AfricArxiv Repository :: Browsing by Author "Costa, King"

Browsing by Author "Costa, King"

Now showing 1 - 20 of 44

A comparative analysis of strengths and weaknesses of corporate governance practices between two jurisdictions; UK and South Africa
(2021-05-28) Costa, King; Ngcetane-Vika, Thelela
This paper is an exploration of theoretical aspects underpinning the practice of Corporate Governance (CG) in the United Kingdom and South Africa. Because of several corporate scandals and failures in the twenty and twenty first siècles, Corporate Governance has been a significant and crucial subject and field of study in business schools in recent years. Leadership and Management of business entities and alignment to prescripts that are statutory formulated for prevention of corporate decline and enhancement of sound business principles continue to be highly contentious issues. A theoretical and exploratory narrative synthesis was conducted to unearth the strengths and weaknesses of contextual explication, practice and legal application of Corporate Governance in both the United Kingdom and South Africa. In terms of the UK, the study found out that the CG is designed and benchmarked on international best practice, seamlessly fitting within all the Codes on Key Aspects of Corporate Governance. Secondly, another major element of strengths determination were found to be inherent in the practice of voluntary compliance. However, the greatest criticisms of Corporate Governance theories in the UK was the fact that their focus is largely on public corporations, especially those listed in London stock exchange and thus, leave behind small and medium enterprises. The cultural diversity is also found to be a cause for concern in terms of practice and legal application. On the other hand, in South Africa, the study found out that consideration for diversity is one of the greatest strengths in CG practice and legal application, which is likely to contribute effectively to good and sound decision-making, reflective of all people. Weaknesses continue to be the delay in realisation of board equity in terms of gender while on the other hand, corruption and lack of adherence to retributive prescripts remain problematic.
A graphical representation for the Integration of the C.O.S.T.A. Research Framework in teaching of Thematic Analysis for Postgraduate Students
(2020-07-20) Costa, King
Conducting Qualitative Data analysis is the most complex activity researchers are often confronted with. This is coupled with the fact that researchers are required to demonstrate each step taken in analyzing data and drawing conclusions. Ability to demonstrate methods enhances study credibility and believability of conclusions. This poster is a graphical representation of the content of a study by the author entitled, "Integrating the C.O.S.T.A. Research Framework in Teaching of Thematic Analysis for Postgraduate Students."
A practical representation of NFT pedagogy in a learning environment
(2020-07-03) Thusi, Nisi; Costa, King
Advanced pedagogy is the way to enhance teaching and learning performance for non-financial students. There are different methods in use across the globe for innovative teaching of higher learning students. The use of multimedia and technology empowers educational processes by increasing interaction between teachers and students. Hybrid teaching and blended learning follow an integrated approach to teaching that blends with students' interests and teacher's personality that needs curriculum-appropriate methods. Teachers should thus apply themselves to utilizing innovative methods so that the students’ learning process is as free-flowing and that the methodology used creates an atmosphere adaptable to conducive learning environment. The application of innovative teaching and learning methods is critical if we are to motivate and enculturate a spirit of learning and cooperation by encouraging others and doing your share on the part of students. The role of education is to ensure that while academic personal are involve in active teaching, an effort is made to ensure alignment between what is taught and what is comprehensible in relation to students. The goal of this study is an ongoing and progressive examine of how Edger Dale's Cone of Experience and Bloom's taxonomy is employed to positively influence student learning. In this conceptual research the methodology used was hinged on analytic processes for material already published in this area. Key variables under investigation forecast on integration of Dales and Blooms theories for theoretical perspectives with the researchers pedagogy known as the NFT.
A Pragmatic Inquiry into Employee's Lived Experiences in relation to COVID-19 Lockdown in South Africa
(2020-05-22) Costa, King; Tumagole, Benevolent
The outbreak of COVID-19 in South Africa has brought about many socio-economic challenges, affecting everyone in all sectors of society. As the government proactively introduced steps to deal with the progression of the COVID-19 in South Africa, some of these measures included a total country lock-down, introduced on the 26th of March 2020. One of the most severely impacted sectors of society was employees from different organizations. Such impacts included confusion, fear of contracting the virus, and mixed emotions in relation to their income including survival of their organizations during the lockdown. This study used a mixed-methods approach to understand employees’ experiences during the period of lockdown in South Africa. The study design used a pragmatic approach, employing an explorative inductive sequential logical approach whereby phenomenology was used as a method of inquiry, followed by survey research which was constructed out of data from the qualitative dimension of the study. Findings from the qualitative study were triangulated with findings from the quantitative dimension. Results from both dimensions seemed very plausibly similar, indicating the need for attention of employee’s mental health emanating from COVID-19 phenomena and subsequent lockdown in South Africa. Provision of safe working environments, the establishment of peer educators, strengthening of Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) services, and corporate health initiatives by employers were recommended as proactive initiatives to assist and enhance the wellbeing of employees during and post COVID-19.
