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The semantics of language translation using mobile systems in South African healthcare
No full textThesis (DPhil (Informatics))--Cape Peninsula University of Technology, 2018.As in many parts of the world, the need for healthcare services is increasing rapidly in South Africa. Owing to many official languages in the country, health service delivery is continuously challenged by spoken language and semantics. The challenges result to poor health services in many areas of the country. Thus, this study was undertaken with the aim: to develop a framework which can be used to guide the selection and implementation of mobile systems in the translation of language semantics for improved healthcare service delivery in South Africa. For this purpose, the study was based on one significant research question: How can the challenge(s) of semantics and language translation in South African healthcare delivery be addressed using mobile systems? In achieving the aim of the study, a qualitative study was conducted using the semi-strtructured interviews to collect the data. The analysis of the data was carried out using the hermeneutic approach within the interpretative paradigm, which was guided by two theories, actor network theory (ANT) and diffusion of innovation (DOI). The ANT was used to focus on the interaction and relationship between human and non-human actors within a heterogeneous networks, in the activities of healthcare. The DOI was employed to examine how mobiles systems can be diffused, in addressing the challenges and barriers which the health facilities encounter from language perspective. The case study approach was followed, based on three cases, two healthcare organisations, and a community in the northern part of South Africa were used in the study. Based on the analysis of the data, the influencing factors were found, and interpreted. The interpretation helps gain deeper understanding of the challenges, from which a framework (see Figure 6.5 in Chapter 6) was developed. From an understanding of the factors that influence language semantics, and its translaton by using mobile systems, challenges in the South African healthcare can be reduced, and quality improved. The way in which the theories were used brought a fresh perspective to the study. In practice, the framework can be used by both healthcare practitioners and ICT specialists to guide the selection, use and support of mobile systems for the translation of language semantics in South Africa. The complementary use of ANT and DOI in the study contributes methodologically
Stakeholders' perceptions of the internationalisation of a university of technology
No full textThesis (MTech (Public Management))--Cape Peninsula University of Technology, 2018.The purpose of this study was to evaluate the internationalisation of higher education at a university of technology in a developing country, from the perspectives of institutional stakeholders. The study was conducted at the Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) and took the form of a case study. It endeavoured to investigate the present status of internationalisation at the university and the practices through which it was achieved, as they were perceived by all of stakeholders. It was undertaken with the rationale of making a meaningful contribution to the available literature pertaining to the internationalisation of higher education in general, particularly in relation to the perceptions of those who implement its strategies and benefit from them, with specific emphasis on South Africa. An exploratory study of this nature has the potential to provide those who are tasked with formulating policy for higher education with invaluable information and it was deemed to be appropriate in the absence of a customised national framework for the internationalisation of higher education in South Africa. A mixed methods research design, which employed both qualitative and quantitative research methods, was adopted. The qualitative data was gathered from sources such as official documents and archival records and also from interviews with 11 informants, namely, 5 foreign senior students, the deans of 2 faculties, 2 members of the academic staff, and 2 officials who worked in the office of international affairs. During the same period two separate online survey questionnaires were administered to 222 students and 177 members of the academic and administrative staff. The respondents represented different groups of stakeholders at the university and were purposively selected by applying predetermined criteria. The interviews were transcribed and their content was analysed through the use of Nvivo software, in order to identify themes which could contribute to the findings from which the conclusions were drawn. The findings pertaining to the nature of internationalisation at CPUT could have significant implications for other universities of technology in South Africa. Although researchers have identified a distinct shift in the rationale for internationalisation. South African universities, such as CPUT, internationalisation agendas are pursued mainly in the interests of deriving academic benefits, is also used to improve the quality of education, achieving excellence in research, attaining international standards, and acquiring international profiles. However, it is to be anticipated that as the international reputation of the university grows in response to the quality of its education and research, financial priorities will become increasingly prominent. This study was conducted to contribute to a growing body of research concerning the internationalisation of higher education in South Africa. By conducting a case study of an institution which is considered to be a previously disadvantaged South African university, it is to be hoped that this study would prompt future research in the field
Investigation of the failure of critical food security community gardens as poverty alleviation projects in Cape Town
No full textThesis (MTech (Business Administration in Project Management))--Cape Peninsula University of Technology, 2018.The purpose of this study was to investigate the failure of critical Food Security
Community Gardens as poverty alleviation projects in Cape Town. Community garden
projects have been used as poverty alleviation many years ago and as it are today.
