its role in creating value and, thereby, assist these businesses in strategy development and decision-making. This study provides relevant and practical recommendations that could make MNOs in Ghana generate sustainable long-term value. Thus, the objectives of this study were achieved, and the research problem was answered. This study could also act as a foundation for other studies, thereby contributing to the body of knowledge in this regard.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
The influence of emotional intelligence on change management strategies in establishing self-managing schools : a multi-site case study
- Authors: Pather, S. S
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Emotional intelligence -- South Africa , Self-directed work teams -- South Africa , Schools -- Decentralization -- South Africa , Change -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: vital:9554 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1154 , Emotional intelligence -- South Africa , Self-directed work teams -- South Africa , Schools -- Decentralization -- South Africa , Change -- Management
- Description: In South Africa, the trend has been towards the decentralising of authority and giving greater powers to schools. This implies the active involvement of the school governing body members, the school management team members and the Level One educators in the day-to-day functioning of the school. Whilst some schools have welcomed this change and seen this devolution of power as an added advantage contributing to the efficacy of schools, some schools have struggled, while others have failed dismally to cope with this added responsibility of managing their own resources. The researcher, being an educator involved in this transition, has been intrigued by the success of some self-managing schools and the failure of others. The following words of Oliver Wendell Holmes have inspired the investigator to conduct this research to ascertain the reasons for the success of certain schools and the failure of others: “What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us.” Since the performance of schools is normally ranked according to their matriculation pass rates, this research focused on six self-managing schools in the Port Elizabeth District. These schools were selected on the basis of their matriculation performances in 2008. Two of the schools had achieved an above 85 percent matriculation pass rate (Category A); two obtained a 50 percent pass rate (Category B); while the other two schools obtained matriculation pass rates of between 25 percent and 30 percent (Category C). Although the research relied strongly on a qualitative method of inquiry, because of the nature of the data and the need to obtain a better understanding of the feelings, attitude and perceptions of those in management positions, governing body positions and members of the personnel, multiple instruments for data collection such as a literature review and the study of school documents and questionnaires, were used. This inclusion of these multiple instruments for obtaining information, which is also called triangulation, contributed to the reliability and validity of the empirical investigation. Although the data was presented in the form of tables and graphs, vi which alludes to a quantitative approach, a narrative interpretation of the findings, which is associated with a qualitative method of inquiry, was also presented. An analysis of the findings revealed that there was a great amount of involvement of the principals, school management team members and Level One educators in Category A schools, which had a matriculation pass rate of above 85%, in the following change management strategies: the establishment of a vision, planning and organising, teamwork, training and development, communication, praise and incentives, and evaluation and feedback. There was also a great contribution by the school governing body members. However, the study revealed that Category B and Category C schools did not effectively use communication, praise and incentives and evaluation and feedback as change management strategies. It was evident from the empirical investigation that in Category B and C schools, the school governing body members were less, or not involved in the usage of the change management strategies applied. According to the results based on the six-facet model of Emotional Intelligence, Category A schools obtained 80% and above in the competencies relating to the self and social domain. Category B schools fluctuated between 50 percent and 80 percent in both dimensions, while Category C schools fluctuated between 30 percent and 80 percent. The findings suggest that there should be greater involvement of all stakeholders, especially the school governing body members, in the establishment of a vision, planning and organising, communication, teamwork, training and development, praise and incentives and the provision of feedback and evaluation for self-managing schools to become effective and improve their performances. Professional development, especially in the areas pertaining to Emotional Intelligence competencies such as personal and interpersonal skills, should be prioritised. This thesis proposes that, on the basis of the investigation carried out at the six participating schools on the influence of Emotional Intelligence on the change management strategies adopted in self-managing schools, schools use strategies such as the establishment of a vision, planning and organising, communication, teamwork, training and development, praise and incentives and evaluation and feedback to ameliorate the damaging impact of change. There should be continuous training and development at schools, especially for the school governing body members, who are elected every three years. The newly elected school governing body members need to develop the necessary skills to effectively contribute to the efficacy of schools. The human resource is the vital ingredient in schools, thus for any progression or improvement, all stakeholders need to be informed, trained and enriched. Since Emotional Intelligence can be learned, professional development in the area of Emotional Intelligence should be given more thought and included in training courses, focusing on the development of personal and interpersonal skills. The Emotional Intelligence training should be conducted as part of teacher training courses as well as on an annual basis for educators already in the teaching system, since Emotional Intelligence can influence the use of change management strategies at schools and enhance the efficacy of the functioning of self-managing schools.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010
