In this study entrepreneurial orientation behaviour, with specific reference to a South African steel manufacturer was examined. The primary objective of this study is to investigate the impact of entrepreneurial orientation in the maintenance divisions on the perceived success of a South African steel manufacturer. A literature study was conducted to define entrepreneurship, intrapreneurship and the constructs of entrepreneurial orientation. The literature study investigated the characteristics of entrepreneurs as well as the benefits that results from entrepreneurial orientation. The determinants of entrepreneurial orientation and the measuring variables of perceived business success were investigated. An overview of the history, operations, management structure and demographics was given as well as the policies and plans pertaining to the maintenance divisions in the organisation which was the object of the study. The study population for the assessment was selected from the Cold Rolling department of the Vanderbijlpark Works of ArcelorMittal, South Africa. The department consisted of five Steel production plants. Questionnaires were administered to the target group of 267 maintenance employees, of which 174 usable questionnaires were returned on which statistical analysis were conducted. The data was tested for reliability by calculating Cronbach’s Alpha coefficients for the different variables of entrepreneurial orientation and perceived success of the organisation. The demographical data was analysed and presented. Descriptive statistics were calculated from the individual responses and presented for the different variables. The relationship between the gender of the repondents and the different entrepreneurial orientation variables was tested to determine whether there were significant practical differences in the means. Lastly, the influence of entrepreneurial orientation constructs on business success was determined and discussed. Conclusions were drawn from the demographic data as well as the different variables of entrepreneurial orientation and perceived success. Recommendations based on the assessment of the data, were made on relevant topics supporting the entrepreneurial orientation of maintenance employees in the study population. The suggested action plan was supported by the assessment, conclusions and recommendations that can be used to improve the entrepreneurial orientation and subsequently improve the perceived business success of the organisation. The study is concluded with analysis of the achievement of objectives of the study and suggestions made for further research that can be conducted. / MBA, North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, 2015

The objective of this study has been to investigate the influence of an entrepreneurial orientation on the perceived success of personal protective equipment organisations in South Africa. For the purpose of this study, business success has been measured by means of two dependent variables, namely Business development and improvement and Business growth. Structured questionnaires have been administered to managers in one company that is perceived to be the current market leader in the personal protective equipment industry in South Africa. Construct validity of the measuring instrument has been assessed by means of a principal component exploratory factor analysis and by calculating Cronbach alpha coefficients. A literature study on the field of Entrepreneurship has been conducted. The term entrepreneurial orientation consisting of five constructs, namely autonomy, innovation, pro-activeness, risk-taking and competitive aggressiveness, is defined. Perceived success of the industry is defined in terms of growth and development. Both ratings of the constructs and their evaluation of the perceived success of the industry, have been measured, analysed and reported. The results obtained from the questionnaire in conjunction with the literature review, are used to draw conclusions and make recommendations. The study is based on perceived corporate entrepreneurship within the line, middle and senior management levels of SPPE, a division of SAMSAC Africa (Pty) Ltd. The year 2009, has marked a series of economic events that placed the personal protective equipment market under immense pressure to maintain its bottom line growth. The environment within the organisation is constantly changing. SPPE customers, which are mainly the mining industry, have pressurised SPPE to filter cost savings through to them to ensure that they, in turn, alleviate the pressure to cut costs. Costs have been identified as one of the key challenges facing the entire mining sector. In turn, the suppliers of SPPE have also been applying pressure to the company to increase their purchase price, due to increased labour, production and overhead costs. The strengthening of entrepreneurship is an important objective for any organisation that is building its responsiveness to a globalised and changing environment. For SPPE to face the pressures brought to bear upon them by their customers and suppliers respectively, and, coupled with fierce competition in the personal protective equipment industry, it is necessary to review its processes and actively search for new ways to increase its capacity for innovation and competitiveness. The results show that the managers in the participating personal protective equipment business have perceived that the entrepreneurial orientation factors of Pro-activeness, Risk-taking and Autonomy have a positive influence on their business’s development and improvement. A significant relationship within the dependent variable Business development and improvement has also been found to exist within the independent variable Competitive aggressiveness. Corporate entrepreneurship is seen as a critical component to organisational success, especially in organisations that operate in rapidly changing industries. Corporate entrepreneurship can be a solution to large organisations’ lack of innovation, stagnated top-line growth and the inaction that often overtakes the large, mature organisations of the world. Organisations need to consistently search for new opportunities and therefore may benefit from adopting an entrepreneurial orientation. Established organisations may in essence be forced to behave entrepreneurially within the organisation, in order to defend their positions in the market. Competitive successes for organisations require managers to make strategic choices. Strategy is about relating the organisation with its environment and entrepreneurship is about exploiting opportunities in the same environment. To enhance the entrepreneurial orientation in personal protective equipment businesses, it is recommended that the word “entrepreneurship” should specifically be included in the vision statement of the businesses, setting goals and developing strategies for entrepreneurship. The focus of the business then becomes opportunity identification, discovery of new sources of value, and product and process innovation that could lead to greater success. / MBA, North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, 2014