Community garden projects provide food like, fresh vegetables, fruits, grain, and other
natural products such as wood, flowers and herbs for poor communities. The
unemployment rate in South Africa is an ongoing issue; however this has made the
South African government to an emphasis on community garden projects. Although
there has been a commitment by South African government to promote use of
community garden projects to address food insecurity, however food security still remain
a major developing problem in this country. The objectives of this study were to identify
aspects that may contribute to failure of critical Food Security Community Gardens as
poverty alleviation projects. To identify critical success factors related to community
garden projects. To address the issue of food insecurity cape flats residents in Cape
Town. To find a solution to failure of critical Food Security Community Gardens as
poverty alleviation. A questionnaire was developed and used as a tool to acquire inputs
to satisfy the research questions. This study was based on material that was collected
from school, churches, clinics, and community residents. The findings were:
identification of the project risk, horticultural skills, project leadership, and land tenure
and water accessibility is critical for project success. Households sometimes spend a
day without eating any vegetable. The households are not always got their vegetable
from community garden projects. There is a lack of project leadership skills and effective
communication. Community members are educated on garden skills, Opportunity are
given to children to apply gardening skills, Community parks and gardens are used to
share knowledge. The analysed data has led to recommendations that it is most
important to identify critical success factors that are specifically to community garden
projects in order to succeed. The results from the study could enable community
members, professionals and assist government officials who are involved in addressing
food insecurity in order to alleviate poverty
The impact of selected characteristics on the financial bootstrapping methods adopted by immigrant entrepreneurs in the retail clothing sector of the Cape metropole
No full textThesis (MTech (Business Administration in Entrepreneurship))--Cape Peninsula University of Technology, 2018The metropolitan city of Cape Town is host to a significant number of immigrant entrepreneurs. These entrepreneurs encounter many challenges in conducting their business activities, including limited access to formal financial institutions. As a result, they turn to alternative sources for capital. Financial bootstrapping methods enable businesses to raise resources or stretch available ones without using debt or equity. The characteristics of the individual business owner often affect the way in which these methods are used. This study therefore investigates the extent to which selected characteristics of immigrant entrepreneurs in the retail clothing sector (bootstrap awareness, survival goal and education) influence their use of financial bootstrapping methods. A quantitative research approach was used to collect and analyse data. The study was limited to immigrants involved in retail clothing businesses within the Cape Metropolitan area. Data was collected in the specific areas of Bellville, Parow, Cape Town (CBD) and Wynberg due to the concentration of immigrant retail clothing businesses in these areas. Through self-administered questionnaires, 135 respondents participated in the study. The data obtained was analysed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) software, version 24. The frequency and Pearson chi square results displayed in contingency tables were interpreted and discussed to established meaning. According to the findings, extended working hours, negotiations with customers and suppliers, obtaining stock on credit, charging lower prices, changing product offerings and keeping business records are the strategies most frequently used by respondents. Most respondents are unaware of the concept of financial bootstrapping methods despite using some of the strategies in their businesses. The need to survive significantly influences the use of financial bootstrapping methods. Level of education was also found to have a significant influence on immigrant entrepreneurs' use of financial bootstrapping methods. Recommendations to address these challenges are directed to immigrant entrepreneurs themselves and to the government
Towards a cybersecurity framework for South African e-retail organisations
