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Challenges associated with supervision of undergraduate research projects by nurse educators in South Africa
No full textSuccessful nursing research is determined by the quality of research supervision by nurse educators. This study
aimed to explore challenges encountered by educators when implementing research supervision for under
graduate nursing students. A qualitative, exploratory-descriptive research design was employed through semi-
structured interviews. Data were collected from twenty-seven participants who were selected purposefully
from four nursing campuses located in two provinces. Thematic analysis was used to analyse data in the study.
The study found that inadequate nurse educators’ research supervision skills, lack of students’ commitment to
research activities, inadequate infrastructure, staff shortage and time constraints were identified as challenges. It
is recommended that novice nursing research supervisors should be guided on how to supervise research students
and be taught the importance of research
How far is the east from the west? : the role of social media and crisis communication approach in unifying the Igbo and Yoruba ethnic groups in the political landscape in Southern Nigeria : a review of issues around pre-1960, 1967-1970; 2014 and 2023 elections
No full textThe political climate of southern Nigeria is examined in this concept paper along with the ongoing conflicts between the Igbo and Yoruba ethnic groups. The question "How far is the east from the west?" serves as a metaphor to highlight the historical and current obstacles to Igbo-Yoruba unification, reviewing the issues around pre-1960, 1967-1970; 2014 and 2023 elections. The paper explored the complicated history of these groups, including the effects of colonialism, their unique pre-colonial beginnings, and their common battles throughout the liberation fight, employing a methodical literature review. It subsequently looked at particular tense times, such as the Nigerian Civil War, and how these old differences still affect politics now, as shown by the results of recent elections. Beyond historical interpretation, the study suggested a fresh strategy for promoting Igbo-Yoruba unity. Based on the Situational Crisis Communication Theory (SCCT), it made the case that social media may be a potent instrument for fostering cooperation and understanding when used wisely. Instead of focusing on the political elite, which is seen as a source of conflict, the study highlighted the vital role that dependable community leaders play. It suggested that apolitical stakeholders from both regions collaborate to plan and carry out intentional programmes that support socio-economic integration between the Igbo and Yoruba and encourage public discourse on common issues to cultivate a narrative of cooperation through social media. These stakeholders include traditional/cultural leaders, religious figures, women's groups, and academics. Using the SCCT paradigm and empowering these esteemed leaders, this study suggested a way to close the historical and current gaps between the Igbo and the Yoruba. Within the political environment of southern Nigeria, the "East" and "West" can get closer to a future of mutual respect and prosperity by using social media to shift narratives and promote cooperation
Firms-specific sustainability reporting among Johannesburg Stock Exchange listed companies : do IFRS S1 and IFRS S2 matter?
No full textThis study investigates whether the ISSB sustainability requirements are going to result in a major change in terms of ESG disclosures among the JSE-listed companies. Quantitative content analysis employed. It was underpinned by the positivist paradigm. Secondary data was gathered from the sustainability reports of the top 40 JSE-listed companies based on their market capitalization. Reports spanning 2022-2023. Robustness analysis was entirely performed using descriptive statistics with the aid of STATA. Results reveal that the level of sustainability-related disclosure is not significantly different from ISSB requirements prior to the effective date of IFRS S1 and IFRS S2 (M = 67%). Furthermore, there is an 81% level of disclosure on governance, 43% level of disclosure on strategy, 100% level of disclosure on risk management, and 93% level of disclosure on metrics and targets. This indicates that these companies require more work on strategy to align themselves with ISSB requirements. The study results can aid policymakers, accounting bodies, and regulators in understanding sustainability-related disclosures, harmonizing frameworks, and providing a robust research agenda for future research
Assessing community attitudes towards home-based male caregivers for daycare children
Get PDFThis study explored community attitudes toward home-based male caregivers for daycare children in Ogbomoso, Nigeria. The aim was to understand perspectives on using male caregivers for daycare
children. The study interviewed 32 parents and prospective parents in Ogbomoso, Nigeria, about
their attitudes toward male caregivers for daycare children. During the interviews, respondents were
asked about their willingness to use male caregivers, the reasons behind their decision, the expected
impacts on children, and the need for societal change. The study occurred between February and July
2022 in Ogbomoso South and North Local Government areas. Respondents include married men and
women aged 30-50, with equal numbers of males and females represented in the 32 interviewees. A
qualitative approach was used alongside an accidental sampling technique. An inductive thematic
analysis elicited key themes shaping attitudes and norms. A prevalent theme was associating
caregiving with inherent female capabilities and maternal duties - many felt women naturally provide
superior nurturing and care while men lack these innate aptitudes. Alongside this was a strong distrust
