The impact of pollution on the water quality of Lake Mzingazi : Richards Bay
- Authors: Van der Wateren, Thea
- Date: 2012-08-17
- Subjects: Water quality biological assessment - South Africa - Lake Mzingazi , Water quality - South Africa - Lake Mzingazi , Pollution - South Africa - Lake Mzingazi , Lake Mzingazi (Richards Bay, South Africa)
- Type: Mini-Dissertation
- Identifier: uj:2680 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/6122
- Description: M.A. , Lake Mzingazi in Richards Bay, is one of the largest freshwater lakes located within a municipal boundary and is the only water source utilised to provide potable water for industries and residents. In addition, it supports rich and diverse fauna and flora communities. Dense swamp and dune forests, marshes and grasslands surround the lake and provide shelter for a wide variety of fauna, which include a number of Red Data Book species such as Python sebae and Crocodylus niloticus. Furthermore, the lake is unique as it is mainly fed from an aquifer. At present, the water quality is good with high oxygen and low nutrient and algae concentrations. However, development since the commissioning of the deep water port of Richards Bay in 1976 has already led to temporary algae blooms since 1979. It is feared that even greater impacts on water quality may result from increasing development in the vicinity of the lake. Presently situated in close proximity to the lake and its feeder streams are formal and informal residential developments. Large industries, pine and eucalyptus plantations and Richards Bay Minerals, a titanium mine, are also situated in the catchment area of the lake. Problems currently being experienced, which could be associated with development, include polluted surface run-off from residential areas that could pollute groundwater, streams and subsequently the lake itself, fringing vegetation is being eradicated, which presently act as a nutrient and pollution filter system, alien plant infestation and atmospheric fall-out from nearby heavy industries contribute to nutrient loading of lake water. The water quality of Lake Mzingazi is therefore under threat should sound managerial practises not be implemented to safeguard the area surrounding the lake and its water quality.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Van der Wateren, Thea
- Date: 2012-08-17
- Subjects: Water quality biological assessment - South Africa - Lake Mzingazi , Water quality - South Africa - Lake Mzingazi , Pollution - South Africa - Lake Mzingazi , Lake Mzingazi (Richards Bay, South Africa)
- Type: Mini-Dissertation
- Identifier: uj:2680 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/6122
- Description: M.A. , Lake Mzingazi in Richards Bay, is one of the largest freshwater lakes located within a municipal boundary and is the only water source utilised to provide potable water for industries and residents. In addition, it supports rich and diverse fauna and flora communities. Dense swamp and dune forests, marshes and grasslands surround the lake and provide shelter for a wide variety of fauna, which include a number of Red Data Book species such as Python sebae and Crocodylus niloticus. Furthermore, the lake is unique as it is mainly fed from an aquifer. At present, the water quality is good with high oxygen and low nutrient and algae concentrations. However, development since the commissioning of the deep water port of Richards Bay in 1976 has already led to temporary algae blooms since 1979. It is feared that even greater impacts on water quality may result from increasing development in the vicinity of the lake. Presently situated in close proximity to the lake and its feeder streams are formal and informal residential developments. Large industries, pine and eucalyptus plantations and Richards Bay Minerals, a titanium mine, are also situated in the catchment area of the lake. Problems currently being experienced, which could be associated with development, include polluted surface run-off from residential areas that could pollute groundwater, streams and subsequently the lake itself, fringing vegetation is being eradicated, which presently act as a nutrient and pollution filter system, alien plant infestation and atmospheric fall-out from nearby heavy industries contribute to nutrient loading of lake water. The water quality of Lake Mzingazi is therefore under threat should sound managerial practises not be implemented to safeguard the area surrounding the lake and its water quality.
- Full Text:
A study of resilience : a personal and professional leadership perspective
- Authors: De Beer, Anneke
- Date: 2012-09-06
- Subjects: Resilience (Personality trait)
- Type: Mini-Dissertation
- Identifier: uj:9682 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/7096
- Description: M.Phil. , On a daily basis, everyone is confronted with challenges and setbacks that force them to take a stand. People experience these challenges and setbacks differently. While some flourish in the midst of setbacks, others fall flat and become victims of their circumstances. Resilience determines how well people bounce back from setbacks and difficulties. In the light of this problem, the general objective of this study is to determine what enables people to bounce back from setbacks and difficulties in their personal and professional lives. In order to realise this objective, the following specific questions are set for the study: What is resilience? What are the different contexts in which resilience can be perceived? How do people perceive setbacks and difficulties and what are their perceptions and selfinsight regarding their own reactions to these experiences? Which human qualities and other factors allow people to bounce back in times of setbacks and difficulties? What are the implications for and the potential contribution of Personal and Professional Leadership (PPL) regarding resilience? This study has been conducted through a PPL perspective which is based on the assumption that human beings have an ongoing commitment to growth and development, through selfknowledge and self-awareness, finding a purpose, realising one's full potential, adding value to other people's lives and professional competence in terms of organisational efficiency and effectiveness. Within the context of this study, the aim of PPL is to sensitise and empower individuals to exercise their freedom of choice. In endeavouring to address the research problem, the researcher subsequently decided to make use of a qualitative research design involving a hermeneutic phenomenological research strategy supported by a descriptive research approach. The researcher conducted a word and concept analysis, an extensive literature study as well as individual interviews (focused on adult individuals) in order to meet the research objective. The main findings realising the research objective can be described as follows: From a PPL perspective, the concept resilience implies the ability to bounce back from life's difficulties and continue along the path of growth, self-actualisation and self-transcendence. It has also been established that resilience can be perceived in different contexts, including: challenging experiences, developmental transition, individual adversity, collective adversity, organisational change and socio-political change. It was also found that although the respondents worked through different phases in the change process, their final reaction was to choose to become victors, not victims and to thrive despite their circumstances. Their insight and self-knowledge gained through setbacks and difficulties helped them to become more resilient. Reflecting on the human qualities and other factors of resilience as identified in the literature study and the empirical findings, it seems evident that a central theme of these factors is the notion of choice. PPL contributes to resilience by means of facilitation and counselling solutions in areassuch as adaptability, assertiveness, attitude towards life, internal locus of control, positive social orientation, purpose in life, realisation of potential and the development of a strong inner self. The main conclusions that can be deduced from the above findings can subsequently be summarised as follows: A personal choice to self-actualise regardless of circumstances underlies the interacting web of human qualities and other factors in resilient individuals. The human qualities of the resilient individual thus play a role in contributing to the ability to keep the individual on the path of growth, self-actualisation and self-transcendence, regardless of the circumstances. The PPL Practitioner can assist individuals to develop skills on an ongoing basis in order to cope in times of setbacks and difficulties.
- Full Text:
- Authors: De Beer, Anneke
- Date: 2012-09-06
- Subjects: Resilience (Personality trait)
- Type: Mini-Dissertation
- Identifier: uj:9682 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/7096
- Description: M.Phil. , On a daily basis, everyone is confronted with challenges and setbacks that force them to take a stand. People experience these challenges and setbacks differently. While some flourish in the midst of setbacks, others fall flat and become victims of their circumstances. Resilience determines how well people bounce back from setbacks and difficulties. In the light of this problem, the general objective of this study is to determine what enables people to bounce back from setbacks and difficulties in their personal and professional lives. In order to realise this objective, the following specific questions are set for the study: What is resilience? What are the different contexts in which resilience can be perceived? How do people perceive setbacks and difficulties and what are their perceptions and selfinsight regarding their own reactions to these experiences? Which human qualities and other factors allow people to bounce back in times of setbacks and difficulties? What are the implications for and the potential contribution of Personal and Professional Leadership (PPL) regarding resilience? This study has been conducted through a PPL perspective which is based on the assumption that human beings have an ongoing commitment to growth and development, through selfknowledge and self-awareness, finding a purpose, realising one's full potential, adding value to other people's lives and professional competence in terms of organisational efficiency and effectiveness. Within the context of this study, the aim of PPL is to sensitise and empower individuals to exercise their freedom of choice. In endeavouring to address the research problem, the researcher subsequently decided to make use of a qualitative research design involving a hermeneutic phenomenological research strategy supported by a descriptive research approach. The researcher conducted a word and concept analysis, an extensive literature study as well as individual interviews (focused on adult individuals) in order to meet the research objective. The main findings realising the research objective can be described as follows: From a PPL perspective, the concept resilience implies the ability to bounce back from life's difficulties and continue along the path of growth, self-actualisation and self-transcendence. It has also been established that resilience can be perceived in different contexts, including: challenging experiences, developmental transition, individual adversity, collective adversity, organisational change and socio-political change. It was also found that although the respondents worked through different phases in the change process, their final reaction was to choose to become victors, not victims and to thrive despite their circumstances. Their insight and self-knowledge gained through setbacks and difficulties helped them to become more resilient. Reflecting on the human qualities and other factors of resilience as identified in the literature study and the empirical findings, it seems evident that a central theme of these factors is the notion of choice. PPL contributes to resilience by means of facilitation and counselling solutions in areassuch as adaptability, assertiveness, attitude towards life, internal locus of control, positive social orientation, purpose in life, realisation of potential and the development of a strong inner self. The main conclusions that can be deduced from the above findings can subsequently be summarised as follows: A personal choice to self-actualise regardless of circumstances underlies the interacting web of human qualities and other factors in resilient individuals. The human qualities of the resilient individual thus play a role in contributing to the ability to keep the individual on the path of growth, self-actualisation and self-transcendence, regardless of the circumstances. The PPL Practitioner can assist individuals to develop skills on an ongoing basis in order to cope in times of setbacks and difficulties.
