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Reading interventions for grade 8 learners studying English as a home language in a rural South African school.
No full textMasters Degree. University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban.This autoethnographic self-study delves into the implementation of a 12-week reading intervention programme for grade 8 English second language learners in a rural South African school. This study is vital as it confronts the urgent challenge of reading difficulties faced by learners. It provides actionable insights into transforming educational outcomes for these learners, through effective educational practices. The first research question explores learners, reading experiences. The second research question considers what measures can be implemented in response to learners’ reading experiences. The third research question examines my experiences while implementing the reading intervention programme. The literature review of this thesis establishes Sociocultural Theory as the guiding framework for implementing a reading intervention programme. It also delves into various critical aspects surrounding reading interventions and their implementation. It highlights the importance of reading across the curriculum, the relationship between language skills, and factors contributing to reading challenges. Additionally, it explores intensive and extensive reading strategies and previous research on reading programmes and evaluates South Africa's National Reading Strategy, including its implementation and associated challenges. This research adopts an autoethnographic self-study approach rooted in the interpretive paradigm. The research process is transparent through reflexivity and collaboratively involving a critical friend. The study includes 8 learner-participants. Data sources comprise reflective journaling, critical friend engagement, and artsbased
methods, such as participant-produced metaphor drawings. Thematic analysis was employed to code and identify patterns within the dataset systematically. Initial codes emerged from observations, reflections, and feedback. Codes were categorised into major themes: teacher activity, reading material, and learner activity. This process serves as a tool facilitating the extraction of meanings from the dataset. The findings
indicate a positive shift in learners' attitudes through engaging activities and a supportive environment. The study contributes insights into effective reading interventions, emphasising strategic planning and adaptability
Evolution of Anti-Tat Antibodies and its role in developing prophylactic and therapeutic HIV-1 vaccine.
No full textMasters Degree. University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban.Abstract available in PDF
Young consumers’ purchase intentions towards plant-based products during the global climate crisis and Coronavirus pandemic.
No full textDoctoral Degree. University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban.The COVID-19 pandemic and climate crisis have impacted individuals’ purchasing habits across many sectors. Plant-based products are one of the burgeoning sustainable products demanded by consumers. This research investigated the traditional green behaviour antecedents, namely environmental knowledge, environmental concern, attitude towards plantbased products, moral attitude, subjective norm and perceived behavioural control influencing plant-based product purchase intention, relative to health consciousness and concerns about the COVID-19 pandemic, not considered by previous South African research, to address the climate crisis in an emerging economy that is most vulnerable to climate change. A conceptual framework was developed, based on an extension of the Theory of Planned Behaviour. Data was collected through the personal administration of questionnaires, from registered students at the five UKZN campuses. The positivist paradigm and cross-sectional quantitative, descriptive-correlational empirical research method were applied. Quota sampling resulted in 381 respondents. Exploratory factor analysis, descriptive analysis and structural equation modelling were employed. The data revealed that plant-based product adoption among young South African consumers is still in its infancy, albeit gaining momentum, as this cohort intends purchasing plant-based products for ecological reasons. The direct positive and significant predictors of influencing plant-based product purchase intention were subjective norm, moral attitude, and attitude towards plant-based products; with environmental concern, environmental knowledge, and concerns about the COVID-19 pandemic serving as predictors of influencing plant-based product purchase intention through attitude towards plant-based products. By understanding these factors, green marketers can devise appropriate tactics that support and promote influencing plant-based product purchase intention. This study also contributes evidence of young consumers’ plant-based product purchase intentions and underscores the need for climate change education, plant-based product awareness and government intervention, thereby increasing young consumers’ knowledge and willingness to adopt plant-based products during two major social issues facing mankind today
Experiences of adolescents transitioning into blended families from a selected high school in the Umlazi District.