Entrepreneurial behaviour is examined in this study, with specific reference to fou industrial divisions in NWK Limited, situated in the North-West province of South Africa. The primary objective of this study is to investigate entrepreneurial orientation and perceived success in the Industrial division of NWK Limited and to make practical recommendations to enhance entrepreneurial behaviour in the specific division, the organisation and other corporate organisations. A literature study was conducted to define entrepreneurship in general. The literature study investigated the characteristics of entrepreneurs. The five variables of entrepreneurial orientation and two variables measuring perceived success were investigated. Lastly the establishment of entrepreneurship together with a framework and strategy to establish entrepreneurship in an organisation will be discussed. The study was conducted on the Industrial division of NWK, which consisted of four divisions namely: Epko, Noordfed, Opti Chicks and Opti Feeds. Questionnaires were sent to the target group of 609 employees and a total of 79 usable questionnaires were received on which statistical analysis were conducted. The reliability of the data was tested by calculating Cronbach alpha coefficients for the different variables of entrepreneurial orientation and perceived success of the organisation. The data was further analysed by calculating the mean, standard deviation and range of the individual responses and the different variables. Additional to the analysis the relationship between selected demographic information and the different variables was tested to determine whether there were significant differences in the means. Conclusions are drawn from all the demographic information as well as the different variables of entrepreneurial orientation and perceived success. Based on the data analysis recommendations is made based on all the relevant topics that have been identified in the study. The data analysis, conclusions and recommendations supports the suggested action plan that can be used to improve the entrepreneurial orientation and ultimately the perceived business success of the agri-business. The study is concluded with measurements of the achievements and objectives of the study. Finally suggestions are made for further research that can be conducted. / Thesis (MBA)--North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, 2013.

Entrepreneurial behaviour is examined in this study, with specific reference to fou industrial divisions in NWK Limited, situated in the North-West province of South Africa. The primary objective of this study is to investigate entrepreneurial orientation and perceived success in the Industrial division of NWK Limited and to make practical recommendations to enhance entrepreneurial behaviour in the specific division, the organisation and other corporate organisations. A literature study was conducted to define entrepreneurship in general. The literature study investigated the characteristics of entrepreneurs. The five variables of entrepreneurial orientation and two variables measuring perceived success were investigated. Lastly the establishment of entrepreneurship together with a framework and strategy to establish entrepreneurship in an organisation will be discussed. The study was conducted on the Industrial division of NWK, which consisted of four divisions namely: Epko, Noordfed, Opti Chicks and Opti Feeds. Questionnaires were sent to the target group of 609 employees and a total of 79 usable questionnaires were received on which statistical analysis were conducted. The reliability of the data was tested by calculating Cronbach alpha coefficients for the different variables of entrepreneurial orientation and perceived success of the organisation. The data was further analysed by calculating the mean, standard deviation and range of the individual responses and the different variables. Additional to the analysis the relationship between selected demographic information and the different variables was tested to determine whether there were significant differences in the means. Conclusions are drawn from all the demographic information as well as the different variables of entrepreneurial orientation and perceived success. Based on the data analysis recommendations is made based on all the relevant topics that have been identified in the study. The data analysis, conclusions and recommendations supports the suggested action plan that can be used to improve the entrepreneurial orientation and ultimately the perceived business success of the agri-business. The study is concluded with measurements of the achievements and objectives of the study. Finally suggestions are made for further research that can be conducted. / Thesis (MBA)--North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, 2013.

Family businesses have unique dynamics and success stories but at the same time face unique challenges. Intergenerational small and medium-sized family businesses in South Africa play an increasingly important role in creating jobs together with wealth distribution. This study attempts to explore the complicated relationship and inimitable characteristics of family business surroundings against the added challenges of family business perceived success and family business continuity. Notwithstanding family businesses being a prevalent phenomenon in the economies of most countries, insight into this form of enterprise is still limited. Topics such as commitment, entrepreneurial orientation, job satisfaction, satisfaction with life and perceived success of the family business, among others, were investigated. In order to achieve the primary objective of this study, a survey was undertaken using a structured questionnaire. The reliability of the questionnaire was determined by calculating the Cronbach alpha coefficient, which indicated that the questionnaire used in this study conformed to the criteria of acceptable reliability and can be regarded as internally consistent. The survey yielded 143 usable questionnaires from 42 family businesses restricted to Gauteng province and the North West province in South Africa. The nature of this study was investigative and descriptive statistics was therefore used to analyse the statements of all the participating respondents. The selected determinants influencing the perceived success of small and medium-sized family business was then measured and regressional analyses were further conducted. Conclusions were drawn from this study on the outcomes of the selected factors influencing the perceived success of small and medium-sized family business. Finally, a critical evaluation was done and practical recommendations are suggested to improve family business wellness and, subsequently, increase the sustainability of such business. / MBA, North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, 2015

