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Material Properties of Cerium Doped Yttrium Silicate (Y2SiO5: Ce3+) by Pulsed Laser Deposition Method for Display Applications
No full textThe thin film phosphor Y2SiO5:Ce3+ were deposited on the Si (100) substrates using 266 nm Nd: YAG pulsed laser. The conditions used for deposition were; substrate to target distance, substrate temperature, variable deposition gases, variable deposition pressure and variable deposition time to characterize the material properties on the thin films. When the material characterises by varying the distance of the substrate from the target, the crystalline size was found to be 19.93 nm. A substantial reduction in thickness were observed as a function of increasing substrate to target distance. This attributes to the semicircular diffusion of the plasma plume due to the reduction of particle species flow over the deposition area of the substrate. In all deposition conditions, the PL emission has been observed in the blue region. This emission is attributed to the electronic transition of 5d → 4f in the Ce3+ orbitals. Where the excited state 5d orbital further splits in to 2D3/2 and 2D5/2 closed states. The scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM) measurements has been observed with different textures which varies with deposition parameters. In all deposition conditions the particles have been observed spherical in shape. When the thin films are deposited by varying the temperature of the substrate, it was deposited at 150, 250, 350, 450 and 600 0 C to characterize the material properties of the thin films of Y2SiO5: Ce3+ at these deposition temperatures. The resulted material was structurally monoclinic with a prominent diffraction peak of 29.20. An increment in surface thickness was observed from a deposition temperature of 150 to 450 ° C and began to decrease from 450 ° C to 600 ° C. The decrease in surface thickness ascribes to reduction in deposition rate. Similar emission and excitation were observed at 465 and 337 nm respectively which is in the same range with the thin films deposited at variable substrate to target distance. The maximum decay time has been observed at a deposition temperature of 450 0C. SEM images and EDS measurements show a significant change in morphology among each image and stoichiometric variations resulting from the change in substrate temperature respectively. When the films are deposited at different background gases (Vacuum, Nitrogen, Argon and Oxygen), a prominent peak at a diffraction peak of 15.7 0 were observed. The PL emission was also observed at the blue spectral region. The thin films show uniform distribution of grains with small agglomerated topographic areas. Maximum UV-VIS absorbance was observed at Argon depositions. The energy bandgap varies between 3.14 and 4.33 eV. The activation energy was obtained in the range of 0.1733 and 0.1938 eV. The maximum activation energy was obtained under the argon deposition. The influence of oxygen deposition gases on the material properties of thin films at a deposition pressures of 1.5, 20, 40, 60 and 100 mTorr with substrate temperature of 250 0C was also investigated. The deposited material was structurally monoclinic with prominent diffraction peak of 28.90. The Raman spectroscopy measurement also shows prominent emission intensity which could be resulted from the crystallized surface of the films. Spherical nano particles have been observed in all depositions. The surface roughness and agglomeration of the thin films have showed variation as a function of deposition pressures. The excitation and emission wavelengths were observed at 244 and 470 nm respectively. The average nanoparticles size varies between 25.71 to 40.4 nm. Maximum average activation energy of 0.438 eV was obtained at a deposition pressure of 1.5 mTorr. Moreover, the influence of deposition time on the structural, photoluminescence, morphological and optical properties of Y2SiO5:Ce3+ thin films was also investigated at a deposition time of 30, 60, 90, 120 and150 minutes. The deposited material was structurally end centered monoclinic with a prominent diffraction angle observed at 30.6 0. Maximum crystallite size was observed at a deposition time of 60 minutes. The Rayleigh, stokes and anti-stokes scattering were observed at 536, 6.9 and 980 Cm-1 respectively. The nanoparticles are uniformly distributed with a size of 0.2 to 0.4 μm. The calculated band gap from the deposition time of 90 and 120 minutes were 2.49 and 1.79 eV respectively. The excitation wavelengths were observed at 269 and 282 nm which ascribes to the two crystallographic sites of Ce3+ and the emission wavelength was observed at 473 nm which might be due to the recombination probability of the excited Ce3+ electrons from the excited state to the holes created in the ground state. The phosphor powder was synthesised by combustion route by various molar concentration of TEOS. All the samples were annealed at a temperature of 800 0C for about 4 hours. The average nanoparticle size from the TEM measurement was found to be 13.8 nm. High percentage of weight loss were observed at 0.014 M. The deionized water and residual organic materials were evaporated at 95 0C and 600 0C respectively. The excitation wavelength was observed at 220, 308 and 340 nm and a single emission wavelength has been observed at 483 nm. Maximum TL emission were observed at a TEOS concentration of 0.021 M. More over the maximum activation energy were observed at 0.014 and 0.015 M respectively which is related to the trap depth of the trapped electrons.African Laser Centre (ALC), South AfricaMinistry of Science and Higher Education, Ethiopi
