published_or_final_version / Architecture / Master / Master of Architecture

published_or_final_version / Education / Master / Master of Education

published_or_final_version / Education / Master / Master of Education

<p>he focus of this research is to establish whether there is a difference in the way the genders perceive the visualization of mathematics, with specific reference to set theory. The influence of the computing experience of students on their perceptions was also investigated. Interfaces were created for the teaching of set theory for learners in the first class of secondary school. Since the mother tongue of most the pupils is Dari the interface was made available in both Dari and English. The interfaces were used to gather the data for the researc</p>

<p>The main purpose of the study was to assess and explore the knowledge of HIV/AIDS among secondary learners in rural Bergville district of KwaZulu-Natal. A stratified random sample of 100&nbsp / learners was selected from two secondary schools in the area. Data was collected using a questionnaire and interviews were scheduled with the teachers from the selected schools. The&nbsp / questionnaire was administered to a sample of 54 learners from school A and 46 from school B. The mean age was 16, with age range from 13-20. The participants were enrolled for grade&nbsp / 8-12 in both schools. Both qualitative and quantitative data on learners‟ knowledge and perception about HIV/AIDS, condom use and sexual issues including their attitudes towards people living with HIV/AIDS were collected in the questionnaire. Chi-square test was used for statistics purpose to test if the HIV knowledge of learners were associated with gender, culture and&nbsp / religion. Qualitative interviews with 9 teachers from both schools were conducted. The main purpose of the interviews was to investigate the management of HIV/AIDS in public schools in rural&nbsp / areas. Furthermore, to assess the learner‟s attitude towards HIV/AIDS education provided in schools. The results showed that the learners in Bergville district were more knowledgeable of&nbsp / HIV/AIDS through HIV/AIDS education in schools that had limited effect on gender, culture and religion. Quantitative findings presented, indicated no significant differences between those&nbsp / learners attending church and cultural activities that offer&nbsp / HIV/AIDS awareness programmes and those who do not with regard to the knowledge of HIV/AIDS. However, culture stood out to be associated with one item on the knowledge of whether school children can get HIV/AIDS (p-value = 0.04). On average, the level of knowledge of HIV/AIDS between female and male learners was similar. The major findings on both quantitative and qualitative findings confirmed that learners‟ knowledge levels were very high for modes of transmission and prevention of HIV/AIDS. Despite this knowledge, poor&nbsp / behavioural change among learners is a major setback thus increasing high risk of contracting HIV. Adequate knowledge about issues of cure, HIV testing and treatment was of concern in the findings in this study. Furthermore, data from qualitative interviews with the teachers highlighted the lack of multisectoral response to HIV/AIDS in Bergville rural communities which thus&nbsp / compromise the effectiveness in management of HIV/AIDS in schools. In summary, the study revealed some of the challenges faced by teachers and learners in regard to HIV/AIDS education.</p>

Mémoire numérisé par la Division de la gestion de documents et des archives de l'Université de Montréal

Parents, together with the learners, are the customers and therefore major stakeholders of schools. The management of performance is vital for these stakeholders to ensure the most effective application of their resources. Therefore, this research on how SGBs and SMTs in Section 21 Schools apply performance management, at school level, to ensure effective management of the school and its resources was undertaken. Other key questions were: Which performance management tools do these schools use and what are the perceived benefits, gained by the application of performance management at school level? The research was supported by a detailed literature review covering education in South Africa, performance management and the available frameworks to evaluate the application of performance management and to gain a base for the analysis of the empirical data. Qualitative research was chosen as the preferred method of research since this was an exploratory study and qualitative research allowed key factors to emerge. Purposive sampling was used to select the participants in order to obtain insight into the application of performance management and participants‟ perspective of the benefits gained by applying performance management. Interviews were conducted with the principals and a parent representative of each of the SGBs at these schools. An interview guide was used to guide the interviews. The findings showed that all the schools under investigation made use of the Integrated Quality Management System. Participants however agreed that this system was not adequate and they needed to add their own performance management tools in order to maintain their current performance and position as prestigious schools. Although all participating schools were using some form of benchmarking, setting goals and targets, measuring learners‟ performance on all activities and measuring learners‟ behaviour, the findings also revealed that most of the schools did not implement a formal system covering all the dimensions of a school. It was evident from the findings that most of the participating schools benefitted from the application of performance management in the form of effective management and personnel development. Findings from the evaluation of the performance management systems revealed that the implementation of performance management systems is seldom carried through to the final stages and information is not always used to draft strategy in order to improve performance. It was concluded that SGBs and SMTs of the participating schools complied with some requirements indicated in literature to apply performance management systems. However most of the methods or systems are not fully implemented and there are many shortcomings. The findings suggested that the Integrated Quality Management System is reviewed by the Department of Basic Education. Furthermore, it also suggested that schools need to create formal procedures and policies in order to ensure the complete and effective application of performance management and establish a clear link between performance measures and the overall strategy of the school. The study also suggested that the schools‟ management have to design a performance management system, incorporating all the dimensions of their school and refrain from focusing only on incentives. / MCom (Management Accountancy), North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, 2013