South Africa has a social capital economic system that establishes various opportunities for individuals to start their own businesses, this creates a climate for entrepreneurs to explore the business market and start their own business. If family businesses are that important and fundamental to the sustainability of countries it is definitely relevant to asses and monitor these businesses over a wide range of issues. The field of this study falls within the subject discipline of entrepreneurship and focuses on gaining insight into small and medium-sized family businesses. The study has not restricted to a particular trade and all participants who fall under the definition of Ibrahim and Ellis (2004: 5) have been recognised to take part in this study. In this study the author set out to determine the causes affecting the success of family businesses, as well as identifying a few variables that had to be measured to better understand their impact and influence on the success of family businesses. The author also examined other aspects regarding the subject, in order to get a better understanding concerning family businesses, and to understand what they have to offer. The definition that has been used in this study is supplied, as well as the advantages and disadvantages regarding family businesses. This has been done to ensure that the researcher understand what type of business constitutes a family business. The empirical study has been conducted by means of a field study, using a structured questionnaire as the main component. The purpose of the literature review was to gain insight into selected determinants of family business success, according to a structured questionnaire developed by Prof. Stephan van der Merwe (NWU). / MBA (Business Administration), North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, 2015

Family businesses have unique dynamics and success stories but at the same time face unique challenges. Intergenerational small and medium-sized family businesses in South Africa play an increasingly important role in creating jobs together with wealth distribution. This study attempts to explore the complicated relationship and inimitable characteristics of family business surroundings against the added challenges of family business perceived success and family business continuity. Notwithstanding family businesses being a prevalent phenomenon in the economies of most countries, insight into this form of enterprise is still limited. Topics such as commitment, entrepreneurial orientation, job satisfaction, satisfaction with life and perceived success of the family business, among others, were investigated. In order to achieve the primary objective of this study, a survey was undertaken using a structured questionnaire. The reliability of the questionnaire was determined by calculating the Cronbach alpha coefficient, which indicated that the questionnaire used in this study conformed to the criteria of acceptable reliability and can be regarded as internally consistent. The survey yielded 143 usable questionnaires from 42 family businesses restricted to Gauteng province and the North West province in South Africa. The nature of this study was investigative and descriptive statistics was therefore used to analyse the statements of all the participating respondents. The selected determinants influencing the perceived success of small and medium-sized family business was then measured and regressional analyses were further conducted. Conclusions were drawn from this study on the outcomes of the selected factors influencing the perceived success of small and medium-sized family business. Finally, a critical evaluation was done and practical recommendations are suggested to improve family business wellness and, subsequently, increase the sustainability of such business. / MBA, North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, 2015

South Africa has a social capital economic system that establishes various opportunities for individuals to start their own businesses, this creates a climate for entrepreneurs to explore the business market and start their own business. If family businesses are that important and fundamental to the sustainability of countries it is definitely relevant to asses and monitor these businesses over a wide range of issues. The field of this study falls within the subject discipline of entrepreneurship and focuses on gaining insight into small and medium-sized family businesses. The study has not restricted to a particular trade and all participants who fall under the definition of Ibrahim and Ellis (2004: 5) have been recognised to take part in this study. In this study the author set out to determine the causes affecting the success of family businesses, as well as identifying a few variables that had to be measured to better understand their impact and influence on the success of family businesses. The author also examined other aspects regarding the subject, in order to get a better understanding concerning family businesses, and to understand what they have to offer. The definition that has been used in this study is supplied, as well as the advantages and disadvantages regarding family businesses. This has been done to ensure that the researcher understand what type of business constitutes a family business. The empirical study has been conducted by means of a field study, using a structured questionnaire as the main component. The purpose of the literature review was to gain insight into selected determinants of family business success, according to a structured questionnaire developed by Prof. Stephan van der Merwe (NWU). / MBA (Business Administration), North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, 2015

The aim of the current study was to investigate the impact of psychotherapists&rsquo / Emotional Intelligence (EI) on adolescent patients&rsquo / perceptions about psychotherapists&rsquo / success and on adolescent patients&rsquo / preference about psychotherapists to consult. In order to examine EI level of psychotherapists who are represented in selected movies, the Scale for Evaluating Psychotherapist&rsquo / s Emotional Intelligence was created for specific to this study. 50 high school students aged between 16 and 18 were participated in the study. The participants watched two movies of which one is representing high EI psychotherapist and the other representing low EI psychotherapist. Then they completed the Scale for Evaluating Psychotherapist&rsquo / s Emotional Intelligence for each movie. Since the experimental group sample size was small, non-parametric tests were conducted in data analysis. According to results, adolescents evaluated high EI psychotherapist as more successful than the one who has low EI. Accordingly, adolescents preferred to consult high EI psychotherapist when needed rather than the one who has low EI.

