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Issues to ponder on as we navigate the translation of academic texts from English into isiZulu
Full text linkJournal article published in African Perspectives of Research in Teaching and Learning Journal Issue 3, Volume 8, 2024 Special IssueThe purpose of this paper is to report on the experiences learnt from a translation project which involved the translation of academic study material from English into IsiZulu. The study material was commissioned for translation as part of a multilingual project being undertaken by one of the Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) in South Africa and came from different disciplines of study. The translator who had been assigned the project assembled a team of three qualified and experienced translators to collaborate on the project. Each translator was assigned to translate materials from the same discipline to avoid inconsistencies that could arise if different translators were assigned to handle texts from the same discipline. Computer Assisted Translation (CAT) tools were used during the translation process and different English-IsiZulu/IsiZulu-English lexicographic resources and various dictionaries were used as references when needed. Feedback received from the translators indicated that translating academic texts from English into isiZulu is quite challenging due to lack of equivalent terminology in isiZulu for most of the concepts used in academic English. However, it was found that it was possible to circumvent equivalence related challenges by using various translation strategies that are recommended by renowned translation scholars. Using qualitative data sourced from the translated texts and analysed using the theory of equivalence, this paper is a synopsis of the different translators’ experiences (challenges, hurdles and how they were resolved) and makes suggestions of what needs to be done to improve the translation of academic texts into indigenous African languages in the future
A conceptual model towards acceptance of mobile learning in Ekurhuleni Municipality Secondary Schools
Full text linkJournal article published in African Perspectives of Research in Teaching and Learning Journal Issue 1, Volume 8, 2024Nowadays, smartphones represent the fastest technology accepted and utilized by humans. The utilization
of mobile devices (m-devices) has revolutionized communication, and existing literature suggests that the
successful implementation of mobile learning (m-learning) depends on teachers' willingness to embrace
new technologies for teaching and learning. In this study, the researchers conceptualized a model informed
by the related theoretical frameworks through an extensive literature review (content analysis). Constructs
from the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) and the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of
Technology (UTAUT) model were explored in designing the model. A quantitative research approach was
adopted, and a closed-ended questionnaire was distributed. A total of 145 completed responses were used
after thorough data cleaning. Data analysis (reliability test, descriptive analysis, correlation analysis, and
regression analysis) was done using the Statistical Package for Social Scientists (SPSS) version 25. The
findings highlighted that performance expectancy, effort expectancy, social influence, perceived
usefulness, and perceived ease of use are the most critical factors that may influence the acceptance of
mobile learning in Ekurhuleni Municipality secondary school
The hegemony of the English language and the plight of African languages : towards linguistic revolution
Full text linkJournal article published in African Perspectives of Research in Teaching and Learning Journal Issue 1, Volume 8, 2024The elevation of African languages into official status with English and Afrikaans in South Africa was meant to redress linguistic imbalances of the past. The past linguistic imbalances negatively affected mother tongue speakers of African languages. This article highlights the gravity of this imbalance from a general linguistic perspective, demonstrating how the hegemony of English continues to downplay the efforts of developing African languages for African children’s epistemic access and educational success. Among the challenges in developing African languages into the same status as English are the globalisation imperatives that are set to counter the project of decolonisation. Although there has been linguistic resistance, it has not contributed to the elevation and development of African languages. The theoretical underpinnings of the arguments in this paper are located in the critical approach. The critique is mounted not only on the hegemonic presence of the English language but on the failure of resistance to depose that hegemony and to elevate the position of African languages as viable languages of intellectual pursuit. This article therefore proposes linguistic revolution as a solution to the plight of African languages
Understanding student perspectives on e-assessments in a South African university of technology
Full text linkJournal article published in African Perspectives of Research in Teaching and Learning Journal Issue 1, Volume 8, 2024Assessment is a crucial component of the learning process, and with the advent of technology, innovative strategies such as e-assessment have emerged as alternatives to traditional paper-based assessments. While many countries have embraced e-assessment systems due to their numerous benefits, developing economies like South Africa have paid limited attention to the
experiences and issues related to e- assessments. This study aims to explore the experiences of South African students who have undergone e-assessments, focusing on the perceived benefits and drawbacks of transitioning from paper-based to online platform-based assessments. A focus group
of students took part in the inquiry, with the data interpreted using literature and
guided by constructivist educational theory. Findings revealed that students reported