- Authors: Pather, S. S
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Emotional intelligence -- South Africa , Self-directed work teams -- South Africa , Schools -- Decentralization -- South Africa , Change -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: vital:9554 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1154 , Emotional intelligence -- South Africa , Self-directed work teams -- South Africa , Schools -- Decentralization -- South Africa , Change -- Management
- Description: In South Africa, the trend has been towards the decentralising of authority and giving greater powers to schools. This implies the active involvement of the school governing body members, the school management team members and the Level One educators in the day-to-day functioning of the school. Whilst some schools have welcomed this change and seen this devolution of power as an added advantage contributing to the efficacy of schools, some schools have struggled, while others have failed dismally to cope with this added responsibility of managing their own resources. The researcher, being an educator involved in this transition, has been intrigued by the success of some self-managing schools and the failure of others. The following words of Oliver Wendell Holmes have inspired the investigator to conduct this research to ascertain the reasons for the success of certain schools and the failure of others: “What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us.” Since the performance of schools is normally ranked according to their matriculation pass rates, this research focused on six self-managing schools in the Port Elizabeth District. These schools were selected on the basis of their matriculation performances in 2008. Two of the schools had achieved an above 85 percent matriculation pass rate (Category A); two obtained a 50 percent pass rate (Category B); while the other two schools obtained matriculation pass rates of between 25 percent and 30 percent (Category C). Although the research relied strongly on a qualitative method of inquiry, because of the nature of the data and the need to obtain a better understanding of the feelings, attitude and perceptions of those in management positions, governing body positions and members of the personnel, multiple instruments for data collection such as a literature review and the study of school documents and questionnaires, were used. This inclusion of these multiple instruments for obtaining information, which is also called triangulation, contributed to the reliability and validity of the empirical investigation. Although the data was presented in the form of tables and graphs, vi which alludes to a quantitative approach, a narrative interpretation of the findings, which is associated with a qualitative method of inquiry, was also presented. An analysis of the findings revealed that there was a great amount of involvement of the principals, school management team members and Level One educators in Category A schools, which had a matriculation pass rate of above 85%, in the following change management strategies: the establishment of a vision, planning and organising, teamwork, training and development, communication, praise and incentives, and evaluation and feedback. There was also a great contribution by the school governing body members. However, the study revealed that Category B and Category C schools did not effectively use communication, praise and incentives and evaluation and feedback as change management strategies. It was evident from the empirical investigation that in Category B and C schools, the school governing body members were less, or not involved in the usage of the change management strategies applied. According to the results based on the six-facet model of Emotional Intelligence, Category A schools obtained 80% and above in the competencies relating to the self and social domain. Category B schools fluctuated between 50 percent and 80 percent in both dimensions, while Category C schools fluctuated between 30 percent and 80 percent. The findings suggest that there should be greater involvement of all stakeholders, especially the school governing body members, in the establishment of a vision, planning and organising, communication, teamwork, training and development, praise and incentives and the provision of feedback and evaluation for self-managing schools to become effective and improve their performances. Professional development, especially in the areas pertaining to Emotional Intelligence competencies such as personal and interpersonal skills, should be prioritised. This thesis proposes that, on the basis of the investigation carried out at the six participating schools on the influence of Emotional Intelligence on the change management strategies adopted in self-managing schools, schools use strategies such as the establishment of a vision, planning and organising, communication, teamwork, training and development, praise and incentives and evaluation and feedback to ameliorate the damaging impact of change. There should be continuous training and development at schools, especially for the school governing