Parents, together with the learners, are the customers and therefore major stakeholders of schools. The management of performance is vital for these stakeholders to ensure the most effective application of their resources. Therefore, this research on how SGBs and SMTs in Section 21 Schools apply performance management, at school level, to ensure effective management of the school and its resources was undertaken. Other key questions were: Which performance management tools do these schools use and what are the perceived benefits, gained by the application of performance management at school level? The research was supported by a detailed literature review covering education in South Africa, performance management and the available frameworks to evaluate the application of performance management and to gain a base for the analysis of the empirical data. Qualitative research was chosen as the preferred method of research since this was an exploratory study and qualitative research allowed key factors to emerge. Purposive sampling was used to select the participants in order to obtain insight into the application of performance management and participants‟ perspective of the benefits gained by applying performance management. Interviews were conducted with the principals and a parent representative of each of the SGBs at these schools. An interview guide was used to guide the interviews. The findings showed that all the schools under investigation made use of the Integrated Quality Management System. Participants however agreed that this system was not adequate and they needed to add their own performance management tools in order to maintain their current performance and position as prestigious schools. Although all participating schools were using some form of benchmarking, setting goals and targets, measuring learners‟ performance on all activities and measuring learners‟ behaviour, the findings also revealed that most of the schools did not implement a formal system covering all the dimensions of a school. It was evident from the findings that most of the participating schools benefitted from the application of performance management in the form of effective management and personnel development. Findings from the evaluation of the performance management systems revealed that the implementation of performance management systems is seldom carried through to the final stages and information is not always used to draft strategy in order to improve performance. It was concluded that SGBs and SMTs of the participating schools complied with some requirements indicated in literature to apply performance management systems. However most of the methods or systems are not fully implemented and there are many shortcomings. The findings suggested that the Integrated Quality Management System is reviewed by the Department of Basic Education. Furthermore, it also suggested that schools need to create formal procedures and policies in order to ensure the complete and effective application of performance management and establish a clear link between performance measures and the overall strategy of the school. The study also suggested that the schools‟ management have to design a performance management system, incorporating all the dimensions of their school and refrain from focusing only on incentives. / MCom (Management Accountancy), North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, 2013