A model for the teaching of imaging informatics, a platform in biomedical informatics, in a future integrated National Health Insurance system in South Africa
No full textIn this research project, the researcher conducted an in-depth investigation into imaging informatics, to develop a teaching model in imaging informatics, applicable to the South African context. Imaging informatics in the digital radiology department is a division of medical imaging informatics and a study level in biomedical informatics, and function on a cellular or organ system level (Huang 2014a:631). It involves Picture Archiving Communication Systems (PACS), Radiology Information Systems (RIS), radiographic digital imaging modalities and a secure network for storing, retrieving and communicating of medical information and DICOM (digital imaging and communication in medicine) images. In digital radiology departments, in private and public healthcare institutions, it is usually the IT specialists (or manager) and the PACS administrator that is responsible for ensuring a smooth exchange of health information. Currently, no registered, accredited training programme in imaging informatics is available in South Africa. The objectives of the study were: • To gather data regarding imaging informatics nationally and internationally; and • To develop a teaching model for imaging informatics, a platform in BMI, in a future integrated NHI system in South Africa. The researcher used a mainly quantitative research approach to collect quantitative and qualitative data through three structured questionnaires and a three-round Delphi technique. The target population involved radiographers, IT specialist, PACS administrators and system managers. Purposive sampling was used to select the samples from each of the different research populations. The research design was appropriate, as it assisted in answering the research questions within a pragmatist paradigm. Six summated themes regarding imaging informatics principles were derived from the first two questionnaires and incorporated into the development of the first Delphi questionnaire. The categories of the professional practices of imaging informatics professional in the third structured questionnaire were also included in the first-round Delphi questionnaire. The three-round Delphi survey resulted in consensus achieved for 142 of the 184 statements (categories). Stability was proclaimed on an additional 37 statements. Only five categories were excluded after round three. The information retrieved from the literature review during Phase 1 of the study regarding BMI platforms and training; imaging informatics principles and teaching courses; learning theories, teaching strategies and models; and the categories where consensus was reached, and stability proclaimed, were used to develop the teaching model for imaging informatics in a future integrated National Health Insurance system. From the conclusions, it is clear that the teaching model developed through this study will be useful for developing and implementing a curriculum for imaging informatics teaching and learning in South Africa
Teachers’ perspectives on the role of home language on academic literacy: a case study of two South African schools
No full textSouth Africa adopted a Language in Education Policy that stipulates the use of home language as the Language of Teaching and Learning (LoTL) in Foundation Phase (Grade 1 to 3). Through the LiEP, the Foundation Phase learners are supposed to be taught in their home language, Sesotho, and switch to English in Grade 4. However, learners fail to adjust easily to the use of English as the LoTL in Grade 4. This study investigates the views from teachers on the use of home language for the Foundation Phase and academic literacy development of learners. The language used in Grade 1 to 3 is crucial as it forms the foundation for the academic development of learners in their early and later grades and higher education. The study is informed by the Multi-bilingualism approach (Owen-Smith 2010) that stresses the use of multiple languages for effective teaching and learning where learners have diverse linguistical backgrounds. The Multi-bilingualism (Owen-Smith 2010) model is deemed appropriate for this study considering the heterogenious linguistical backgrounds of learners in South African schools. A qualitative case study approach was employed for this study using semi-structured interviews conducted with 11 teachers from two primary schools in one district in Bloemfontein. The audio recorded data were transcribed, coded and analysed using a thematic analysis technique. The study offers some insights on the challenges associated with the use of multiple languages in class. In addition to Sesotho, which is the learners’ home language in the sampled schools, teachers used other African languages including SeTswana for all learners to