body members, who are elected every three years. The newly elected school governing body members need to develop the necessary skills to effectively contribute to the efficacy of schools. The human resource is the vital ingredient in schools, thus for any progression or improvement, all stakeholders need to be informed, trained and enriched. Since Emotional Intelligence can be learned, professional development in the area of Emotional Intelligence should be given more thought and included in training courses, focusing on the development of personal and interpersonal skills. The Emotional Intelligence training should be conducted as part of teacher training courses as well as on an annual basis for educators already in the teaching system, since Emotional Intelligence can influence the use of change management strategies at schools and enhance the efficacy of the functioning of self-managing schools.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010
Ultra-high precision machining of contact lens polymers
- Authors: Olufayo, Oluwole Ayodeji
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Contact lenses , Polymers
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/3001 , vital:20385
- Description: Contact lens manufacture requires a high level of accuracy and surface integrity in the range of a few nanometres. Amidst numerous optical manufacturing techniques, single-point diamond turning is widely employed in the making of contact lenses due to its capability of producing optical surfaces of complex shapes and nanometric accuracy. For process optimisation, it is ideal to assess the effects of various conditions and also establish their relationships with the surface finish. Presently, there is little information available on the performance of single point diamond turning when machining contact lens polymers. Therefore, the research work undertaken herewith is aimed at testing known facts in contact lens diamond turning and investigating the performance of ultra-high precision manufacturing of contact lens polymers. Experimental tests were conducted on Roflufocon E, which is a commercially available contact lens polymer and on Precitech Nanoform Ultra-grind 250 precision machining. Tests were performed at varying cutting feeds, speed and depth of cut. Initial experimental tests investigated the influence of process factors affecting surface finish in the UHPM of lenses. The acquired data were statistically analysed using Response Surface Method (RSM) to create a model of the process. Subsequently, a model which uses Runge-Kutta’s fourth order non-linear finite series scheme was developed and adapted to deduce the force occurring at the tool tip. These forces were also statistically analysed and modelled to also predict the effects process factors have on cutting force. Further experimental tests were aimed at establishing the presence of the triboelectric wear phenomena occurring during polymer machining and identifying the most influential process factors. Results indicate that feed rate is a significant factor in the generation of high optical surface quality. In addition, the depth of cut was identified as a significant factor in the generation of low surface roughness in lenses. The influence some of these process factors had was notably linked to triboelectric effects. This tribological effect was generated from the continuous rubbing action of magnetised chips on the cutting tool. This further stresses the presence of high static charging during cutting. Moderately humid cutting conditions presented an adequate means for static charge control and displayed improved surface finishes. In all experimental tests, the feed rate was identified as the most significant factor within the range of cutting parameters employed. Hence, the results validated the fact that feed rate had a high influence in polymer machining. The work also established the relationship on how surface roughness of an optical lens responded to monitoring signals and parameters such as force, feed, speed and depth of cut during machining and it generated models for prediction of surface finishes and appropriate selection of parameters. Furthermore, the study provides a molecular simulation analysis for validating observed conditions occurring at the nanometric scale in polymer machining. This is novel in molecular polymer modelling. The outcome of this research has contributed significantly to the body of knowledge and has provided basic information in the area of precision manufacturing of optical components of high surface integrity such as contact lenses. The application of the research findings presented here cuts across various fields such as medicine, semi-conductors, aerospace, defence, telecom, lasers, instrumentation and life sciences.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Olufayo, Oluwole Ayodeji
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Contact lenses , Polymers
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/3001 , vital:20385
- Description: Contact lens manufacture requires a high level of accuracy and surface integrity in the range of a few nanometres. Amidst numerous optical manufacturing techniques, single-point diamond turning is widely employed in the making of contact lenses due to its capability of producing optical surfaces of complex shapes and nanometric accuracy. For process optimisation, it is ideal to assess the effects of various conditions and also establish their relationships with the surface finish. Presently, there is little information available on the performance of single point diamond turning when machining contact lens polymers. Therefore, the research work undertaken herewith is aimed at testing known facts in contact lens diamond turning and investigating the performance of ultra-high precision manufacturing of contact lens polymers. Experimental tests were conducted on Roflufocon E, which is a commercially available