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Indiensopleiding in die bestuur van verandering : 'n onderwysbestuursopgaaf
- Authors: Burger, Heidi Martha
- Date: 2012-09-04
- Subjects: Teacher participation in administration - South Africa , Teachers - In-service training - South Africa - Case studies , Educational change - South Africa , School management and organization , School principals - South Africa
- Type: Mini-Dissertation
- Identifier: uj:3514 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/6902
- Description: M.Ed. , This study was undertaken with the purpose of directing the attention of the manager (headmaster) on in-service training as a support function to manage change. It is important to note that this study is motivated within the private sector, but there is no reason why it cannot be applicable and useful to the headmaster of a school. Firstly an overview is given of the research and method of research, followed by a discussion of a few concepts such as school (training) management and in-service training. A brief outline is given of change as part of life, and therefore as part of any organisation and its structure. Thereafter motivation as a key function of the manager (headmaster) is discussed. Managing change is essential for organisations in order to be successful in the world today. There is no single answer to managing change in our diverse society. An organisational stucture that accommodates change however, is important. Motivation, commitment, communication and participation are key words in the management of chYnge. It is shown that in-service training can be the manager's (headmaster's) right hand when it comes to managing change. To see change as a crisis is more a perception of our inability to handle it and is not the character of change itself. Reasons for resistance are many, but lack of information, knowledge and skill are the core reasons. Change can be seen to be threatening to people's opportunities, to disturb the way things are normally done and leave one with a feeling of loss or anxiety. This perception causes the resistance to change. It cannot be ignored and should rather be shown in a positive light. In-service training is therefore needed to change the anxiety caused by threat into a positive feeling through new skills training. The success of implementing change is, to a great extent, determined by the involvement of all concerned. In-service training can be seen as a practical method for managers (headmasters) to support and motivate employees (teachers) in a world characterised by change. Follow-up action and evaluation, control the success of in-service training which must be practical, relevant and credible. The first training session must have positive results. Therefore the role of in-service training has to be planned carefully and systematically according to the employees' individual needs, desires, skills and capabilities, as well as the needs of the organisation. It is shown that change does not have to be a threat, but can be an opportunity to develop both the quality of individual performance as well as improving the functioning of the organisation. In-service training can and must support the manager (headmaster) in his task. Co-operation between the manager and training personnel can cause change to be seen as an opportunity and not as a threat. As the world changes, people change, society changes and demands for education and training also change.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Burger, Heidi Martha
- Date: 2012-09-04
- Subjects: Teacher participation in administration - South Africa , Teachers - In-service training - South Africa - Case studies , Educational change - South Africa , School management and organization , School principals - South Africa
- Type: Mini-Dissertation
- Identifier: uj:3514 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/6902
- Description: M.Ed. , This study was undertaken with the purpose of directing the attention of the manager (headmaster) on in-service training as a support function to manage change. It is important to note that this study is motivated within the private sector, but there is no reason why it cannot be applicable and useful to the headmaster of a school. Firstly an overview is given of the research and method of research, followed by a discussion of a few concepts such as school (training) management and in-service training. A brief outline is given of change as part of life, and therefore as part of any organisation and its structure. Thereafter motivation as a key function of the manager (headmaster) is discussed. Managing change is essential for organisations in order to be successful in the world today. There is no single answer to managing change in our diverse society. An organisational stucture that accommodates change however, is important. Motivation, commitment, communication and participation are key words in the management of chYnge. It is shown that in-service training can be the manager's (headmaster's) right hand when it comes to managing change. To see change as a crisis is more a perception of our inability to handle it and is not the character of change itself. Reasons for resistance are many, but lack of information, knowledge and skill are the core reasons. Change can be seen to be threatening to people's opportunities, to disturb the way things are normally done and leave one with a feeling of loss or anxiety. This perception causes the resistance to change. It cannot be ignored and should rather be shown in a positive light. In-service training is therefore needed to change the anxiety caused by threat into a positive feeling through new skills training. The success of implementing change is, to a great extent, determined by the involvement of all concerned. In-service training can be seen as a practical method for managers (headmasters) to support and motivate employees (teachers) in a world characterised by change. Follow-up action and evaluation, control the success of in-service training which must be practical, relevant and credible. The first training session must have positive results. Therefore the role of in-service training has to be planned carefully and systematically according to the employees' individual needs, desires, skills and capabilities, as well as the needs of the organisation. It is shown that change does not have to be a threat, but can be an opportunity to develop both the quality of individual performance as well as improving the functioning of the organisation. In-service training can and must support the manager (headmaster) in his task. Co-operation between the manager and training personnel can cause change to be seen as an opportunity and not as a threat. As the world changes, people change, society changes and demands for education and training also change.
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The significance of religious practices in counselling the bereaved in the Hindi community : guidelines for educational psychologists
- Authors: Vittee, Anisha
- Date: 2012-08-08
- Subjects: Hinduism - Customs and practices , Bereavement - South Africa , Grief - Religious aspects - Hinduism , Educational psychologists
- Type: Mini-Dissertation
- Identifier: uj:8953 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/5425
- Description: M. Ed. , This study investigates the various religious practices [rituals and ceremonies] performed by the Hindi Community in Lenasia during the period of grieving. The relevance of these practices and various ways in which they [rituals and ceremonies] could be incorporated into the modern form of psychotherapy is explored. The death of a loved one makes those grieving the loss perform different rituals and cultural practices, depending on their respective religious doctrines. For many, the performance of these activities serves as a means of "releasing" the dead and allowing themselves an opportunity to begin the healing process. Whilst these rituals and ceremonies are deemed essential to the grieving families, it is very often undertaken amidst great financial and emotional strain. Yet, this 'financial burden' is very often overlooked and the compulsion to satisfy the "ancestors" is adhered to. This study examines the specific rituals and ceremonies practiced by the Hindi Community in Lenasia with the emphasis on how educational psychologists could incorporate some of them into the modern form of psychotherapy. In this study, the research design, process of data collection and data analysis are described and the main themes, which emerged from the different data sources, are identified. These themes are discussed within the framework of existing psychotherapeutic models as well as cultural and religious beliefs and practices. The findings of the study revealed that all. Hindi people perform the various rituals and ceremonies during the period of grieving and they make use of various symbols in the process. Of great importance was that all Hindi people did not perform the rituals and ceremonies in exactly the same way, there was a degree of flexibility as well as inconsistencies in the manner of performing these rituals and practices. It was also very apparent that the Hindi community has a strong sense of spirituality and family bonds. The guidelines which were formulated made provision for the incorporation of the various rituals and ceremonies for educational psychologists as well as other therapists subscribing to different paradigmatic perspectives.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Vittee, Anisha
- Date: 2012-08-08
- Subjects: Hinduism - Customs and practices , Bereavement - South Africa , Grief - Religious aspects - Hinduism , Educational psychologists
- Type: Mini-Dissertation
- Identifier: uj:8953 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/5425
- Description: M. Ed. , This study investigates the various religious practices [rituals and ceremonies] performed by the Hindi Community in Lenasia during the period of grieving. The relevance of these practices and various ways in which they [rituals and ceremonies] could be incorporated into the modern form of psychotherapy is explored. The death of a loved one makes those grieving the loss perform different rituals and cultural practices, depending on their respective religious doctrines. For many, the performance of these activities serves as a means of "releasing" the dead and allowing themselves an opportunity to begin the healing process. Whilst these rituals and ceremonies are deemed essential to the grieving families, it is very often undertaken amidst great financial and emotional strain. Yet, this 'financial burden' is very often overlooked and the compulsion to satisfy the "ancestors" is adhered to. This study examines the specific rituals and ceremonies practiced by the Hindi Community in Lenasia with the emphasis on how educational psychologists could incorporate some of them into the modern form of psychotherapy. In this study, the research design, process of data collection and data analysis are described and the main themes, which emerged from the different data sources, are identified. These themes are discussed within the framework of existing psychotherapeutic models as well as cultural and religious beliefs and practices. The findings of the study revealed that all. Hindi people perform the various rituals and ceremonies during the period of grieving and they make use of various symbols in the process. Of great importance was that all Hindi people did not perform the rituals and ceremonies in exactly the same way, there was a degree of flexibility as well as inconsistencies in the manner of performing these rituals and practices. It was also very apparent that the Hindi community has a strong sense of spirituality and family bonds. The guidelines which were formulated made provision for the incorporation of the various rituals and ceremonies for educational psychologists as well as other therapists subscribing to different paradigmatic perspectives.