understand what was being taught. Although teachers initiated these strategies, they struggled when conducting lessons due to the limited training they had on the use of home language, particulary the multiple languages they resorted to. As learners were expected to learn using English as the LoTL in Grade 4, they failed to adjust to learning in English resulting in teachers code switching from English into Sesotho and other African languages in an English class. The constant traslations from English to Sesotho and other African languages affected teaching which resulted in teachers failing to complete the syllabus. Poor socio-economic backgrounds, inadequate resources for teaching, large class sizes, and insufficient support from parents emerged as barriers to the effective implementation of the Language in Education Policy. These findings have some policy and practical implications for the South African Department of Basic Education and the schools on finding ways of consolidating the use of multiple languages as a way of improving learners’ performance. The study recommends the recognition and formalisation of the use of other African languages in class besides the use of Sesotho along side English in the Foundation Phase. Additionally, further training of teachers on the use of multiple languages and increasing support of teachers could be considered for improving teaching and learning
Analysis of performance indicators in IPL Twenty20 Cricket from 2015 to 2017
No full textIntroduction: Cricket teams practice various batting and bowling strategies when preparing for matches or tournaments. Within the IPLT20 tournament these performance variables are considered as vital due to these variables discriminating between winning and losing teams. All teams participating in the IPLT20 seek a competitive advantage therefore an analysis of performance variables such as boundaries hit by batsmen and runs scored during the power play can be used to predict future success or failure of a cricket team based on the match outcome. Objectives: The purpose of this study was to identify which batting and bowling performance variables correlate with winning and losing teams in the IPLT20 Cricket tournament from 2015-2017. Furthermore, this study is aimed to supply coaches and players with performance outcomes that most significantly influence the winning and losing of an IPLT20 cricket match. Methods: A total of 150 IPLT20 cricket matches between 2015 and 2017 were captured. Six teams were selected for the purpose of this study, namely Delhi Daredevils, Kings XI Punjab, Kolkata Knight Riders, Mumbai Indians, Royal Challengers Bangalore and Sunrisers Hyderabad. These teams all participated in all three season from 2015 to 2017. This will result in 150 matches over the 3 seasons. Measuring Instruments: Retrospective data from the 2015, 2016 and 2017 Indian Premier League Tournament was collected from ESPN Cricinfo website. Data Analysis: A reliable data source for this research was found in Statsguru. Statsguru is ESPN Cricinfo’s cricket statistics maintenance database. The data was then analysed using the SAS Statistical Software (SAS, 2017). Data were analysed separately for the team batting first and for the team batting second. The outcome of the match is a binary variable (win/lose) since drawn matches were excluded from the analysis. The association of the potential predictor variables with the match outcome was analysed using univariate logistic regression, fitting each predictor variable, one at a time. The statistical significance of each predictor variable was tested using an exact test (exact conditional logistic regression); the exact P-value is reported. The analysis was carried out using SAS procedure LOGISTIC (see SAS, 2017). Results: Variables that predict success in T20 cricket differed for teams batting first and second, respectively. The significant predictors of winning an IPLT20 cricket match when batting first were: total runs scored in a match (p=0.0001), total wickets lost in a match (p=<0.0001), and wickets taken in a match (p=<0.0001). The significant predictors of winning an IPLT20 cricket match when batting second were: wickets taken in a match (p=<.0001) and wickets lost in a match (p=<.0001). Conclusions: The results of this study concludes that there are various performance variables such as the influence of a higher total runs scored, wickets taken in a match and wickets lost in a match correlates positively with success in Indian Premier League T20 cricket between teams batting first and second and can be used as success performance predictors. In contrast to other studies, this study focusses on variables in T20 cricket that reflect the performance of the entire team. From this study it can be concluded that batting first has a higher success rate although bowling data such as wickets taken and wickets lost for teams batting second are the most important predictors of winning
The experiences of community-service clinical psychologists: a self-determination theory perspective