of males with children, stemming from abuse and misconduct fears. However, some felt gender is
irrelevant, professing egalitarian ideals. However, pursuing equality conflicted with lingering
skepticism about men's care motivations. It is apparent that parents lack a framework for choosing caregivers yetchoose for their children. Such a framework could help bridge the gender inequality gap in caregiving
Efficient index modulation techniques for 5G and beyond
Get PDFIndex modulation (IM) techniques are emerging
as promising approaches to improve spectral efficiency and
reliability for 5G/future wireless networks. This paper pro vides an overview of key IM schemes including spatial modula tion, orthogonal frequency division multiplexing with index
modulation (OFDM-IM), and enhanced variants like SIM OFDM. The spectral efficiency gains of these techniques are
quantified mathematically. Spatial modulation uses antenna
indices to convey additional information bits, while OFDM-IM
utilizes subcarrier indices. SIM-OFDM further activates sub carriers selectively based on incoming bits. Experiments demonstrate spectral efficiency improvements over classical
OFDM
Organic consumption as a means to achieve sustainable development goals and agenda 2063
No full textAs the global population approaches 10 billion by 2050, addressing sustainable food production is imperative for achieving Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 2 – Zero Hunger, SDG 12 – Responsible Consumption and Production, and Agenda 2063's Aspiration 1 for inclusive growth and sustainable development in Africa. This qualitative study explored South African consumers' perceptions of organic food using an extended Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB) model. Emphasising health perspectives, it investigates implications for SDGs and Agenda 2063. Employing non‐probability snowball sampling, 25 semi‐structured interviews reached data saturation. Thematic analysis revealed that while health and environmental benefits of organic food are recognised, many consumers do not perceive organic food as inherently healthier. The study underscores the need for improved communication and consumer education to align perceptions with sustainability goals and foster a prosperous future and achievement of Agenda 2063
Development of a mobile digital library model for teaching support in selected under-resourced public high schools in KwaZulu-Natal
No full textA dissertation submitted in fulfillment of the requirement for the Doctor of Philosophy in Library & Information Science, Durban University of Technology, Durban, South Africa, 2024.This study aimed to identify the contributing factors to the successful development and use of a mobile digital library model, assess its feasibility for teaching purposes, determine the technological competences of teachers in utilizing mobile technology, and develop a suitable mobile digital library model for under-resourced schools. The objectives of the study were to identify the factors that would contribute to the successful development and the use of mobile digital library model for teaching and learning support at selected under-resourced public high schools in KwaZulu-Natal; to establish the feasibility of using a mobile digital library model for teaching in selected under-resourced public high schools in KwaZulu-Natal; to ascertain the technological competences of teachers to use mobile technology; and to develop a mobile digital library model suitable for teaching in under-resourced schools. The study employed an exploratory sequential mixed method design. The preferred research paradigm for this study was pragmatism and interpretivism. The study surveyed eleven selected under-resourced public high schools in KwaZulu-Natal, categorized as quintile one, quintile two, and quintile three. Ninety-three teachers and three teacher librarians contributed to the study. Clustersampling method was employed to select the participating schools. Data collection instruments included individual interviews with teacher librarians, focus group discussions with teachers, and self-administered questionnaires for teachers and librarians. The study consisted of two distinct phases i.e. qualitative data collection through focus group and individual interviews then quantitative data collection with the usage of questionnaire. A mixed methods approach for data analysis was used. Both individual interviews and focus group interviews were transcribed and later edited, with the audio recordings serving as the primary source of data. The themes were formulated by the researcher, and the findings were subsequently synthesized and organized within these thematic categories. For quantitative data, the researcher employed multivariate analysis, a statistical technique aimed at investigating relationships among multiple variables. The findings revealed several factors influencing the development and use of a mobile digital library, such as the need for digital literacy training for the school community, user-friendliness of the mobile digital library platform, and financial support from the organization. The feasibility of implementing a mobile digital library relied on factors such as financial support, robust internet connectivity, digital literacy among the school community, and improvements in technological infrastructure. Additionally, the study found that younger teachers demonstrated greater technological competence compared to more experienced teachers. A mobile digital library model was developed to support teaching, ensuring a conducive learning environment where teachers and learners have access to information anytime and anywhere. The study recommends regular training for teachers and learners on the utilisation of a mobile digital library, adequate funding for hosting and maintenance, and improvements in technological infrastructure.
