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Efffectiveness of using the strategy instructions approach (SIA) in teaching reading comprehension: A stud of selected schools in the Amathole East District
No full textThis study sought to explore the effectiveness of using the strategy instructions approach (SIA) to teaching reading comprehension. This research was necessitated by the fact that most South African children do not perform well when it comes to reading comprehension. Many researchers from the literature, such as Rule (2017) and Pretorius and Klapwijk (2016), revealed that most language teachers, especially English First Additional Language teachers, do not have adequate skills to teach learners reading comprehension effectively. Even though in the Curriculum and Assessment Policy Statement (CAPS) document, which should serve as the ultimate guide for teaching English, some strategies are clearly spelt out to be used to teach reading comprehension, the teachers do not use them. This study used the SIA, which contains some of those strategies in the CAPS documents to teach the reading comprehension to grade 8 learners in Elliotdale CMC in the Amathole East District of the Eastern Cape of the Republic of South Africa. The study also sought to find out if SIA could develop positive attitudes and autonomy in the learners towards reading comprehension. The constructivist theory of learning and the schema theory of teaching reading comprehension were the two theories that underpinned the study. A control group and an experimental group (sampled from three schools) were used to determine the effectiveness of SIA when compared to the traditional teaching approaches used by teachers to teach reading comprehension. The study revealed that the use of SIA to teach reading comprehension developed positive attitudes and autonomy in reading comprehension. Finally, SIA has become effective to increase the performance of learners in reading comprehension. The study recommends that teachers should be trained in the higher institutions to use SIA to teach reading comprehension and teachers in the field should be developed to learn how to use the strategies to teach reading comprehension. In addition, more hours should be allocated on the school timetables for teaching reading comprehension. Finally, more reading materials, together with more reading activities, should be given to learners in the schools, especially schools in the rural areas.Thesis (Masters) -- Faculty of Education, 202
Private suplementary tutoring and grade 12 education in Geometry performance
No full textThe primary intention of this study was to explore the extent to which private tutorials relate to Euclidean Geometry performance amongst Grade 12 learners from selected schools in OR Tambo Inland District. The first objective was to examine the correlation between private tutorials and Euclidean Geometry performance. The second research question was to investigate the Euclidean Geometry means scores of students who attend private tutorials as compared to the group of students who do not attend private tutorials. The study had a sample size of 347 participants from four schools. Lev Vygotsky's Socio-cultural Theory was used as a theoretical framework to underpin the study. The study adopted quantitative research methodology to answer the research questions. A questionnaire and a standardised Euclidean Geometry test were administered to collect the data from the participants. Correlational and regression analysis were performed to analyse to data. The outcomes of the study reveal that private tutorials and Euclidean Geometry performance were significantly correlated. Furthermore, private tutorials were found to be the determinant or predictor of performance in Euclidean Geometry. Secondly, students who are attending private tutorials significantly outperformed their counterparts (i.e., students who are not attending private tutorials) in Euclidean Geometry. Recommendations were made to implicate stakeholders to enhance the effective use private tutorials to boost Euclidean Geometry performance while also improvising alternative measures to students who might want to attend private tutorials, but affordability becomes a detrimental hindrance.Thesis (Masters) -- Faculty of Education, 202
Crystal structure, Hirshfeld surface analysis and computational studies of (E)-2, 2-dimethyl-4-styryl-2, 3-dihydro-1H-benzo [b][1, 4] diazepine
Get PDFThe crystal structure, Hirshfeld surface analysis, and computational studies of (E)-2,2-dimethyl-4-styryl-2,3-dihydro-1H-benzo[b][1,4]diazepine have been presented. The compound crystallized in the monoclinic space group P21/c with 8 molecules in it unit cell. A comparison of the experimental and computed bond lengths and bond angles showed good agreement among the results with varying deviations from each other. A discussion of the Hirshfeld surface analysis of the compound have been carried out to provide insight into the structural properties of the compound
In silico substrate-binding profiling for SARS-CoV-2 Main protease (Mpro) using Hexapeptide substrates
