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1
Parker, Rhiannon Jennifer. "A field investigation into the impact of task demands on worker responses in the South African forestry silviculture sector." Thesis, Rhodes University, 2014. http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1015645.
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Background: In South Africa, limited research has focused on the task demands and workers responses associated with forestry silviculture work, particularly pitting and planting. The methods currently in use are manual, but despite our lack of understanding of the existing demands, advances in forestry engineering have resulted in an introduction of semi-mechanised versions of these tasks. This project aimed to compare the task demands of silviculture tasks using the current manual techniques and the more modern, semi-mechanised techniques. Methods: A holistic investigation focused on the worker characteristics of a sample of black male pitters and black female planters from the Kwa-Zulu Natal forestry industry, as well as biomechanical (spinal kinematics and L5/S1 forces), physiological (heart rate, oxygen consumption and energy expenditure) and psychophysical (ratings of perceived exertion and body discomfort) responses associated with manual and semi-mechanised pitting and planting. Results: The pitting task saw significant improvements in the spinal kinematic measures as a result of the increased mechanisation, with eight of the 16 recorded variables decreasing to a lower level of risk classification. Physiologically, the manual task was associated with a mean heart rate of 157 bt.min⁻¹ and absolute energy expenditure of 11.27 kcal.min⁻¹, which were not found to be significantly different to the values of 143 bt.min⁻¹ and 9.8 kcal.min⁻¹ recorded during the semi-mechanised technique. Psychophysical responses indicated that the workers perceived manual pitting to be more physically demanding than the semi-mechanised method. The manual and semi-mechanised planting tasks were, in general, found to be acceptable from a spinal kinematics perspective, with the majority of variables classified as low risk. However, the maximum sagittal angle was reduced by more than 20 degrees as a result of the new equipment. The physiological and psychophysical demands associated with manual planting were found to be within acceptable limits. Conclusion: In terms of pitting, it can tentatively be concluded that the semi-mechanised technique is better than the manual one, based on the biomechanical and psychophysical findings, however physiological demands require further investigation. When considering the planting techniques, the semi-mechanised method showed a slight improvement from the biomechanical perspective, but further physiological and psychophysical investigations are needed.
2
Atkins, Keletso E. "The moon is dead! Give us our money! : the cultural origins of an African work ethic, Natal, South Africa, 1843-1900 /." Portsmouth : NH : Heinemann : Currey, 1993. http://catalogue.bnf.fr/ark:/12148/cb37507204t.
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Ojong, Vivian Besem A. "The study of independent African migrant women in KwaZulu-Natal (South Africa) : their lives and work experiences." Thesis, University of Zululand, 2002. http://hdl.handle.net/10530/934.
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A research project submitted in fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Arts in Anthropology in the Faculty of Arts at the University of Zululand, South Africa, 2002.African migration to South Africa is not a recent phenomenon bu in recent history, dates back to about one hundred and fifty years when African men migrated from some southern African countries to work in the South African mines. During this period however, the apartheid regime restricted African entry into the labour market of South Africa to contract mine workers, who were obviously men. Due to the abolition of apartheid. African migration to South Africa now has a gender profile. SkPIed, professional and businesswomen of African origin are now migrating independently to South Africa. This new face oftAfrican migration is transforming South African society and culture. African women from other countries have migrated to South Africa with parts of their cultures (their dresses and their food). In South Africa, these women have acquired both positive and negative identities. The negative identities expose them to discrimination in South Africa. On the other hand, the positively acquired identities nave given the women economic independence in their families and an occupational identity in their professions. In their attempt to adjust to life in South Africa, African migrant women encounter difficulties as a result of the restrictionist immigration policy of South Africa. These women are not happy with such a policy which is based solely on economic considerations. African women claim that they struggled alongside South Africans to bring apartheid to an end and were promised by the ANC-in-exilc that they were going to be welcome in an apartheid- free South Africa. These women claim that Iliey are here to make a contribution, which is clearly portrayed by their occupational experiences. This study portrays the fact that African migrant women arc impacting on South African society and are being impacted by it as well. As tempting as it is. it would be a mistake by the South African government to dismiss the current contribution made by these women both in the formal and informal sector of the South African economy. Coining from other African countries which have been plagued with political turmoil, degrading poverty and worsening of peoples living conditions (especially with the consequences of the implementation of the structural adjustment programs), migrant women have learnt to use their initiative, especially in the area of small businesses. This has enabled the women to transform their financial situations in their families. Diverse strategies have been utilised in this transformation; the inherent but powerful social networks which aided in relocating to new or particular areas in South Africa, financial and social support from their "fictive kin" system. As a "modus operandi" for Ghanaian migrant women hairdressers, country men/wo men are employed from Ghana and brought to South Africa to work in their hair salons. Since South Africans believe that Ghanaians are the best hairdressers, the migrant women have decided to employ as many Ghanaians in their salons as possible, to keep their businesses busy even in their absence. Some of the migrant women have opened food shops where indigenous West African foods are sold to the migrant population. These shops are placed in strategic places, like in central Durban which is accessible to all living in KwaZufu-Natal. In the formal sector, most of (lie migrant women were among tlic first black women lo occupy certain positions, which were previously occupied by white South Africans. Positions such as supervisors in catering departments in Iiospitals. lecturers and head of departments at some universities are examples of the empowering contribution of migrant women to South African society. These women's lives have also been impacted by South African society, especially in the apartheid era. Considering the precarious conditions under which mizrant women from Zambia lived in KwaZulu-Natal in the apartheid era (they were considered as spies because Zambia hosted some of the A.N.C-in-exile and I.F.P dominated this area), it was in their best interest to watch every step they took because they could have been killed. However, they live to tell of how they narrowly escaped death. Migration to South Africa by migrant nurses which once was considered as an opportunity to "have their own share of the gold" has turned to disillusionment. They have been caught in the web of the immigration policy of South Africa. The conditions for a migrant to stay in South Africa depend on how scarce his/her skill is. Nursing which was considered a scarce skill in the 1990s is no longer scarce. This has led lo a second migration to England by the nurses. Despite the recent increase in this second migration, some have decided to use the opportunities of working and studying in South Africa to obtain university degrees, which they believe will improve their financial situations. According to the remarks made by some of the migrant women, th;y are happy lo be where they are, for, comparatively. South Africa still has the best to ofler migrant women in the African continent. However, the migration literature shows that researchers in the field of migration have been gender-blind. Independent skilled, career and businesswomen of African origin have been side-lined in scholarly research on migration in post apartheid South Africa. In collecting data used for this study, the snowball method of sampling was used because other me! hods were not appropriate. The population of study was made of a core sample often women, although interviews were conducted informally with a cross-section with other migrant women. The study of independent African migrant women is an example of an ethnographic account at its best.
4
Bigara, Ana Doherty. "Environmental health work methods and procedures for the surveillance and control of cholera in the KwaZulu-Natal Province, South Africa." Thesis, Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University, 2012. http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1016073.
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The aim of this study was to develop a standardised set of Environmental-Health work methods and procedures, with the purpose of contributing to the effective surveillance and control of Cholera in the KwaZulu-Natal province, South Africa. The researcher followed a qualitative research design, which was explorative, descriptive, inductive and deductive by nature. The methods of data collection were documentary research and focus-group interviews. A documentary research approach was employed as the primary method of data collection for the study. The researcher has used semi-structured questions to obtain relevant information from the participants in the focus groups. The purpose of using semi-structured questions in the focus groups was to draw on their knowledge and experience of communicable disease surveillance and control in relation to Cholera, as well as to ascertain their views on the role of the Environmental-Health Practitioners in the Communicable - Disease Outbreak- Response Teams at the three different spheres of government. The process of qualitative data analysis was followed. This was based on data reduction and interpretation; and it was conducted as an activity simultaneously with data collection, data interpretation (coding) and narrative writing. The information obtained from the analysed data assisted in the development of the environmentalhealth work methods and procedures for the surveillance and control of Cholera in the KwaZulu-Natal province, South Africa. In this study, firstly, the epidemiology of Cholera was described and analysed against the background of its manifestation in South Africa. Secondly, the national health care system, with specific reference to the place and role of environmental health practitioners at national, provincial and municipal spheres – in relation to Cholera surveillance and control – was analysed. Thirdly, the relevant research that has been done globally has been analysed against the background of the findings of the above, together with work methods and procedures to be used by environmental-health practitioners during the surveillance and control of Cholera in the KwaZulu-Natal Province, South Africa. These include, inter alia: Work methods and procedures for Cholera case investigation; Work methods and procedures for sanitary investigations; and Work methods and procedures for identifying the sources of contamination in environmental waters. Finally, the conclusion and limitations was presented, and appropriate recommendations were made. These include: he need to educate all role - players, on the recent developments in the identification of Vibrio cholerae from environmental surface waters; Communication systems should be developed that allow the Director: Environmental Health to communicate urgent environmental health information directly to the Minister of Health; he training of environmental-health practitioners on detailed work methods and procedures for the surveillance and control of Cholera; and the existing national Cholera control guidelines need to be updated to include relevant environmental health situations when emergencies arise.
5
Kriel, Pieter Frederik. "Workers for the harvest producing and training the leaders the church needs to fulfil its missionary task /." Thesis, Pretoria : [s.n.], 2009. http://upetd.up.ac.za/thesis/available/etd-09252009-012852/.
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Mkhize, Zethu Maud. "Social functioning of a child-headed household and the role of social work." Thesis, 2006. http://hdl.handle.net/10500/1898.
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A family is a basic unit of society. Among the many functions that are performed by a family, is the task of providing for its children's needs while simultaneously transmitting the society's way of life. The functioning of the family takes place through a parent-child relationship. It is therefore significant for the family to carry out parental tasks in order to give a sense of security, a sense of companion and belonging, a sense of responsibility, sense of purpose and direction to its members.
Although there are many factors that pose a threat to family functioning, the scourge of the HIV/AIDS pandemic cannot be underestimated. As the disease has advanced over time, it has negatively impinged on the children's lives. Children are losing their parents to HIV/AIDS opportunistic illnesses and this has resulted in the burgeoning of child-headed households. The phenomenon of a child-headed household presents a shift from a structural family since a significant subsystem of a family (i.e the parental subsystem) is non-existent.
The study presents an in-depth investigation into the social functioning of a child-headed household. The aim was to come to a better understanding about issues that surround households that are headed by children. The social institutions with whom the household co-exists have been scrutinised in order to determine the ways in which these institutions impact upon the social functioning of child-headed households. The study highlights that child-headed households are a deviation from the norm and they create a situation where needs of children are unmet and their rights are eroded. The role of social work in mobilising resources to meet the unmet needs and championing for the rights of the children has been investigated.