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Commercial organic composting : a case study of the Panorama Composting Plant, City of Johannesburg, South Africa
- Authors: Sehlabi, Rethabile
- Date: 2012-09-10
- Subjects: Refuse disposal industry - South Africa - Johannesburg - Case studies , Compost industry - South Africa - Johannesburg - Case studies , Environmental management - South Africa - Johannesburg
- Type: Mini-Dissertation
- Identifier: uj:9897 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/7296
- Description: M.Sc. , The City of Johannesburg (CoJ), South Africa, faces many waste management challenges. Some of the primary challenges are a general lack of waste management, recycling and composting awareness (City of Johannesburg, 2003a). Within this context, addressing the challenges of composting is complex, time consuming and faced with difficulty. The CoJ has embarked upon a composting initiative that is designed to redirect organic waste from landfills to the compost production plants. Furthermore, this initiative is also aimed at selling bags of compost to Johannesburg consumers (individuals and nurseries). The ultimate aim however is to meet several sustainable development objectives: economic development; social development and environmental protection. The problem statement investigated by the research is whether the Panorama Composting Plant meets the above mentioned sustainable development objectives. Research was conducted qualitatively and data was obtained using both primary and secondary sources. For example, the sources of data comprised of research reports, magazine articles, journals and interviews with key personnel in the waste management field. Subsequent to intensive analysis and interpretation, in conclusion, the research has established that Panorama plant contributes to environmental sustainability. It has also been established that the Panorama plant's contribution to social and economic sustainability is limited.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Sehlabi, Rethabile
- Date: 2012-09-10
- Subjects: Refuse disposal industry - South Africa - Johannesburg - Case studies , Compost industry - South Africa - Johannesburg - Case studies , Environmental management - South Africa - Johannesburg
- Type: Mini-Dissertation
- Identifier: uj:9897 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/7296
- Description: M.Sc. , The City of Johannesburg (CoJ), South Africa, faces many waste management challenges. Some of the primary challenges are a general lack of waste management, recycling and composting awareness (City of Johannesburg, 2003a). Within this context, addressing the challenges of composting is complex, time consuming and faced with difficulty. The CoJ has embarked upon a composting initiative that is designed to redirect organic waste from landfills to the compost production plants. Furthermore, this initiative is also aimed at selling bags of compost to Johannesburg consumers (individuals and nurseries). The ultimate aim however is to meet several sustainable development objectives: economic development; social development and environmental protection. The problem statement investigated by the research is whether the Panorama Composting Plant meets the above mentioned sustainable development objectives. Research was conducted qualitatively and data was obtained using both primary and secondary sources. For example, the sources of data comprised of research reports, magazine articles, journals and interviews with key personnel in the waste management field. Subsequent to intensive analysis and interpretation, in conclusion, the research has established that Panorama plant contributes to environmental sustainability. It has also been established that the Panorama plant's contribution to social and economic sustainability is limited.
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Narrative therapy: a brief history and discussion
- Authors: Sieberhagen, Stephanie
- Date: 2008-11-12T08:48:10Z
- Subjects: Narrative therapy
- Type: Mini-Dissertation
- Identifier: uj:14666 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/1639
- Description: M.A. , Narrative therapy is explored through the works of David Epston and Michael White, as well as other texts, mostly originating from the seat of Narrative Therapy, the Dulwich Centre in Adelaide. Emphasis is placed on the history of narrative therapy, both distant and more recent before a discussion of the philosophy and method of narrative therapy is offered. An innovative section including the use of metaphor and a text analysis of extracts from the Count of Monte Cristo, by Alexander Dumas is included towards the end of the text. Narrative Therapy is discussed in an accessible and synoptic manner, with definitions of most of the more well used terms within the field.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Sieberhagen, Stephanie
- Date: 2008-11-12T08:48:10Z
- Subjects: Narrative therapy
- Type: Mini-Dissertation
- Identifier: uj:14666 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/1639
- Description: M.A. , Narrative therapy is explored through the works of David Epston and Michael White, as well as other texts, mostly originating from the seat of Narrative Therapy, the Dulwich Centre in Adelaide. Emphasis is placed on the history of narrative therapy, both distant and more recent before a discussion of the philosophy and method of narrative therapy is offered. An innovative section including the use of metaphor and a text analysis of extracts from the Count of Monte Cristo, by Alexander Dumas is included towards the end of the text. Narrative Therapy is discussed in an accessible and synoptic manner, with definitions of most of the more well used terms within the field.
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The state of business process management in South African companies today
- Authors: Sello, Isaac Thabiso
- Date: 2013-04-11
- Subjects: Business process management , Industrial management , Reengineering (Management) , Organizational change , Benchmarking (Management)
- Type: Mini-Dissertation
- Identifier: uj:7446 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/8306
- Description: M.Phil. (Engineering Management) , The principle aim of this study is to investigate the state of Business Process Management (BPM) in South African industrial organisations. The researcher as a Business Process Engineer dedicated to performance improvement through process innovation and change management principles, conducted a field research project studying the application of process management in South African companies. This survey summarises information provided by 348 respondents working in large, medium, and small companies, representing a broad cross section of industries in South Africa. Given the size and diversity of the respondents, the researcher believes that this is the most comprehensive and representative overview of: • How organisations understand BPM; • How was BPM spending in 2011; • What BPM activities companies are currently engaged in; and • What BPM activities companies are planning for the future? The researcher hopes the information provided in this survey report will provide readers with insight into the kinds of BPM development efforts currently underway and how their company’s BPM efforts compare to the overall market. Finally, the researcher hopes this survey report will provide BPM practitioners with insights that will suggest new ideas for future developments in their organisations. Research results shows that South African organisations are as likely to be pursuing business process redesign or considering the use of BPM Systems. Some industries are absolutely doing more than others, just as large companies are more likely to be undertaking large projects, but companies in all industries and companies of all different size are engaged in BPM work.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Sello, Isaac Thabiso
- Date: 2013-04-11
- Subjects: Business process management , Industrial management , Reengineering (Management) , Organizational change , Benchmarking (Management)
- Type: Mini-Dissertation
- Identifier: uj:7446 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/8306
- Description: M.Phil. (Engineering Management) , The principle aim of this study is to investigate the state of Business Process Management (BPM) in South African industrial organisations. The researcher as a Business Process Engineer dedicated to performance improvement through process innovation and change management principles, conducted a field research project studying the application of process management in South African companies. This survey summarises information provided by 348 respondents working in large, medium, and small companies, representing a broad cross section of industries in South Africa. Given the size and diversity of the respondents, the researcher believes that this is the most comprehensive and representative overview of: • How organisations understand BPM; • How was BPM spending in 2011; • What BPM activities companies are currently engaged in; and • What BPM activities companies are planning for the future? The researcher hopes the information provided in this survey report will provide readers with insight into the kinds of BPM development efforts currently underway and how their company’s BPM efforts compare to the overall market. Finally, the researcher hopes this survey report will provide BPM practitioners with insights that will suggest new ideas for future developments in their organisations. Research results shows that South African organisations are as likely to be pursuing business process redesign or considering the use of BPM Systems. Some industries are absolutely doing more than others, just as large companies are more likely to be undertaking large projects, but companies in all industries and companies of all different size are engaged in BPM work.