Get PDFThe SARS-CoV-2 main protease (Mpro) is essential for the life cycle of the COVID-19 virus. It cleaves the two polyproteins at 11 positions to generate mature proteins for virion formation. The cleavage site on these polyproteins is known to be Leu-Gln↓(Ser/Ala/Gly). A range of hexapeptides that follow the known sequence for recognition and cleavage was constructed using RDKit libraries and complexed with the crystal structure of Mpro (PDB ID 6XHM) through extensive molecular docking calculations. A subset of 131 of these complexes underwent 20 ns molecular dynamics simulations. The analyses of the trajectories from molecular dynamics included principal component analysis (PCA), and a method to compare PCA plots from separate trajectories was developed in terms of encoding PCA progression during the simulations. The hexapeptides formed stable complexes as expected, with reproducible molecular docking of the substrates given the extensiveness of the procedure. Only Lys-Leu-Gln*** (KLQ***) sequence complexes were studied for molecular dynamics. In this subset of complexes, the PCA analysis identified four classifications of protein motions across these sequences. KLQ*** complexes illustrated the effect of changes in substrate on the active site, with implications for understanding the substrate recognition of Mpro and informing the development of small molecule inhibitors
The influence of immuno-contraception on the ecology of African savanna elephants (Loxodonta africana) in a small game reserve in the Eastern Cape, South Africa
Get PDFAfrican savanna elephants (Loxodonta africana) can alter the vegetation structure on a landscape which has both positive and negative consequences for biodiversity. This ecological role can be dependent on the density of elephants in a given area and how the area is transformed. Elephants are currently listed as an endangered species on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) global red list. Despite this endangered status, strong conservation efforts in southern Africa have increased elephant numbers in protected areas. In South Africa, many of these protected areas are small (<1000 km2) and fenced. Thus, without the freedom to roam over large areas, elephant impacts on vegetation and other ecosystem processes may be exacerbated. Increased growth rates and higher population densities, have prompted wildlife managers to explore several population-level management techniques to slow elephant growth rates in small, protected areas. One such technique is the use of immuno-contraception. My study focused on three datasets (Pre, During and Post porcine zona pellucida (PZP) treatments) of one elephant population over an 18-year period in a small game reserve in the Eastern Cape, South Africa. The first aim of my study was to compare the female demography and reproductive parameters of treated (with PZP) and non-treated females (no PZP). I predicted that the population growth would decrease as more elephant cows were contracepted as well as them having longer inter-calving intervals than non-treated cows. Further, I predicted that there would be a skewed sex ratio of male calves born to treated cows. Lastly, I predicted that fertility rates would be lower in treated cows than in non-treated cows. I calculated the annual population growth rates, inter-calving intervals, sex ratios, age at first calving, fecundity rates and fertility rates of all breeding cows. Population growth rates were similar to other managed populations although, compared to a relatively untouched elephant population, annual growth rates in my study site were high. The inter-calving intervals and age at first birth were low compared to other African protected areas which were most likely influenced by the use of PZP, rainfall and a lack of density dependence. Treated cows did not have longer inter-calving intervals compared to non-treated cows nor was there a male biased sex ratio of the offspring of treated cows. The second aim was to assess the spatial ecology of this elephant population and how it may be influenced by immuno-contraception. I predicted that the use of PZP would increase the elephant herd’s core range as there were fewer reproducing cows. I also predicted that PZP would alter the elephant’s habitat use making them less selective in terms of the vegetation types they selected. I compared the home ranges of the elephant population among the three treatments (Pre PZP, During PZP and Post PZP treatment). Home ranges were larger when elephants were treated with PZP compared to the Pre and Post treatments. The herd utilized most of the reserve during the use of PZP whereas prior to contraception, their space use was mostly concentrated on the eastern side of the reserve. Additionally, the vegetation utilization was inconsistent across the differing timeframes, specifically between pre PZP and during PZP. Prior to the use of PZP, the elephant herd utilized the old lands and riverine thicket the most whereas during the use of PZP, the grasslands and karroid habitats were used the most. The most likely influence of the changes in home ranges and vegetation utilization were rainfall, the use of PZP and resource availability. My results suggest that the use of PZP is essential for controlling elephant population numbers. However, there may be some long-term effects (e.g., behavioural changes) of the use of PZP in elephant populations in small game reserves. Thus, I recommend continued monitoring of all aspects of elephant ecology on reserves where PZP is used as a contraceptive technique.Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Zoology and Entomology, 202