experiencing anxiety and concentration issues during e-assessments. However, there was also an appreciation for the value that e-assessments bring to higher education. This study highlights the need for further research to examine the factors that influence the implementation and effectiveness of e-assessments in the higher education sector. By understanding these factors, the
educational institution can address challenges and optimize the benefits of e-assessments, enhancing the learning experience for students. Future studies should delve deeper into the specific aspects influencing e-assessments in higher
education and provide insights for developing effective strategies and interventions
How do school leaders manage their time? narratives from school practitioners in Masvingo, Zimbabwe
Full text linkJournal article published in African Perspectives of Research in Teaching and Learning Journal
Issue 2, Volume 8, 2024Time management is a critical factor in school leadership and management. Without school leaders who manage time effectively schools are likely to decay. Good people do not need laws to tell them to act responsibly or to manage their time effectively. This study investigates how school leaders manage time for effective teaching and learning in schools. The qualitative research approach as it is informed by the interpretivist paradigm was employed in this study. Purposive sampling was done to select school heads, deputy heads, teachers, college lecturer and parents in the School Development Committee from both primary and secondary schools in Masvingo Province. I employed semi-structured interviews for data generation. Results show that some heads fail to manage their time in schools by not scheduling activities, lack of goal setting, attending to unplanned activities, failing to prioritise tasks, lack of delegating work to subordinates, failing to manage unnecessary interruptions and do not schedule time to attend to subordinates. The study recommends the need for courses and workshops that introduce school leaders to time management skills, conduct seminars to in-service school heads and thus equip them with skills, knowledge and proper attitude on effective time management practices and prioritising tasks
Exploring the physical and psychological effects of maternal death on midwives in a selected hospital of Vhembe District Limpopo Province
Full text linkThesis (M. Nur. (Nursing Science)) -- University of Limpopo, 2024BACKGROUND
Maternal mortality is a global problem mostly influenced by pregnancy related
conditions or its management. Regardless of the availability of resources in some
institutions, maternal death results in midwives exhibiting signs of physical, emotional,
and psychological trauma.
METHOD
The study adopted qualitative explorative descriptive research designed to explore the
physical and psychological effects of maternal deaths among midwives working in a
selected public hospital at Vhembe district, Limpopo Province. A non-probability
snowball sampling was used to select participants who participated in this study. Data
in this study was collected through semi structured interviews. The interviews were
recorded, transcribed, and analysed using a thematic content analysis method. The
data collected was further submitted to the independent coder to confirm the study
findings. Measures of Trustworthiness were maintained in the study.
RESULTS
From the study, three themes and 16 sub-themes emerged. The findings of this study
indicate that midwives experienced physical and psychological health issues
manifested as loss of appetite, insomnia, social isolation, avoidant behaviour,
depression, and anger.
CONCLUSION
The physical and psychological effects of maternal death impact the quality of
maternal healthcare rendered by midwives. In view of this, midwives need to be
supported in different ways such as counselling, debriefing, training and being
provided with all the necessary resources they need to enable them to cope with the
adverse event of a maternal death
Accessibility of chronic medications and challenges faced by clients through the Central Chronic Medications Dispensing and Distribution programme at the selected clinics in Thembisile Hani Health Sub-district, South Africa
Full text linkThesis (M. Nursing) -- University of Limpopo, 2024Background: Central Chronic Medicines Dispensing and Distribution (CCMDD) is a
program established by South Africa in 2014 to improve access to chronic medications
for people diagnosed with chronic conditions and stable on treatment.
Objective: The study aimed to describe the challenges clients face in accessing
chronic medications through the CCMDD program in the selected clinics in the
Thembisile Hani Health Subdistrict in Mpumalanga Province, South Africa.
Methodology: Phenomenological and qualitative descriptive research designs were
used to explore and describe the patient's experiences of accessing chronic
medication through CCMDD in the Thembisile Hani Sub-District South Africa.
Participants were selected using the purpose-sampling method. Using a semistructured interview guide, data were collected from 12 patients who collected their
chronic medicines from the selected clinics. Data were analysed using Tesch's
approach to data analysis. Trustworthiness was ensured using four trustworthiness
criteria: credibility, dependability, confirmability, and transferability. Ethical clearance
was obtained from the Turfloop Research Ethics Committee (TREC) and permission
to collect data was granted by the Mpumalanga Department of Health and the
operational managers of the selected clinics. The objectives and processes of the
study were explained to the participants, who then agreed to participate by signing an
informed consent form.
Results: The study findings reveal that although the CCMDD program is accessible
to individual patients and clients who voluntarily gave consent and identified
designated pick-up points. Treatment is readily available at specified appointments,
and designated relatives, and friends are allowed to collect on behalf of patients. The
lack and absence of additional information and clarification when individuals
experience chronic treatment-related side-effects, is a concern for some individuals.
External pick-up points, in the form of private sites, are preferred by individuals as
compared to clinic based.