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Transformation as an aspect of leadership : implication for school effectiveness
- Authors: Sukati, Sipho Eleck
- Date: 2012-09-04
- Subjects: Leadership , Schools -- Evaluation -- Research , Competency-based education
- Type: Mini-Dissertation
- Identifier: uj:3496 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/6886
- Description: M.Ed. , Following the coming into power of the new democratic government in 1994, the South African education authorities have undertaken widespread efforts into transforming the education system. The key principles underpinning the new approach centre round transforming the education system that is characterised by hierarchical and authoritarian structures and cultures, into a more participatory and reflective system. The new approach emphasises learner-centred, outcomes-based pedagogy and continuous assessment supported by participation, setting goals and frequently assessing whether those goals are met. Viewed in this light, this research argues that transforming the South African education system to meet the expectations of the new frame of reference, will depend largely on transformational leadership. The research deals with transformation as an aspect of leadership within the context of school effectiveness and examines the perceptions educators hold about their leaders.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Sukati, Sipho Eleck
- Date: 2012-09-04
- Subjects: Leadership , Schools -- Evaluation -- Research , Competency-based education
- Type: Mini-Dissertation
- Identifier: uj:3496 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/6886
- Description: M.Ed. , Following the coming into power of the new democratic government in 1994, the South African education authorities have undertaken widespread efforts into transforming the education system. The key principles underpinning the new approach centre round transforming the education system that is characterised by hierarchical and authoritarian structures and cultures, into a more participatory and reflective system. The new approach emphasises learner-centred, outcomes-based pedagogy and continuous assessment supported by participation, setting goals and frequently assessing whether those goals are met. Viewed in this light, this research argues that transforming the South African education system to meet the expectations of the new frame of reference, will depend largely on transformational leadership. The research deals with transformation as an aspect of leadership within the context of school effectiveness and examines the perceptions educators hold about their leaders.
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Economic factors as an aspect of culturally sensitive feedback : implication for the management of teacher competence
- Authors: Mapaila, Kholiswa Renee
- Date: 2012-09-07
- Subjects: Feedback (Psychology) , Schools -- Economic aspects -- South Africa , Group relations training -- Research -- South Africa , Teachers -- Rating of -- South Africa
- Type: Mini-Dissertation
- Identifier: uj:9722 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/7133
- Description: M.Ed. , In chapter one, the background to the study was discussed and the problem of the research stated. The research aims were stated and the empirical perspective and the methodology of achieving these aims were given. In addition a division according to chapters was made. Chapter two focused on the literature survey of competent feedback and economic factors as an aspect of culturally sensitive feedback and its implications for the management of teacher competence. In chapter three the design of the research project was explained. The design of the research instrument was a structured questionnaire consisting of 106 open-ended items (see Appendix A). The empirical investigation of the survey was presented. This study entailed random sampling of educators from post level one to post level six in the different provinces. In chapter four the attention was given to the presentation, analysis and interpretation of data. The responses to each question item were presented in the form of tables indicating mean scores, followed by an analysis and interpretation of data presented. The overall aim of this research essay as stated in chapter one were achieved as indicated in the following findings.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Mapaila, Kholiswa Renee
- Date: 2012-09-07
- Subjects: Feedback (Psychology) , Schools -- Economic aspects -- South Africa , Group relations training -- Research -- South Africa , Teachers -- Rating of -- South Africa
- Type: Mini-Dissertation
- Identifier: uj:9722 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/7133
- Description: M.Ed. , In chapter one, the background to the study was discussed and the problem of the research stated. The research aims were stated and the empirical perspective and the methodology of achieving these aims were given. In addition a division according to chapters was made. Chapter two focused on the literature survey of competent feedback and economic factors as an aspect of culturally sensitive feedback and its implications for the management of teacher competence. In chapter three the design of the research project was explained. The design of the research instrument was a structured questionnaire consisting of 106 open-ended items (see Appendix A). The empirical investigation of the survey was presented. This study entailed random sampling of educators from post level one to post level six in the different provinces. In chapter four the attention was given to the presentation, analysis and interpretation of data. The responses to each question item were presented in the form of tables indicating mean scores, followed by an analysis and interpretation of data presented. The overall aim of this research essay as stated in chapter one were achieved as indicated in the following findings.
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The role of the first language in the educational life-world of urban Black township students
- Authors: Daweti, Audrey Millicent
- Date: 2012-08-23
- Subjects: Native language and education - South Africa , English language - Study and teaching (Secondary) - South Africa - Foreign speakers , Blacks - School education - South Africa - Curricula , Urban schools - South Africa - Curricula - Evaluation
- Type: Mini-Dissertation
- Identifier: uj:3131 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/6550
- Description: M.Ed. , The way of life of urban black township students was the subject of this study over a period of seven months. Particular emphasis fell on the role 'played by the students' first language in their educational life-world, that is in the totality of their meaningful relationships with people, ideas, systems, attitudes, self, and everything else in which their social, cultural and educational background has influence. The selection of the two case studies was criterion-based. These standard nine female students went to primary schools which were registered with the former Department of Education and Training. Presently, one attends a previously Transvaal Education Department high school in Berea and her curriculum does not offer her first language, Xhosa. The other goes to a school in the centre of Johannesburg city. This was a DET school and the student takes her L1, Zulu, together with English and Afrikaans. The theoretical underpinning of the study is drawn from a number of first and second language acquisition theories such as those of Piaget, Vygotsky, Chomsky, Krashen and Cummins. Furthermore a background to the political and socio-cultural aspects of urban township education and settlement patterns was given. To obtain data for the research, both qualitative methods (interviews and observation) and quantitative methods (standardised tests) were used. A link was made between the methods and data was processed per method. Frequential and holistic coding of data fascilitated and validated data analysis and interpretation. One of the patterns that emerged from the data was that the participants lack cognitive and academic proficiency in the medium of instruction (English). This was found to be largely due to inadequate L1 development at primary school and the lack of support of English in the township community. The other finding was that the students and their parents associate the L1 with their culture and the black community while English is seen as a prestigious and functional language for communication and education. These findings therefore suggest that urban township students want to attain high levels of English proficiency in addition to, rather than in lieu of L 1 . The implications of the study relate to the need for suitable additional bilingualism programmes at primary school level. African languages need to be further developed so that there is sufficient quality L1 literature for the development of cognitive and academic proficiency. Family and socio-economic circumstances were found to be additional factors that limit the breadth of the students' educational life-world. It was finally stated that sound home-school links would bring parents into the decision-making process regarding language and curricular issues, as well as provide a forum from which values common to home and school are inculcated in the children.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Daweti, Audrey Millicent
- Date: 2012-08-23
- Subjects: Native language and education - South Africa , English language - Study and teaching (Secondary) - South Africa - Foreign speakers , Blacks - School education - South Africa - Curricula , Urban schools - South Africa - Curricula - Evaluation
- Type: Mini-Dissertation
- Identifier: uj:3131 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/6550
- Description: M.Ed. , The way of life of urban black township students was the subject of this study over a period of seven months. Particular emphasis fell on the role 'played by the students' first language in their educational life-world, that is in the totality of their meaningful relationships with people, ideas, systems, attitudes, self, and everything else in which their social, cultural and educational background has influence. The selection of the two case studies was criterion-based. These standard nine female students went to primary schools which were registered with the former Department of Education and Training. Presently, one attends a previously Transvaal Education Department high school in Berea and her curriculum does not offer her first language, Xhosa. The other goes to a school in the centre of Johannesburg city. This was a DET school and the student takes her L1, Zulu, together with English and Afrikaans. The theoretical underpinning of the study is drawn from a number of first and second language acquisition theories such as those of Piaget, Vygotsky, Chomsky, Krashen and Cummins. Furthermore a background to the political and socio-cultural aspects of urban township education and settlement patterns was given. To obtain data for the research, both qualitative methods (interviews and observation) and quantitative methods (standardised tests) were used. A link was made between the methods and data was processed per method. Frequential and holistic coding of data fascilitated and validated data analysis and interpretation. One of the patterns that emerged from the data was that the participants lack cognitive and academic proficiency in the medium of instruction (English). This was found to be largely due to inadequate L1 development at primary school and the lack of support of English in the township community. The other finding was that the students and their parents associate the L1 with their culture and the black community while English is seen as a prestigious and functional language for communication and education. These findings therefore suggest that urban township students want to attain high levels of English proficiency in addition to, rather than in lieu of L 1 . The implications of the study relate to the need for suitable additional bilingualism programmes at primary school level. African languages need to be further developed so that there is sufficient quality L1 literature for the development of cognitive and academic proficiency. Family and socio-economic circumstances were found to be additional factors that limit the breadth of the students' educational life-world. It was finally stated that sound home-school links would bring parents into the decision-making process regarding language and curricular issues, as well as provide a forum from which values common to home and school are inculcated in the children.