Case studies of ten families were conducted in the three districts of KwaZulu-Natal an area in South Africa that has widely been reported as hardest hit by the pandemic. A research team was constituted which designed a protocol for conducting case studies and collected data. Social workers also participated in the study with an aim of exploring guidelines for social service delivery with regard to a child-headed household.
The study found that children are increasingly exposed to aspects of multiple care-giving through lack of parental care and a changing family structure. It was also revealed that the HIV/AIDS pandemic is shattering children's lives and reversing many hard won children's rights. In spite of the transition in the family life cycle, the family remains the central institution in the children's lives. The scourge of HIV/AIDS poses a great challenge to society. Children are left on their own without visible means of support. The problems of children develop into great magnitude in spite of policies that are in place.
The findings of the study point to implications for a practice model that is aimed at
co-ordinating services for effective service delivery. The researcher has presented suggested guidelines based on the findings of the study. These guidelines include the role of social work in ensuring that the social functioning of the children in child-headed households is enhanced and that social justice for these children is promoted. A protocol for intervention in child-headed households is provided. This would ensure that interventions in bringing about desired change in the lives of the children, produce sustainable results on a significant scale.Social work
D. Phil.(Social Work)
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Msukwini, Themba. "An investigation into the human resources capacity needs to facilitate learner support of work integrated learning at a university of technology : a case study of the Durban University of Technology." Thesis, 2017. http://hdl.handle.net/10321/2589.
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Submitted in fulfilment of the Doctor in Technology: Human Resource Management, Durban University of Technology, 2017.There is a concern that students are inadequately prepared before being placed in industry to do Work Integrated Learning (WIL). To add on to this, the Co-operative Education Practitioners as well as the external partners or employers are not sufficiently supported to drive this challenging work. This may have an adverse impact on the students as they would drop out or perform badly. Students are from different backgrounds, some of them are from rural areas where there is a scarcity of work opportunities. The opportunity of getting a placement in industry is an unusual experience to them. This research implements a Single Case Study (Durban University of Technology case study), a mixed method design is followed combining both qualitative and quantitative methods. One of the main reasons for using a single case study in this investigation is that the DUT practices of Co-operative Education and Work Integrated Learning are not unique. It is representative of other Universities of Technology in South Africa. The first stage involves collecting data from students that are undertaking WIL. The second stage entailed targeting the graduates that were enrolled for programmes that incorporated WIL. The third and fourth stages involved the Co-operative Education Practitioners or the Co-ordinators of WIL at DUT and employers or supervisors of WIL students in the workplace respectively. Furthermore, this investigation will focus on stratified random sampling. The aim of the pilot study was done in order to test the questionnaires with regards to the relevance and clarity of questions. The objectives are to investigate the role, responsibilities and qualities of university and industry staff for facilitating support for learners. This study revealed that a large percentage of employers suggested that lack of learner support can contribute to student failure. Also, WIL Co-ordinators need to be capacitated as the majority of respondents indicated that training to facilitate WIL is extremely important (64%). 72 percent of the respondents indicated that the visits by the Co-operative Education Practitioners in workplaces are extremely important.
D
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Chikoko, Gamuchirai Loraine. "The nature of the psychological conditions of work engagement among employees at a University in Durban, South Africa." Thesis, 2011. http://hdl.handle.net/10413/7580.
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Throughout history the discipline of psychology has been dominated by the study of mental illness as opposed to mental wellness. The introduction of positive psychology has caused a shift from the bias towards mental illness to a focus on psychological wellbeing. The aim of positive psychology is to begin to catalyse a change in the focus of psychology from preoccupation only with repairing the worst in life to building positive qualities. This has resulted in an increase of studies on positive traits and feelings. In light of this, work engagement has become a focus area particularly given that research has shown that disengagement or alienation at the workplace is central to the problem of employees’ lack of commitment and motivation. It is therefore important to understand why some employees stay engaged at work even whilst facing challenges with constant change and why others disengage at work. The objective of this study was to investigate the relationship between three psychological conditions namely psychological meaningfulness, psychological safety, and psychological; availability; job characteristics; and work engagement. Furthermore, the study sought to investigate the mediating effects of psychological conditions on the relationship between work engagement and job characteristics. A survey design was used with a questionnaire as a data gathering instrument. The sample consisted of 150 employees of a university. Descriptive statistics (e.g. mean and standard deviations), Pearson product-moment correlation coefficients and multiple regressions were used to analyse the data. The results showed that psychological meaningfulness was the strongest predictor of work engagement and that it fully mediated the relationship between job characteristics (job enrichment, work role fit and rewarding co-worker relations). Psychological availability did not predict work engagement but indicated a statistically significant correlation with cognitive, emotional and psychical resources. Limitations in this research are identified and recommendations are made for future research.Thesis (M.A.)-University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, 2011.
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Mujawamariya, Consolee. "Living with xenophobia : understanding the lived experiences of Burundian and Rwandese refugees in Durban (South Africa)." Thesis, 2013. http://hdl.handle.net/10413/10074.
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The main purpose of the study described in this report was to better understand the lived
experiences of refugees from Burundi and Rwanda living in the inner city of Durban and
facing xenophobia. This study was motivated by available research evidence that
xenophobia is a widespread phenomenon, together with the researcher’s own experience
of living as a refugee in South Africa. The investigation was guided by ‘structural social
work theory’ and used a qualitative descriptive approach. The sample of the study,
purposively selected using snowball sampling technique, consisted of ten adult refugees
from Burundi and Rwanda who had been granted refugee status in South Africa. As a
data collection tool, semi-structured interviews were conducted with the participants. To
ensure trustworthiness, criteria of credibility, dependability, confirmability and
transferability were taken in account.
The study revealed that all the participants have fled their respective countries due to
ethnic conflicts and on-going civil wars. Traumatised by the experience that had led to
their flight, all ten participants were found to have been re-traumatised further along the
flight, and symptoms of post-traumatic stress syndrome were common. It was possible to
demonstrate that this background experience undermined participants’ ability to cope
with xenophobia. Xenophobia was found to feature in the form of both interpersonal and
structural violence, the latter consisting of both social and economic marginalisation and
exclusion. According to the research participants, the prevailing xenophobia in South
Africa can be attributed to a number of interconnected factors including: the impact of
South Africa’s apartheid history on attitudes of South Africans towards black foreigners,
coupled with a general lack of knowledge about who are refugees; high levels of violence
coupled with an apparent social acceptability of crime; as well as the negative statements
of the media about foreigners in general and refugees in particular. Against this
background, participants indicated a range of coping strategies, including the following:
escape from identity; psychological and social withdrawal; living in overcrowded inner
city areas to cut costs of living and minimise risks of exposure to xenophobic violence;
embracing self and informal employment.
Based on the study findings, this research report concludes with the proposition of a
number of recommendations towards curbing xenophobia in South Africa and enabling
refugees to overcome past traumatic experiences, integrate and become active
contributors to South Africa’s economy, in line with the qualifications that they may have
attained prior to flight. To this end, contributions are required of everyone concerned
with the refugees’ integration including the South African government, the media, the
social work profession, the refugees themselves, as well as the communities amongst
which they live. Much more research needs to be done to increase social workers’
understanding of the needs of refugees and of xenophobia, and to guide appropriate
professional responses.Thesis (M.A.)-University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, 2013.
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Mathekga, Henrietta Laurencia. "Towards ranger resilience : a social work model to assist rangers in dealing with workplace challenges." Thesis, 2017. http://hdl.handle.net/10500/23819.
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Rangers, as vanguards of wildlife conservation, are constantly fighting off armed
poachers. That makes their work stressful and dangerous. In spite of this, their needs are
neglected and are not considered as the focus is on saving wildlife. Undoubtedly, the African
continent is not spared from the unrelenting poaching menace that threatens to drive the world’s
wildlife spicies into extinction. In response to this scourge, countries, in their quest to
safeguard these species from extermination, have signed various treaties, continuously come up with different strategies and pledged their support to fight illegal wildlife trading.
This study was conducted at Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park (HIP) and Mkhuze Game Reserve, which are under
the management of Ezemvelo KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) Wildlife Management. These parks have turned into a battlefield between poachers and rangers. The intrinsic case study approach, which is explorative and interpretive in perspective, was used to unravel and describe the experiences from the world view of rangers. A descriptive qualitative research design was used to gain insight from the rangers about their challenges and needs in the workplace.
Furthermore, developmental research was used to design and develop a tailor- made technology – a ranger resilience-building model – to assist rangers to deal with their workplace challenges. Focus group discussions were conducted with a group of rangers, while individual semi-structured interviews were conducted with managers in order to solicit information from purposively selected
sample of rangers and managers at HIP and Mkhuze Game Reserve, that assisted in the development of
the model.
Ethical considerations, which involve the informed consent of the participants,
confidentiality and privacy, participants’ right to withdraw from the study and the
management of information, were applied to ensure that the participants were
protected from harm.
The collected data was analysed by using codes and themes that best described the experiences of
the rangers, and data verification was done before the process of model development. It was evident
that rangers are faced with a variety of workplace challenges, such as poor quality of work life,
unpleasant living conditions, coupled with poor amenities, inadequte wellness interventions, and the poor management and implementation of policies by the Human Resources (HR) Department.
Nevertheless, teamwork and their cultural practices were positive aspects that promoted their coping capacities in dealing with their everyday challenges.Social Work
D. Litt. et Phil.(Social Work)
11
Pillay, Kreshona. "Happiness, psychological capital and organisational citizenship behaviour of employees in a financial institution in Durban, South Africa." Thesis, 2012. http://hdl.handle.net/10413/9379.
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The work environment in financial institutions where deadlines, budgets, routine work and performance issues are common can compromise most people’s sense of happiness. Therefore happiness in the workplace rarely manifests without significant effort from employees. Successful organisations need employees that will do more than their job requirements and go beyond expectations i.e. perform organisational citizenship behaviours (OCB). In light of the increasing interest in positive psychology the study aimed to focus on happiness and psychological capital (PsyCap) to find ways to enhance employees’ positive psychological states to achieve positive organisational outcomes such as OCB.
The study therefore aimed to determine whether a relationship exists between happiness, PsyCap and OCB amongst employees in financial institutions. The study also sought to determine the predictive value of happiness and PsyCap in predicting OCB. Furthermore the moderating effect of PsyCap was assessed to determine the extent to which PsyCap moderated the relationship between happiness and OCB.
A cross-sectional research design was used in the study. The researcher used a sample of 185 (N = 185) employees from a financial institution in Durban, South Africa. The researcher used five questionnaires in the study. A biographical questionnaire created by the researcher, the Orientations to Happiness Scale (OHS) used as the first measure of happiness, the Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS) used as the second measure of happiness, the Psychological Capital Questionnaire (PCQ), and the Organisational Citizenship Behaviour Questionnaire (OCBQ).