Effect of transformational leadership on employee resistance to change at eThekwini automobiles : a perspective of leaders’ inspirational motivation
No full textTransformational leadership and employee change resistance have been studied extensively. However,
no systematic attempt has been made to reframe those findings in light of leaders' inspirational drive.
The sample size of 170 participants from eThekwini automobile dealership organisations indicated
that employees' intention to resist change was negatively associated with their managers'
transformational leadership style focused on inspirational motivation. Transformational leadership's
impact on employee resistance to change at eThewkini Automobiles in KwaZulu-Natal is examined
through a leader's inspirational motivation. Inspirational motivation reduced staff resistance to change
at these car companies, according to the transformational leadership tool multi-leadership
questionnaire (MLQ). Various branches of 6 major automobile companies in eThekwini, KwaZulu Natal, South Africa were considered for this study. The study included 170 of 270 individuals. Both
descriptive and correlational analysis were employed to test study objectives. The study found that
inspirational motivation mediates the relationship between transformational leadership and employee
resistance to change because transformational leadership reduces resistance, improves commitment,
and embraces change. Inspirational motivation mediates transformational leadership in
organisational change management, according to the study. The study suggests that management use
inspiring motivation to promote change management acceptability and commitment to change and
reduce employee resistance to change
Postgraduate education in South African emergency care practitioners : a social realist study
No full textA thesis submitted in fulfilment of the requirements for the Doctor of Philosophy in Emergency Medical Care, Durban University of Technology, Durban, South Africa, 2024.INTRODUCTION
The paucity of research originating from low- and middle-income countries, particularly in
the field of emergency care, demands that those entrenched in the healthcare system go
on to make meaningful contributions to the knowledge economy of low- and middle income countries. While the rest of the world builds an appetite for highly skilled South
African prehospital practitioners, the emergency care field in South Africa desperately
needs practitioners who can engage with research and advance the profession through
evidence-based practice. Achieving this requires emergency care practitioners to embark
on postgraduate education programmes to learn research skills. Given the shortage of
emergency care practitioners in South Africa, the paucity of prehospital-specific research
and the large number of paramedics that pursue employment and education abroad,
understanding the factors that influence emergency care practitioner’s agency in pursuing
or eschewing postgraduate education is extremely important as this affects the paramedic
workforce and the development of the field in South Africa.
AIM
The study aimed to formulate a deeper understanding of why ECPs pursue or eschew
postgraduate education.
METHODS
The study made use of a mixed method exploratory sequential research design. Using
both quantitative and qualitative methods generated a thorough understanding of the
research problem in the given context. The qualitative phase constituted Phase 1 of the
study and used focus group discussions and one-on-one interviews with key stakeholders
in the emergency medical services. The findings of this phase informed the quantitative
phase (Phase 2) of the study, in which an online structured questionnaire was
administered to emergency care practitioners.