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Determination of stream flow reduction associated with afforestation on a selected quaternary catchment of the Crocodile River, Mpumalanga
- Hadebe, Xolani Mduduzi Jerome
- Authors: Hadebe, Xolani Mduduzi Jerome
- Date: 2012-01-24
- Subjects: Stream flow , Afforestation , Forest influences , Forest hydrology
- Type: Mini-Dissertation
- Identifier: uj:1921 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/4282
- Description: M.Sc. , The foresty industry is a very important industry m South Africa. Forestry is mostly practised in rural areas. Commercial plantations cover only 1.18% of the area of South Africa, with Mpumalanga Province having the largest area and greatest density of commercial plantations. This is because Mpumalanga province is physiographically and climatically conducive to afforestation. The study area, quaternary catchment X22D, is situated in Mpumalanga province; about 80 percent of this catchment is afforested with pine. The hydrological impact of afforestation in the study area is estimated in this study using two models, namely Shell and Affdem3. The impact of afforestation on surface flow depends on the percentage of the afforested area in a catchment, the rotational period, the genera, and the availability of water. As the percentage of afforested area in a catchment increases, so does the consumption of water by the trees increase. This author found that there is a positive relationship between the consumption of water by trees, and the rotational period and the availability of water. Also: Eucalyptus and Pine are consuming more water than Wattle. Understanding these effects of afforestation on water resources at the level of a quaternary catchment is a fundamental requirement in optimal water resource allocation and the long-term sustainable use of water. Keywords: Afforestation, stremflow, hydrological models, riparian zone, afforestation permit system.
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- Authors: Hadebe, Xolani Mduduzi Jerome
- Date: 2012-01-24
- Subjects: Stream flow , Afforestation , Forest influences , Forest hydrology
- Type: Mini-Dissertation
- Identifier: uj:1921 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/4282
- Description: M.Sc. , The foresty industry is a very important industry m South Africa. Forestry is mostly practised in rural areas. Commercial plantations cover only 1.18% of the area of South Africa, with Mpumalanga Province having the largest area and greatest density of commercial plantations. This is because Mpumalanga province is physiographically and climatically conducive to afforestation. The study area, quaternary catchment X22D, is situated in Mpumalanga province; about 80 percent of this catchment is afforested with pine. The hydrological impact of afforestation in the study area is estimated in this study using two models, namely Shell and Affdem3. The impact of afforestation on surface flow depends on the percentage of the afforested area in a catchment, the rotational period, the genera, and the availability of water. As the percentage of afforested area in a catchment increases, so does the consumption of water by the trees increase. This author found that there is a positive relationship between the consumption of water by trees, and the rotational period and the availability of water. Also: Eucalyptus and Pine are consuming more water than Wattle. Understanding these effects of afforestation on water resources at the level of a quaternary catchment is a fundamental requirement in optimal water resource allocation and the long-term sustainable use of water. Keywords: Afforestation, stremflow, hydrological models, riparian zone, afforestation permit system.
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Strategic advantage through customer value
- Authors: Harding, Vernon Victor
- Date: 2012-08-21
- Subjects: Total quality management , Strategic planning , Customer relations , Consumer satisfaction
- Type: Mini-Dissertation
- Identifier: uj:2909 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/6339
- Description: M.Comm. , Lots have been said in the literature in regard to customer value and the way it should influence the company and its management strategy. Customer focused, close to the customer, building customer relations creating customer value, becoming customer driven and exceeding customer expectations are some of the hottest subject executives are talking about. If so way are most companies in South Africa and in the world still content with their internal measurements without asking whether what they are measuring has any relevance on the companies performance (Fagiano, 1997:6). For South African companies competitiveness have never been more important because of the rapidly changing global environment and the swift changes in the demographic and socio-economic locally (De Villiers & Slabbert, 1996:35). The death of distance and the (Peters, 1997:2) current exchange rate of the rand makes it advantageous for international companies to invest in South-Africa putting local companies under a lot of strain. It is proposed to use customer value as a strategic performance measure tool and to develop a customer driven culture to insure that the perceived value of the product is above expectation and that branding is achieved through customer value. It was indicated that customer value can be a performance measurement tool and a major component in the strategic management process and that it is here to stay and will be a vehicle for many a company to achieve competitive advantage. The principle of customer value is not new and has been proven in the Total Quality Management process. It would thus be building on existing capabilities that have been acquired from total quality management of internal processes and products. The challenge lies in refocusing from the internal quality processes to an external customer value. This movement of focus will not be easy and organisations will have to rethink their culture, structure and managerial capabilities. Employees will need to learn a few new skills such as (1) customer responsiveness and evaluation, (2) innovation, (3) strategic thinking, (4) radical thinking and internal motivation
- Full Text:
- Authors: Harding, Vernon Victor
- Date: 2012-08-21
- Subjects: Total quality management , Strategic planning , Customer relations , Consumer satisfaction
- Type: Mini-Dissertation
- Identifier: uj:2909 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/6339
- Description: M.Comm. , Lots have been said in the literature in regard to customer value and the way it should influence the company and its management strategy. Customer focused, close to the customer, building customer relations creating customer value, becoming customer driven and exceeding customer expectations are some of the hottest subject executives are talking about. If so way are most companies in South Africa and in the world still content with their internal measurements without asking whether what they are measuring has any relevance on the companies performance (Fagiano, 1997:6). For South African companies competitiveness have never been more important because of the rapidly changing global environment and the swift changes in the demographic and socio-economic locally (De Villiers & Slabbert, 1996:35). The death of distance and the (Peters, 1997:2) current exchange rate of the rand makes it advantageous for international companies to invest in South-Africa putting local companies under a lot of strain. It is proposed to use customer value as a strategic performance measure tool and to develop a customer driven culture to insure that the perceived value of the product is above expectation and that branding is achieved through customer value. It was indicated that customer value can be a performance measurement tool and a major component in the strategic management process and that it is here to stay and will be a vehicle for many a company to achieve competitive advantage. The principle of customer value is not new and has been proven in the Total Quality Management process. It would thus be building on existing capabilities that have been acquired from total quality management of internal processes and products. The challenge lies in refocusing from the internal quality processes to an external customer value. This movement of focus will not be easy and organisations will have to rethink their culture, structure and managerial capabilities. Employees will need to learn a few new skills such as (1) customer responsiveness and evaluation, (2) innovation, (3) strategic thinking, (4) radical thinking and internal motivation
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Classroom climate as an aspect of the learning environment : implications for the management of teacher competence
- Authors: Moloi, Kholeka Constance
- Date: 2012-08-17
- Subjects: Classroom environment -- Psychological aspects , Educational innovations -- South Africa , Teachers -- Rating of -- South Africa , Competency based education -- South Africa
- Type: Mini-Dissertation
- Identifier: uj:2623 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/6070
- Description: M.Ed. , One of the most critical educational problems confronting policymakers, educators and parents in our schools, is the restoration of the culture of teaching and learning. There is an emerging consensus among all stakeholders about educational transformation geared towards school improvement. School improvement is a distinct approach to educational change that enhances student outcomes as well as strengthening the school's capacity for managing change. The aim of this research study was to examine how teacher competence, which is a key factor to organisational effectiveness, can be developed and managed towards school success. In the context of the changing political, social, economic and technological environments in which schools find themselves, it is essential that schools find a niche in order to survive in the competitive market of education. This research study pointed out that teacher competence encompasses aspects such as organisational planning of work, innovation teacher dedication and commitment to excellence. It was also indicated that the commitment, visibility and accessibility of senior management in the school, is a priority to the success of any school program in the school. Thus, symbolic leadership of management should communicate and be committed to the values of the school. Subsequently, it is imperative that all members of the school should support modifications in organisational structures, information and development systems which should lay emphasis upon attitudes, values, norms, competence, knowledge and skills. The major findings of this research study were that a conducive classroom climate to learning, pupil involvement. and unceasing support to motivate learners yielded positive student outcomes. Literature reviewed in this study clearly indicated that educative and collaborative competence were essential for school effectiveness.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Moloi, Kholeka Constance
- Date: 2012-08-17
- Subjects: Classroom environment -- Psychological aspects , Educational innovations -- South Africa , Teachers -- Rating of -- South Africa , Competency based education -- South Africa
- Type: Mini-Dissertation
- Identifier: uj:2623 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/6070
- Description: M.Ed. , One of the most critical educational problems confronting policymakers, educators and parents in our schools, is the restoration of the culture of teaching and learning. There is an emerging consensus among all stakeholders about educational transformation geared towards school improvement. School improvement is a distinct approach to educational change that enhances student outcomes as well as strengthening the school's capacity for managing change. The aim of this research study was to examine how teacher competence, which is a key factor to organisational effectiveness, can be developed and managed towards school success. In the context of the changing political, social, economic and technological environments in which schools find themselves, it is essential that schools find a niche in order to survive in the competitive market of education. This research study pointed out that teacher competence encompasses aspects such as organisational planning of work, innovation teacher dedication and commitment to excellence. It was also indicated that the commitment, visibility and accessibility of senior management in the school, is a priority to the success of any school program in the school. Thus, symbolic leadership of management should communicate and be committed to the values of the school. Subsequently, it is imperative that all members of the school should support modifications in organisational structures, information and development systems which should lay emphasis upon attitudes, values, norms, competence, knowledge and skills. The major findings of this research study were that a conducive classroom climate to learning, pupil involvement. and unceasing support to motivate learners yielded positive student outcomes. Literature reviewed in this study clearly indicated that educative and collaborative competence were essential for school effectiveness.