contact lens polymer and on Precitech Nanoform Ultra-grind 250 precision machining. Tests were performed at varying cutting feeds, speed and depth of cut. Initial experimental tests investigated the influence of process factors affecting surface finish in the UHPM of lenses. The acquired data were statistically analysed using Response Surface Method (RSM) to create a model of the process. Subsequently, a model which uses Runge-Kutta’s fourth order non-linear finite series scheme was developed and adapted to deduce the force occurring at the tool tip. These forces were also statistically analysed and modelled to also predict the effects process factors have on cutting force. Further experimental tests were aimed at establishing the presence of the triboelectric wear phenomena occurring during polymer machining and identifying the most influential process factors. Results indicate that feed rate is a significant factor in the generation of high optical surface quality. In addition, the depth of cut was identified as a significant factor in the generation of low surface roughness in lenses. The influence some of these process factors had was notably linked to triboelectric effects. This tribological effect was generated from the continuous rubbing action of magnetised chips on the cutting tool. This further stresses the presence of high static charging during cutting. Moderately humid cutting conditions presented an adequate means for static charge control and displayed improved surface finishes. In all experimental tests, the feed rate was identified as the most significant factor within the range of cutting parameters employed. Hence, the results validated the fact that feed rate had a high influence in polymer machining. The work also established the relationship on how surface roughness of an optical lens responded to monitoring signals and parameters such as force, feed, speed and depth of cut during machining and it generated models for prediction of surface finishes and appropriate selection of parameters. Furthermore, the study provides a molecular simulation analysis for validating observed conditions occurring at the nanometric scale in polymer machining. This is novel in molecular polymer modelling. The outcome of this research has contributed significantly to the body of knowledge and has provided basic information in the area of precision manufacturing of optical components of high surface integrity such as contact lenses. The application of the research findings presented here cuts across various fields such as medicine, semi-conductors, aerospace, defence, telecom, lasers, instrumentation and life sciences.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Promoting leader integrity through the human resource management value chain
- Authors: De Villiers, Bridget
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Leadership -- South Africa , Leadership -- South Africa -- Moral and ethical aspects Business ethics Professional ethics Personnel management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/50469 , vital:42197
- Description: Ethical breaches in the public and private sector in South Africa are prevalent and the effects thereof pervasive on the economy and within broader society. These ethical breaches include corruption, bribery, and the mismanagement of resources and may be attributed to poor decision-making on the part of organisational leaders. The complexity of the circumstances in which organisations operate in the 21st century requires that leaders effectively navigate moral dilemmas while considering the broad range of interests represented by many organisational stakeholders. Leaders need to act in a manner that is ethically sound to avoid the negative consequences associated with unethical organisational conduct, including a loss of profit, credibility and reputation. Ethical leadership is central to moral organisational governance, as compliance with rules and regulations alone is ineffective in building and sustaining an ethical organisation. Literature points to the centrality of leader integrity to the notion of ethical leadership and that an ethical organisational culture is sustained by leaders who possess integrity. In promoting leader integrity studies highlight management interventions and organisational success factors that promote an ethical organisation. Within the context of this study these management interventions and success factors were identified as promoting leader integrity. Further, the literature identified the important role of leaders in supporting these interventions and creating the conditions necessary to foster the success factors. These management interventions are offered through and the success factors are linked to the human resource management value chain. The main aim of this study was to explore the promotion of leader integrity through the human resource management value chain in South African organisations. The main aim of the study led to the development of several theoretical and empirical sub-objectives that were addressed through the following actions: A literature study was conducted examining the nature of ethical leadership and leader integrity and included a consideration of the dark side of leadership. The literature was further examined in relation to the nature of an ethical organisation and organisational integrity, the role of the leader in promoting an ethical organisational culture, and regarding the management interventions and success factors that were seen to promote leader integrity. The insights gained from the literature review assisted in the compilation of a survey questionnaire, this being the Management Interventions and Success Factors Scale. This scale, together with an existing scale, The Perceived Leader Integrity Scale (version 1.2), were used in the empirical study to determine the perceptions of employees as to whether specific management interventions and success