The main findings of the study indicated that there were practically and statistically significant relationships between happiness (measured by the OHS), PsyCap and OCB. More specifically relationships were found to exist between happiness, the two PsyCap factors (hopeful-confidence and positive outlook) and the OCB factors (altruism, courtesy, sportsmanship and civic virtue). A significant finding was that happiness measured by SWL showed no significant relationships with OCB or the OCB factors thus indicating that happiness measured by orientations to happiness was a better measure of happiness for the employees in the financial institution. Happiness and the PsyCap factors were found to hold predictive value for some of the OCB factors. In determining the moderating effect of PsyCap it was found that only positive outlook significantly moderated the relationship between happiness and one of the OCB factors, civic virtue.
The study has focused on happiness in the workplace and its relationship to organisational constructs such as PsyCap and OCB. The results of the study can therefore be deemed to be beneficial to managers in financial institutions and employees themselves. The study has made a significant contribution by highlighting that employees in a financial institution consider orientations to happiness (pleasure, meaning, and engagement) to be a more compelling measure of happiness in determining the likelihood to performing OCBs at work as opposed to satisfaction with life as a measure of happiness. Thus the orientations to happiness were concluded as being a more appropriate measure of happiness for employees in a financial institution in relation to OCBs. By focussing on employee’s level of happiness, how employees conceptualise happiness and the benefits of happy employees to the organisation, this information can provide organisations with a better understanding of employees and suggest to organisations to consider finding means to enhance happiness in the workplace. Happiness and PsyCap have shown to be related to positive organisational outcomes such as OCB which lead to organisational effectiveness and success. Therefore of specific relevance is enhancing the PsyCap of employees to achieve desired outcomes such as OCB. The findings can be used to prompt and encourage organisations to develop interventions that increase employee’s PsyCap and to focus on employee well-being and happiness.Thesis (M.A.)-University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, 2012.
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Keen, Helen. "An exploration of the phenomena of multiple addictions and addiction interaction disorder in Durban, South Africa." Thesis, 2013. http://hdl.handle.net/10413/11182.
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Addiction to drugs is a widely acknowledged problem in South Africa. Newer developments in
the study of addiction include behaviours such as gambling and sex as part of a broader
syndrome. International research has established that most people with one addiction are at risk
for co-occurring addictions which are frequently undiagnosed and untreated. Multiple addictions
(MA) have been shown to combine in specific patterns to produce addiction interaction disorder
(AID) resulting in a more complex, treatment- resistant illness.
This was the first study South Africa to investigate if people with substance use disorders had
other addictions. The research had three aims: to establish if in-patients admitted to three drug
rehabilitation centres had other addictions, to investigate the extent of the MA and AID and to
determine whether the treatment programmes managed them appropriately. The study employed
the mixed methods research design and was located at three in-patient facilities in Durban,
KwaZulu-Natal. During the first phase, discussion groups were held with professionals that
explored their perceptions of MA, AID and current treatment programmes. The second phase
involved a survey of 123 participants screened for poly-substance abuse, sex (including internet)
addiction and problem gambling. The third phase utilised in-depth interviews with 25 participants
displaying MA to understand the development of addiction, AID and treatment received. The
data were analysed utilising descriptive and statistical analysis for the survey data, and thematic
analysis for the in-depth interviews and discussion groups.
The study found a high incidence of MA within the survey population of 54%; 37% of
participants tested positive or at risk for problem gambling and 41% tested positive for sex
addiction with 24% of the participants being positive for both. In-depth interviews revealed high
rates of trauma, especially for the female participants and demonstrated the complex
interrelationship between addictions. AID was identified in all 25 participants. In KwaZulu-
Natal, it appears that MA and AID are currently not being assessed or treated. The study
highlights the need for a broader conceptualisation of addiction which would improve current
assessment and treatment and has implications for further training of professionals and addiction
policy in South Africa.Ph.D. University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban 2013.
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Reddy, N. G. "The viability of a national healthcare system for South Africa : a KwaZulu-Natal case study." Thesis, 2004. http://hdl.handle.net/10413/4343.
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This research is an endeavour to highlight the state of healthcare in South Africa as seen through the eyes of professional health care workers who are at the cold face of healthcare. Having worked in an environment of inequities and unjust circumstances, healthcare workers expressed their attitudes and beliefs that healthcare are in need of radical change. There appears to be insight from these professionals that the private and public healthcare sectors should forge a relationship, ultimately benefiting South African society. More research needs to be done on a major scale to determine more deeply the attitudes and beliefs of healthcare professionals. Such an endeavour will provide a stimulus for policymakers to harness this energy and direct it in a meaningful way in the transformation of healthcare in South Africa. Chapter 1 focused on several relevant perspectives and definitions on healthcare in South Africa and other countries. In Chapter 2, attention was given to socio-economic rights as per the South African Constitution and the states obligations to fulfil these rights. These rights were examined in the context of landmark Constitutional Court cases, viz. Soobramoney versus the State; TAC versus the State; and Grootboom versus the State. These cases give one the essence of interpreting rights and the constitutional obligation of the state to deliver on them. Healthcare developments in South Africa and other countries together with the RDP and GEAR considerations are outlined in Chapter 3. Research Methodology is outlined in Chapter 4, emphasizing also the limitations of this study. Chapter 5 examines the responses to the questionnaires and analyses its findings. Chapter 6 provides the conclusions and recommendations as well as a critique of healthcare in South Africa.Thesis (M.A.)-University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, 2004.
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Ntombela, Ngenisiwe Henrietta. "Revitalising school social work services in a global economy : a developmental perspective." Thesis, 2004. http://hdl.handle.net/10530/515.
Full textAbstract:
Submitted in fulfillment of the requirements for the Degree of Doctor of Philosophy in the Department of Social Work in the Faculty of Arts at the University of Zululand, 2004.This stucly set out to investigate the possibility of school social work intervention as an institutional structure in South African schools with special reference to the Durban, Empangeni and Pietermaritzburg education areas where the writer carried out the empirical observation. The justification or the investigation was strengthened by the double factors of globalisation and fast increasing technology transfer throughout the world- The study regarded the multiplicity of social, financial and other problems plaguing communities in South Africa as a given. Against this background, the question asked was whether, given the reality of these factors inhibiting the intellectual and vocatipnal development of school going children, educational provision for social work intervention as it obtains at the moment, was adequate to equip the younger generation to fit gainfully in a highly competitive and fast changing global market. ln terms of methodological orientation, the study was both exploratory and descriptive in nature. It employed both qualitative and quantitative methods including interviews and focused groups. The sample was divided into two phases. The respondents in phase one were educators and education managers. The respondents in phase two were social workers and social work managers from the Department of Welfare as well as non-governmental organizations CNGO's). For this study two interview schedules were used to obtain data. One was for Educators and Education Managers and the other was for Social Workers and Social Work Managers. The findings of this study are revealing in their disclosure. They reveal that the child could benefit from a developmental perspective in school social work, as this perspective would discourage dependency, and promote parental involvement and that of other sections of the community having a vested interest in the school. The findings of this study give ample indication that given the situation of South Africa within a fast changing global economy, the introduction of, as well as adequate provisioning for school social work intervention would be a well placed structural improvement in the South African schooling system. Somewhat disturbing though was the finding that educators were not making adequate use of social Work services (where available in referring children with social problems to social work agencies). In turn the agency social workers were'unable to attend speedily to children's social problems because of their heavy case loads. With this in the background, the recommendation for the insti'tutionalisation of school social work is no longer of legislative choice but an existential imperative.
15
Demmer, Craig. "AIDS-related bereavement in the South African context : a study of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban." Thesis, 2005. http://hdl.handle.net/10413/2694.
Full textAbstract:
Not only does South Africa have the largest number of people with HIV/AIDS in the world, it continues to have a high mortality rate associated with AIDS due to the limited availability of antiretroviral treatment in this country. While a body of empirical research has developed in the West on the issue of AIDS-related bereavement, it has limited applicability to the South African context where the daily lives of people infected with and affected by HIV/AIDS are markedly different to those in more developed countries in the West, in terms of the extent of HIV-related morbidity and mortality, poverty, stigma, availability of social support, gender inequality, medical treatment, welfare services and government policies. An exploratory, descriptive study was therefore undertaken to examine AIDS-related bereavement experiences among adults in KwaZulu-Natal, Durban. Qualitative face-face interviews were conducted with 18 adults who had lost one or more significant others to AIDS. Qualitative face-face interviews were also conducted with eight professionals working in non-governmental organizations in KwaZulu-Natal that served people
affected by HIV/AIDS to obtain their perspectives on the issue of AIDS-related
bereavement among clients and how they were addressing this issue within their organizations. A social ecological framework was used to understand participants' experiences with AIDS-related bereavement. Two major themes emerged: participants had to keep their grief to themselves and more urgent life stresses took priority in their lives. A conspiracy of silence existed as a result
of the high level of stigma associated with HIV/AIDS and a perceived lack of both informal and formal support for those infected with and affected by HIV/AIDS. Grief was treated as a "luxury" in a sense and energies had to be focused on daily survival needs. Participants tended to suppress their emotions and relied on inner resources, in particular finding meaning in their loss and relying on their religious faith. Interviews with professionals confirmed these themes. Recommendations are made at both the local and national levels to address AIDS-related bereavement. It is suggested that while individual and group interventions should be developed for those at risk for complicated grief as a result of an AIDS-related loss, the focus needs to be on structural changes such as reducing HIV-related stigma, combating poverty, encouraging men to play a more active role in the care and support of those who are ill with HIV/AIDS or bereaved by the disease, and improving the status and capability of the social work profession to respond to the HIV/AIDS epidemic within the
South African welfare policy framework. Further research needs to be conducted on AIDS-related bereavement in the South African context, considering the magnitude of AIDS-related loss and bereavement and the scarcity of indigenous information about this issue. Collaborations between researchers, practitioners and the bereaved are encouraged both in South Africa and internationally to highlight the unique nature of AIDS-related
bereavement in the South African context and to test the efficacy of indigenous strategies and interventions to address AIDS-related bereavement.Thesis (Ph.D.)-University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, 2005.
16
Rukema, Joseph Rudigi. "An exploration of rural communities' and government response strategies to drought in South Africa : the case of Msinga villages in KwaZulu-Natal province." Thesis, 2010. http://hdl.handle.net/10413/10431.
Full textAbstract:
This thesis seeks to explore and examine the application and use of indigenous
knowledge systems (IKS) in the management of drought through a case study of
Msinga village communities in the northern parts of KwaZulu-Natal Province, paying
specific attention to droughts that have been recorded and that prevail in the area.