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Resiliency as experienced by teachers in a special secondary school in Gauteng
- Authors: Schouwink, Frederik
- Date: 2012-06-07
- Subjects: Special education teachers- South Africa - Gauteng , Resilience (Personality trait) , Burn out (Psychology) , Teachers - Job stress - South Africa - Gauteng
- Type: Mini-Dissertation
- Identifier: uj:8712 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/5064
- Description: M. Ed. , This study is aimed at exploring resiliency as experienced by teachers in a special secondary school in Gauteng. Many studies have investigated the impact of stress and burnout on teachers and how it impacts on the delivery of educational services. Studies have found that excessive stress may lead to poor teaching, poor-decision making, lowered self-esteem, low job satisfaction and lack of commitment to remain in the profession (Schulze & Steyn, 2007). These are especially prevalent among special education teachers who are subsequently at the highest risk of leaving the profession (Wisniewski & Gargiulo, 1997). While much is therefore known about teacher stress and burnout in education, it is less clear what the experiences might be of teachers who do manage to deal positively with the various demands in special schools despite the numerous professional challenges they face. In other words, the study aimed at gaining a better understanding of the experiences that have enabled some special education teachers in a Gauteng secondary school to sustain their motivation, commitment and, consequently, their effectiveness in the profession. By doing so, proactive strategies could be taken to address the problem of teacher stress and burnout which could result in the betterment of retention of special education teachers. In this study, the researcher made use of extreme case sampling, in others words locating individuals that have been cited for achievement and particular distinguished characteristics, i.e. resilient teachers. The school management team and fellow teachers identified nine colleagues who demonstrated the ability to adapt to stressors in the school context, despite various challenges. Criteria that informed the identification of resilient teachers related to those teachers who demonstrated high energy levels, enthusiasm, creativity, optimism and positive relationships with others. In this research, an interpretivist research paradigm framed the research with a qualitative approach and a phenomenological design. The data for this study was collected by means of semi-structured interviews, a focus interview, photos as well as a verification questionnaire. Moreover, data was also collected by the keeping of a personal researcher‘s journal. Data was analysed using content analysis. Themes that emerged during the data analysis pointed out that certain factors contributed to teachers experiencing resilience, whereas others depleted teachers‘ ability to be resilient in the face of hardship within their professional roles. Those factors that played a part towards the experience of resilience were encouragement from a significant other in their life history, spirituality, lifelong learning, utilizing their emotional intelligence and wanting to be a role model to others. In contrast, those factors that obstruct resilience related to the difficulty of the individual to establish healthy boundaries, wanting and being unable to take other people‘s problems away, and having unrealistic expectations regarding the support of fellow colleagues. Following the discussion of the themes, recommendations were provided to assist relevant role-players in promoting the experience of resilience among special secondary school teachers. The study concludes
- Full Text:
- Authors: Schouwink, Frederik
- Date: 2012-06-07
- Subjects: Special education teachers- South Africa - Gauteng , Resilience (Personality trait) , Burn out (Psychology) , Teachers - Job stress - South Africa - Gauteng
- Type: Mini-Dissertation
- Identifier: uj:8712 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/5064
- Description: M. Ed. , This study is aimed at exploring resiliency as experienced by teachers in a special secondary school in Gauteng. Many studies have investigated the impact of stress and burnout on teachers and how it impacts on the delivery of educational services. Studies have found that excessive stress may lead to poor teaching, poor-decision making, lowered self-esteem, low job satisfaction and lack of commitment to remain in the profession (Schulze & Steyn, 2007). These are especially prevalent among special education teachers who are subsequently at the highest risk of leaving the profession (Wisniewski & Gargiulo, 1997). While much is therefore known about teacher stress and burnout in education, it is less clear what the experiences might be of teachers who do manage to deal positively with the various demands in special schools despite the numerous professional challenges they face. In other words, the study aimed at gaining a better understanding of the experiences that have enabled some special education teachers in a Gauteng secondary school to sustain their motivation, commitment and, consequently, their effectiveness in the profession. By doing so, proactive strategies could be taken to address the problem of teacher stress and burnout which could result in the betterment of retention of special education teachers. In this study, the researcher made use of extreme case sampling, in others words locating individuals that have been cited for achievement and particular distinguished characteristics, i.e. resilient teachers. The school management team and fellow teachers identified nine colleagues who demonstrated the ability to adapt to stressors in the school context, despite various challenges. Criteria that informed the identification of resilient teachers related to those teachers who demonstrated high energy levels, enthusiasm, creativity, optimism and positive relationships with others. In this research, an interpretivist research paradigm framed the research with a qualitative approach and a phenomenological design. The data for this study was collected by means of semi-structured interviews, a focus interview, photos as well as a verification questionnaire. Moreover, data was also collected by the keeping of a personal researcher‘s journal. Data was analysed using content analysis. Themes that emerged during the data analysis pointed out that certain factors contributed to teachers experiencing resilience, whereas others depleted teachers‘ ability to be resilient in the face of hardship within their professional roles. Those factors that played a part towards the experience of resilience were encouragement from a significant other in their life history, spirituality, lifelong learning, utilizing their emotional intelligence and wanting to be a role model to others. In contrast, those factors that obstruct resilience related to the difficulty of the individual to establish healthy boundaries, wanting and being unable to take other people‘s problems away, and having unrealistic expectations regarding the support of fellow colleagues. Following the discussion of the themes, recommendations were provided to assist relevant role-players in promoting the experience of resilience among special secondary school teachers. The study concludes
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Collegial leadership in schools in the Alberton/Heidelberg district
- Authors: Ngobese, Sicelo Samuel
- Date: 2012-09-12
- Subjects: School management and organization - South Africa - Gauteng , School personnel management , Educational leadership - South Africa - Gauteng
- Type: Mini-Dissertation
- Identifier: uj:10257 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/7628
- Description: M.Ed. , Most Black schools are currently in a quagmire in terms of progress. With a laisez faire leadership seemingly being the order of the day. It is therefore, barely conceivable that this situation can improve in the short to medium term. The poor results in the Senior Certificate examinations nationally are possibly a manifestation of the absence of collegial management and leadership in the schools. True, the education system is undergoing radical changes. Are these changes bearing positive fruit? If the Senior Certificate results in Black schools are anything to go by, the answer is no. It is against this background that one realises that something must be amiss in the management and leadership in these schools. Could it not be time that principals of schools come of age and realise that they as individuals per se cannot salvage this situation? It is therefore imperative that they consider adopting a co-operative management and leadership style. This practice would engender a sense of collective responsibility and accountability.
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- Authors: Ngobese, Sicelo Samuel
- Date: 2012-09-12
- Subjects: School management and organization - South Africa - Gauteng , School personnel management , Educational leadership - South Africa - Gauteng
- Type: Mini-Dissertation
- Identifier: uj:10257 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/7628
- Description: M.Ed. , Most Black schools are currently in a quagmire in terms of progress. With a laisez faire leadership seemingly being the order of the day. It is therefore, barely conceivable that this situation can improve in the short to medium term. The poor results in the Senior Certificate examinations nationally are possibly a manifestation of the absence of collegial management and leadership in the schools. True, the education system is undergoing radical changes. Are these changes bearing positive fruit? If the Senior Certificate results in Black schools are anything to go by, the answer is no. It is against this background that one realises that something must be amiss in the management and leadership in these schools. Could it not be time that principals of schools come of age and realise that they as individuals per se cannot salvage this situation? It is therefore imperative that they consider adopting a co-operative management and leadership style. This practice would engender a sense of collective responsibility and accountability.
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Marketing in Africa
- Authors: Anderson, M.M.
- Date: 2012-08-13
- Subjects: Marketing -- Africa , Marketing research -- Africa.
- Type: Mini-Dissertation
- Identifier: uj:8992 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/5460
- Description: M. Comm. , Markets in different countries around the world are subject to a myriad of influences. Some of the factors influencing international markets are controllable and some are uncontrollable. If a company wants to enter the international marketing arena it is important to familiarise itself with as many of these factors that could influence the success or failure of its marketing efforts. The development of successful international marketing strategies is based on a thorough understanding of the similarities and differences that exist in different countries. There are various approaches that can be used to structure an analysis of the international environment. Irrespective of which approach a company use, it should gain information on the social and cultural aspects of the population in the country targeted for a new marketing venture. It should also familiarise itself with the legal system operating in the country, as well as the political environment in that country. The economic factors such as the size and growth of the market, the total spending power in the market as well as the availability of physical and economical infrastructure are important considerations when planning entry into a new market. The level of technological development in a country is an other important factor for consideration, but is less subject to country boundaries than the other factors. Competition is an important force in international markets. Competition is increasing in most markets in the world as a result of non-domestic companies entering new markets and taking market share. The fluctuation in the currency of a country as well as the differences in inflation rates between the home and the host countries is another important consideration for companies planning to enter international markets.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Anderson, M.M.