No full textThesis (MTech (Information Technology))--Cape Peninsula University of Technology, 2019With the current in technology and information communications technology devices cybersecurity amongst organisations to deal with a plethora of cyber-ills. Organisations and governments continue to seek ways to improve cybersecurity. This study seeks to understand the cybersecurity environment of e-retail in South Africa. This study is intended to offer and/or inform the creation of a framework for cyber-securing e-retail organisations in South Africa, and to set parameters through which current legislation on cybersecurity can be made relevant to e-retail. It looks into the basis for further research into the security of e-retailers and how it can be used to support the national cybersecurity plan of South Africa in its entirety. The aim of the study is to identify cybersecurity challenges of e-retail organisations. The study adopted a multiple case study approach. Qualitative data collection methods using purposive sampling (i) direct and in-depth interviews with e-retail company managers and e-retail employees - directly linked to the use and security of critical infrastructure such as technology (ii) document analysis on cybersecurity legislation and frameworks currently in use, as well as other relevant government documents on e-retail in South Africa were used. Data collected from interviews were analysed using content analysis. The findings, which were presented thematically, constructed the narrative of cybersecurity in South Africa, bringing together cybersecurity challenges. From an organisational point of view, cybersecurity is normally relegated to the background without any emphasis on how e-retailers stand to benefit from operational cybersecurity practices. The study provides theoretical and practical contributions. A conceptual framework positioning e-retail in South Africa relating to cybersecurity challenges is presented. One new category has been suggested/added to the NIST framework (2014) used called compliance. The NIST framework of 2014 was the framework used as this was the current accepted version at the time of the study. Suggestions for further research were also suggested
Visual communication for a youth market : an exploration of visual meaning through co-design
No full textThesis (MTech (Design))--Cape Peninsula University of Technology, 2018.The youth faces unique challenges due to constant movement within the global economic and technological contexts. A digitally oversaturated world with constant access to globalised, mass information makes it challenging for communication designers to reach this audience on important matters. The South African context further complicates matters as youth unemployment is at an all-time high, a lack of quality schooling continues to feed poverty and inequality, exposure to gangs, violence, trauma and sexual abuse contribute to antisocial behaviour and drug and alcohol abuse increase risky sexual behaviour. It is therefore important to connect with the youth on these matters. The need to explore the mechanisms and content which will successfully connect with a South African youth audience was identified. In response to this, this study explored what the youth considers to be meaningful communication. The main objective of this research was to explore what types of visual communication have meaning for the youth to enable communication designers to connect with the South African youth market. The study used case study methodology and data was collected qualitatively through a questionnaire and participatory methods, including two co-design workshops (with 20 participants, aged 20-27) and a small group discussion (with 5 participants). The study featured a co-design approach, which focused on collaborative meaning-making through the visualisation of communication pieces. The study identified several interconnected themes which relate to a bigger category of association. Three major categories of understanding were identified: perception (how the youth see their world); engagement (how the youth experience their world); and relevance (how the youth relate to their world). These themes provide visual communication designers with valuable insights relating to the youth audience
Dispersive liquid-liquid micro-extraction coupled with gas chromatography for the detection of trihalomethanes in different water sources in the Western Cape, South Africa
No full textThesis (MTech (Chemistry))--Cape Peninsula University of Technology, 2018.Trihalomethanes (THMs) are a group of four compounds that are formed, along with other disinfected by-products. This happens when chloride or other disinfectants are used to control microbial contamination in drinking water, which then reacts with natural organic or inorganic substances in water. Trihalomethanes are better known by their common names such as chloroform, bromodichloromethane, chlorodibromomethane and bromoform. These four compounds are known to be classified as cancer group B carcinogens (shown to cause cancer in laboratory animals). Trihalomethane levels tend to increase with pH, temperature, time and the level of “precursors" present. Precursors are known to be organic substances which react with chloride to form THMs. One significant way of reducing the amount of THMs in water is to eliminate or reduce chlorination before filtrations and reduce precursors. There are guideline limits for THMs in the SANS 241:2015 document, but they are not continuously monitored and their levels in natural water are not known. The aim of this study is to develop a rapid, fast and reliable liquid-liquid microextraction technique, to determine the presence of THMs in natural water sources. This study particularly focuses on different water sources e.g. river, underground, borehole and chlorinated water. Chlorinated water is the water that has been presumably treated for bacteria and fungus growth. The results that were obtained for chlorinated water are as follow, 10.120 μg/L − 11.654 μg/L for chloroform, 2.214 μg/L - 2.666 μg/L for bromodichloromethane, 0.819 μg/L − 0.895 μg/L chlorodibromomethane and 0.103 μg/L - 0.135 μg/L for bromoform from validation data. All these THMs concentrations have been found to be below the SANS 241:2015 limits. Natural water shows a very high affinity for chloroform. This is what is expected under normal conditions as chloroform is the most abundant THM of all THMs present in natural water. The liquid-liquid microextraction technique that was optimized and used for the determination of THMs in this study is a rapid, simple and inexpensive technique that provides low limits of detection (LOD) e.g. 0.1999 μg/L chlorodibromomethane and 0.2056 μg/L bromoform and wide dynamic range (LOQ) of 0.6664 μg/L chlorodibromomethane and 0.6854 μg/L bromoform for the determination of THMs