Government's policy aimed at mitigating and the effect of drought on communities
and its effectiveness is examined as well. The question is whether government policy
measures supplement rural communities' drought management strategies.
The findings demonstrated that droughts are endemic in the study area and that
drought-management strategies are as intrinsic to local livelihood systems as are
seasonal-adjustment strategies. The findings also indicated that communities in
Msinga have knowledge of drought management. However, this knowledge
contributes very little to the management of drought. The findings also demonstrated
that there is poor capacity in government to deal with disasters and this has serious
repercussions for poor rural communities in Msinga. Disaster management requires
disaster reduction, planning, and capacity to reduce the losses borne by
impoverished households. This process will be more effective if there is efficient
mobilization of resources, rapid responses, and a long-term strategy to prevent
drought and reduce the risks of vulnerable groups, rather than transferring risks. The
new legislation, the Disaster Management Act of 2002, should ensure that any form
of financial and bureaucratic bottlenecks are eliminated so that assistance reaches
people more quickly and is based on developing a long-term programme targeting
the reduction of risks from the drought prevailing in Msinga. It is also important that
NGOs in the area are empowered and involved in disaster management and are
able to play their full role.Thesis (Ph.D.)-University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, 2010.
17
Mdlalose, Mbongiseni Shadrack. "The influence of the post provisioning norm in KwaZulu-Natal on the management of educator work satisfaction." Thesis, 2014. http://hdl.handle.net/10210/8854.
Full textAbstract:
D.Ed. (Educational Management)The learner teacher ratio is one of the factors that affects the quality of education provided in schools the national department of education (1992:6) indicated that one of the problems adversely affecting the overall quality of education in south Africa was, among others, not the shortage of educators but their unequal distribution. This unequal distribution of educators in schools was mainly due to the massive discrepancies in the amounts spent by the apartheid government on education departments (National Department of education, 1992:6 Coutts, 1996:131; University of Witswatersrand, 1997: 1)...
18
Gathiram, Neeta. "Social policy : transformation and delivery : study of welfare agencies in Kwazulu-Natal." Thesis, 2000. http://hdl.handle.net/10413/5673.
Full textAbstract:
Welfare agencies are involved in a complex process of transformation and
working to overcome the past unjust system of racial and social discrimination in
welfare. Many new policies have been developed as instruments of
transformation and reform. There has been a shift in welfare policy from a
residual model of welfare to a developmental focus. This requires radical
changes by those involved in the welfare sector.
This study assesses the level of transformation in service delivery in welfare
agencies in KwaZulu-Natal: the link between policy and implementation. The
White Paper of Social Welfare (1997) and subsequent policies will form the
criteria from which transformation will be evaluated.
Child Welfare agencies in KwaZulu-Natal formed the sample in the study. A
survey method was used. Management members and social workers the
agencies were interviewed. Senior officials and staff being policy-makers of the
National Council of Child Welfare were also interviewed.
It is argued that welfare agencies are grappling with the process of
transformation and that delivery of services is far removed from that which the
policies intend. Change, it is argued, has to be handled holistically, by combing
policy, organisational change, re-ciirecting of energy and social energy.
The results of study illustrates that what appears to have occurred thus far has
been limited, incremental and piecemeal. The global economy and the macro- .
economic policy of GEAR has constrained achievement of the goals of
developmental social wefare in that there has been minimal increases in social
spending. Past policies have put a brake on the implementation of a relevant
welfare system. It is unlikely that agencies have the capacity to deal with the intensity of policy change, organisational development and new client bases.
Overall, it can be argued that change has been haphazard, too rapid and poorly
managed.
A proposed model towards transformation is recommended. There has to be a
partnership in the public-civic interface based on synergy and co-production if
welfare services are to be relevant and meet the needs of the majority of people
of South Africa.Thesis (Ph.D.)-University of Durban-Westville, 2000.
19
Devnarain, Bhanumathi. "Poor access to water : the experiences of learners and educators within a rural primary school in Jozini, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa." Thesis, 2010. http://hdl.handle.net/10413/2748.
Full textAbstract:
Water is an indispensable basic human need which is protected by several
provisions within legislation. However, despite extensive legislation access to water
is problematic for many rural schools in South Africa. The achievement of the
Millennium Development Goals and national goals that are time bound are not
possible with the structural barriers that loom. This research study, sketches the
experiences of learners and educators who have been exposed to poor access to
water within a rural primary school in Jozini, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. This
research study employs a qualitative research paradigm using a case study method
to provide an in-depth understanding of the schooling context where there is poor
access to water. The main aim was to explore in-depth how the schooling community
is affected and what coping strategies are employed to deal with poor access to
water. The research study was approached using ecological systems and social
justice perspectives.
Findings suggest that the consequences of poor access to water at school level are
numerous and become even more complex when there is a lack of water at
community level. In a compounding manner the consequences have the potential to,
in the long term, have irreversible negative effects on learners and their potential to
access quality education. Furthermore educators and management are placed in an
invidious position to accommodate the challenges associated with poor access to
water at school as part of their everyday teaching routine. Educators are failing to
teach and learners are failing to learn thus the education system is rendered
dysfunctional. The recommendations echo those of the participants who maintain
that the community and the school must have access to water in order to improve
the quality of life of all. Changes at the structural level in terms of how access to
education is defined are a necessity. Co-operative governance, more stringent
monitoring and evaluation of the education system, approaching education from a
child-friendly perspective, adopting a human rights approach to fiscal spending and
the involvement of chapter 9 institutions to ensure social justice are examples of the
structural changes required and are part of the recommendations.Thesis (M.Soc.Sc.)-University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, 2010.
20
Mosoetsa, Sarah. "Urban livelihoods and intra-household dynamics: the case of Mpumalanga and Enhlalakahle townships, Kwazulu Natal, South Africa." Thesis, 2006. http://hdl.handle.net/10539/1728.
Full text
21
Nyembe, Zesuliwe Rita. "Performance appraisal of administrative personnel within the Department of Education : a case study of iLembe District Office, KwaZulu-Natal (R.S.A)." Thesis, 2016. http://hdl.handle.net/10321/1568.
Full textAbstract:
Submitted in fulfillment of part of the requirement for the degree of Master of Technology, Durban University of Technology, Durban, South Africa, 2016.This research examines the Performance Appraisal of administrative personnel in the Department of Education: iLembe District Office. The main aim of this study was to improve the understanding and the implementation of Performance Appraisal of all employees in the KZN Department of Education. This is a case study research utilising purposive sampling and thereafter census to identify the most appropriate participants based on the research objectives. This approach helped to reconcile findings through triangulation and complementing qualitative and quantitative data (both primary and secondary). This study relied on primary data as well as secondary data obtained from questionnaires administered to all administrative personnel in the Department of Education, iLembe District Office. The study revealed that management and administrative employees in the Department are aware that a Performance Appraisal policy exists but lack an understanding of its meaning and intent. Furthermore, Performance Appraisal was introduced without the appropriate training and follow-up by the Department of Public Service and Administration. Instead it was assumed that every worker in the Department understood the purpose and aim of the policy. However, management and particularly employees are still unclear about the main purpose of Performance Appraisal and employees in particular feel very dissatisfied and demotivated with the way in which it is implemented.
M
22
Edigheji, Sharon. "A gendered analysis of the casualisation of teachers' work in a transitional society, Durban, South Africa. 1993-4." Thesis, 1998. http://hdl.handle.net/10413/3933.
Full textAbstract:
This thesis describes the casualisation of teachers' work (in Greater Durban) during the
period of the democratic transition in South Africa. It provides evidence that contract
teaching exists among men and women teachers employed in primary and secondary
schools. These teachers are relegated to the secondary labour market with low income,
poorer working conditions and lack of job security.
It begins by adopting an electic theoretical approach, combining labour process and
interactionist theories, to understand teachers' work. From this eclectic theoretical
perspective, it is argued that contract teachers control and influence over their work is
considerably eroded by the casualisation of the teaching labour process. However, unlike
existing international studies, it is argued that casualisation of teaching in the Durban
area serves not only as a deskilling process for most contract teachers but also as a re-skilling
process for a few. Furthermore, this study shows that contract teaching has a
gendered dimension. Not only because women teachers are mostly affected by
casualisation of teaching but that it tends to relegate women to the primary school system
where they teach young children. It is therefore argued that the casualisation of teaching
extends women's mothering role into the classroom.
The historical basis for casualisation of teaching, in South Africa, especially its gender
dimension is a result of the 'Marriage Bar 'of 1912, the legacy of the Bantu Education
system and the non-standardisation of teachers' qualifications until the 1980s, as well as
the education policy flux during the period of political transition.
Because contract teaching has existed over a long period, it has to be acknowledged as a
sub-category of the national teaching corps. This means that the contribution of contract
teachers towards the formation and transformation of the capacity to learn should not
only be recognised and accordingly rewarded by education authorities but that
casualisation of teaching should constitute an area for further academic research.Thesis (M.Ed.)-University of Natal, 1998.
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Naicker, Soobramoney Govindsamy. "The role of the principal in managing work-related stress among secondary school educators." Diss., 2003. http://hdl.handle.net/10500/1389.
Full textAbstract:
Educator stress is a major problem worldwide. This study focuses on the role of the principal in the secondary school in providing support and assisting educators manage work-related stress, with particular reference to schools in Kwa-Zulu Natal, South Africa. The problem was investigated by means of a literature study and empirical investigation. The literature identified perspectives on educators' stress, the stress process of the educator and the principal, causes of work-related stress in educators and coping strategies. Furthermore, principals' leadership styles, theories of motivation and causes of principals' stress were discussed. A qualitative inquiry using focus group interviews was undertaken with a small sample of secondary school educators selected by purposeful sampling. Findings suggested that educator stress was caused by a lack of learner discipline; deterioration in educational standards; workload; policy changes; promotion procedures and the principal's leadership style. Based on the findings, recommendations were made for improvement of practice.Educational Studies
M. Ed. (Education Management)
24
Joshua, Stephen Muoki. "The history of AIDS in South Africa : a Natal ecumenical experience in 1987-1990." Thesis, 2006. http://hdl.handle.net/10413/1392.