- Date: 2012-08-13
- Subjects: Marketing -- Africa , Marketing research -- Africa.
- Type: Mini-Dissertation
- Identifier: uj:8992 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/5460
- Description: M. Comm. , Markets in different countries around the world are subject to a myriad of influences. Some of the factors influencing international markets are controllable and some are uncontrollable. If a company wants to enter the international marketing arena it is important to familiarise itself with as many of these factors that could influence the success or failure of its marketing efforts. The development of successful international marketing strategies is based on a thorough understanding of the similarities and differences that exist in different countries. There are various approaches that can be used to structure an analysis of the international environment. Irrespective of which approach a company use, it should gain information on the social and cultural aspects of the population in the country targeted for a new marketing venture. It should also familiarise itself with the legal system operating in the country, as well as the political environment in that country. The economic factors such as the size and growth of the market, the total spending power in the market as well as the availability of physical and economical infrastructure are important considerations when planning entry into a new market. The level of technological development in a country is an other important factor for consideration, but is less subject to country boundaries than the other factors. Competition is an important force in international markets. Competition is increasing in most markets in the world as a result of non-domestic companies entering new markets and taking market share. The fluctuation in the currency of a country as well as the differences in inflation rates between the home and the host countries is another important consideration for companies planning to enter international markets.
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'n Strategiese beskouing van verhoudingsbemarking : 'n teoretiese perspektief
- Authors: Scheepers, Jacobus Wynand
- Date: 2012-09-11
- Subjects: Marketing -- Management
- Type: Mini-Dissertation
- Identifier: uj:10060 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/7448
- Description: M.Comm.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Scheepers, Jacobus Wynand
- Date: 2012-09-11
- Subjects: Marketing -- Management
- Type: Mini-Dissertation
- Identifier: uj:10060 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/7448
- Description: M.Comm.
- Full Text:
A postmodern, narrative approach to career planning
- Authors: Joffe, Simene Erica
- Date: 2012-09-10
- Subjects: Vocational guidance. , Occupational training. , Career development. , Education - Philosophy
- Type: Mini-Dissertation
- Identifier: uj:9899 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/7298
- Description: M.Ed. , At the inception of the document the author narrates her own adolescent experience of exposure to a modem, positivist career planning process. Chapter one's narrative reveals how she experienced this type of approach as impersonal. This personal experience of alienation and marginalization motivated the search for an alternative approach to career planning for adolescents. The aim of the study is to define a postmodern, narrative approach to career planning and to demonstrate how it can assist highly verbal, creative and intelligent, but emotionally conflicted, adolescents to define a future career path. Assisting this population is understood in terms of the narrative imperatives of enabling the adolescents to find their own voices and in terms of enabling the adolescents to take personal responsibility for career planning. The adolescents are afforded the opportunity to co-evolve life stories that are personally meaningful and free from dominant parental voices. In chapter two the author contrasts the theoretical underpinnings of the modernist, positivist paradigm with those of the more postmodern epistemology. The writer then describes a narrative approach to psychotherapy which is linked to the postmodern epistemology. Postmodernism as a general theoretical framework, and the narrative approach as a 'method' which is epistemologically consistent with it, are then linked to the career planning field. Ultimately, the author defines how an alternative, narrative approach to career planning can be implemented. Chapter three concerns an evolution of a methodology that facilitates an investigation of this approach. The chosen methodology is an extension of the postmodern/qualitative paradigm and the author suggests that one ought to employ postmodern methods of investigation when investigating postmodern phenomena. The researcher expresses her intention to employ unstructured interviews with three adolescents in need of career planning. The interviews are then transcribed from field notes. Themes are analyzed according to Kerlinger's method of content analysis, Giorgi's method of data analysis and the writer's own unique synthesis of the data. The writer's unique synthesis is legitimized by the cybernetic of cybernetic notion of participant-observation which suggests that even careful observers participate in the construction of 'objectively' observed phenomena. Chapter four introduces the reader to the three clients. It provides some history/ contextual data on each and it presents each client's transcribed narrative. Each narrative is analyzed thematically and the individual utility of the narrative approach receives comment. The author also furnishes information about the ultimate concord reached with each client. Having explored each narrative individually, the author then moves to examine the three narratives as a collective body of data, commenting on similarities in terms of themes in the three stories. Ultimately, the writer uses this body of data to illustrate the theoretical tenets of the approach espoused in chapter two. Chapter five offers summary remarks regarding the perceived utility of the postmodern approach to career planning. Some more critical thoughts pertaining to this alternative method are also delineated. Finally, consistent with the chosen methodology, the author defers to the reader to decide if the approach has a personal utility.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Joffe, Simene Erica
- Date: 2012-09-10
- Subjects: Vocational guidance. , Occupational training. , Career development. , Education - Philosophy
- Type: Mini-Dissertation
- Identifier: uj:9899 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/7298
- Description: M.Ed. , At the inception of the document the author narrates her own adolescent experience of exposure to a modem, positivist career planning process. Chapter one's narrative reveals how she experienced this type of approach as impersonal. This personal experience of alienation and marginalization motivated the search for an alternative approach to career planning for adolescents. The aim of the study is to define a postmodern, narrative approach to career planning and to demonstrate how it can assist highly verbal, creative and intelligent, but emotionally conflicted, adolescents to define a future career path. Assisting this population is understood in terms of the narrative imperatives of enabling the adolescents to find their own voices and in terms of enabling the adolescents to take personal responsibility for career planning. The adolescents are afforded the opportunity to co-evolve life stories that are personally meaningful and free from dominant parental voices. In chapter two the author contrasts the theoretical underpinnings of the modernist, positivist paradigm with those of the more postmodern epistemology. The writer then describes a narrative approach to psychotherapy which is linked to the postmodern epistemology. Postmodernism as a general theoretical framework, and the narrative approach as a 'method' which is epistemologically consistent with it, are then linked to the career planning field. Ultimately, the author defines how an alternative, narrative approach to career planning can be implemented. Chapter three concerns an evolution of a methodology that facilitates an investigation of this approach. The chosen methodology is an extension of the postmodern/qualitative paradigm and the author suggests that one ought to employ postmodern methods of investigation when investigating postmodern phenomena. The researcher expresses her intention to employ unstructured interviews with three adolescents in need of career planning. The interviews are then transcribed from field notes. Themes are analyzed according to Kerlinger's method of content analysis, Giorgi's method of data analysis and the writer's own unique synthesis of the data. The writer's unique synthesis is legitimized by the cybernetic of cybernetic notion of participant-observation which suggests that even careful observers participate in the construction of 'objectively' observed phenomena. Chapter four introduces the reader to the three clients. It provides some history/ contextual data on each and it presents each client's transcribed narrative. Each narrative is analyzed thematically and the individual utility of the narrative approach receives comment. The author also furnishes information about the ultimate concord reached with each client. Having explored each narrative individually, the author then moves to examine the three narratives as a collective body of data, commenting on similarities in terms of themes in the three stories. Ultimately, the writer uses this body of data to illustrate the theoretical tenets of the approach espoused in chapter two. Chapter five offers summary remarks regarding the perceived utility of the postmodern approach to career planning. Some more critical thoughts pertaining to this alternative method are also delineated. Finally, consistent with the chosen methodology, the author defers to the reader to decide if the approach has a personal utility.