No full textMasters Degree. University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban.Research indicates that adolescents across the globe experience stressful life events such as their parents’ divorce, separation and other forms of family breakdown, which
often results in them having to transition into blended families. For some adolescents, the transition process is often confusing and stressful and can affect their psychological, physical, mental, and socio-emotional health and educational achievements. The South African government and the Department of Basic Education have neglected to acknowledge or include provisions and support for blended families. This lack of inclusion is also experienced by teachers who are often ill-equipped and inexperienced to assist their learners who are transitioning into their new blended families. This study explored the experiences of adolescents transitioning into blended families and examined how they navigated their adjustment to their blended families. This study was underpinned by an interpretivist paradigm and theoretically framed by the McMaster Model of Family Functioning (MMFF). A qualitative case study design was applied, and semi-structured interviews and diaries were utilised to gather data from twelve participants at a selected high school in the Umlazi District in KwaZulu-Natal. Ethical principles, including voluntary participation, non-maleficence, beneficence and confidentiality, were ensured, and the data was analysed using thematic analysis. The findings revealed that how adolescents received their transition announcements influenced their receptiveness to their new blended families. It was also discovered that the blended families engaged in varied methods of conflict resolution and levels of family involvement that ranged from effective to ineffective in terms of their family functioning. The findings further revealed the types of support that adolescents received throughout their transition as well as their evaluation of their emotional stability and the effectiveness of their transition into their respective blended families. The study concludes that all adolescents who transition into blended families have unique experiences based on varied circumstances, and this indicates that support initiatives for these adolescents must be personalised and cater to their individual needs
Development of an injector test rig for shear thinning gel propellants.
No full textMasters Degree. University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban.This work describes the development of an injector test rig to characterise the behavior of shear-thinning gelled rocket propellants. The work falls under a broader program of research into gel propellants conducted by the Aerospace Systems Research Institute (ASRI). Gels represent a new class of propellant for rocket propulsion applications. They offer potential advantages over conventional liquid and solid propellants but their behaviour through injector orifices is poorly understood. Consequently, there is no standardised design procedure for gelled propellant injectors, although computational fluid dynamic (CFD) methods have shown potential. The aim of this research was to design, build and commission an injector test rig utilising single-element impinging injectors to generate experimental data on gel sprays such as breakup length, and droplet size. The rig is intended to inform gel injector design methodologies by providing experimental data against which CFD-generated simulations can be compared and refined. MATLAB® image processing tools were used to analyse spray sheet images and quantify the resulting fluid structures generated by the test rig. The study included the design and manufacture of the propellant/simulant feed system, injector insert, injector manifold, frame and propellant/simulant supply tank. Two adjustable converging injection orifices were used to form spray sheets at 45°, 60° and 90° impinging angles. For testing purposes, two water-based simulants were formulated using hydrocolloid xanthan and guar gum gelling agents at 0.5, 1.0 and 1.5 wt%. Rheological characterisation of the gels was performed to verify their shear-thinning behavior using a rotational rheometer. Spray sheets were then generated at injector pressure drops in the range of 140 kPa to 1400 kPa. A MATLAB® model of the system was developed to establish control parameters for the desired outputs and the rig was controlled via a LabVIEWTM application. The rig provides a platform for further research into the behavior of gelled rocket propellants, with an intended focus on hydroxylamine nitrate (HAN) and ammonium dinitramide (ADN)
Evaluating the impact of governance on service delivery in the Zululand District: towards a good governance efficiency model.
No full textDoctoral Degree. University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban.Municipalities in South Africa face significant governance challenges that undermine service delivery. These challenges arise despite an extensive legal framework that promotes good governance. The Zululand District Municipality exemplifies this local government crisis due to its inefficiencies in financial management, accountability, public participation, and provision of essential services such as water and sanitation. This study investigates how adherence to good governance principles can enhance service delivery efficiency by developing a governance efficiency model tailored to the realities of the Zululand District Municipality. The study employs a qualitative research design and draws on semi-structured interviews with municipal officials, policymakers, and community stakeholders, alongside an analysis of municipal reports and legislative frameworks. Data was analysed using thematic analysis and coding techniques to identify recurring governance challenges and best practices. This approach ensures a comprehensive examination of governance inefficiencies and their impact on service delivery outcomes. Findings reveal that governance failures such as inadequate financial oversight, lack of transparency, and political interference significantly hinder service delivery. The study also identifies public participation and accountability mechanisms gaps and explains how these impede service delivery. The study concludes that addressing these issues requires a structured governance framework that fosters collaboration among key stakeholders, strengthens institutional capacity, and ensures compliance with governance principles. This study makes a novel theoretical contribution by integrating good governance, public value, and agency theories to develop a governance efficiency model. The model proposes a collaborative governance approach that enhances accountability, transparency, and stakeholder participation to improve municipal service delivery. Unlike existing governance frameworks, this model prioritises adaptive governance mechanisms to address the unique challenges of the Zululand District Municipality. The proposed governance efficiency model offers a structured approach for the municipality and its counterparts to enhance operational efficiency, mitigate governance risks, and improve service delivery outcomes. It provides policymakers with actionable insights on fostering accountability and civic engagement while ensuring compliance with governance standards. If adopted, this model has the potential to transform service delivery by promoting institutional resilience and governance sustainability
Numerical analysis and long-term dynamics of Fourier-type pseudo-spectral schemes applied to the Klein-Gordon equation.