Full textAbstract:
The interface between apartheid and Aids in the unique South African context between 1987 and 1990 is particularly striking. Natal was such a volatile ground, one rocked by political violence and threatened by a world epidemic. A literary study of the four years' Natal Witness Aids articles and an oral witness by four clergy living in Natal at the times reveal an intriguing debate and deeds by the people in Natal. The difficulty in ascertaining the actual spread of the disease in South Africa was imperative in the search for a reliable information system. Neither the random testing prior to 1987 nor the secret testing between 1987 and 1989 produced reliable Aids statistics. The launching of surveillance testing in 1990 not only amounted to a reliable information system but also revealed staggering statistics reports. Not only was the infection doubling every six months, but it was becoming predominantly heterosexual and exacerbated in the black race. A close study of the Natal Witness articles reveals that the Natal Aids debate could be chronologically divided into four characteristic periods. The 1987 debate was an international debate because the focus was on what was happening in North America and in Europe. The 1988 debate was an African debate because the focus on Aids for the first time placed the African continent on spotlight indicating signs of its future lead in infection and mortality. The 1989 debate was a South African debate because the articles featured miner's plague and the gay plague and their possible negative influence on the economy. The 1990 debate zoomed into the Natal province as it revealed attitudes, myths, and controversies that underpinned the Aids disease. The Natal Witness reports are both contrasted and complemented by the reflections of four Christian ministers who served in Natal at the time. The clergy used particular philosophical frameworks to reconstruct their experiences. According to Sol Jacobs, a 'black consciousness' Methodist priest, the churches did not engage in prevention because of their racial divisions. Vic Bredencamp witnessed a judgemental church, one that could not deal with the Aids disease because of its punitive theology. Ronald Nicolson, an Anglican priest, only witnessed an ignorant church, one that could not become involved in Aids prevention because of its paralysis ignorance. Lastly, Paul Decock, a Catholic priest, witnessed an active church, one that was actively involved in Aids activism as early as 1987. The ministers differed immensely on how the church responded to the Aids disease as well as in the reasons for that particular response. Both the articles and the interviews were found to be misleading in several instances. Through editing and selection, the articles left out important details and articles. The interviewees could barely establish a chronology in their memory of events. With the help of internal and external evidence however, both the interviews and the articles complement each other in establishing the Aids experiences of the Christians in Natal.Thesis (M.Th.)-University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg, 2006.
25
Shakwane, Simangele. "Socio-cultural perceptions of nursing and its influence on the recruitment and retention of males student nurses in Nursing Education Institutions (NEIs), KwaZulu Natal Province." Diss., 2014. http://hdl.handle.net/10500/19170.
Full textAbstract:
Nursing is a female dominated profession; making it difficult for men in the profession to excel in their caring capacities as nurses. This study aimed at identifying and describing male and female nurses' insights into and perceptions of socio-cultural influences on the recruitment and retention of men in the nursing profession and also explores their experiences in providing intimate care to patients of opposite gender. The study adopted a qualitative research methodology: 16 male and 11 female nursing students were purposively sampled and were interviewed using semi-structured questions. Themes of nursing seen as women's work; low status; stigma; caring and helping others were developed. Feelings of embarrassment and discomfort; fear and refusal of care were experienced when providing intimate care to patients of opposite gender; this has led male participants to develop strategies to protect themselves from sexual accusations. The Nursing Education Institutions (NEIs) have insufficient toilets for male nursing students; there is a lack of male role models and feminine pronouns are used when relating to professional nurses.
Evidently socio-cultural perceptions of nursing enforce a negative image. The difficulties experienced by male and female nurses when providing intimate care and lack of male-friendliness in NEIs were discussed. These factors will lead to a further decline in the recruitment and retention of men in nursing; skilled and intelligent nurses are leaving the profession.Health Studies
M.A. (Nursing Science)
26
Coetzee, Colleen. "Transition from school to the world of work : experiences of individuals with physical disabilities from a special school in KwaZulu-Natal." Thesis, 1999. http://hdl.handle.net/10413/2970.
Full textAbstract:
With the move in South Africa towards equal employment opportunities in the open labour market, schools as well as business face the challenge of preparing individuals with disabilities for successful transition from school to work. This study examined the extent to which schools and business are working towards helping with this transition process for the disabled. The study explored how individuals with physical disabilities, who have moved into the open labour market, have experienced vocational transition planning at school level, and whether or not these programmes have adequately prepared them for the workplace. The study used a qualitative research methodology. The sample comprised 5 learners who had attended a special needs school in KwaZulu-Natal. The data collection techniques used were semi-structured interviews,
which were audio-taped, and transcribed. The findings indicate that the principles of human rights and social justice for all citizens enshrined in policy documents that have emerged in South Africa since 1994, have not been translated into practice. The rights of individuals with disabilities to achieve equality of opportunity and equal access to service in society and their right to full citizenship continues to be violated. The results also revealed that, although the special needs school was concerned with developing relevant curriculum for students with disabilities, very little is done to prepare students for transition from school to the work environment. The study has revealed that students with disabilities require a far more structured, needs driven vocational transition programme, that will enable them to compete more favourably with their able
bodied colleagues in the work place. Legislation must be developed to protect and guarantee the vocational transition services of students with disabilities. This legislation must be augmented by an administrative framework to ensure the smooth management and running of a national vocational transition programme.Thesis (M.Ed.)-University of Natal, 1999.
27
Gumede, Phiwayinkosi Richmond. "The psychosocial well-being of teenaged orphans in a rural community, Kwazula-Natal." Diss., 2009. http://hdl.handle.net/10500/3607.
Full textAbstract:
Dealing with HIV and AIDS and parental illness and death are realities many teenagers have to face, yet little is known about their psychosocial well-being. This study gauged the psychosocial well-being of teenaged orphans in a rural area in KwaZulu-Natal. Using a narrative approached, data were collected by means of interviews. The study examined the nature of social support available to teenaged orphans and their subjective experiences of well-being. Findings suggest that these teenagers were confronted with drastic changes before and after the deaths of their parents. The ramifications of these and the different ways of coping with orphanhood were explored. Foster parents and other care-givers were found to provide differentially in the needs of the teenagers and this impacted on their well-being and coping. This study extends the literature on children made vulnerable by HIV and AIDS by considering the specific experiences of teenagers.Social Work
M.A. (Social Behaviour Studies in HIV/AIDS)
28
Tayo, Siphiwo Zandisile. "The experience and challenges of women living with HIV in the Pietermaritzburg region, Kwazulu-Natal province: perspectives of social workers." Diss., 2014. http://hdl.handle.net/10500/14564.
Full textAbstract:
A qualitative study was undertaken in Pietermaritzburg to unveil the experiences and challenges of WLWHIV as perceived by social workers as well as to explore and describe the experiences of social workers in rendering services to these women. Explorative, descriptive and contextual research designs were employed for the research process. Purposive and snowball sampling techniques were utilised to recruit participants who met the set criteria. Face-to-face semi-structured interviews were conducted with thirteen participants. Data obtained were transcribed and analysed applying Tesch‘s eight steps (Creswell, 2009). Data verification was guided by Guba‘s model (Krefting, 1991).
The findings revealed the existence of strained relationships between WLWHIV and their partners and ineffective delivery of social work services to WLWHIV. Based on the findings, it is recommended that specialised training for social workers on issues related to death and dying and services for children of WLWHIV be incorporated in the guidelines for social work practiceSocial Work
M.A. (social Work)
29
Mathee, Anél. "Die effek van militêre ontplooiing op die soldaat in Kwazulu-Natal met spesifieke verwysing na die gesin." Diss., 1997. http://hdl.handle.net/10500/18162.
Full textAbstract:
Text in AfrikaansNa aanleiding van die toename in tendense wat voorkom by die ontplooide soldate, byvoorbeeld aansoeke om verplasings nader aan die huis, afwesigheid sander verlof en alkoholmisbruik, het die navorser ondersoek ingestel na die effek van die ontplooiing op die soldaat en sy gesin. 'n Verkenningstudie is gekies om die probleemareas te verken. Die nominale groepstegniek is gebruik om die inligting te verkry vanaf die 16 gesinne wat deur doelbewuste seleksie gekies is. Die Die navorser het bevind dat daar wel verskeie probleme tuis ontstaan het as gevolg van die ontplooiing. Beide die blanke en Zoeloe gesinne het probleme ervaar as gevolg van die ontplooiing, alhoewel die probleme verskil het by die verskillende kulture. Verskeie aanbevelings is gemaak en sluit die samewerking van die maatskaplike werkers, kompanie bevelvoerders, eenheidsbevelvoerders om die omstandighede van die soldate in die ontplooiingsituasie, asook die van hulle gesinn, te verbeter.
M.A. (Maatskaplike Werk)
30
Selepe, Olpha Nkosingiphile. "Management of National Certificate Vocational curriculum in addressing skills shortage in Newcastle, KwaZulu-Natal." Diss., 2017. http://hdl.handle.net/10500/23735.
Full textAbstract:
The aim of this study was to investigate how the National Certificate Vocational (NCV) curriculum is being managed at Majuba TVET College in ensuring that it impacts positively in addressing skills shortage in the Newcastle area.
The following was the main question for the study:
How is Majuba TVET College managing the National Certificate Vocational (NCV) curriculum in addressing skills shortage in the Newcastle area?
A comprehensive literature review was conducted to provide strong arguments as presented by different authors who wrote on the topic after conducting research about Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Colleges
A qualitative method was chosen by the researcher to gather data on the management of the NCV curriculum in addressing skills shortage. The main aim was to discuss the methods the researcher used in the study to collect data meant to acquire the impact of the NCV curriculum management in addressing skills shortage.
Data was collected through face-to-face interviews, non-participant observation and literature review. It was then put together and analysed according to themes aligned to the main study problem and the sub problems in order to realise the main aim of the study and the sub-aims.
On the basis of the findings and the recommendations, the researcher proposed the importance of the college to review the NCV curriculum so that it is aligned with practical exposure enhanced by NCV students from the industry.
In conclusion, the findings pointed out that NCV students’ practical exposure may have a big impact in addressing skills shortage and combating the high unemployment rate in the Newcastle area.Educational Leadership and Management
M. Ed. (Education Management)
31
Maturure, Talent. "Burnout, work engagement and sense of coherence in nurses working at a central hospital in KwaZulu Natal." Diss., 2016. http://hdl.handle.net/10500/20159.
Full textAbstract:
The key objective of this study was to determine the relationship between burnout (measured by the Maslach Burnout Inventory – Human Services Survey (MBI-HSS)), work engagement (measured by the Utrecht Work Engagement Scale), and sense of coherence (measured by the Orientation of Life Questionnaire developed by Antonovsky (1987)). A quantitative study using a cross-sectional survey research design was conducted on a randomly selected sample (N = 178) of nurses at a central hospital in Kwa-Zulu Natal.
A theoretical relationship was established between the variables. The empirical relationship revealed statistically significant negative relationship between burnout and work engagement. A statistically significant negative relationship was also established between burnout and SOC.