No full textThis study aimed to explore and describe the experiences of community-service clinical psychologists from a self-determination perspective. The Self-Determination Theory served as a theoretical lens in understanding the motivation of community-service clinical psychologists. A qualitative multiple-case study design was used to gather rich information from participants regarding their motivation. Through the use of purposive sampling and subsequent snowball sampling, six participants were obtained. A semi-structured interview was conducted with each participant, and each individual interview was transcribed by the researcher. The transcribed interviews were analysed by thematic analysis, and themes and sub-themes were generated. Findings of the research included the experiences of the participants and how these experiences related to the three basic psychological needs indicated in the Self-Determination Theory, namely autonomy, relatedness and competence. In terms of autonomy, participants highlighted taking responsibility for the successful completion of their community service despite numerous challenges. Pertaining to relatedness, participants highlighted the importance of support from significant others as a source of motivation. Regarding competence, participants highlighted the importance of receiving support from friends, family and colleagues as a source of motivation. The study concluded that in order to persevere in challenging situations, an individual must have intrinsic motivation. The successful completion of the research participants’ community-service year can be used as evidence for this conclusion
Preparation and characterization of poly (lactic acid)/ethylene vinyl acetate/graphene oxide polymer composites for water purification
No full textWater contamination by heavy metals, due to most industries is a global problem. The released heavy metals are in the form of ions, which do not naturally degrade, but rather form part of water that is consumed. This has numerous negative effects on humans, animals, plants as well as the environment. The purpose of this study was to synthesize graphene oxide (GO) from expandable graphite powder (EG) and prepare environmentally friendly poly(lactic acid) (PLA)/ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA)/graphene oxide (GO) composites through melt mixing to be used to remove lead ions from solution. The GO was synthesized following the modified Hummer’s method and verified with FTIR, XRD and SEM-EDS. FTIR spectra showed numerous peaks denoting the successful attachment of oxygen containing functional groups to EG. XRD analysis for GO resulted in a peak at 7.5˚, with an increased interlayer spacing (0.347 nm for EG and 1.18 nm for GO), which validated the presence of oxygen containing functional groups. SEM images showed GO layers as well as their exfoliated surfaces and in EDS the oxygen content was proven to be higher in GO (39.4%) as compared to EG (12.3%). The PLA/EVA/GO blend (70/30, 50/50, and 30/70) composites, with different amounts of GO (1, 3, and 5 wt.%), were prepared by melt mixing. The morphology, surface, flow, and thermal properties as well as water studies (Water absorption and Pb (II) adsorption), were performed using Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Surface energy evaluation system (SEES), Melt flow indexer (MFI), Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), Thermogravimetric analyser (TGA), water intake experiments and Atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS), respectively. The morphology of the blends showed that PLA and EVA were immiscible. In the blend composites, it illustrated that GO was mostly situated on the interface between PLA and EVA, although it could also settle in either of the polymer phases. The highest PLA containing blend composites showed cracks on the polymers and gaps on the interface, while in the other composites there were no visible cracks and gaps. GO sheets were present in the blend composites, and it brought about partial miscibility to the polymer matrices. The interfacial tensions, through SEES analysis, calculated for PLA/GO and EVA/GO pairs were similar, indicating an equal chance of GO to disperse in either one of the polymers, or even the interface. The wetting coefficient value of 0.523 suggested GO to be on the interface of the two polymers. Thermal analysis (melting and crystallization by DSC runs) showed that PLA and EVA are immiscible, as two melting peaks were observed for these polymers, 149 ℃ and 97.9 ℃, respectively. EVA was seen to have a hindering effect on the re-crystallization and melting process of PLA, this was because the cold crystallization temperature peak of PLA disappeared leading to no melting of PLA. While PLA had a semi-catalytic effect on the crystallization process of EVA, as the crystallization temperature of EVA was observed earlier, for all blends, though there was a decrease in degree of crystallinity. With the introduction of GO to the polymer matrices, the glass transition temperature of PLA moved to lower values, and in the 50/50 w/w PLA/EVA composites (with 1, 3 and 5 wt.