Conclusions CCMDD as a differentiated care model within this research context is
beneficial, as it improves access to chronic treatment, and ensures confidential carefor patients taking chronic medication. The study has however identified challenges
when institutionalised in clinics and integrated with other comprehensive health
services. Also, minimal information, education and support on other treatment-related
problems before the return date to the clinic should be available at pick-up points to
enhance adherence to treatment in the presence of encountered health symptoms
Analysis of the South African underground economy : an econometric estimation from the currency demand approach
Full text linkThesis (M. Com. Economics)) -- University of Limpopo, 2024The study aimed to investigate the South African underground economy from 2000-2022 by conducting an impact analysis between the selected independent variables and the demand for currency. The study was concerned with increased unlawful and informal economic activity, which has effects of preventing the South African government from receiving prospective tax money. Since the phenomenon of the underground economy cannot be observed directly, the study employed the currency demand approach (CDA) by Tanzi (1983). The study used a time series from the South African Reserve Bank (SARB) for analysis by the EViews 9 statistical package. The study discovered that, in the long-run, an increased tax burden and rising unemployment rates influence the underground economic activities in South Africa. However, an increase in GDP will not reduce underground economic activity in the long-run. An acceleration of the inflation rate acts as a tax, as it negatively affects agents of the underground economy in the short- and long-run. Its long-run effects are not significant. The outcomes showed that the dynamics of the underground economy could matter for economic policymaking purposes. The study contributes to the research gap and knowledge of academia about using underground economy estimates in analysis and policy design
The relationship between adult attachment, perceived discrimination based on sexual orientation, and depression in lesbian students, and the mediating effect of perceived discrimination
Full text linkThesis (M. A. ( Clinical Psychology)) -- University of Limpopo, 2024The study investigated the relationship between adult attachment, perceived discrimination based on sexual orientation, and depression in lesbian students, and the mediating effect of perceived discrimination at the University of Limpopo. Seventy- eight (N = 78) participants were conveniently recruited and through referral, participants completed an online questionnaire. The study used a cross-sectional, correlational research design was used within the quantitative research method. Convenience and snow-ball sampling were used as a method to choose/select participants. Bivariate analysis was conducted to investigate the correlation between adult attachment, perceived discrimination, and depression; therefore, the Pearson correlation coefficient was used for this purpose. The results of the study show that anxious attachment is negatively correlated with perceived discrimination, and the relationship is significant (p .281). The results also show that anxious attachment is positively correlated with depression and the correlation is significant (p .083). The study found that perceived discrimination based on sexual orientation partially mediated the relationship between adult attachment and depression in lesbian sample. The finding is consistent with existing literature and better explained through the attachment framework. However, it is further recommended that more research should be conducted in other universities and the general population with a broader LGBTIQA+ sample to explore the relationship between the variables.
Keywords: Adult attachment, perceived discrimination, depression, lesbians, anxious attachment, avoidance attachmen
Synthesis of imidazo [1,2-a] pyridine and pyrazolo [1,5-a] pyridine derivatives as potential kinase inhibitors (PvPI4K and PfPKG) of plasmodiumfalciparum parasite
Full text linkThesis (M.Sc. (Chemistry)) -- University of Limpopo, 20235-Amino-3-iodopyrazolo[1,5-a]pyridine was prepared via the iodination of commercially available 5-aminopyrazolo[1,5-a]pyridine in the presence of N-iodosuccinimide (NIS) in methanol. Palladium catalyzed Suzuki-Miyaura cross-coupling reaction on the 5-amino-3-iodopyrazolo[1,5-a]pyridine with arylboronic acids in dioxane-water afforded the 3-aryl substituted pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyridin-5-amine derivative, which were in turn, subjected to Sandmeyer reaction in the presence of concentrated hydrobromic acid, copper (ii) bromide and NaNO2 to afforded the desired 5-bromo-3-(4 (methylsulfonyl)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyridine in 70% yield. Subsequent Suzuki-Miyaura cross-coupling on the 5-bromo-3-(4-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyridine with various arylboronic acids afforded two compounds of the 3,5-substituted pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyridine derivatives in 47% and 53% yield. Condensation of 5-chloropyridin-2-amine and 2-chloroacetaldehyde in ethanol afforded 6-chloro imidazo[1,2-a]pyridine, which was in turn, treated with NIS in DMF to afford 6-chloro-3-iodo imidazo[1,2-a]pyridine in 71% yield. Sequential, palladium catalyzed Suzuki-Miyaura cross-coupling reaction on the latter with numerous boronic acids afforded 20 compounds of the desired 3,6-substituted imidazo[1,2-a]pyridine derivatives in 47-80% yield. The prepared compounds were characterized using a combination of NMR (1H and 13C) and mass spectrometric techniques. The compounds’ antimalarial properties were investigated against Plasmodium falciparum and inhibitory studies were conducted against the PvPI4k and PfPKG kinases and some bioactive derivatives were further subjected to molecular docking studies. The enzymatic data displayed moderate anti-plasmodium activity for compound 40b with IC50 values of PfNF54/ PfK1 (IC50 = 0.3709 μM/ 0.6447 μM ) and in vitro PfPKG/ PvPI4K inhibitory activities (IC50 = 2.210/ 0.032 μM)