factors were seen to promote leader integrity, and the extent to which their managers were seen to act with integrity. These employees worked in the public and private sectors across South Africa, and a final sample size of 606 respondents was achieved. The empirical results of the study revealed that management interventions and success factors were seen to promote leader integrity. However, due to high levels of inconsistency in the responses received it was recommended that a clearer link needs to be created in terms of how the success factors and interventions promote leader integrity. The empirical study further revealed that South African leaders were seen to act with integrity, more especially not to engage in acts of extreme negative deviance such as theft or sabotage, but that there was room for improvement as there were employees who reported moderate and low levels of integrity among their managers. Together with the literature review the empirical study contributed towards the development of a model and a framework for the promotion of leader integrity across the HRM value chain. South African leaders have a crucial role to play in promoting not only the moral fibre of the organisations that they represent, but also in contributing positively to moral regeneration at both a national and a global level through effective and integrity-based organisational governance. This is achieved through adopting an integrated, strategic and holistic approach to the promotion of leader integrity as proposed in this study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: De Villiers, Bridget
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Leadership -- South Africa , Leadership -- South Africa -- Moral and ethical aspects Business ethics Professional ethics Personnel management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/50469 , vital:42197
- Description: Ethical breaches in the public and private sector in South Africa are prevalent and the effects thereof pervasive on the economy and within broader society. These ethical breaches include corruption, bribery, and the mismanagement of resources and may be attributed to poor decision-making on the part of organisational leaders. The complexity of the circumstances in which organisations operate in the 21st century requires that leaders effectively navigate moral dilemmas while considering the broad range of interests represented by many organisational stakeholders. Leaders need to act in a manner that is ethically sound to avoid the negative consequences associated with unethical organisational conduct, including a loss of profit, credibility and reputation. Ethical leadership is central to moral organisational governance, as compliance with rules and regulations alone is ineffective in building and sustaining an ethical organisation. Literature points to the centrality of leader integrity to the notion of ethical leadership and that an ethical organisational culture is sustained by leaders who possess integrity. In promoting leader integrity studies highlight management interventions and organisational success factors that promote an ethical organisation. Within the context of this study these management interventions and success factors were identified as promoting leader integrity. Further, the literature identified the important role of leaders in supporting these interventions and creating the conditions necessary to foster the success factors. These management interventions are offered through and the success factors are linked to the human resource management value chain. The main aim of this study was to explore the promotion of leader integrity through the human resource management value chain in South African organisations. The main aim of the study led to the development of several theoretical and empirical sub-objectives that were addressed through the following actions: A literature study was conducted examining the nature of ethical leadership and leader integrity and included a consideration of the dark side of leadership. The literature was further examined in relation to the nature of an ethical organisation and organisational integrity, the role of the leader in promoting an ethical organisational culture, and regarding the management interventions and success factors that were seen to promote leader integrity. The insights gained from the literature review assisted in the compilation of a survey questionnaire, this being the Management Interventions and Success Factors Scale. This scale, together with an existing scale, The Perceived Leader Integrity Scale (version 1.2), were used in the empirical study to determine the perceptions of employees as to whether specific management interventions and success factors were seen to promote leader integrity, and the extent to which their managers were seen to act with integrity. These employees worked in the public and private sectors across South Africa, and a final sample size of 606 respondents was achieved. The empirical results of the study revealed that management interventions and success factors were seen to promote leader integrity. However, due to high levels of inconsistency in the responses received it was recommended that a clearer link needs to be created in terms of how the success factors and interventions promote leader integrity. The empirical study further revealed that South African leaders were seen to act with integrity, more especially not to engage in acts of extreme negative deviance such as theft or sabotage, but that there was room for improvement as there were employees who reported moderate and low levels of integrity among their managers. Together with the literature review the empirical study contributed towards the development of a model and a framework for the promotion of leader integrity across the HRM value chain. South African leaders have a crucial role to play in promoting not only the moral fibre of the organisations that they represent, but also in contributing positively to moral regeneration at both a national and a global level through effective and integrity-based organisational governance. This is achieved through adopting an integrated, strategic and holistic approach to the promotion of leader integrity as proposed in this study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