This study deals with the design and application of Scripture-founded pastoral guidelines as aid or supplement to existing work stress interventions for the effective management of teacher stress as it especially manifests in Second Language Teaching situations. Important questions addressed regarding this topic amongst others include the following: • Which perspectives can be deduced from Scripture with regard to work ethic, work stress and work stress management? • What does work stress in teaching mean and what support systems are available for teachers in practice, especially as the problem occurs in the profile of a Second Language Teacher? • How effectively do the support processes for Second Language Teachers with work stress in secondary schools run? • Which pastoral guidelines can be offered for the management of teacher stress as it features in the profile of Second Language Teachers? The research of the study is structured according to the model of Zerfass, as designed for Practical Theology. The basis theoretical research clearly indicates that applicable pastoral guidelines can be deduced from Scripture as the foundational source regarding the effective management of work stress. These pastoral guidelines are identified and described by focussing on the appearance of work stress in key figures in Scripture such as Joseph, Moses, Elijah, John the Baptist, Peter and Paul, as well as God's intervention and support in their different situations. God executed His plans through the different Bible characters in spite of their weaknesses and shortcomings, and this offers hope to current-day believers. The principles illustrated in the lives of the Bible characters can be applied to the lives of modern people. The following principles for work stress management are investigated through the mentioned Bible figures: Identity in God; Disciplining of thought; Delegation of work; Time management and setting priorities; Prayer and Divine support. It is clear from the meta-theoretical research that English Second Language Teachers, especially in the South African context, should receive much more support since their work stress factors are more and are very unique to their subject. There is a significant gap with regard to support bases or pastoral services for teachers in schools, in spite of there being several researchers that are of the opinion that work stress has a negative influence on teachers' mental health. It is precisely when external factors can not be controlled that the teacher should have the necessary skills for his own survival. Pastoral guidance focuses on the empowerment of the individual in an unfriendly work and living environment. The empirical study comprised interviews with three Second Language Teachers who experienced problems with teacher stress. In addition, interviews were held with three different headmasters at secondary schools to establish which support systems are available for teachers. The participants indicated that their relationship with God, the Word and prayer carry them through periods of stress. The empirical study showed that Second Language Teachers feel the need for pastoral guidance with regard to stress. The headmasters support the implementation of pastoral help in schools, since there is a void with regard to support systems or counselling in support of teachers who suffer from work stress. The central theoretical argument of this study makes it clear that counselling guidelines for a therapeutic process can play an indispensable intervention role in the guidance of teachers under work stress. During the process of establishing these pastoral guidelines, the basis theoretical perspectives were extracted through Scripture study of known Biblical figures under similar work pressure. The meta-theory was constructed from research information from recent studies of this subject field, and empirical case studies that served as situation analysis from the teaching context. Lastly, the information was integrated to formulate practice theoretical guidelines. The following guidelines for a pastoral guidance process are presented in chapter 5, as deducted from the Word of God: ♦ Physical health: The human body was created by God and should enjoy the same care as the soul and spirit. The counselee can be guided along the Word of God to a realisation of the importance of his body and its physical care. ♦ Spiritual health: Man draws his spiritual health from regular prayer and meditation regarding Scripture; and therefore prayer and Word Study are powerful instruments in the management of work stress. ♦ An identity founded in the Triune God does not sway under manipulation or unrealistic standards, because such a person understands who he is, Who he belongs to and what his purpose is, and therefore he can manage his stress. ♦ Thoughts that are disciplined according to the will of God and His Word enable a person to stay and act in a manner focused on God, even in stressful circumstances. ♦ Those who manage their time and determine priorities in accordance with God's will, are enabled to live a balanced life and to limit work stress. ♦ Those who delegate tasks, relieve their work and time pressure and also lessen their work stress. ♦ A personal relationship with God and the support, guidance and help of the indwelling Holy Spirit is indispensable for the effective management of work stress. ♦ The establishment of an effective support group relieves stress, because emotional burdens are shared. The purpose of the pastoral guidance process is to focus the counselee's faith dependence on the guidance of the Triune God. Scripture, as the Word of God, belonging to a community of believers, together with the spiritual activities that this entails, have a positive effect on counselees. The Scripture should be a non-negotiable component of pastoral guidance processes. This study has confirmed that the points of departure that the researcher initially held are valid points of departure for the support of the argument in favour of pastoral guidance to Second Language Teachers with work stress. / Thesis (M.A. (Practical Theology))--North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, 2009.