No full textDoctoral Degree. University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban.This thesis investigates the Klein-Gordon equation (KGE) using a combined theoretical and numerical approach. We develop a robust numerical approximation scheme for the KGE that demonstrates good convergence properties for various data types and explore the long-time behavior of semi-discrete KGE solutions near finite- and infinite-dimensional invariant subsets of an appropriate space. In the first part of the thesis, we establish convergence results for the semidiscrete, Fourier pseudo-spectral spatial approximation of the KGE with smooth potentials. We present an extensive stability and convergence analysis for finite Sobolev regularity data in T and R, as well as for smooth data from Gevrey classes in T. We demonstrate that the convergence rate is algebraic in the first case and (sub-)geometric in the second case. The second part of the thesis deals with the numerical studies of the long-time dynamics of semi-discrete numerical solutions in periodic settings. Through an extensive set of simulations, we show that the pseudospectral semi-discretization is capable of preserving finite- and infinite-dimensional invariant structures over very long time intervals.Comments from Examiner A : The thesis is well-written and well-constructed. The student clearly understands spectral methods, both in theory and application. The applications illustrate the validity of the theory.
Comments from Examiner B: In this work, the candidate has presented theoretical and numerical analyses of the Klein-Gordon equation posed on the real line. The mathematical technique used in the thesis is adequate, and the rigorous proofs of different theorems and lemmas are established. Mr. Gafari Lukumon has demonstrated his ability to reach the research goals
The relationship between social capital and mental health in South Africa: a comparison by gender.
No full textMasters Degree. University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban.Social capital, which encompasses the strength of social networks, trust, and community ties, has received growing attention for its influence on mental well-being. Research shows that social capital plays a key role in promoting positive mental health and protecting against mental health challenges, particularly depression. This study examines the relationship between social capital and mental health in South Africa, with a particular focus on how gender may shape these dynamics. Globally, a wide range of studies have demonstrated that social capital can protect against depression and other mental health issues. In South Africa, however, the impact of social capital is particularly complex, shaped by the country’s history of colonialism, apartheid, and social fragmentation. Understanding how social capital influences mental health in this context is crucial for addressing mental health challenges in the country. Using longitudinal data from the National Income Dynamics Study (NIDS), which provides a detailed picture of South African society, this study explores the relationship between social capital and depression for African adults. Depression is measured using the CESD-10 score, which rates the extent of depression on a continuous scale, as well as a binary measure of depression. The study takes a gendered approach to examine how the relationship between social capital and mental health may differ for men and women, using statistical methods such as pooled OLS, fixed effects, and logit fixed effects models. The study finds that neighbourhood crime and violence are strongly linked to higher levels of depression for both genders, with men being more vulnerable to these environmental stressors. Neighbourhood attachment acts as a protective factor for women, reducing depression. The findings suggest that for men, religious and communal activities provide essential emotional support, while women may benefit from a wider range of social networks. Additionally, the quality of trust with neighbours plays a more significant role in men’s mental health
Investigation of sexual dimorphism, morphology, and morphometry of the cribriform plate in the KwaZulu-Natal population: Osteological and radiological assessment.
No full textMasters Degree. University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban.Introduction: The cribriform plate is a fragile anatomical structure of the ethmoid bone. It is situated in the anterior cranial fossa between the brain and nasal cavity and serves as a channel for olfactory nerves to pass through to the brain. Despite its importance, there is a paucity of information in the literature on the morphology and sexual dimorphism of the cribriform plate, particularly in African populations. So, understanding the anatomical variations of the cribriform plate, particularly in relation to sex and laterality, is crucial as these differences may influence olfactory function, surgical approaches in the anterior cranial fossa, and the overall understanding of craniofacial anatomy in the selected KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) population. This study intended to observe and measure the shape, forms, and variations in the dimensions of the cribriform plate in relation to sex and laterality on both the bones and for computed tomography (CT) scans of a selected KZN population. Materials and methods: Fifty-five (55) CT scans of the cribriform plate were assessed from the axial and coronal views and fifty-eight (58) dried skulls without the calvaria were investigated bilaterally in this study. Morphology of the cribriform plate was recorded based on the Kawahara method, morphometry and related structures of the cribriform plate were investigated to identify any sexual dimorphism in KZN population.