Abstract This study focuses on motivational aspects of young children’s self-regulated learning (SRL) in primary school. The purpose is to investigate children’s personal experiences with success and their ability-related perceptions in order to understand whether children’s beliefs of themselves as learners influence their academic functioning in school. The dissertation consists of four empirical studies, which are reported in four articles. In Study I, the focus is on researchers’ and children’s self- and social perceptions of success. The aim is to identify how success can be recognized and promoted in the classroom context. Study II aims to identify young children’s confidence and success in different efficacious interaction contexts. In Study III, the focus is on clarifying what kind of personal and contextual factors support children’s perceived self-efficacy in social and independent learning situations. Finally, Study IV aims to identify the characteristics and triggers for efficacious interaction in terms of task involvement in collaborative small-group learning situations. The data collection methods include video observations, video clips, photos, video-stimulated recall and photo elicitation interviews, in addition to social competence tests administered to children and their teachers. The results indicate that children’s personal standards for success create the basis for their confidence and engagement in school. For them, success is finding the task or activity meaningful and doable, which in turn, creates positive emotions. These positive emotions are the basis for higher and more stable perceptions of ability in independent and social learning situations. In these different learning situations, children rely on their emotions, skills and previous experiences, as well as support and help from their teacher and peers. Children who seem to need the most support are either reluctant to seek or receive it from the teacher. Instead, their confidence is boosted through peer support. Therefore, the learning context, teachers and their pedagogical practices have important roles in supporting children’s motivation and SRL. / Tiivistelmä Tässä väitöstutkimuksessa tutkitaan alakouluikäisten lasten itsesäätöistä oppimista motivationaalisista lähtökohdista käsin. Tutkimuksen tavoitteena on selvittää lasten omakohtaisia onnistumiskokemuksia ja heidän pystyvyyskäsityksiään. Tarkoituksena on pyrkiä ymmärtämään kuinka lasten käsitykset itsestä oppijana vaikuttavat heidän toimimiseensa koulussa. Tutkimus koostuu neljästä empiirisestä osatutkimuksesta, joiden tulokset on raportoitu neljässä artikkelissa. Osatutkimuksessa I tarkastelun kohteena ovat tutkijoiden ja lasten käsitykset onnistumisesta. Osatutkimuksen II tavoitteena on selvittää lasten pystyvyyttä ja onnistumista erilaisissa tehokkaissa vuorovaikutustilanteissa. Osatutkimus III syventyy tarkemmin tarkastelemaan yksilö- ja ympäristötekijöitä, jotka tukevat lasten onnistumista ja pystyvyyttä sosiaalisissa ja itsenäisissä oppimistilanteissa. Osatutkimuksessa IV tavoitteena on tunnistaa mitä tehokas vuorovaikutus on ja mikä sitä saa aikaan etukäteen pedagogisesti suunnitelluissa yhteisöllisissä pienryhmätilanteissa. Tutkimusaineisto koostuu video-observaatioista, lyhyemmistä tietyn oppimistilanteen esittävistä videotallenteista ja valokuvista joita käytettiin tukemaan ja syventämään lasten kanssa tehtyjä haastatteluita. Lisäksi lapsia ja opettajia pyydettiin arvioimaan lapsen sosiaalista kompetenssia. Tutkimustulosten mukaan onnistuminen konkretisoituu lapsille mielekkäänä toimintana ja heidän tiedoillaan ja taidoillaan tehtävissä olevana tehtävänä. Onnistuminen johtaa positiivisiin tunteisiin ja käsityksiin omasta itsestä oppijana, jotka ovat perusta vakaammille pystyvyyskäsityksille ja toimintaan sitoutumiselle niin erilaisissa oppimistilanteissa. Lapset rakentavat pystyvyyskäsityksiään tunteiden, hallittujen taitojen ja aikaisempien kokemuksien sekä opettajilta ja toisilta lapsilta saatavan tuen avulla. Yksi keskeisimmistä tutkimustuloksista on, että lapset jotka tarvitsevat tukea ovat joko haluttomia etsimään tai vastaanottamaan sitä opettajalta. Tällöin koetulla vertaistuella on erityisen suuri merkitys heidän onnistumisen kokemuksissaan ja pystyvyyskäsityksien rakentumisessa. Tutkimustulokset lisäävät ymmärrystä oppimisympäristön, opettajien ja heidän pedagogisten käytänteiden merkityksestä lasten motivaation ja itsesäätöisen oppimisen kehittymisessä ja tukemisessa.