Effects of Vigna unguiculata and Lablab purpureus on methanogenesis, haematological parameters and the quality of meat from Xhosa Lop Ear goats
- Authors: Washaya, Soul
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Legumes Forage Forage plants
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/9996 , vital:35249
- Description: The objective of the current study was to evaluate the nutritive value of forage legumes Lablab purpureus (Lablab) and Vigna unguiculata (Cowpea) and their effects on intake, growth, blood parameters and meat quality in Xhosa goats. Forages were established at UFH research farm in the summer of the 2014 /15 growing season in blocks measuring 8m width x 16m long for each legume, replicated three times, making a total of four blocks, and eight treatment units for each legume. Samples were collected at three different stages of growth of preanthesis, anthesis and post anthesis for biomass yield determination. A homogenous sub-sample was then oven dried for 72 hours at 60 0C. After drying the forage samples were milled through a 1mm screen and a 20g sample from each stage of growth and forage sample was subjected to proximate analysis, in-vitro digestibility and anti-nutrient evaluation. The in-vitro digestibility experiment was done with rumen liquor of cattle and sheep collected from an abbatoir. Tannins, total phenolics and sapponins were the only anti-nutrients evaluated as they are perceived to influence methanogenesis in ruminat animals. At 50percent flowering, forage legumes were harvested for hay making which was then used in an in-vivo trial to evaluate the nutritive value of forages. This trial was conducted using eighteen one-year-old goats of average weight 14.2±0.24 kg over a period of sixty days. The results showed that biomass yield, which increased with stage of growth, was significantly higher (P < 0.05) for Lablab than Cowpea (7.968t/ha vs 7.105t/ha). Cowpea exhibited higher moisture content (7.72percent), Ash (13.11percent), acid detergent fibre (ADF) (38.42percent) and crude protein (CP) (20.23percent) than Lablab which had 7.50percent, 11.45 percent, 36.17percent and 19percent, respectively. Lablab forage had significantly higher (P < 0.05) fat content (2.41percent), neutral detergent fibre (NDF) (49.27percent) and hemicellulose (13.07percent) than Cowpea which had 2.1percent; 46.91percent and 8.48percent, respectively. The stage of growth significantly (P < 0.05) affected the mineral content of both forages. Lablab showed significantly higher (P < 0.05) values (1.22percent 0.55percent, 2.67percent) than Cowpea (1.00percent, 0.45percent, 2.30percent) for calcium (Ca), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) respectively. Lablab forage had significantly higher (P < 0.05) tannin (3.345mgCAE/gDM), phenolic (13.47mgGAE/gDM) and saponin (0.75percent) content compared to Cowpea with values of 1.494mgCAEg/DM; 9.402mgGAE/gDM and vs 1.55percent respectively. The tannin content significantly influenced in-vitro digestibility and enteric methane production. The forage type, harvesting stage and inoculum source significantly (P < 0.05) affected the in-vitro digestibility of the forages. The in-vitro dry matter (IVDM) and in-vitro organic matter (IVOM) digestibility was significantly higher (P < 0.05) for Lablab (41.13percent; 39.63percent) than Cowpea (39.86percent; 19.44percent), respectively. Both forages recorded higher dry matter (DM) digestibility coefficients at anthesis stage of growth 61.58percent, and 51.5 percent for Lablab and Cowpea respectively. The IVOM digestibility increased with stage of harvest (23.7percent to 25.57percent) for Cowpea while Lablab showed a decrease (44.6 percent to 43.9percent) when cattle inoculum was used. The IVDM digestibility was higher (P < 0.05) for Lablab (50.5percent) when cattle inoculum was used while Cowpea was observed to have higher digestibility co-efficiencies (38.54percent) when sheep inoculum was used. Cowpea had lower (P < 0.05) IVOM digestibility than Lablab (19.44percent) vs. 39.6percent). Lablab exhibited higher (P < 0.05) metabolisable energy (ME) values than Cowpea (6.21 vs. 2.70 MJ/kgDM). In the feeding study, the total DM intake by goats for Lablab was higher (P < 0.05) compared to Cowpea (688.1 vs. 607.8 g/head/ day). There was a positive (P < 0.05) correlation between dry matter intake and average daily gain (r= 0.8513, and r=0.5279) for Cowpea and Lablab respectively. Lablab and Cowpea promoted growth of Xhosa goats at a rate of 35.0g/d; and 38.3g/d, respectively which was not significantly different (P > 0.05). However, this growth was associated with a significantly higher (P < 0.05) food conversion ratio (FCR) of 19.16 vs 18.11 for Cowpea and Lablab, respectively. The apparent DM, non structural carbohydrate (NSC) nutrient digestibilities were significantly different (P < 0.05) for Lablab and Cowpea. Furthermore sex of animal influenced significantly (P < 0.05) the DM, ADF, NSC and NDF digestibilities. Lablab and Cowpea did not influence (P > 0.05) individual VFA molar concentrations in both sexes. However, animals fed Lablab had significantly higher butyrate concentrations (P < 0.05). Lablab and Cowpea forages significantly lowered (P > 0.05) enteric methane production in goats compared to a concentrate diet, and this was related to animal activity. Animals produced significantly more (P < 0.05) methane gas when ruminating than feeding or just standing. The average methane produced each year was lower but not significant (P > 0.05) for animals fed Cowpea than Lablab (4.602kg CH4, vs. 4.719kg CH4) when expressed per year. Male animals produced more gas than females with values of 17.40L/day; 12.46 g/kg DMI and 0.126g/day vs. 15.47L/day, 12.28 g/kg DMI, and 0.0109g/day, respectively. Forage legumes had no significant effects (P > 0.05) on serum total proteins (TP), globulin, urea, creatinine, alanine aminotransferase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and gamma- glutamyl transferase (GGT) concentrations, but serum concentration of albumin was influenced by the diets (P < 0.05). Sex of animals significantly influenced ALP concentration (P < 0.05) with male animals exhibiting higer ALP values than females. Measured over time, the plasma concentration of urea and ALP significantly increased (P < 0.05) while creatinine and cholesterol concentration decreased (P < 0.05). Although the overall serum concentration of urea, total proteins, globulin, creatinine, ALT, ALP and GGT remained unchanged among the treatments and between sexes; treatment by sex, treatment by day and sex by day interactions were significant (P < 0.05). The white blood cell (WBC), red blood cell (RBC), mean corpuscular haemoglobin (MCH), mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration (MCHC), haemoglobin, haematocrite, platelet and mean platelet volume (MPV) levels were similar among treatments and between sexes (P > 0.05). The WBC decreased with time by 8.07 x10 9/l while mean crepuscular volume (MCV) increased by 11.83(fl) from day 15 to day 55. Treatment diets significantly (P < 0.05) influenced neutrophile (percent) content while sex influenced basophile (percent) content. There were no treatment or sex effects (P > 0.05) on lymphocytes (percent), monocytes (percent) and eosinophiles (percent). In the meat quality study, the dietary treatments and sex had a significant (P < 0.05) effect on dressing out percent (DPpercent), initial pH, redness (a*), yellowness (b*), Warner Blartze Shear force (WBS) , drip loss and cooking loss in the chevon from Xhosa goats. Compared with a commercial pellet diet, Lablab and Cowpea diets resulted in similar slaughter body weights (SBW), hot carcass weight (HCW) and cold dressed mass (CDM) of carcasses. However, female animals exhibited a significantly (P < 0.05) higher DPpercent than male animals (42.3percent vs. 38.9percent) for all treatments. The male animals exhibited significantly (P < 0.05) higher pH values one hour after slaughter than females (5.79 vs 5.67). Neverthreless the diet and gender did not significantly (P > 0.05) affect the ultimate pH (pHu). Meat samples from male animals had significantly (P < 0.05) higher redness values than females. Feeding cowpea significantly (P < 0.05) increased meat redness with the least drip loss of chevon. Female animals produced significantly (P < 0.05) tougher chevon compared to male animals; 4.16kg and 3.36kg for female and male, respectively. Lablab and Cowpea posses high CP levels and moderately lower NDF with high ADF values that influences dry matter intake (DMI), digestibility and growth of goats. These forage legumes meet animal requirements for fat, ADF, NDF, CP, Ca, Mn, zinc and Cu and their biomass yield is satisfactory.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Washaya, Soul
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Legumes Forage Forage plants
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/9996 , vital:35249
- Description: The objective of the current study was to evaluate the nutritive value of forage legumes Lablab purpureus (Lablab) and Vigna unguiculata (Cowpea) and their effects on intake, growth, blood parameters and meat quality in Xhosa goats. Forages were established at UFH research farm in the summer of the 2014 /15 growing season in blocks measuring 8m width x 16m long for each legume, replicated three times, making a total of four blocks, and eight treatment units for each legume. Samples were collected at three different stages of growth of preanthesis, anthesis and post anthesis for biomass yield determination. A homogenous sub-sample was then oven dried for 72 hours at 60 0C. After drying the forage samples were milled through a 1mm screen and a 20g sample from each stage of growth and forage sample was subjected to proximate analysis, in-vitro digestibility and anti-nutrient evaluation. The in-vitro digestibility experiment was done with rumen liquor of cattle and sheep collected from an abbatoir. Tannins, total phenolics and sapponins were the only anti-nutrients evaluated as they are perceived to influence methanogenesis in ruminat animals. At 50percent flowering, forage legumes were harvested for hay making which was then used in an in-vivo trial to evaluate the nutritive value of forages. This trial was conducted using eighteen one-year-old goats of average weight 14.2±0.24 kg over a period of sixty days. The results showed that biomass yield, which increased with stage of growth, was significantly higher (P < 0.05) for Lablab than Cowpea (7.968t/ha vs 7.105t/ha). Cowpea exhibited higher moisture content (7.72percent), Ash (13.11percent), acid detergent fibre (ADF) (38.42percent) and crude protein (CP) (20.23percent) than Lablab which had 7.50percent, 11.45 percent, 36.17percent and 19percent, respectively. Lablab forage had significantly higher (P < 0.05) fat content (2.41percent), neutral detergent fibre (NDF) (49.27percent) and hemicellulose (13.07percent) than Cowpea which had 2.1percent; 46.91percent and 8.48percent, respectively. The stage of growth significantly (P < 0.05) affected the mineral content of both forages. Lablab showed significantly higher (P < 0.05) values (1.22percent 0.55percent, 2.67percent) than Cowpea (1.00percent, 0.45percent, 2.30percent) for calcium (Ca), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) respectively. Lablab forage had significantly higher (P < 0.05) tannin (3.345mgCAE/gDM), phenolic (13.47mgGAE/gDM) and saponin (0.75percent) content compared to