This study deals with the design and application of Scripture-founded pastoral guidelines as aid or supplement to existing work stress interventions for the effective management of teacher stress as it especially manifests in Second Language Teaching situations. Important questions addressed regarding this topic amongst others include the following: • Which perspectives can be deduced from Scripture with regard to work ethic, work stress and work stress management? • What does work stress in teaching mean and what support systems are available for teachers in practice, especially as the problem occurs in the profile of a Second Language Teacher? • How effectively do the support processes for Second Language Teachers with work stress in secondary schools run? • Which pastoral guidelines can be offered for the management of teacher stress as it features in the profile of Second Language Teachers? The research of the study is structured according to the model of Zerfass, as designed for Practical Theology. The basis theoretical research clearly indicates that applicable pastoral guidelines can be deduced from Scripture as the foundational source regarding the effective management of work stress. These pastoral guidelines are identified and described by focussing on the appearance of work stress in key figures in Scripture such as Joseph, Moses, Elijah, John the Baptist, Peter and Paul, as well as God's intervention and support in their different situations. God executed His plans through the different Bible characters in spite of their weaknesses and shortcomings, and this offers hope to current-day believers. The principles illustrated in the lives of the Bible characters can be applied to the lives of modern people. The following principles for work stress management are investigated through the mentioned Bible figures: Identity in God; Disciplining of thought; Delegation of work; Time management and setting priorities; Prayer and Divine support. It is clear from the meta-theoretical research that English Second Language Teachers, especially in the South African context, should receive much more support since their work stress factors are more and are very unique to their subject. There is a significant gap with regard to support bases or pastoral services for teachers in schools, in spite of there being several researchers that are of the opinion that work stress has a negative influence on teachers' mental health. It is precisely when external factors can not be controlled that the teacher should have the necessary skills for his own survival. Pastoral guidance focuses on the empowerment of the individual in an unfriendly work and living environment. The empirical study comprised interviews with three Second Language Teachers who experienced problems with teacher stress. In addition, interviews were held with three different headmasters at secondary schools to establish which support systems are available for teachers. The participants indicated that their relationship with God, the Word and prayer carry them through periods of stress. The empirical study showed that Second Language Teachers feel the need for pastoral guidance with regard to stress. The headmasters support the implementation of pastoral help in schools, since there is a void with regard to support systems or counselling in support of teachers who suffer from work stress. The central theoretical argument of this study makes it clear that counselling guidelines for a therapeutic process can play an indispensable intervention role in the guidance of teachers under work stress. During the process of establishing these pastoral guidelines, the basis theoretical perspectives were extracted through Scripture study of known Biblical figures under similar work pressure. The meta-theory was constructed from research information from recent studies of this subject field, and empirical case studies that served as situation analysis from the teaching context. Lastly, the information was integrated to formulate practice theoretical guidelines. The following guidelines for a pastoral guidance process are presented in chapter 5, as deducted from the Word of God: ♦ Physical health: The human body was created by God and should enjoy the same care as the soul and spirit. The counselee can be guided along the Word of God to a realisation of the importance of his body and its physical care. ♦ Spiritual health: Man draws his spiritual health from regular prayer and meditation regarding Scripture; and therefore prayer and Word Study are powerful instruments in the management of work stress. ♦ An identity founded in the Triune God does not sway under manipulation or unrealistic standards, because such a person understands who he is, Who he belongs to and what his purpose is, and therefore he can manage his stress. ♦ Thoughts that are disciplined according to the will of God and His Word enable a person to stay and act in a manner focused on God, even in stressful circumstances. ♦ Those who manage their time and determine priorities in accordance with God's will, are enabled to live a balanced life and to limit work stress. ♦ Those who delegate tasks, relieve their work and time pressure and also lessen their work stress. ♦ A personal relationship with God and the support, guidance and help of the indwelling Holy Spirit is indispensable for the effective management of work stress. ♦ The establishment of an effective support group relieves stress, because emotional burdens are shared. The purpose of the pastoral guidance process is to focus the counselee's faith dependence on the guidance of the Triune God. Scripture, as the Word of God, belonging to a community of believers, together with the spiritual activities that this entails, have a positive effect on counselees. The Scripture should be a non-negotiable component of pastoral guidance processes. This study has confirmed that the points of departure that the researcher initially held are valid points of departure for the support of the argument in favour of pastoral guidance to Second Language Teachers with work stress. / Thesis (M.A. (Practical Theology))--North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, 2009.