Tourism and trade opennes, and economic development nexus in selected SADC countries
Get PDFThe interplay between tourism, trade openness, and economic development in selected SADC countries holds significant importance in understanding their complex relationships and identifying strategies for sustainable economic growth. This study aimed to investigate this nexus using extensive datasets and robust panel data estimation techniques, specifically employing the Panel ARDL model to examine short and long-run relationships among the variables. The utilization of the Panel ARDL model was deemed appropriate due to its efficiency in providing reliable and robust estimates. The study revealed a strong positive relationship among tourism, trade openness, and economic development within the SADC region. This demonstrates the crucial role these variables play in shaping the development trajectory of the region, influencing economic growth, creating employment, providing education, and ensuring overall economic development. Based on these findings, several potential policy implications can be drawn. Firstly, SADC countries should prioritize trade liberalization to solidify the benefits derived from trade within the bloc. Additionally, strengthening policies such as the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) and the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) can contribute to enhanced economic development within the SADC region. Lastly, it is recommended that government officials and relevant authorities in the selected SADC countries implement tourism promotion strategies to emphasize the integration of tourism development programs, recognizing the significant impact of sustainable tourism on economic growth. These policy implications aim to provide guidance for policymakers and stakeholders in the SADC region to capitalize on the positive relationship between tourism, trade openness, and economic development, and ultimately foster sustainable economic growth and development in the region.Thesis (Masters) -- Faculty of Economic and Financial Sciences, 202
Prevalence and risk factors of imaging confirmed neurological complication amongst patients withhypertensive disorders in pregnancy admitted at Nelson Mandela Academic Hospital
Get PDFHypertensive disorders in pregnancy (HDP) are the world's second leading cause of maternal mortality and morbidity, with sub-Saharan Africa taking the lead. The prevalence of HDP in Africa is 10%, remarkably higher than the reported global range of 5.2-8%. This study aimed to determine the prevalence and associated risk factors of CT-confirmed neurological complications in patients managed at the labour ward at Nelson Mandela Academic Hospital (NMAH) over two years. Methodology: A retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted on obstetric patients with clinical files at NMAH from January 2018 to December 2020. We tracked and merged hospital admission data and radiological (brain CT) findings in patients managed for HDP at the labour ward at NMAH within the specified period. Descriptive analysis, bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to identify associated clinical risk predictors of neurological complications. Major findings: Of the 5119 patients with HDP, 153 underwent CT scans. Our study found that 78.2% of the scanned patients with HDP were between 18 and 34 years old. Patients younger than 18 years accounted for 10% of the 154 patients who underwent CT-scan. We found that 81.1% had abnormal CT-brain findings, while 18.9% were normal. The most common abnormal finding was posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES) (25.1%), followed by cytotoxic oedema (16,5%), neurocysticercosis (15.1%), and dural sinus thrombosis (7.9%). The most common neurological findings on admission were headache (82%), low GCS (60.1%), fits (55.6%), blindness (28.8%), and focal signs (11.5%). In addition, the following risk predictors were statistically associated with PRES: post-partum onset ( aOR=6.26,95% CI 1.02-38.83, p-value0.049 ), blindness (aOR=3.19, 95% CI; 1.07-9.59, p=0.038) and fits (aOR=0.20, 95% CI: 0.64-0.63, p-value=0.006. Recommendations and clinical implications: The most common radiological finding among obstetric patients with HDP in this study is PRES. The most significant risk predictors for PRES are the post-partum onset of symptoms and blindness. As PRES is | 3 associated with significant morbidity and mortality, vigilance and aggressive management should be continued and include the post-partum period.Thesis (Masters) -- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, 202
Human capital development and strategic plan alignment: a case of the Eastern Cape Department of Education
No full textHuman capital development as an interactive process enhances and facilitates the development of skills, capabilities and potential of human capital through organisational development. Thus, to achieve goals and strategic plans effectively and efficiently, the public sector must continuously upskill the knowledge and capacity of its human capital. The dearth in skills and capacity, often result in sub-optimal performance in the Eastern Cape Department of Education (ECDoE). To achieve key objectives in its strategic plan, the ECDoE must align its hhuman capital development needs with its strategic plan. The main objective of this study is to explore the nature and extent of alignment between human capital development and the strategic plan of the ECDoE. The sub-objectives of the study are to: (i) establish a conceptual framework for informing human capital development and strategic plan alignment in theECDoE ; (ii) determine how continuous teacher development as a human capital development approach can be more closely aligned with the strategic priorities of the ECDoE’s strategic plan; (iii) explore how human capital development aligns with the strategic plan and Performance Development Management System (PDMS) of the ECDoE and (iv) recommend how the ECDoE can align its strategic human capital development to its strategic plan and performance management system. The study adopts a pragmatic research philosophy and a mixed- methods approach. The quantitative strategy and positivist paradigm were adopted to collect data, from purposefully two hundred and sixty-seven (n=267) educators using a survey questionnaire. The interpretivist research philosophy informed the qualitative strategy. In-depth interview data was collected from five (n=5) purposefully sampled information-rich participants to a point of data saturation. Quantitative data was analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics, while qualitative data was analysed using thematic analysis. Statistical results from survey data rejected hypothesis H10 and confirmed H11 which hypothesised that there was a relationship between eemployee performance and sstrategic plan alignment. Results further confirmed the relationship between employee performance and effectiveness of training alignment. Furthermore, results confirmed an association between employee performance and trainee evaluation. Results from qualitative data suggest that the ECDoE lacked competitive and effective skills human capital development training programmes, effective human resource development strategy as well as developmental capacity building training opportunities for educators. Such capacity dearth affected both educator and learner performance, leading to sub-optimal performance learner outcomes and academic achievement results. The ECDoE must therefore closely monitor and evaluate training programmes and assess their impact on educator performance. Training must be closely aligned with skills and capacity training needs of employees and must contribute to skills acquisition and job performance indicators, envisaged in the department’s strategic plan, mission and vision. Given the findings, the study recommends a framework for human capital development and strategic plan alignment in the public sector, particularly in the ECDoE. It concludes that continuous professional development must be a key performance driver for improving effectiveness and efficiency in strategic goal, vision and mission attainment.Thesis (DPA) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 202
Human capital investment, productivity and economic growth in selected Sub Saharan African countries
No full textMany Sub-Saharan African (SSA) countries experience low economic growth rate levels which is worrisome given the demographic window of opportunities in the region. The governments of SSA countries have been putting emphasis on increasing investments in human capital development as it is vital in unlocking potential economic growth through enhancing regional productivity. With this in mind, this study examined the effect of human capital investment on economic growth through productivity in 12 selected SSA countries during the period 2000 to 2017. The selection of these countries and the study period were based on the data availability as well as differences in income growth. The sample represents all the countries in the income growth groups which are low income, lower middle income and upper middle income. In order to examine the overall effect of human capital investment on economic growth the study utilizes two models which are: 1. Human capital investment and productivity in selected SSA countries. 2. Human capital investment and economic growth in selected SSA countries. Model 1 objective of the study was to investigate the effect of human capital investment on productivity in the selected SSA countries. Productivity proxied by labour productivity measured by real output per person employed was the dependent regressed against a host of independent variables which includes human capital investment, foreign direct investment (FDI), total factor productivity (TFP) and labour quantity growth (LQ).The human capital investment components used in the model included: fiscal expenditure on primary education (PEI), secondary education(SEI), tertiary education (TEI) all as a percentage of government expenditure on education; public health(PHI) as a percentage of GDP and domestic private health (DPHI) as a percentage of current health expenditure. Several estimation techniques which include the Pooled Mean Group (PMG), Panel Fully Modified Ordinary Least Square (PFMOLS) and Panel Dynamic Ordinary Least Square (PDOLS) were employed to analyse the relationship between the variables of interest. The empirical findings indicated that all human capital investment components contribute positively to labour productivity except tertiary education investment which had a negative effect. Moreover, the empirical findings also revealed that foreign direct investment and total factor productivity had positive effects on labour productivity while labour quantity growth had a negative effect. Model 2 objective examined the effect of productivity enhanced human capital on economic growth in the sample of countries. It also incorporated the direct channel of the effect of human capital on economic growth in the stated countries. Economic growth (EG) proxied by real GDP growth as the dependent variable and, on the other hand, explanatory variables being productivity enhanced human capital investment (PEHC), human capital (HC), gross fixed capital formation (GFCF), population growth (POP), institutional quality proxied by government effectiveness (GE) and political stability (PS). The same estimation techniques were also employed so as to obtain robust results. The empirical findings revealed that both productivity enhanced human capital investment and human capital contributes positively to economic growth in the selected SSA countries. In addition, the empirical results also proved that gross fixed capital formation, government effectiveness and political stability have positive effects on economic growth whilst population growth has a negative effect. Overall, the results of the study evidenced the existence of a transfer mechanism from human capital investment to economic growth through productivity in the selected SSA countries. The empirical results imply that increasing investment on human capital is of importance in trying to enhance productivity and through this economic growth in the SSA region. The study concludes that there is a potential on enhancing economic growth in the long run in the SSA region if countries invest more on human capital. Therefore, the study recommends that SSA countries must devote more budget to human capital so that free basic education can be offered in both primary and secondary as well as free health care services. With this, the objectives of quality education and health, sustainable and inclusive growth targets of the African Union (AU) Agenda 2063 as well as United Nations (UN) Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) can be achieved.Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 202
Digital ambidexterity in South African Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs): the role of network capability and value creation
No full textAmbidexterity is the capacity of an organisation to develop both exploration and exploitation capabilities simultaneously. These require different types of responses. This thesis investigates the role of ambidexterity in small and medium enterprises (SMEs). Ambidexterity is associated with network capability and value co-creation. In addition, SMEs can benefit from ambidexterity by reducing the risk of failure and promoting growth. The results suggest that ambidexterity in conjunction with networking partnerships and co-creation are key capabilities for small businesses. Secondly, they reveal that SMEs can develop ambidexterity by engaging in both formal and informal learning from their networking partnerships. This is important for policy makers because it suggests that government support for SMEs should focus on developing both formal and informal learning opportunities. Managers of SMEs should also focus on developing both formal and informal learning opportunities. It is an important capability for the success of these businesses. Networks can also be used as a learning mechanism by SMEs. Furthermore, the research also suggests that the use of digital technology networks can be beneficial for the development of ambidexterity. This means that SMEs should consider investing in digital technology networks to enhance their ambidexterity capabilities. Additional research is needed to determine the specific benefits that digital technology networks provide to SMEs. However, the findings suggest that digital technology networks can help to improve the development of ambidexterity. Although networks and co-creation may be necessary for SMEs, they should caution that openness to change can also be risky. It is essential to manage the risks associated with susceptibility to change. SMEs should consider investing in digital technology networks to help them manage these risk.Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 202