Result: In CT scans, the Type IV shape of the cribriform plate was the most prevalent in males, and the Type I cribriform plate shape was the most common in females. All morphometric parameters in comparison to sex were not statistically significant (p > 0.05) and they were observed to be slightly higher in males on both sides (males width on the right side was 4.78±1.30 mm and females width on the right side was 4.19±1.05 mm; males width on the left side was 4.33 mm (median) and females width on the left side was 4.18±0.97 mm; males length on the left side was 20.1±4.34 mm and females length on the left side was 20.0±3.84 mm; males depth on the left side was 5.15±1.65 mm and females depth on the left side was 4.94±1.40 mm) except for the length on the right side of females which was 20.6±3.73 mm. The teardrop type of the crista galli was the most common type with 53.3% on males and 64.0% on females. Keros classification type II was the most prevalent on sexes and Keros type III was the least identified within the population. On the right and left sides of the cribriform plate in both sexes, the anterior ethmoidal artery was commonly located below the skull base. Male Black South Africans had a right side of the cribriform plate that was longer (20.6 mm), whereas White South African males had a right side of the cribriform plate that was slightly smaller (19.7 mm). Compared to White females, Black South African females have a longer right side of the cribriform plate (20.7 mm). Cribriform plates’ width and depth in Black South African females had lower means (width on the right side was 4.00±1.05 mm and on the left side it was 4.17±1.06 mm; depth on the right side was 4.74±1.56 mm and on the left side it was 4.81±1.26 mm) than White South African females on both sides
Ukuvezwa komlingiswa uMkabayi kaJama emibhalweni yobuciko.
Get PDFMasters Degree. University of KwaZulu-Natal Pietermaritzburg.Lolu cwaningo beluqondene ngqo noMkabayi kaJama. Kulolu cwaningo kubhekwa indlela okuvezwe ngayo uMkabayi kaJama emibhalweni yobuciko. Kube sekuvela ukuthi ziningi izindlela avezwe ngazo ngoba abantu bamchaze ngezindlela ezingefani, kepha kuzo lezo zindlela ezingefani, bukhona ubuhlobo obudamane buvela. Emibhalweni eminingi esetshenzisiwe, bonke ababhali bayavumelana ukuthi uMkabayi kaJama wayemuhle, ekhaliphile, enamandla futhi enesibindi. Kuphinde kuvele futhi ukuthi bakhona abafa ngezwi likaMkabayi kaJama. Nanxa bekhona abafa ngelakhe izwi, kuvela ukuthi likhulu iqhaza alibamba ekubunjweni kombuso wakwaZulu. Abanye baze baveze ukuthi ukube uMkabayi kaJama akazithathanga izinqumo ezinqala azithatha, ngabe ubukhosi bakwaZulu kabukho. Kanti abanye bona bathi ukube uMkabayi kaJama wayengekho, ngabe ngisho iNkosi uShaka kaSenzangakhona wayengeke alibuse leli likaPhunga noMageba. Kulolu cwaningo kusetshenziswe izinjulalwazi ezine: Injulalwazi yeJenda Soshalizeshini, uhlelo lwenzalabantu, ifemenizimu yase-Afrika, kanye newumanizimu. Lezi zinjulalwazi zibe usizo olukhulu ngoba zikwenze kwalula ukuchaza uMkabayi kaJama kanye nokweseka izinqumo azithatha. Ezinye zalezi zinjulalwazi azandile emkhakheni wezifundo zesiZulu. Ocwaningayo ukujabulele ukuzisebenzisa ngoba zilethe ulwazi olusha emkhakheni wolimi lwasekhaya. Sikhona sona isidingo salolu cwaningo ngoba luzomethula kabusha uMkabayi kaJama emphakathini nasezweni. Okwenza lokho ukuthi lolu cwaningo luveza okuningi ngoMkabayi kaJama obekungekho ocwaningweni oselwenziwe. Lapha kuvezwa okuningi okwenziwa nguye. kuphinde kuvezwe nezizathu ezamenza ukuba athathe lezo zinqumo azithatha