% GO loadings) the individual melting peaks approached one another. This meant that GO brought partial miscibility to the polymer matrices. GO seemed to have a hindering effect on the crystallization of EVA, and a nucleating effect on the chains of PLA. This was observed through the drastic reduction in the degree of crystallinity of EVA, and the reappearance of the cold crystallization temperature peak of PLA, resulting in the re-definition of melting, for all the blend composites. In terms of thermal degradation studies through TGA analyses, the polymers degraded separately in the blends, proving their immiscibility. The introduction of GO to the blends showed the autocatalytic effect on the thermal degradation of the polymers (early degradation at lower temperatures, and delayed degradation with polymer char at higher temperatures). There was a presence of char in all the blend composites, which showed the presence of polymer (either PLA or EVA) as well as GO. This suggested that the polymers masked GO and in turn, the GO improved their thermal stability to some extent. Water absorption studies showed that the 66.5/28.5/5 PLA/EVA/GO composite had the highest water absorption degree, which was because of the cracks and spaces observed on it. The 50/50 w/w PLA/EVA composites also showed a high-water intake, and the exposed GO layers observed on their morphology was the attribution made to these observations. Then in Pb(II) intake studies through AAS, all the analysed samples had very high metal adsorption capacities, and the 66.5/28.5/5 PLA/EVA/GO composite adsorbed more metal ions under a basic medium and 5 hours contact time. Adsorption kinetic modelling showed a favourable heterogeneous and homogeneous adsorption as both the Langmuir and Freundlich isotherms gave linear fits. However, the Langmuir fit was more precise and therefore the conclusion was that adsorption took place mostly on a homogenous surface
Sesotho compounding
No full textThis study explores the formation of Sesotho compounds from descriptive and theoretical perspectives. Attention is specifically given to the compounds’ combinatorial patterns, morphological structure, number, agreement, headedness and properties which distinguish compounds from similar constructions. Compounding has featured quite extensively in the linguistic literature and it is a highly controversial phenomena in terms of whether compounds are morphological or syntactic constructions. Descriptively, this study reveals that Sesotho compounds are morphological constructions which morphosyntactically behave like simple nouns. This, therefore leads to the conclusion that Sesotho compounds are different from similar syntactic constructions, being phrases. The difference between the two is explained within the Lexical Integrity Principle. Theoretically, Sesotho compound data is accounted for within the Optimality Theoretic framework in which specific constraints set forth necessary conditions for constructions which qualify as compound nouns in Sesotho. This happens following ranking of constraints in strict hierarchy of domination. The shortcoming of standard Optimality Theory to account for Sesotho compound data following the ranking of constraints in strict hierarchy of domination is complemented by manipulation of Cophonology which allows re-ranking of constraints to account for variations in the data. The data for this study was collected from participants at the National University of Lesotho and traditional doctors in Maseru through one on one interviews in which Sesotho nouns were elicited in order to collect compounds. The primary data from the participants was complemented with secondary data. A variety of Sesotho materials were consulted to collect Sesotho compounds. Such materials included books, theses, dictionaries amongst others
Assessment of in-hand manipulation by occupational therapists in paediatric practices in South Africa
No full textDissertation (M.OccTh.(Occupational Therapy)--University of the Free State, 2020Assessment of in-hand manipulation skills is fundamental in determining the appropriate treatment for a child with fine motor delays. For a child, in-hand manipulation is the complex movements required to effectively perform scholastic (e.g. writing), self-care (e.g. buttoning), and play tasks (e.g. puzzle-building), with precision. There is a growing interest in in-hand manipulation; thus, there is an increased effort to develop a modified classification system and various preliminary instruments. Handwriting studies were also performed that recognise in-hand manipulation as an essential performance component. However, there is limited research available that provide insight regarding the assessment of in-hand manipulation among South African occupational therapists. The main research question was to describe how paediatric occupational therapists in South Africa assesses in-hand manipulation of children. A descriptive quantitative research design was used to answer the proposed research question. The objectives were to describe the paediatric assessment instruments that have been published in literature, the assessment methods used by South African occupational therapists in paediatric practices, their preferences for a suitable instrument and if there were any associations between these results and the different practice sectors that the occupational therapists work in. This study was conducted in the form of two academic articles. The first study followed a non-empirical approach for a theoretical article, with the scoping review as the chosen method. Emphasis was placed on providing an overview of the different in-hand manipulation instruments described in