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The relationship between gender diversity and corporate profitability : the top 100 companies on the JSE Ltd
- Authors: Lehobo, Lineo
- Date: 2012-11-06
- Subjects: Corporate profits , Diversity in the workplace , Gender diversity , Women executives , Corporate culture
- Type: Mini-Dissertation
- Identifier: uj:7364 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/8120
- Description: M.Comm. , Although there has been some improvement over the last decade, the representation of women on corporate boards in many countries, including South Africa, is still alarmingly low. In the quest for gender equality in top corporate ranks and for better corporate governance, legislators and institutional investors have both called for greater diversity on corporate boards. This study determines whether the desired increase in gender diversity on boards, measured as the proportion of women on the board, is linked to greater corporate profitability, in an attempt to establish if there is any justification for appointing women to the board on the grounds of firm financial profitability. The study uses the Top 100 companies listed on the JSE to examine the nature of the relationship between board gender diversity and corporate profitability, for the period 2004 to 2008. Findings from correlation and regression analyses both portray a positive association between gender diversity in the boardroom and corporate profitability, but a negative association for gender diversity in the executive suite. Industry comparative analysis also shows that, on average, companies with one or more female directors outperform other companies on all three measures of profitability: return on assets, return on equity, and return on sales, whereas companies with one or more female executives show lower average profitability. Therefore, the study can advocate the appointment and inclusion of women on corporate boards from a financial or company profitability perspective, but it cannot do the same for female executives. Key words Gender diversity, corporate profitability, gender equality, corporate governance, board of directors
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- Authors: Lehobo, Lineo
- Date: 2012-11-06
- Subjects: Corporate profits , Diversity in the workplace , Gender diversity , Women executives , Corporate culture
- Type: Mini-Dissertation
- Identifier: uj:7364 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/8120
- Description: M.Comm. , Although there has been some improvement over the last decade, the representation of women on corporate boards in many countries, including South Africa, is still alarmingly low. In the quest for gender equality in top corporate ranks and for better corporate governance, legislators and institutional investors have both called for greater diversity on corporate boards. This study determines whether the desired increase in gender diversity on boards, measured as the proportion of women on the board, is linked to greater corporate profitability, in an attempt to establish if there is any justification for appointing women to the board on the grounds of firm financial profitability. The study uses the Top 100 companies listed on the JSE to examine the nature of the relationship between board gender diversity and corporate profitability, for the period 2004 to 2008. Findings from correlation and regression analyses both portray a positive association between gender diversity in the boardroom and corporate profitability, but a negative association for gender diversity in the executive suite. Industry comparative analysis also shows that, on average, companies with one or more female directors outperform other companies on all three measures of profitability: return on assets, return on equity, and return on sales, whereas companies with one or more female executives show lower average profitability. Therefore, the study can advocate the appointment and inclusion of women on corporate boards from a financial or company profitability perspective, but it cannot do the same for female executives. Key words Gender diversity, corporate profitability, gender equality, corporate governance, board of directors
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The role of women in rural development : the case of the Molopo district of the North West Province.
- Authors: Mahlako, Malesela Alpheus
- Date: 2012-08-15
- Subjects: Women in development - Developing countries , Women in rural development - South Africa - North-West , Women in development - South Africa - North-West , Women - Developing countries
- Type: Mini-Dissertation
- Identifier: uj:9315 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/5756
- Description: M.A. , Just like in many other provinces of the new South Africa, the majority of the people in the North West Province are located in the rural areas, the majority of them being women. Women, especially those in the rural areas, are marginalised in the development process regardless of the new focus on women in development literature. Most women are not involved in the decision-making process, and the few that are involved only appear at the implementation stage where there is need for manpower. Again, many women in the rural areas are exposed to poverty and there is a close link between their marginalisation and the poverty situation in which they fmd themselves. Development projects which are geared towards poverty alleviation are planned by men for men and women are very seldom in the planning stage. Women are therefore objects and not subjects of the development process. Most policy-makers are not gender- sensitive and women often find themselves left behind. Rural development projects also seem to be devoid of attention to local needs and local preferences are therefore sometimes irrelevant. Many rural development projects do not achieve their intended objectives and others even produce unwanted results and perpetuate the existing socio-economic bottlenecks experienced in the rural areas. It is believed that rural development projects will not reach their intended objectives if women continue to be marginalised. This study is prompted by the continued marginalisation of women in the development process, despite the proliferation of literature on women and development. Three rural settlements in the North West Province were selected to determine the extent to which rural women participate in the development process: Miga, Loporung and Signalhill. In each of these settlements, a rural development project was studied, which was then used in a comparison of the three case studies. The most important method used to collect data in the field was the interview method. This method has got its own inherent problems, for example it is time-consuming. However, this method was preferred specifically because this research is about rural people and rural development projects. Apart from the fieldwork, a literature study was done on the role of women in the development process, both internationally and in Africa, especially in the context of rural projects. In view of the fact that the majority of the people in the rural areas are not educated, this method was seen to be viable. This method provides the researcher with ample opportunity to clarify issues which are not understood by the interviewee. The researcher has the opportunity to give a detailed explanation of the importance of the study and to ensure that they fully know what is expected of them. The findings of this research have indicated that the North West Province is not much different from other provinces of South Africa. It was found that the majority of the people are found in the rural areas and these people share many common characteristics. Among these characteristics, poverty seems to be a more salient one and women and children are the most hard-hit. Regardless of this appalling state of affairs, most policy-makers seem to be obsessed with pandering to urban interests at the expense of the rural ones. It is therefore areas moving into the urban centres. In the three settlements that were studied, the majority of the people moved into the urban areas of Mmabatho and Mafikeng to look for employment opportunities. The majority of the migrants venture into informal activities. Most of these people are women. Due to the poverty situation, many women are forced to commercialise their domestic chores. One of the most important findings of this research is that rural people are not homogeneous and should therefore be treated according to their particular needs. It was also found from this research that rural people sometimes do not accept their poverty situation as given. Therefore, rural people should not be seen as passive objects which need to be injected with Western values as the modernisation perspective asserted. Rural people have proved to be ready and eager to improve their conditions of life. What needs to be done, therefore, is to make facilities available and accessible for them. Generally, this research has shown that women in the rural areas are still marginalised and aspects of social life such as poverty, patriarchy and tradition play a very significant role to this effect. Lack of access to resources also contributes towards the marginalisation of women. These are the major issues which need to be dealt with without any delay.
- Full Text:
The role of women in rural development : the case of the Molopo district of the North West Province.
- Authors: Mahlako, Malesela Alpheus
- Date: 2012-08-15
- Subjects: Women in development - Developing countries , Women in rural development - South Africa - North-West , Women in development - South Africa - North-West , Women - Developing countries
- Type: Mini-Dissertation
- Identifier: uj:9315 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/5756
- Description: M.A. , Just like in many other provinces of the new South Africa, the majority of the people in the North West Province are located in the rural areas, the majority of them being women. Women, especially those in the rural areas, are marginalised in the development process regardless of the new focus on women in development literature. Most women are not involved in the decision-making process, and the few that are involved only appear at the implementation stage where there is need for manpower. Again, many women in the rural areas are exposed to poverty and there is a close link between their marginalisation and the poverty situation in which they fmd themselves. Development projects which are geared towards poverty alleviation are planned by men for men and women are very seldom in the planning stage. Women are therefore objects and not subjects of the development process. Most policy-makers are not gender- sensitive and women often find themselves left behind. Rural development projects also seem to be devoid of attention to local needs and local preferences are therefore sometimes irrelevant. Many rural development projects do not achieve their intended objectives and others even produce unwanted results and perpetuate the existing socio-economic bottlenecks experienced in the rural areas. It is believed that rural development projects will not reach their intended objectives if women continue to be marginalised. This study is prompted by the continued marginalisation of women in the development process, despite the proliferation of literature on women and development. Three rural settlements in the North West Province were selected to determine the extent to which rural women participate in the development process: Miga, Loporung and Signalhill. In each of these settlements, a rural development project was studied, which was then used in a comparison of the three case studies. The most important method used to collect data in the field was the interview method. This method has got its own inherent problems, for example it is time-consuming. However, this method was preferred specifically because this research is about rural people and rural development projects. Apart from the fieldwork, a literature study was done on the role of women in the development process, both internationally and in Africa, especially in the context of rural projects. In view of the fact that the majority of the people in the rural areas are not educated, this method was seen to be viable. This method provides the researcher with ample opportunity to clarify issues which are not understood by the interviewee. The researcher has the opportunity to give a detailed explanation of the importance of the study and to ensure that they fully know what is expected of them. The findings of this research have indicated that the North West Province is not much different from other provinces of South Africa. It was found that the majority of the people are found in the rural areas and these people share many common characteristics. Among these characteristics, poverty seems to be a more salient one and women and children are the most hard-hit. Regardless of this appalling state of affairs, most policy-makers seem to be obsessed with pandering to urban interests at the expense of the rural ones. It is therefore areas moving into the urban centres. In the three settlements that were studied, the majority of the people moved into the urban areas of Mmabatho and Mafikeng to look for employment opportunities. The majority of the migrants venture into informal activities. Most of these people are women. Due to the poverty situation, many women are forced to commercialise their domestic chores. One of the most important findings of this research is that rural people are not homogeneous and should therefore be treated according to their particular needs. It was also found from this research that rural people sometimes do not accept their poverty situation as given. Therefore, rural people should not be seen as passive objects which need to be injected with Western values as the modernisation perspective asserted. Rural people have proved to be ready and eager to improve their conditions of life. What needs to be done, therefore, is to make facilities available and accessible for them. Generally, this research has shown that women in the rural areas are still marginalised and aspects of social life such as poverty, patriarchy and tradition play a very significant role to this effect. Lack of access to resources also contributes towards the marginalisation of women. These are the major issues which need to be dealt with without any delay.
- Full Text: