Thesis (MPhil)--Stellenbosch University, 2014. / ENGLISH ABSTRACT: Knowledge Transfer is one of the key knowledge management practices that organisations employ to ensure cross-pollination of knowledge across their various divisions. It should be a cornerstone of a learning organisation and should pervade the entire organisation in all its manifestations. In general it is a question whether public sector organisations in South African are employing such practices in their quest to render services effectively, efficiently and economically. This thesis focuses on an attempt at knowledge transfer in a department in an underdeveloped province, i.e. the Department of Roads and Public Works in the Eastern Cape. It centres on a case study of Cuban engineers who were contracted by the South African government to design and build infrastructure. The thesis is divided into the following chapters: Chapter 1: deals with the problem of knowledge transfer in a developing context. The chapter focuses on the objectives of the research and sketches a contextual backdrop to the study. Chapter 2: discusses the key concepts of Learning, Organisational Learning, Knowledge, Knowledge Transfer, and Knowledge Transfer Strategies. It also identifies barriers to knowledge transfer and highlights a few suggestions on how to deal with those barriers. Chapter 3: deals with the case study of six Cuban engineers and presents the results of the case study. Chapter 4: describes some of the local initiatives taken by the Department to cater for the needed skills in their sector. Chapter 5: evaluates the topic by bringing the literature discussed in chapter two to bear on the findings of the case study. / AFRIKAANSE OPSOMMING: Kennisoordrag is een van die kern kennisbestuurspraktyke waardeur organisasies kruisbestuiwing van kennis oor ‘n verskeidenheid onderafdelings moontlik maak. Dit behoort die basis van ‘n ‘learning organisation’ te wees en die hele organisasie te deursuur. In die algemeen is dit ‘n vraag of publieke sektor organisasies in Suid-Afrika sodanige praktyke aanwend in hulle pogings om dienste te lewer. Hierdie tesis fokus op ‘n poging tot kennisoordrag in ‘n departement wat in ‘n onderontwikkelde provinsie in Suid-Afrika geleë is, naamlik die departement Paaie en Openbare Werke in die Oos-Kaap. Die tesis draai om ‘n gevallestudie van Kubaanse ingenieurs wat deur die Suid-Afrikaanse regering gekontrakteer was om infrastruktuur te ontwerp en te bou. Die tesis is verdeel in die volgende hoofstukke: HOOFSTUK 1 handel oor die probleem van kennisoordrag binne ‘n ontwikkelingskonteks. Dit sit die doel van die studie uiteen en beskryf die sosiale konteks daarvan. HOOFSTUK 2 bespreek die kernkonsepte, naamlik Leer, Organisatorise Leer, Kennis, Kennisoordrag en Kennisoordragstrategieë. Dit identifiseer ook faktore wat kennisoordrag teenwerk en bespreek moontlike oplossings vir laasgenoemde probleem. HOOFSTUK 3 behels ‘n gevallestudie van 6 Kubaanse ingenieurs en bied die resultate daarvan aan. HOOFSTUK 4 beskryf sommige lokale inisiatiewe deur die Department om kennisoordrag te bevorder. HOOFSTUK 5 evalueer die onderwerp deur die literatuur in hoofstuk 2 in verband te bring met die gevallestudie.

The study explored the domains of graduateness and employability at one polytechnic in Zimbabwe. The focus was on how instructional delivery strategies and assessment tools could embed domains of graduateness and employer expectations. A phenomenological research approach was used in conducting the study. This qualitative research paradigm allowed the research to take place in a natural setting which enabled a holistic picture and use of an inductive mode of inquiry through the researcher’s immersion in the research setting. Human capital, teaching methods and flexible training models, among others, emerged as major strengths in training. However, these key strengths were marred by unprofessional practices and limited resources. In assessment, proficiency schedules, trade testing and use of external assessors emerged as key strengths. Pertaining to the curriculum, it emerged that on paper, curriculum specifications and design for implementation appeared relevant to the production of a graduate exhibiting attributes of graduateness. It however emerged that there was need to revisit the hidden curriculum, as training was dependent on the availability of resources. The study proposes a framework for promoting graduateness and enhancing employability through creation of mutual partnerships to collectively develop a curriculum that is acceptable to institutions and industry. Moreover, graduateness domains should be enshrined in the curriculum. A need for strategic selection of teaching and assessment methods which promote critical thinking, interaction, decision making and retention of information was identified. Major recommendations are that institutions should align themselves with market demands and technological changes to ensure employability. Institutions should also prepare graduates for transition to the world of work, by rendering adequate preparation through teaming up with industry and the use of appropriate teaching methodology.

Thesis (DTech (Tourism and Hospitality Management))--Cape Peninsula University of Technology, 2010. / Media reports show that South Africa is engulfed by the clouds of abject poverty and unemployment. These conditions lead to many social ills: hunger, a lack of self esteem, the poor performance of children at school due to malnutrition and the general low morale within communities. This condition seems to worsen as one moves towards the rural areas. As a result, the government has embarked on a number of projects in an attempt to help the destitute. This requires support from all South Africans. In view of the above, this study aimed to investigate the possibility of developing sustainable education and employment opportunities in the hospitality industry through the provision of cultural tourism at a proposed homestead Lodge. The study's objectives were firstly to explore the possibility of offering development in the form of sustainable education in the rural community of Shobeni village, located along the South Coast of KwaZulu-Natal. Secondly, the study aimed to explore the possibility of establishing a Homestead Lodge at Shobeni to provide employment opportunities to the community, while facilitating tourist access to an authentic rural experience. Lastly, it wanted to examine the possibility of linking to a teaching institution such as the Durban University of Technology to ensure the continuity of fresh ideas through research and education. The data collected revealed that the rural villages are rich in cultural tourism. The approach taken for data collection was of a qualitative nature, as thirty study participants were interviewed based on their knowledge of the subject under study. For the analysis of field data an auto/ethnographic approach was adopted. further exercise was completed to select the kind of cultural products deemed suitable for such a project. A participatory approach was employed to ensure that the community had a say in the decision-making process. The study concluded that it is possible to create a project of this nature. The recommendation is that the implementation stage should start immediately after all stakeholders have been consulted.

Thesis (MTech (Education))--Cape Technikon, 1992. / Tourism is a growing, dynamic, diverse and complex industry. Accordingly sophisticated knowledge and skill is required of its personnel. Clients' high expectations regarding personnel and facilities and the increasingly international character of markets are changing the focus of the task and role of the manager of tourism. His success will depend on his entrepreneurial and managerial skills, but much more is expected of him. A closer investigation of his task clearly reveals the need for responsible and accountable training.

M.A. (Psychology) / The evaluation of the 6M Simulation Training Programme is conducted against the background of the manpower needs of the Republic of South Africa, the increase in training programmes as a result of this need and the importance of evaluation of training to ensure the optimal utilization of human and economic resources. The environment in which the worker finds himself in the Western industrial situation has an influence on his job efficiency. As maintenance of economic growth in South Africa will in large measure be dependent on the optimal utilization of the Black workers corps· understanding of the particular problems which the Black worker has to contend with is an important factor in the training situation. The 6M Simulation Training Programme was developed to counteract an identified lack of knowledge with regard to basic business principles relevant to modern industry, and the relevance of these concepts to the job situation, on the part of uninitiated Black workers. Factual information with regard to sources of capital of the specific organisation, use of this capital, reasons for starting the organisation, competition in business, restrictions on the organisation resulting from market factors, sources of income, distribution of income, causes and implications of loss and profit, distribution of profit, influence of the worker on the success or failure of an organisation, the role of management and the reasons for relevant rules and regulations are conveyed to the course attendant during the 6M Simulation Programme in a unique manner. Comparison of pre and post-test results show a significant increase in knowledge of concepts discussed during the course. Variables which influenced the increase in knowledge were the instructor, age, educational qualifications, home language and job category. A positive change in job behaviour and attitudes related to the job situation was observed by the majority of representatives of line management interviewed. A factor analysis indicated positive change in respect of four overall factors, i.e. attitude towards management, efficient use of machines, human sources of inefficiency and identification with the organisation. Evaluation of the influence of the course on organisational efficiency wat not possible because of practical problems. An analysis of comments of respondents indicated that course attendants experienced the course as relevant and applicable to the work situation. Experience during this study indicates that there is SUsplclon on the part of the Black worker with regard to the motives of management with reference to training. The positive effects which training may have on the job performance of course attendants ;s adversely affected by the lack of reinforcement in the job situation. Lack of knowledge and understanding with regard to attitudes, needs, aspirations and problems of co~workers adversely affect the relationships between cultural groups. The development of a relationship based on trust between the different cultural groups seems to be a prerequisite for the successful utilization of the South African manpower potential.

M.Com. (Industrial Psychology) / Due to a present shortage and projected future shortage of instructional staff, the electricity utility of south Africa, Eskom, introduced the PLATO computer-based training system in an effort to increase the productivity of instructors. The author acted as project leader when the PLATO system was installed in Eskom during June 1979. Thus Eskom became the first company in South Africa to use the PLATO system for industrial training. Training is delivered by means of a mainframe Cyber system at Eskom's Head Office, Megawatt Park, situated in Sandton. The mainframe is connected to 300 student terminals via the Eskom network to 88 learning stations throughout the country. Training is offered to all the power stations and distribution head offices and other main buildings where at least 200 employees are based. It was found that the PLATO system was not used equally effectively at all sites and it was decided to conduct an analysis of those factors that may have an effect on the effective utilisation of the system in order to try to eliminate the negative factors and to strengthen the positive factors. The research hipothesis stated that there are many factors that will influence the effectiveness of the system both individually and combined .with other factors. It was however felt that those factors resulting from the management and administration of the system will have the greatest influence on the effectiveness of the utilisation.

Global competition and rapid technological change have been the driving forces for a more flexible and competent workforce. Continuous employee training assists organisations to achieve their goals by adding value to their key resources, the human factor. The demand for a more qualified workforce becomes a strategic force in the effort to raise competitiveness. Providing, obtaining and improving the necessary skills are important in responding to a rapidly changing international economy. Life-long learning and continuous skills development are the new requirements imposed by our knowledgeintensive society. The overall purpose of the research was to determine the impact of multi-skilling training (MST) on the paintshop production environment and its employees at Volkswagen South Africa (VWSA). The objectives of this research were to: Identify the elements of multi-skilling training and guidelines for its development and implementation; Critically evaluate the current system; Determine the impact of multi-skilling training on the production environment in the paint shop at VWSA The research methodology for this study comprised the following steps: Firstly, the development and implementation of MST at Volkswagen South Africa was assessed. The elements of MST and its impact on production and the employee worldwide were determined through the literature study. Secondly, the limitations of the current MST system used in the paintshop at Volkswagen South Africa were assessed in an empirical study, which involved completing of questionnaires. The empirical study proved that the current MST system employed in the paintshop at Volkswagen South Africa had assisted in improving production, and increasing the employees’ morale. The final step of this study entailed the formulation of recommendations, which are as follows: · Sufficient time should be allocated for practical training. · Frequent job rotation must be implement ed. · Advanced MST must be implemented after completion of Level Four. · MST should be presented in English, Afrikaans and Xhosa.

Please read the abstract in the section 00front of this document / Thesis (PhD)--University of Pretoria, 2007. / Humanities Education / PhD / Unrestricted

Skills transfer to Municipal employees is lacking due to management delays in acknowledging and understanding its importance to the affected employees. These result in poor work performance and services delivery to the communities. In the research design the Job Performance in any organisation is expected to be releasing good results or outcomes. Employees expect to be recognised in their work they perform. The employers’ responsibility is to ensure that the employee’s interests are taken care of reasonably. Scarce skill is a very important aspect in the career of specialised skilled employees and expectations are very high in this kind of environment. Globally the scarce skill is one of the aspects that is encouraged that organisations should take cognisance of. When staff is recruited and works for the Municipality it is vital that they are retained and capacitated through trainings. The employees that have worked for the Municipality a longer period should or must at least transfer those skills for the preparation of the succession planning and continuity in the organisation. The data was collected in a form of a questionnaire where respondents indicated their responses based on the questions formulated to measure their job performance, scarce skills, retention of staff, recruitment and selection, on-the-job training for skills transfer and training in relevant field. The data collected was analysed and presented in the form of tables and percentages. The study has revealed that the clear strategies recommended are essential in the personal development of employees through training, recognition inthe institution by way of remuneration or awards and ensuring to retain staff for a longer period for succession planning in a municipal environment.

This study investigates the participation patterns of employer-sponsored adult education and training by Swedish workers over the period of 1975 - 1995, and evaluates the importance of the determinants of such provision. The study also explores the ways participation experiences in employer-sponsored education and training influence subsequent participation, occupational mobility and economic outcomes for Swedish workers. Data collected from 1975 to 1995 in The Swedish Living Conditions Survey (ULF), both the cross-sectional data and its panel component, have been analyzed. Contained in the panel are 3,319 Swedish adults who have been followed up in the ULF from 1979 to 1995. The study employs measures of work and job characteristics such as indicators of occupational status, wage, union membership, length of employment, job type, job responsibilities, influence on decision-making at the workplace, learning opportunities at the workplace, enterprise ownership, as well measures of personal characteristics, such as age, gender, level of formal education. The approach taken in the evaluation of the influences of work, job and demographic characteristics on the likelihood of receiving employer-sponsored education and training has been to develop and estimate logistic regression models by means of which these effects during different periods (1975, 1979, 1986/7, 1994/5) can be assessed and compared. Another three models have been investigated, using the panel data, namely: (1) a logistic regression model predicting subsequent participation in employer-sponsored education and training by similar experiences at earlier career stages; (2) a multiple regression model predicting 1994/5 annual income with participation history as a predictor; (3) a discriminant function analytical model predicting 1994/5 occupational status with participation history as a discriminating variable. The departure point of this study is that separate analyses have been done with the public sector and private sector sub-data sets. The findings indicate that occupational status, level of education, age, gender and to a less extent, union membership, and other work and job characteristics are the more important predictors of the likelihood of participation in employersponsored education and training for the Swedish workers in the private sector. For those working in the public sector, institutional factors relating to management style and job responsibility as well as age play an important part in training decisions. The findings also indicate that youth and older age groups, particularly those with the private sector, have been consistently under-served by provision of employer-sponsored education and training throughout the period investigated. The results reveal that by the mid-1990s, gender was not a issue in the public sector in terms of the participation rate but female workers were still disadvantaged in the private sector. The findings verify a trend that the participation gaps between the well-educated and the undereducated, and those between professionals and non-skilled and semi-skilled have narrowed by a great magnitude, yet not adequately to close up the gaps. In 1975, the likelihood of participation for a professional worker was nine times as high as that for a non-skilled worker in the private sector. By 1995, the comparable figure was three times. The findings from panel data analysis show that, for workers in the private sector, their participation status as of the mid-1990s was significantly correlated with their participation status back in the mid-1980s and late 1970s, even after the statistical adjustment. For the public sector employees, their participation status as of the mid-1990s is related to participation status in the mid-1980s only. The results of income estimation models show that all three indicators of participation status are significantly associated with higher earnings, but a further analysis that separates the private sector from the public sector indicates that the result applied more in the case of the private sector employees. In contrast, none of the measures of participation status are significantly associated with higher earnings for employees with the public sector. The findings, as a result of discriminant function analysis, indicate that participation undertaken in the mid- 1980s, together with the earlier status of occupation and formal education background, form the first discriminant function that classify occupational status of 1994/5, explaining 54% of the explained variance. / Education, Faculty of / Educational Studies (EDST), Department of / Graduate