the literature. Each identified in-hand manipulation instrument was critically evaluated pertaining to what extent the in-hand manipulation components are included in the study, the clinical utility that related to how accessible and practical the instruments were and what psychometric properties were established for each instrument. The second article used an empirical study approach with a quantitative cross-sectional study design. To ensure that the sample population represented the population of paediatric occupational therapists in South Africa, a non-probable, purposive sampling method was used. The data was collected using an online survey method. Test-retest reliability of the questionnaire was performed to determine the stability of the answers. Hence, the participants were asked to complete the questionnaire a second time, ten days after completing the first round. Ethical approval was obtained, and confidentiality was ensured. The data was analysed by a qualified biostatistician. The questions that tested reliable were further discussed in the article and indicated which formal and informal methods of assessment were used by paediatric occupational therapists, while also reporting on the contextual and practical aspects of the assessment process. The preferences for a suitable in-hand manipulation instrument for children were also reported and can be used for future studies as instrument design principles. In addition to the two publishable articles, this dissertation includes a supplementary file section in which the results of the second study’s last objective is reported, namely the associations between the different practice sectors (Academic, Community, Private, Public, Public-Private) and the current methods used by occupational therapists and their preferences for suitable instruments. The decision to separate the results was made as the data extracted from the study was too extensive to be discussed in a single empirical scientific article while remaining within the journal guidelines. Therefore, these results were reported on and added to the supplementary file section, with the intention to be discussed in a third article. Recommendations and clinical implications for practitioners, both South African and globally, are discussed in each article. Areas of future research are identified to advance the professions’ body of knowledge and provide valuable guidance when future instrument development research is undertaken.Postgraduate School from the University of the Free Stat
Randomised crossover trial of m. gluteus maximus and m. gluteus medius activation during rehabilitation exercises in female hockey players
No full textIntroduction: Various researchers have focused on the activation capabilities of the gluteal muscles during different commonly used rehabilitation exercises. However, there is currently a lack of research in examining body weight rehabilitation exercises that elicit the highest percentage maximal voluntary isometric contraction (%MVIC) for both the m. gluteus maximus (mGmax) and m. gluteus medius (mGmed) in a high-performance athletic population. Field hockey predominantly requires maintaining a forward flexed posture, which places excessive stress on the lumbar spine of the players. Hence, it is necessary to assess the muscles that support the lumbar spine, especially the muscles that surround the hip, in order to prescribe strengthening exercises for this population. Knowledge of the percentage activation of the mGmax and mGmed elicited during body weight rehabilitation exercises may result in more specific exercise programme prescription during prehabilitation and the later stages of rehabilitation for high-performance female field hockey players. Objectives: The aim of the study was first to establish which commonly prescribed body weight rehabilitation exercises from previous studies produced greater than 61%MVIC for both the mGmax and mGmed. Hereafter, the study examined the exercises that fall into this category to determine which exercise will elicit the highest %MVIC, defined as the peak normalised sEMG signal amplitude, in high-performance female field hockey players of the University of the Free State (UFS). Methods: Surface electromyography (sEMG) was used to record the muscle activation of the mGmax and mGmed of four (4) body weight rehabilitation exercises on twenty-six (26) highperformance female field hockey players of the UFS. The %MVIC activation data of both the mGmax and mGmed were analysed using a three-way ANOVA, with ‘participant’, ‘period’ and ‘exercise’ as categorical variables in the model. Point estimates for the mean %MVIC for each exercise were reported, as well as point estimates, 95% confidence intervals (CIs) and p-values for the pairwise differences in peak %MVIC between the four body weight rehabilitation exercises. For each variable analysed, the overall F-test for the four body weight rehabilitation exercises is reported, as well as the partial effect size measure for ANOVA. Results: The mean age of the participants was 20.15±1.59 years, the mean height was 164±0.07cm, mean body mass was 64.72±10.21kg, and mean BMI was 23.87±2.92kg.m². Side-plank hip abduction with dominant leg on bottom generated a 124.61±7.94%MVIC of the mGmax and a 126.07±14.16%MVIC of the