FINDINGS
More than half (54%) of the sample of emergency care practitioners pursued
postgraduate education. Among the 46% of emergency care practitioners who eschewed
postgraduate education, the majority applied their profession in South Africa. This study,
therefore, found a decrease in the likelihood of pursuing postgraduate education among
emergency care practitioners working in South Africa compared to those working abroad
(OR 0.57, CI: 0.25–1.25). The largest proportion (81%) of those who pursued
postgraduate education occupied roles within academia. Those emergency care
practitioners within operational (72.1%) and managerial (15.6%) roles constituted the
largest proportion of those who eschewed postgraduate education.
Structural conditions owing to the paucity of financial incentives (86%), support (57%)
and career progression pathways (92%) predominantly motivated emergency care
practitioners within the South African prehospital milieu to eschew postgraduate
education. Cultural conditions motivated emergency care practitioners, regardless of
location or area of speciality, to pursue postgraduate education. The constructs of the
individual or collectively held ideals, beliefs, and values were identified as the cultural
conditions, which are not easy to change and have lasting conditional influence among
emergency care practitioners.
CONCLUSION
In conclusion, the study established and presented, from the emergency care
practitioners’ point of view, the cultural and structural conditions that influence their
agency: motivations to pursue or eschew postgraduate education. The findings highlight
the structural and cultural dynamic and interchangeable nature and the overlap of the
prehospital milieu's values, practices and behaviours. It notably identified the
interconnections as all the practices and behaviours underpinned by the motivations
emerging from the prehospital milieu. The study further demonstrated that a
comprehensive and deeper understanding of how individuals interpret their structural and
cultural conditions, is essential. The objective goal of developing the profession is
interlinked with establishing institutional and cultural norms that capacitate and support
those within the profession.
Muscle recruitment patterns of selected upper extremity muscles in Chiropractors within the eThekwini Municipality while performing a simulated sacroiliac joint manipulation
No full textDissertation submitted in partial compliance with the requirements for the Master's Degree in Health Science, Chiropractic, Durban University of Technology, Durban, South Africa, 2024.Background: Spinal manipulative therapy in the form of a high velocity, low amplitude
manipulation, is a specialised therapeutic technique utilised by chiropractors and other manual
therapists. Little is known about the shoulder muscular recruitment pattern utilised by
practitioners/student’s to deliver this technique. This study aims to profile the muscle
recruitment patterns of selected upper extremity musculature during a simulated sacroiliac
joint manipulation to provide objective teaching material for future spinal manipulative therapy
students regarding this specific manipulation.
Methods: A quantitative, descriptive, observational design in which surface electromyography
(sEMG) was used captured muscle activation patterns of 11 shoulder muscles in 20 qualified
chiropractors who practiced in the eThekwini Municipality. Muscle activity was recorded while
the chiropractors performed a simulated sacro-iliac joint manipulation, while simultaneous live
video recording was obtained. The manipulation was assessed during its three phases:
preload, thrust and resolution. Participants gave informed consent. Raw data was processed
and normalised for comparability.
Results: All 11 muscles displayed activity throughout the three phases of the adjustment.
During preload, the clavicular and sternal pectoralis major and biceps brachii had the greatest
mean and median muscle activation magnitude, with the middle and upper trapezius and
clavicular pectoralis major showing the greatest maximum muscle activation magnitude. In the
thrust phase all muscles showed high activity levels, except for the posterior deltoid which
showed moderate activation. The middle and lower trapezius and infraspinatus had the
greatest mean, median and maximum muscle activation magnitude. During the resolution
phase, the greatest median muscle activation magnitude was found in the middle and lower
trapezius and posterior deltoid muscle. This was similar to the greatest mean and maximum
muscle activation with the triceps brachii replacing the lower trapezius. The maximum force
output during the adjustment was averaged at ± 1.9 Kg.
Conclusion: This study highlights the role of the shoulder muscles, specifically the pectoralis
and the scapular stabilizer muscles, especially the middle trapezius, in the execution of the
spinal manipulative technique investigated in this study. Future studies should confirm these
findings in larger population where subgroup analysis can be undertaken.