Introduction pathways of phytopathogenic fungi and their potential role in limiting plant invasions: the case of Banksia spp. (Proteaceae) in the Cape Floristic Region
No full textThesis (Master of Conservation Science)--Cape Peninsula University of Technology, 2018.Introduction pathways of fungal pathogens in South Africa are far less quantified in the literature than those for plants, animals and human infectious diseases. Phytopathogens continue to be introduced to South Africa via several pathways at an unprecedented rate. A number of these species pose a significant threat to South African ecosystems and biodiversity. Despite this, fungal pathogens could also be beneficial when they are used as bio-control agents to control alien invasive plant species. Nevertheless, recent studies revealed pathogens are most likely to be studied after they have caused a detrimental impact on the environment. Invasive fungal pathogens, such as Phytophthora cinnamomi (Oomycota) do not only pose a threat to native species of the family Proteaceae but could also potentially be bio-control agents for emerging alien plant invaders. In this thesis, firstly, I review current knowledge of phytopathogenic fungi introduction pathways in South Africa; secondly, I aim to understand the importance of fungi in limiting plant invasions using Banksia as a case study in the Cape Floristic Region. In chapter two I investigate introduction pathways and dispersal vectors that facilitate the spread of fungal pathogens. I compiled comprehensive list of fungal pathogens in South Africa, and evaluated the dispersal vectors and introduction pathways for each species. I found fifty five casual species, three naturalised species, six invasive species and thirty six pathogens for which invasion status was not classified due to insufficient data. Agriculture is responsible for the introduction of most fungal pathogens in South Africa. Wind was identified to be the prominent dispersal vector facilitating the spread of pathogens. I conclude that knowing introduction pathways of pathogens and their dispersal vectors will assist in developing quarantine protocols that could improve bio-security. Lastly, I provide recommendations for the national invasive microbe species list. In chapter three the study investigates the variability in mortality rate of Banksia species in the Cape Floristic. Species abundance was calculated across known Banksia populations in the Cape Floristic Region to determine survival and mortality rates. Soil and leave samples were taken from Banksia plants to evaluate potential microbial pests that were present. Also, acetone leaf extracts of twelve Banksia species were screened for antimicrobial activity against P. cinnamomi (Oomycota). Lastly, a post-border risk assessment was conducted for 14 Banksia species− present in South Africa − using the Australian Weed Risk Assessment protocol, to evaluate potentially invasive species. The results indicated that survival and mortality rate varied across species; I found the two invasive species, B. integrifolia and B. ericifolia to have the highest survival rate. Phytophthora cinnamomi was the most prominent isolated fungal pathogen sampled from Banksia species roots. The detection of antifungal activities in the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) bioassay provided evidence that some Banksia species (B. ericifolia, B. integrifolia, B. hookeriana and B. formosa) have antimicrobial chemical constituents that could possibly inhibit infection and colonisation by P. cinnamomi. The weed risk assessments conducted on Banksia species showed five species pose a high risk of invasion while seven species required further evaluation. I conclude that P. cinnamomi could potentially regulate invasive Banksia species such as B. speciosa with minimal antimicrobial activity against the pathogen. I recommend an in-situ and ex-situ inoculation trials of Banksia species against P. cinnamomi to be conducted to evaluate pathogenicity, under different watering regimes since the pathogens proliferation is favoured by soils that are high in moisture. I present the main conclusions from this thesis in chapter four and provide recommendations for management and invasive species legislation
An Assessment of the Green Zone Partnership Model (GZPM) as a solution to the problem of littering and dumping in the Bonteheuwel community, City of Cape Town, South Africa
No full textThesis (MTech(Environmental Health))--Cape Peninsula University of Technology, 2018.This study focuses on the assessment of the Green Zone Partnership Model (GZPM), which is a partnership project that was initiated by the City of Cape Town and Bonteheuwel community as a solution towards littering and illegal dumping in public open space areas. It is reported that the City of Cape Town is spending about R350 million year to remove waste illegally dumped in public open spaces around the city. In an attempt to assess the GZPM, the study has been used the environmental partnership theory as an approach to analyse the nature and significance of this partnership project. Over the last 20 years, following the emergence of the concept of sustainability, various organisations including governments are moving towards partnerships with various stakeholders as tools to finding solutions to environmental facing the planet (Long & Arnold, 1995). The emergence of this approach was the catalyst for a partnership formation to address the waste problem within the case study area (Ibid, 1995:34). To locate the study within the broader theoretical debate, the study draws on the theory of environmental partnership. Environmental partnership refers to the partnership formed to engage stakeholder partners in order to solve specific environmental problems. Similarly, Emas (2015:2) argues that partnerships encourage participatory decision making regarding the identification and solution of the current environmental problem. They are, to a larger extent, key to achieving the vision of sustainable development. In the South African context, the popular rise of a democratic system since 1994 has coincided with the escalation of various partnership projects, specifically formed to improve environmental quality. While there is a plethora of partnerships of this nature, with some initiated by the World Bank, IMF, and European Union; there is still a need to assess whether or not these partnership initiatives attain the desirable outcome(s). It is from this backdrop that this research seeks to assess the green zone partnership to establish whether or not it has improved environmental quality with specific reference to littering and illegal dumping in Bonteheuwel community The study used qualitative research design to answer the question raised in this research. Community survey and Face to face in-depth interviews with key stakeholder partners were conducted to collect data that which helped to answer the research question. This data was triangulated with other type of data collected from a household survey conducted within the study area. The data collected revealed how the partnership arrangement (GZPM) has improved the environmental and waste conditions in the communities. The results of the study will be crucial to the environmental health practitioners and managers dealing with waste related problems at local government level. The study has contributed to the existing knowledge in the field of environmental management, environmental health, waste management and natural resource management. Finally, the study concluded that partnership of this nature should be driven by champions from the communities to ensure that the environmental solution is sustainable for the benefit of the future generation. The fact that the partnership project was initiated and funded by the City of Cape Town does not guarantee as sustained solution toward a specific environmental problem (e.g., illegal dumping in public open space areas)
The effect of zinc and soil ph on grain yield and nutrient concentrations in spring wheat cultivated on potted soil
No full textThesis (MTech (Agriculture))--Cape Peninsula University of Technology, 2018.Zinc deficiency on various soil types have been reported in arable soils of sub Saharan Africa (SSA) including South Africa. A pot trial was conducted at the Cape Peninsula University of Technology, Wellington campus to investigate the interaction of different application rates of Zn at various soil pH on the grain yield and quality of spring wheat in a completely randomized factorial design replicated three times. The four soil pH tested were: pHA: 5.1, pHB: 5.6, pHC: 6.1, pHD: 6.6 which correspond to lime application at 0, 0.5, 1 and 1.5 t/ha. Five Zn rates (Zn1: 3.5; Zn2: 4.5; Zn3: 5.5 Zn4: 6.5, and Zn5: 7.5 mg /kg soil which correspond to Zn1: 7; Zn2: 9; Zn3: 11; Zn4: 13 and Zn5: 15 kg /ha) were applied at two (planting and flowering) growth stages. Yield and yield component data collected were analyzed using SAS version 9.2 and means were separated by Duncun’s Multiple Range Test (DMRT). The results showed that grain yield and yield components were significantly affected by lime application pHC (6.1): 1t/ha at planting. Zn application at planting had no significant effect on the grain yield and yield components. However, at flowering, the simultaneous increase of Zn along with increase in lime positively affected grain yield and yield components. Plant analysis showed that at both stages (planting and flowering), Zn application, especially at pH 6.6, significantly increased P, K, Ca, Na, Mg Fe, Cu and B concentrations in wheat grain, but the concentrations of N, Mn, Zn and protein remained unaffected. Zn application had no effect on most nutrients due to the presence of lime. While the absence of lime, Zn4: 6.5mg/kg (corresponding to 13kg/ha) significantly increased the nutrients. In addition, Zn3: 5.5mg/kg (corresponding to 11kg/ha) promoted Zn absorption by grain in all treatments