mGmed. Side-plank hip abduction with dominant leg on top generated a 124.33±8.63%MVIC of the mGmax and a 124.52±11.37%MVIC of the mGmed. The single-leg squat generated a 125.65±10.13%MVIC of the mGmax and a 126.30±12.89%MVIC of the mGmed. Plank with hip extension generated a 122.73±9.37%MVIC of the mGmax and a 125.04±13.14%MVIC of the mGmed. Concerning the mGmax, there was no significant difference found in activation when sideplank hip abduction with dominant leg on bottom was compared to side-plank hip abduction with dominant leg on top (p=0.8475, d=0.28), the single-leg squat (p=0.4807, d=-1.03) and plank with hip extension (p=0.2000, d=1.88). Furthermore, no significant difference was found when side-plank hip abduction with dominant leg on top was compared to the singleleg squat (p=0.3685, d=-1.31) and plank with hip extension (p=0.2770, d=1.60). However, there was a significant difference between the single-leg squat and plank with hip extension (p=0.0487, d=2.91). Concerning the mGmed, there was no significant difference in activation when side-plank hip abduction with dominant leg on bottom was compared to the side-plank hip abduction with dominant leg on top (p=0.3272, d=1.54), the single-leg squat (p=0.8837, d=-0.23) and plank with hip extension (p=0.5134, d=1.03). Furthermore, no significant difference was found when side-plank hip abduction with dominant leg on top was compared to the single-leg squat (p=0.2606, d=-1.77) and plank with hip extension (p=0.7437, d=-0.52) or between the single-leg squat and plank with hip extension (p=0.4240, d=1.26). When the exercise effect is combined, the four body weight rehabilitation exercises did not significantly affect either mGmax (p=0.2558) or mGmed (p=0.6285) activation. Conclusion: The four body weight rehabilitation exercises examined by the study generated very similar %MVIC activation of the mGmax and mGmed in high-performance female field hockey players. This research enables practitioners to apply evidence-based practice into programme prescription. Implementation of the findings of the current study could result in significant benefits during prehabilitation, injury prevention programmes and the later stages of rehabilitation for high-performance female field hockey players. The conditioning coach stands to benefit, especially given that these exercises can be executed on the playing pitch as part of a warm-up without the need for any equipment
The value of recognition of prior learning in enhancing access and redress in teacher education
No full textThe Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is regarded as a priority in the effort to redress the discrimination of the past. RPL assists individuals to return to education and work at the pace that is related to the learner. RPL plays a role in facilitating access in teacher education through experience. The literature has shown that RPL can build confidence for students through self-reflection on their own experiences, thus making them less anxious about embarking on future studies. In the light of the fact that the qualification, the National Professional Diploma in Education (NPDE) through which students received access to education through the application of RPL has been terminated, this study intended to explore the value of RPL in enhancing access and redress in teacher education. The study followed a mixed method approach. The quantitative approach used a self-constructed closed-item questionnaire, whilst the qualitative approach consisted out of semi-structured interviews. In this study, a sample of hundred (100) students who were enrolled for the NPDE, participated in the questionnaires and in the survey. These participants were selected using random sampling. I selected every second person on the list, irrespective of race, gender or status, until one hundred (100) persons were reached. Quantitative data was entered via Microsoft Excel for analysis and SPSS for reliability testing, the Cronbach alpha coefficient was found to be 0.784. The quantitative data was analysed using both descriptive and inferential statistics in which tables and percentage distributions were used, to display data. The main findings of this research suggested that RPL plays a very important role in enhancing access and redress in teacher education. Data from both the questionnaires as well as the interviews suggested that it was only through RPL that they were able to access Higher Education Institutions (HE). In this way, RPL redressed past injustices and brought about the transformation of education. However, what came out very strongly in this study was that the aim of RPL was to enhance access and redress past injustices could be severely jeopardised by financial constraints experienced by the participants. In some cases, the lack of funding resulted in the participants having to terminate their studies for at least a year, in order to accumulate finances. It is my view that the lack of finances could have or will negatively influence the vision of ensuring access and redress through RPL. It is against this background that, among others, I recommend that the government and institutions of higher learning look into a funding model for students that wish to enter teacher education through RPL.University of the Free State (UFS