The findings add valuable knowledge to industrial and organisational psychology and can be applied to promote employee and organisational wellness.Industrial and Organisational Psychology
M. Com. (Industrial and Organisational Psychology)
32
Bailey, Daniel. "Land reform in South Africa : a qualitative analysis of the land redistribution for agricultural development programme using experiences from a case study in KwaZulu-Natal." 2007. http://hdl.handle.net/10413/3330.
Full textAbstract:
Land reform in South Africa has not been very successful. The process of land delivery has been slow and livelihoods in South Africa are becoming increasingly vulnerable as land reform fails to meet its objectives. Since 1994, millions have been made homeless due to farm evictions that have counteracted the positive impact of land reform. Intensive debate has been initiated about the approach to land reform; however, current programme-specific information has been unreliable in providing insight into the impact of land reform projects that have been implemented. This thesis exammes the Land Redistribution for Agricultural Development (LRAD) programme, to determine how it can be enhanced to improve the lives of the programme's intended beneficiaries. Monitoring and evaluation is examined as a tool for improving programmes. This research also explores some of the shortcomings of the current monitoring and evaluation mechanisms for land reform. It is proposed that the LRAD programme should have a comprehensive ME promulgation of appropriate new land reform policy. An LRAD project at Loteni in rural KwaZulu-Natal is used as a case study and exposes some of the contextual challenges for LRAD policy. The qualitative analysis given provides insight into some of the problems of implementing the programme and reveals challenges for extension support. As a result of this critique, some recommendations are provided for improving the performance of LRAD. Key among the recommendations made to enhance LRAD is a set of measurable indicators for each of the stated objectives of the LRAD programme. Adopting such indicators will enable the programme to contribute to the improvement ofthe lives and livelihoods of the intended beneficiaries ofLRAD.Thesis (M.Sc.)-University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg, 2007.
33
Masuku, Bongiwe Thabile. "The potential of integrating structured experiential learning into the curriculum as a means of improving the agricultural extenstion curriculum : a comparative study of two programs in KwaZulu-Natal." Thesis, 2010. http://hdl.handle.net/10413/1255.
Full textAbstract:
The training of agricultural extension graduates is an important contributor to agriculturalThe training of agricultural extension graduates is an important contributor to agricultural development in both developed and developing countries. Extension workers help small holder farmers uplift their food production. In most African countries, the curriculum of agricultural extension institutions has been adopted from other countries. This causes higher education institutions to produce graduates with inadequate skills to meet the needs of African countries. With the transformation in South Africa, and the resultant unification of the extension system, the curriculum needs to be reviewed to meet the current needs of the employers. This research explores the potential of including structured experiential learning into the curriculum with the aim of bridging the gap that exists within the extension training systems in South Africa. The alumni from two institutions, one with an unstructured experiential learning programme and the other with a structured experiential learning programme were interviewed to find out the skills that they feel are needed and whether those skills can be effectively taught during the academic training of students. A convenience sampling method was used. The employer’s perceptions regarding the skills for effective extension work were also solicited. Both the alumni and the employers indicated that well planned and supervised experiential learning would help students acquire practical agriculture skills, and also orientate them to the new work environment. The educators indicated that the curriculum structure at times impedes the effective implementation of an experiential learning programme due to semester system and demands from other courses The research revealed that for effective experiential learning, it is important that universities work with communities in development programmes and to forge links with the industry. Although service providers may be willing to offer experiential learning to students, they are also limited in terms of resources. They cannot always accommodate students from tertiary institutions as there are number of them requiring experiential learning opportunities.
Thesis (M.Ed.)-University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, 2010.
34
"Materials and new designs in sustainable community development : a case study of Phumani Paper's Eshowe and Endlovini projects." Thesis, 2014. http://hdl.handle.net/10210/8805.
Full textAbstract:
M.Tech. (Fine Art)As a Fine Art graduate student, I worked at Phumani Paper Project's research unit based at the Technikon Witwatersrand from 2001 to 2004. The experience allowed me to render my services as a trainer for craft product design to help develop and sustain the poverty alleviation programme for Phumani Paper's papermaking projects around the country. Participants of the project benefit from the program in terms of training in the making of craft items, personal capacity building, and income generating opportunities. South Africa's history is fundamental to understanding the present social imbalance which the government, non-governmental organisations and private organisations are trying to address in various ways. My research work at the KwaZulu-Natal Papermaking and Packaging Project (KZN-PCPP) in Eshowe culminated in the writing of this dissertation. My research explored issues related to materials and design for the sustainability of the KZNPCPP. In regard to poverty alleviation I used Participatory Action Research (PAR), which was core to the activities and works presented in this dissertation. New designs for the packaging of craft products introduced during my intervention period helped improve the marketability of the products produced at KZNPCPP, and helped the participants to learn new skills. I focused on the introduction of sugar cane paper pulp in the making of ceramic wares. This added value to the potters' experience and to a certain extent helped reduce losses due to breakage during transportation.
35
Naidoo, Kerisha. "Where the streets have no names : factors predicting the provision of counselling and social work services for child rape survivors in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa." Thesis, 2009. http://hdl.handle.net/10413/89.
Full textAbstract:
Despite high prevalence rates for rape in South Africa, little focus has been placed on the rape of children, and even less on the secondary victimization of child rape survivors. Such secondary victimization may manifest in two forms, namely, negative attitudes and behaviours and the non-provision of essential services. This study aimed to explore secondary victimization in child rape as a result of the non-provision of counselling and social work services, to a sample of 200 child rape survivors, who presented for medico-legal assessment at a state hospital in the North Durban area (KwaZulu Natal, South Africa). Data analysis revealed that only 48.5% of the sample did in fact receive such services. In the majority of cases (20%), services were only provided between 2-7 days after the child had presented for medical evaluation. In addition, the study found that in most cases, service provision was limited to a single intake interview. Service provision was found to be less likely in cases where respondents resided in homesteads (informal or ‘traditional’ housing) that had no street address, or where the child presented at the study hospital outside of normal working hours. These findings are discussed in terms of their implications for secondary victimization and secondary prevention programming.Thesis (M.A.)-University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, 2009.
36
Dlamini, Glenrose Lindiwe. "The implementation of the Employment Equity Act No. 55 of 1998 in respect of people with disabilities in the Department of Health Kwazulu-Natal : perceptions and experiences of key personnel and people with disabilities." Thesis, 2002. http://hdl.handle.net/10413/4641.
Full textAbstract:
The study took place in the Department of Health. It involved four districts and the Head Office of the human resource planning component. Its purpose was to explore the extent to which the Employment Equity Act is implemented in respect of people with disabilities by the Department of Health, KwazuluNatal. The experiences and perceptions of employment equity officers and people with disabilities were explored. In addition the document on Gap Analysis on EEA was analyzed. Qualitative methodology guided the explorative descriptive nature of the research. The sample selected for the study aimed at balancing opinions on the subject under investigation. Data was collected through structured questionnaires, in depth interviews and content analysis of the departmental Gap Report on Employment Equity. The main findings revealed that there is a wide gap between the current status quo and achieving the desired objectives of the Act. There is also a lack of awareness among People with disabilities in understanding the legal rights in terms of the Act. This situation weakens stakeholder's participation in implementation of the Employment Equity Act NO.55 of 1998. The main recommendations related to the implementation of intensive training programmes, in order to assist stakeholders to participate effectively in Employment Equity Act programmes. A bottom up approach on implementation of the Employment Equity Act was recommended. This will help to ensure equal participation of and acceptance of the process by People with disabilities and employment equity officers.Thesis (M.A.)-University of Natal, Durban, 2002.
37
Makhanya, Buhle. "The impact of employee wellness programme on employee wellness and performance : a Kwazulu-Natal Municipality case study." Diss., 2021. http://hdl.handle.net/10500/27424.
Full textAbstract:
The general aim of this study was to gain insight into the perceptions and experiences
of line managers regarding the impact of an employee wellness programme (EWP) on
employee wellness and performance at a selected municipality in KwaZulu-Natal. As
a purposive sample, ten line managers were selected to participate in the study by
means of semi-structured interviews. The literature review aimed to conceptualise
wellness, employee wellness and employee performance, as well as to explore the
impact of EWPs on employee wellness and performance. The specific empirical study
aims were to determine line managers’ level of awareness and knowledge of the
municipality EWP and its purpose, to explore the challenges faced by line managers
within the EWP, to explore if the line managers perceived and experienced the
municipality EWP as being beneficial to employee wellness and whether participating
in the EWP improved employee performance. Lastly, the aim was to make
recommendations for improvement that can assist the municipality in enhancing the
impact of the EWP on employee wellness and performance within the industrial
psychology discipline, and in particular when it comes to employee wellness.
The research findings reveal that line managers were aware of and had knowledge
about the existence of the EWP through marketing campaigns, inductions and
activities. They also confirmed they had personal engagement experience through
participation in the programme. They perceived the main purpose of the EWP as being
to support employees in achieving a work-life balance and providing counselling and
advisory services. Participants noted certain challenges with regard to participating in
the programme, such as fear of being judged, victimised and stigmatised, and a lack
of confidentiality and trust, which affects employees’ privacy and security. Also, they
doubted wellness officer competence, which included the necessary skills and training
for dealing with complex cases. Lastly, gender and cultural beliefs also posed
challenges. Line managers found it beneficial to participate in the EWP. It improved
employee wellness and performance. Employees developed mechanisms to cope with
work, personal and emotional problems. Wellness officer availability, competence and
skills were recommended by participants as ways of enhancing the EWP. Involvement
of other stakeholders was another recommendation for improvement. This
involvement would include wellness champions, organised labour and line managers.
Programme managers should consider increasing EWP awareness by improving
marketing, while emphasising programme benefits and confidentiality.Industrial and Organisational Psychology
M. Com (Industrial and Organizational Psychology)
38
Maitin-Casalis, Wendy. "An evaluation of postgraduate social science students' knowledge of conducting research responsibility in a South African university." Thesis, 2010. http://hdl.handle.net/10413/537.
Full textAbstract:
Conducting research responsibly is an essential part of ethical research (Steneck & Bulger, 2007). When research is not conducted responsibly, the result is often research misconduct, which may cause harm to research participants (Aita & Richer, 2005). Although numerous methods and policies have been developed, both to prevent and to deal with research misconduct, such effects are ongoing (Howard Stone, 2001). A study conducted in the United States of America (USA) by Heitman, Olsen and Anestidou (2007) suggested that postgraduate biomedical students did not have sufficient knowledge of conducting research responsibly. This study aimed to adapt Heitman et al.’s (2007) study to social science postgraduate students at the University of KwaZulu-Natal in South Africa. Although findings indicated that the participants had adequate knowledge of conducting research responsibly, the variables hypothesised to have an impact on the results – such as age, research experience, and research training – did not produce any significant findings.Thesis (M.A.)-University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg, 2010.