Cowpea with values of 1.494mgCAEg/DM; 9.402mgGAE/gDM and vs 1.55percent respectively. The tannin content significantly influenced in-vitro digestibility and enteric methane production. The forage type, harvesting stage and inoculum source significantly (P < 0.05) affected the in-vitro digestibility of the forages. The in-vitro dry matter (IVDM) and in-vitro organic matter (IVOM) digestibility was significantly higher (P < 0.05) for Lablab (41.13percent; 39.63percent) than Cowpea (39.86percent; 19.44percent), respectively. Both forages recorded higher dry matter (DM) digestibility coefficients at anthesis stage of growth 61.58percent, and 51.5 percent for Lablab and Cowpea respectively. The IVOM digestibility increased with stage of harvest (23.7percent to 25.57percent) for Cowpea while Lablab showed a decrease (44.6 percent to 43.9percent) when cattle inoculum was used. The IVDM digestibility was higher (P < 0.05) for Lablab (50.5percent) when cattle inoculum was used while Cowpea was observed to have higher digestibility co-efficiencies (38.54percent) when sheep inoculum was used. Cowpea had lower (P < 0.05) IVOM digestibility than Lablab (19.44percent) vs. 39.6percent). Lablab exhibited higher (P < 0.05) metabolisable energy (ME) values than Cowpea (6.21 vs. 2.70 MJ/kgDM). In the feeding study, the total DM intake by goats for Lablab was higher (P < 0.05) compared to Cowpea (688.1 vs. 607.8 g/head/ day). There was a positive (P < 0.05) correlation between dry matter intake and average daily gain (r= 0.8513, and r=0.5279) for Cowpea and Lablab respectively. Lablab and Cowpea promoted growth of Xhosa goats at a rate of 35.0g/d; and 38.3g/d, respectively which was not significantly different (P > 0.05). However, this growth was associated with a significantly higher (P < 0.05) food conversion ratio (FCR) of 19.16 vs 18.11 for Cowpea and Lablab, respectively. The apparent DM, non structural carbohydrate (NSC) nutrient digestibilities were significantly different (P < 0.05) for Lablab and Cowpea. Furthermore sex of animal influenced significantly (P < 0.05) the DM, ADF, NSC and NDF digestibilities. Lablab and Cowpea did not influence (P > 0.05) individual VFA molar concentrations in both sexes. However, animals fed Lablab had significantly higher butyrate concentrations (P < 0.05). Lablab and Cowpea forages significantly lowered (P > 0.05) enteric methane production in goats compared to a concentrate diet, and this was related to animal activity. Animals produced significantly more (P < 0.05) methane gas when ruminating than feeding or just standing. The average methane produced each year was lower but not significant (P > 0.05) for animals fed Cowpea than Lablab (4.602kg CH4, vs. 4.719kg CH4) when expressed per year. Male animals produced more gas than females with values of 17.40L/day; 12.46 g/kg DMI and 0.126g/day vs. 15.47L/day, 12.28 g/kg DMI, and 0.0109g/day, respectively. Forage legumes had no significant effects (P > 0.05) on serum total proteins (TP), globulin, urea, creatinine, alanine aminotransferase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and gamma- glutamyl transferase (GGT) concentrations, but serum concentration of albumin was influenced by the diets (P < 0.05). Sex of animals significantly influenced ALP concentration (P < 0.05) with male animals exhibiting higer ALP values than females. Measured over time, the plasma concentration of urea and ALP significantly increased (P < 0.05) while creatinine and cholesterol concentration decreased (P < 0.05). Although the overall serum concentration of urea, total proteins, globulin, creatinine, ALT, ALP and GGT remained unchanged among the treatments and between sexes; treatment by sex, treatment by day and sex by day interactions were significant (P < 0.05). The white blood cell (WBC), red blood cell (RBC), mean corpuscular haemoglobin (MCH), mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration (MCHC), haemoglobin, haematocrite, platelet and mean platelet volume (MPV) levels were similar among treatments and between sexes (P > 0.05). The WBC decreased with time by 8.07 x10 9/l while mean crepuscular volume (MCV) increased by 11.83(fl) from day 15 to day 55. Treatment diets significantly (P < 0.05) influenced neutrophile (percent) content while sex influenced basophile (percent) content. There were no treatment or sex effects (P > 0.05) on lymphocytes (percent), monocytes (percent) and eosinophiles (percent). In the meat quality study, the dietary treatments and sex had a significant (P < 0.05) effect on dressing out percent (DPpercent), initial pH, redness (a*), yellowness (b*), Warner Blartze Shear force (WBS) , drip loss and cooking loss in the chevon from Xhosa goats. Compared with a commercial pellet diet, Lablab and Cowpea diets resulted in similar slaughter body weights (SBW), hot carcass weight (HCW) and cold dressed mass (CDM) of carcasses. However, female animals exhibited a significantly (P < 0.05) higher DPpercent than male animals (42.3percent vs. 38.9percent) for all treatments. The male animals exhibited significantly (P < 0.05) higher pH values one hour after slaughter than females (5.79 vs 5.67). Neverthreless the diet and gender did not significantly (P > 0.05) affect the ultimate pH (pHu). Meat samples from male animals had significantly (P < 0.05) higher redness values than females. Feeding cowpea significantly (P < 0.05) increased meat redness with the least drip loss of chevon. Female animals produced significantly (P < 0.05) tougher chevon compared to male animals; 4.16kg and 3.36kg for female and male, respectively. Lablab and Cowpea posses high CP levels and moderately lower NDF with high ADF values that influences dry matter intake (DMI), digestibility and growth of goats. These forage legumes meet animal requirements for fat, ADF, NDF, CP, Ca, Mn, zinc and Cu and their biomass yield is satisfactory.
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- Date Issued: 2017