39
Makhanya, Buhle. "The impact of employee wellness programme on employee wellness and performance : a Kwazulu Natal case study." Diss., 2001. http://hdl.handle.net/10500/27424.
Full textAbstract:
The general aim of this study was to gain insight into the perceptions and experiences
of line managers regarding the impact of an employee wellness programme (EWP) on
employee wellness and performance at a selected municipality in KwaZulu-Natal. As
a purposive sample, ten line managers were selected to participate in the study by
means of semi-structured interviews. The literature review aimed to conceptualise
wellness, employee wellness and employee performance, as well as to explore the
impact of EWPs on employee wellness and performance. The specific empirical study
aims were to determine line managers’ level of awareness and knowledge of the
municipality EWP and its purpose, to explore the challenges faced by line managers
within the EWP, to explore if the line managers perceived and experienced the
municipality EWP as being beneficial to employee wellness and whether participating
in the EWP improved employee performance. Lastly, the aim was to make
recommendations for improvement that can assist the municipality in enhancing the
impact of the EWP on employee wellness and performance within the industrial
psychology discipline, and in particular when it comes to employee wellness.
The research findings reveal that line managers were aware of and had knowledge
about the existence of the EWP through marketing campaigns, inductions and
activities. They also confirmed they had personal engagement experience through
participation in the programme. They perceived the main purpose of the EWP as being
to support employees in achieving a work-life balance and providing counselling and
advisory services. Participants noted certain challenges with regard to participating in
the programme, such as fear of being judged, victimised and stigmatised, and a lack
of confidentiality and trust, which affects employees’ privacy and security. Also, they
doubted wellness officer competence, which included the necessary skills and training
for dealing with complex cases. Lastly, gender and cultural beliefs also posed
challenges. Line managers found it beneficial to participate in the EWP. It improved
employee wellness and performance. Employees developed mechanisms to cope with
work, personal and emotional problems. Wellness officer availability, competence and
skills were recommended by participants as ways of enhancing the EWP. Involvement
of other stakeholders was another recommendation for improvement. This
involvement would include wellness champions, organised labour and line managers.
Programme managers should consider increasing EWP awareness by improving
marketing, while emphasising programme benefits and confidentiality.Industrial and Organisational Psychology
40
Naicker, Subramunian Anand. "A sociological study of the educational and career routes of a group of Indian secondary school students in the Durban area : the transition from school to work." Thesis, 1988. http://hdl.handle.net/10413/4500.
Full textAbstract:
This longitudinal study on the transition from school to work
of a group of Indian school-leavers from two co-educational
schools in Durban is an attempt to analyse the processes underlying
the construction of educational and career routes. It
deals with the lived experiences of boys and girls from different
social-class backgrounds within the school, the family, and
the work situation. This passage from school to work, which
also includes the experiences of unemployment, is examined
against the background of social interactions in micro settings,
as well as the influences of social, structural and cultural
forces. In particular, the career pathways are studied within
the context of the cultural background of Indians, and their
socio-historical location in the South African society as a
minority and an intermediate status group in a racially-divided
society.
As the students proceeded through the last three years at school
and into the first few months of work various qualitative,
field research methods were used to get some insight into the
changing and complex nature of the transitional process. These
methods included participant observation, focus sed and unfocussed
interviews, and discussions. Such qualitative research methods
were valuable for an understanding' of the meanings and values
on which the students' actions were based.
The structural and interpretive analysis of the family, the school, the labour market, and a patriarchal, capitalist, apartheid society points to the significance of ideological values, hegemony, class relations, racial, gender, and political and economic influences on the construction of educational and career identities. The analysis also indicates the close relationship
which exists on the one hand between the cultural interpretations
and practices of various social actors; and on the other
hand, the structural conditions in which these are located.
The findings provide some account of how social-class relations
are continued and sustained via related and different inequalities
such as race and gender. Race, class and gender exist side
by side in this reproduction process. By focussing on the close
relationship which exists between the actions and decisions
of the students, and the structures of society, this study
attempts to bridge the gap between structural and interpretive
explanations. The students' interpretations of their educational
and career choices are brought into a closer relationship with
the structures of society.Thesis (Ph.D.) - University of Natal, Pietermaritzburg, 1988.
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Amponsah, Samuel. "The use of Student Teams Achievement Division as a teaching strategy in English first additional language in KwaZulu-Natal." Thesis, 2014. http://hdl.handle.net/10500/18335.
Full textAbstract:
The paradigm shift in teaching from the teacher-centred approach to the learner-centred approach in recent years has impacted on the way teachers go about their duties in the classroom. This paradigm shift necessitated this research with the aim of investigating how the Student Teams Achievement Division (STAD) technique can be used as a cooperative learning technique to teach EFAL in Kwazulu-Natal.
The purpose of this study was to design a framework for the implementation of STAD as a cooperative teaching strategy for EFAL teachers by gleaning literature on teaching and learning, cooperative learning and STAD in chapters two to four of this study. Empirical research, by way of a survey and focus group discussions were also conducted in four out of the twelve districts in the Kwazulu-Natal Province to help solidify the framework designed in this study.
In striving to get in-depth insight into this study, the post-positivist-constructivist paradigm, which calls for the mixed methods research design was employed for the collection and analysis of data. Specifically, the Likert scale survey questionnaire and focus group discussions were used to collect data, through the sequential mixed methods design for the quantitative and qualitative phases of this study respectively, from a sample of 220 respondents and twelve participants. The findings of this research indicated that the time spent in training teachers towards the implementation of the STAD technique was not adequate. That notwithstanding, it was indicative that teachers make efforts to implement the strategy in their teaching and the results proved to be very positive as the technique continues to help improve upon learners’ performances and builds in them qualities such as critical thinking skills, good discussion skills and positive collaborative learning.
In the nutshell, the literature study, the findings of the empirical research and the recommendation of this study forms the basis for designing the framework for the implementation of STAD as a teaching strategy for EFAL teachers.Curriculum and Instructional Studies
D. Ed. (Curriculum Studies)
42
Molebale, J. J. L. "The role of practical work in learning the division of fractions by grade 7 learners in two primary schools in Mpumalanga ward of Hammarsdale circuit in Kwazulu-Natal." Thesis, 2005. http://hdl.handle.net/10413/1387.
Full textAbstract:
The researcher's personal conviction that major problems in the teaching of mathematics are inherited from elementary levels inspired the investigation of the contribution of practical work in the teaching of fraction division in grade seven. The all encompassing approach of the study dictated the involvement of teachers and learners as participants. Teachers' perceptions of practical work and their classroom practices were investigated to confirm or refute existing assumptions and literature claims. Questionnaires in which teachers expressed their views on practical work and fraction teaching were administered to teachers. Lessons on the division of fractions were observed to determine teachers' practices in relation to the researcher's assumptions and claims by literature. Data yielded by these research instruments confirmed or refuted assumptions and literature claims. Learners underwent an experiment and their views were sought to establish the value of practical work in the teaching of fractions and fraction division. Instruments used for the experiment were the pre-test, post-test and worksheets. Data from these instruments gave an indication of the value of practical work in enhancing learners' understanding of fraction division. Learners' responses to interview questions further elucidated and confirmed the valuable role played by practical work in learners ' understanding of fraction division. Learners' responses also provided deeper insight into facets of learners ' cognitive development as they engaged with different aspects of practical work in the division of fractions . Besides confirmation and refutation of some established assumptions and literature claims, previously unknown realities about aspects of practical work and fraction division also emerged from findings. This wealth of the data carried crucial implications for teacher training, the teaching of fractions and fraction division, and further research. A look at these implications hopes to contribute to the enhancement and improvement of the teaching of fractions and fraction division. Teacher training institutions, designers of INSET programmes, policy makers and teachers should all benefit from findings of this study.Thesis (M.Ed.)-University of Kwazulu-Natal, 2005.
43
Mowatt, Robert. "Popular performance : youth, identity and tradition in KwaZulu-Natal : the work of a selection of Isicathamiya choirs in Emkhambathini." Thesis, 2005. http://hdl.handle.net/10413/1858.
Full textAbstract:
In recent years there has been an increasing interest in the study of African popular arts and performance genres. In this study, I will focus on isicathamiya, a South African musical performance genre, and in particular the attempt of its practitioners to create new identities and a new sense of self through their own interpretation of the genre. This study will concentrate on the 'isicathamiya youth' in the semi-rural community of Emkhambathini (located about 30 kilometres east of Pietermaritzburg) and their strategies of self-definition in the New South Africa. Isicathamiya has strong roots in migrant labour and this has been the main focal point around which many researchers have concentrated. However, recent years have seen a movement of isicathamiya concentrated within rural and semi-rural communities such as Emkhambathini. The performers in these areas have a unique interpretation of the genre and use it to communicate their thoughts and identities to a diverse audience made up of young and old. In this study I will be looking at the 'isicathamiya youth' within three broad categories, the re-invention of tradition, the re-interpretation of the genre, and issues of masculinities. Each of these categories accounts for the three chapters within this study and serves to give a broad yet in-depth study of the 'new wave' of isicathamiya performers. The first chapter, entitled 'Traditional Re-invention', will deal with issues relating to the project of traditional 'redefinition' which the 'isicathamiya youth' are pursuing in Emkhambathini. I will show that tradition is not a stagnant concept, but is in fact ever-changing over time and place, a concept that does not carry one definition over an entire community. Through various song texts and frames of analysis I will attempt fto show how tradition is being used to further the construction of positive identities within Emkhambathini and give youth a place in Zulu tradition and in a multi-layered modernity. The second chapter will deal with how the 'isicathamiya youth' raise and stretch the boundaries of the genre in relation to a number of concepts. These concepts include topics of performance, women and popular memory and serve to give a broader view as to what the 'isicathamiya youth' are trying to achieve, namely a new positive self identity that seeks to empower the youth in the New South Africa. The last chapter will look at issues of masculinity and how the youth use different strategies to regain the masculine identities of their fathers and grandfathers and maintain patriarchal authority. Issues looked at within this chapter will include men's role within society and their perceptions of women.Thesis (M.A.)-University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg, 2005.
44
Moodley, Aneetha Devi. "A study into palliative care services for offenders with AIDS at Westville Prison." Thesis, 2006. http://hdl.handle.net/10413/2221.
Full textAbstract:
The study sought to determine what palliative care services were provided to offenders at Medium B correctional center, which is located at Durban Management Area. It identified the perceptions of offender-patients about the services they received. The study also identified challenges that staff and offender-volunteer caregivers faced in rendering services within a correctional context in South Africa. The sample consisted of three stakeholders, namely, offender-patients who were terminally ill with AIDS at the prison hospital, staff and offender volunteer caregivers. The methods of data collection comprised of content analysis, semi-structured interviews with offender-patients and focus group discussions with staff and offender volunteer caregivers. The study revealed that efforts were made by the Department of Correctional Services to provide services to terminally ill AIDS patients. Legislation and policy frameworks were consistently being developed by the Department to meet the needs of patients and to keep abreast with international best practices. Some services were in accordance with the theoretical framework of palliative care. However, many challenges were experienced because of the contextual constraints in which the services were being rendered. Recommendations to improve the delivery of services were made by all participants in the study. The study concludes with the recommendations by the researcher and suggestions for future research.Thesis (M.A.)-University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, 2006.
45
Dlamini, Dumile Helen. "Moving towards sustainable food security : a case study of Umsinga food security programme." Thesis, 2005. http://hdl.handle.net/10413/5746.
Full textAbstract:
An intervention on food security is sustainable when it begins to address issues of development that are the priority to the beneficiaries rather than those of the benefactor. Food security in this study is regarded as the priority that is interwoven in social, economical and ecological aspect of development. Therefore, it can only be solved through processes of sustainable development. This study is concerned about the current approaches and processes of food security programmes that do not capture the elements of sustainable development. Therefore, the aim of the study was to establish how the elements of sustainable development are practiced in the programmes of food security in South Africa. Most importantly how the programme goes beyond food and market availability to social change. In order to achieve this aim, a qualitative research process was applied using a case study. The study examined one of the food security programmes in uMsinga area. north of KwaZulu Natal. This programme is funded by the National Development Agency (NDA) and administered by the Non-Governmental Organisation called uMsinga Peace and Development Committee (MPDC). The study found that the programme still reflects the common and the short-sighted understanding of food security. It still emphasises the market-led methods of food security which have undermined the environment and social development of the community. Hence the programme comes short in ensuring sustainable food security in the area of uMsinga where years of factions fights has destroyed the social fabric of the community. The study recommended a deliberate intervention strategy of community building for uMsinga community. This calls for a strategy where a process of community conscientization becomes one of the main objectives of the programme. It is through community building that those available resources such as financial, natural, human, infrastructure and institutions call be identified within the community. Conscientization process can be able to equip tlte community with skills and knowledge of how to access and control those resources to satisfy both short term and long- term needs.Thesis (M.A.)-University of KwaZulu-Natal, 2005.
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Ngema, Sebenzile Helga. "An exploration of grade 11 teachers' conceptions of practical work in physical sciences within the national curriculum statement (NCS) curriculum." Thesis, 2011. http://hdl.handle.net/10413/7435.
Full textAbstract:
The introduction of the National Curriculum statement (NCS) in Further Education and Training
(FET) phase in 2005 had a great impact on classroom practice, resulting in a shift to Outcomes
Based Education (OBE). The Physical Sciences curriculum created challenges for Physical
Science teachers. The Learning Outcome (LO)-1 recommends that scientific inquiry and inquiry
based practical work be taught in Physical Sciences lessons. However, much remains to be
understood regarding teachers’ pedagogical content knowledge (PCK) in inquiry based practical
work. This study explored the conception of practical work by Grade 11 Physical Sciences
teachers within the NCS curriculum. Using the PCK as a theoretical lens, the study explored how
the Physical Sciences teachers used practical work in their teaching. Furthermore, the exploration
sought to ascertain whether there was any relationship between teachers’ perceptions of the
purpose of practical work and their use of practical work.
The data was collected by interviewing two Grade 11 Physical Sciences teachers and also by
conducting some classroom observations involving practical work to ascertain teachers’ actual
practice. The sample was drawn from two high schools at Empangeni District, in Northern
KwaZulu-Natal. The findings revealed that teachers value using practical work in teaching of
Physical Sciences. Qualitative data analysis enables recommendation to be made for the
improvement of the use of inquiry-based practical work in the teaching of Physical Sciences.
Both teachers held the view that the most important aim of practical work was to promote
conceptual understanding. During their teaching, both teachers use practical work to verify
theory through non-inquiry practical instructional practices and strategies. However, there were
limiting factors which do not provide opportunities for teachers to engage learners in inquirybased
practical work. Amongst the factors that were reported by the teachers as limiting their use
of inquiry-oriented practical work are limitations of resources, time constraints, large classes and
pressure to complete the prescribed curriculum.
It is recommended that curriculum developers through the use of subject education specialist
(SES), facilitate teachers’ transformation from expository to inquiry instruction. More
discussions on how to design and conduct inquiry-based practical work are recommended.Thesis (M.Ed.)-University of KwaZulu-Natal, Edgewood, 2011.
47
Moyo, Betty C. "Perceptions and experiences of senior managers regarding organisational transformation and change within eThekwini Municipality." Thesis, 2013. http://hdl.handle.net/10413/9270.
Full textAbstract:
This study explores the perceptions and experiences of senior managers regarding organisational
transformation and change. To achieve this objective, a qualitative methodology was undertaken
and twelve open-ended questions were formulated for the study. Twenty-two semi-structured
interviews were conducted. A non-probability sampling technique was utilised, along with
snowball sampling and judgement sampling methods to select participants for the study. The
sample consisted of twenty-two senior managers from different Units and Departments within
the eThekwini Municipality. The data collected were then qualitatively analysed using thematic
analysis. The findings of the study were presented under key themes that had emerged during
the study. The main findings of the study showed that the municipality had radically
transformed in response to the new political dispensation in South Africa, as of 1994. The study
highlighted the general consensus amongst senior managers that fundamental transformation of
the Municipality was imperative. The participants of the study expressed the view that the former
municipal organisation had become misaligned with its environment. It was therefore imperative
to ensure fundamental transformation of the municipality. Most senior managers, however, felt
that the transformation process was poorly managed. These negative views were attributed to,
inter alia, the long period of transformation, poor change management, and lack of a clearly
articulated organisational culture coupled with some poorly implemented systems. Although
negative views were expressed with regard to the transformation process, most senior managers
were satisfied with their specific jobs. This surprising finding was attributed to positive
personality characteristics and humanistic-existential perspectives that most senior managers
were found to possess. Existentialists believe in people taking responsibility for their lives and
the humanists stresses the importance of self-actualisation.Thesis (M.A.)-University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, 2013.
48
Naidoo, Marie-Therese A. "Establishing and sustaining community-based youth organisations : a study of the experiences of community youth workers." Thesis, 2001. http://hdl.handle.net/10413/5809.
Full text
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Mbogo, Johnson Gatuma. "An examination of the church's gender sensitivity in combating HIV/AIDS among women in view of issues of development and gender : special focus on 'Springs of Hope Support Group Project' in Pietermaritzburg." Thesis, 2004. http://hdl.handle.net/10413/1908.
Full textAbstract:
The dissertation seeks to investigate, examine, and critically analyse the reasons why
Pietermaritzburg churches lack gender sensitivity in combating HIV/AIDS. The dissertation's
focus is on Springs of Hope Support Group Project (SOH) - a support group that seeks to meet
the felt needs amongst the HTV positive people around Pietermaritzburg. Amongst other
motivations, the dissertation was undertaken as a contribution to the church in its fight against the
spread of HIV/AIDS in South Africa. The methodology that was used involved field and library
research as well as observations of other HIV/AIDS support groups. The primary source of this
dissertation consists of interviews that were conducted among SOH members, NGOs workers,
and Church ministers. Chapter one is an introduction to the whole dissertation and includes an
introduction to chapter one, experiences of African women, the story of Ann Ntombela, the
background of the study, statements of the problems and motivations, objectives of the study,
research hypothesis/promises, significance of the study, the theoretical frameworks, critical
reviews of existing literature, research methodology, research ethics, expected results, limitation
of the study and a summary and conclusion. Chapter two deals with the negative effects of
colonialism and failure of development on African women. Its objective is to unearth the factors
behind the deplorable social, political, and economic position of African women before HIV was
reported. It seeks to find out why the plight of African women has worsened since the coming of
colonialism and the start of development efforts.
Chapter three deals with gender. It relates the effects of development failure to the plight of
African women. Matters of marginalization, exploitation and oppression of African women are
dealt with at length. Chapter four focuses on HIV/AIDS infection, transmission, prevention, cure
and treatment. It also tackles the matter of the vulnerability of African women to HIV/AIDS at
length by relating chapter two to the realities that facilitates the infection of the virus especially
on women. Chapter five deals with the field research and formulation of a gender sensitive
approach to combating HIV/AIDS. It also seeks to formulate 'a church based gender sensitive
approach' as the way forward in combating the spread of HIV/AIDS amongst African women in
Pietermaritzburg. This chapter elaborates on how the church should reposition itself in order to be
relevant and effective to women who are HIV positive. Chapter six is the conclusion of this
dissertation. It includes a summary, a theological reflection and conclusion of the whole
dissertation.Thesis (M.Th.)-University of KwaZulu-Natal, PIetermaritzburg, 2004.
50
Rajab, Rooksana. "Workbased learning : an analysis of the expectations of staff, students and employers of students placed for inservice learning." Thesis, 2000. http://hdl.handle.net/10413/5384.
Full textAbstract:
Experiential learning is an integral part of most programs offered at the M.L.Sultan
Technikon because of the technical nature of the programs. This study focuses on
learning from experience when students from the technikon are placed in work-based
settings. It considers how successful workplace experience are from the perspective of
staff involved with the Dental Assisting program, students registered for the program that
are placed for in-service learning and employers that are involved with these placements,
in the light of student learning. With transformation and restructuring within the present
higher education system, currently more emphasis is being placed on experiential
learning at both universities and technikons.
The primary objectives of this study therefore were:
(1) to examine the link between education, work and personal development,
(2) to document experiences which students lived through during their placements
(3) to evaluate how successful workplacements were from the perspective of staff,
students and employers in the Dental Assisting program.
Two models of experiential learning, Kolb's Model (1984) as a learning cycle and Boud
and Walker's model (1991 ) provided a framework for examining and strengthening the
critical linkages among institution, the learner and the workplace supervisor. The study
looks at student preparation before the placement; it considered thoroughly the
environment in which students found themselves; the difficulties students faced in the
workplace and reflection during and after the event. The study provides a holistic
integrative perspective on learning and the total educational experience of students.
A small sample was selected to afford the opportunity of assessing a lot of information
through interviews. Data was analysed by identifying patterns of responses or embedded
themes from the interviews. As a qualitative and ethnographic research project the results
and recommendations made from the analysis can be utilised to improve my practice.
Although student placements were successful in terms of their learning, there needs to be
adequate pre-placement preparation for both students and employers in order to enhance
the success of the placement. There is also a need to encourage students to reflect on their
experience in order to make their learning more meaningful.Thesis (M.Ed.) - University of Natal, Durban, 2000