A systematic review of challenges in research supervision at South African universities
(2018-12-25) Costa, King
Postgraduate students in South Africa and other parts of the world, particularly in developing nations struggle to complete the research component of their studies. According to the National Development Plan ( 2013) it has become a requirement for South African institutions to play a pivotal role in knowledge production so as to transform South Africa from a resource-based economy towards a knowledge-based economy. In pursuit of meeting this requirement and further to increase subsidy from the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET), South African institutions of higher learning have been on the drive for recruiting postgraduate students en masse. One of the main problems facing South African institutions is that the number of students enrolled does not correspond to those who graduate at the end of the postgraduate programme study period. This study is a systematic review of literature on challenges in postgraduate supervision and further proposes a possible solution. Five South African institutions of higher learning’s postgraduate throughput data is carefully studied and substantiated by previous research on postgraduate supervision challenges on these particular institutions. Study findings present challenges related to research capacity development and burden of supervision at these institutions. Collaborative methods of supervision such as the C.O.S.T.A model are hereby proposed as possible solutions to the current throughput problem in South Africa.
A Systematic Review of the Potential for Promotion of Southern Epistemologies in Educational Research: Ubuntu Philosophy as a Research Paradigm, a Conceptual Model
(2023-01-02) Costa, King; Ntsobi, Mfanelo, Patrick
INTRODUCTION: The fast changing global trends, practices and ideologies have a potential to dissipate cultural identities of historically colonized nations, in favor for adoption of popularized perspectives. This problem is becoming more and more evident in South Africa due to urbanization and impact of globalization. However, this becomes a constant barrier in knowledge creation, development and management due to the fact that southern epistemologies remain pacified and under-utilized in scholarship and educational research. One such pacified epistemology in both social and educational research is Ubuntu. RESEARCH AIMS: The aim of this study is to determine the suitable application of Ubuntu philosophy in educational research. This will be achieved by answering a theoretical question: How can Ubuntu be adopted as a paradigm for research inquiries within a southern epistemological context? METHODS: The philosophy of Ubuntu is located within a subjective realist ontology. Applying non-intrusive research measures, a Scoping Review method was used to postulate evidence for adoption and application of Ubuntu philosophy as a research paradigm. Using a search engine comprising a number of social sciences databases (AnthroSource, ASSIA, Wilson Web and CSA), articles were appraised using the Systematic Review research protocols and analyzed using Critical Appraisal Skills Programme. The final activity for data analysis culminated into thematic analysis, using COSTA QDA technique. RESULTS: This study played a crucial role in magnifying the pacified voices of cultural epistemological contexts and existential realities. While the concept of Ubuntu is well researched across different disciplines, there was paucity of research on its adoption as a research paradigm and research design. The study found out that there were seminal works of established researchers on decoloniality and Afrocentrism, requesting consideration of Ubuntu as a research method. Thus, this scoping review found evidence that Ubuntu can and should be used as a research method in African contexts within social, economic and management sciences, as well as health and politics. CONCLUSION: It was concluded that institutions of higher learning should start teaching Ubuntu Action Research as a method of inquiry in their undergraduate and postgraduate research programmes. Consultants are also encouraged to investigate this research design approach for business and policy research.
A Theoretical Discourse of Queen Nonesi of Abathembu: A Pioneer Woman Leader Brought Back to Memory
(2023-10-25) Ngcetane-Vika, Thelela; Thusi, Nisi; Costa, King
Queen Nonesi of abaThembu was one of the outstanding women leaders from amongst the Xhosa people during the difficult days of the colonial epoch. She led her people with bravery and fortitude, during those turbulent times. She was also able to save her people from losing their land more than once, through her negotiation and diplomatic skills. She died in 1880 at the age of 65 after leading her people for almost 40 years. Thus, a juxtaposition of the current narrative on women leadership against the portrayal of her life history and leadership acumen, tenacity and intentionality warrants the foregoing research question: Can Queen Nonesi be celebrated as a champion of women leadership by contemporary African women as they seek to assert their God-given right to lead? Using a narrative synthesis hinged upon Ubuntu philosophy, this piece is the first of a sequel that focusses on Southern Women Leaders and their impact on contemporary leadership strategies. This study holds several significant implications. Firstly, it aims to shed light on the historical contributions of women leaders from the Xhosa people, challenging the dominant narrative that often overlooks or marginalizes their roles. By highlighting Queen Nonesi's achievements, the study seeks to foster a greater appreciation for the leadership capabilities of African women. Secondly, the study seeks to inspire contemporary African women who are striving to assert their right to lead. By examining Queen Nonesi's leadership qualities and strategies, the research aims to provide valuable insights and lessons that can inform and empower women leaders today. Lastly, the study's utilization of Ubuntu philosophy as a guiding framework offers a unique perspective on leadership. By emphasizing the communal aspects of leadership and the interconnectedness of individuals, the research aims to promote a more inclusive and collaborative approach to leadership in contemporary African contexts.
An Information Dissemination Strategy for Government Spokespersons to Minimise Service Delivery Protests in South Africa
(2020-12-01) Manyathela, Maropeng; Costa, King
The purpose of this study was to develop an appropriate information dissemination framework for government spokespersons to minimize service delivery protests in South Africa. Of central concern to the study was the positive contribution that government Spokespersons could make in the management of SA’s image. The study was aimed at addressing the concerns and assumptions that many government spokespersons underappreciate the value of effective information dissemination especially in the context of South Africa’s volatile service delivery environment. Ineffective information dissemination skills by government spokespersons is a real cause for concern. The inability by government spokespersons to properly disseminate information, is largely regarded as a contributory factor towards the current surge in protest incidences. Disseminating information in a crisis-ridden environment is a complex task that requires unusual information dissemination strategy, skills and experience. The study followed an interpretivist epistemological trajectory within the qualitative method using case studies as a research strategy. In depth interviews were conducted using semi structured interview guides to obtain rich information regarding the phenomenon in relation to service delivery protests in South Africa. Interviews were recorded in line with ethical standards and subsequent to participants’s permissions using an audio recording device. These recorded interviews were transcribed and transformed into data documents that were subsequently analyzed within the method of thematic analysis. Data refinement was treated through the COSTA QDA technique using webQDA software. Findings confirmed the pre-defined study objectives which indicated the need for heightened and structured approach to information dissemination by government communicators. Further synthesis indicated a requirement for such information dissemination to be structured proactive and responsive to diverse environments. In view of the above, a theory was developed which resulted in an Information Dissemination Framework.
An Overview of Research Methodology: Paradigms, Approaches, Methods, and Design
(2023-10-03) Costa, King; Mfolo, Letlhogonolo; Mpepho, Kwakho; Mokgadi, Martin
The abstract covers the main points discussed in the text, including the definitions and explanations of research paradigms (positivism, interpretivism, and pragmatism), research approaches (deductive, inductive, and abductive), research methods (quantitative and qualitative), and research design/strategy (experimental design and case study design). It also touches upon aspects of data collection and data analysis, emphasizing the importance of ethical considerations and valid and reliable methodologies. The abstract concludes by highlighting the significance of understanding and effectively aligning these components with research objectives and the nature of the research problem to generate meaningful and reliable findings that contribute to knowledge advancement in various fields of study.
Change Management as a requirement in introducing ICT in curriculum delivery – The Gauteng Experience
(2021-09-27) Ntsobi, Mfanelo, Patrick; Costa, King
Connecting Theoretical Perspectives and Praxis on African Women Leadership and Development Agenda
(2021-05-08) Costa, King; Ngcetane-Vika, Thelela
African women are becoming increasingly relevant in the continent's development and growth agenda. For decades, African women have been seen as a backbone and connective tissue for spiritual growth and sustainable societies, in fields such as religion, culture, economics, and politics, to name a few. This review is part of PhD studies on African women leadership development. The aim of this paper is to explore a functional connection between theoretical perspectives and practical application in real life regarding the agenda on developing leadership capabilities for women. A qualitative evidence synthesis was used as a method of inquiry and thematic expressions were developed using the COSTA QDA Technique. Results culminated in three thematic expressions that explicated a disconnect between popular theories on women development agenda and practical application in a collaborative approach. However, an emphasis was made on the requirement for women in influential leadership positions to coach and mentor others. Findings further indicated that women at grassroots level were enthusiastic and ready for programmes and environments that enable leadership capabilities, development and growth. The study concluded that formal and sustainable mentorship and coaching programmes that integrate all stakeholders (males and females) in a collaborative approach should be developed.
COVID 19 - Impact on Teaching & Learning :The Gauteng Province Experience
(2022-07-26) Ntsobi, Mfanelo Patrick; Costa, King
In line with massive and complex problems faced by all organisations across the world, COVID-19 outbreak had a severe and disruptive impact in Gauteng provincial public schools. Its effect of forced many institutions to rethink their delivery models. The Gauteng Department of Education (GDE) was compelled to adjust to the new normal to prevent disruption to teaching and learning by unlocking efficiencies emanating from the existing ICT, multi-media as well as broadcasting resources. This presentation presents a rational for rapid intervention and shares on experiences encountered during such an intervention
Data Driven Decision-Making (DDDM) For Business Leaders post COVID-19 Outbreak: A COSTA-webQDA Technique Proposition
(2021-01-03) Costa, King
Business leaders with aptitude for using data intelligibly will be able to perform better post COVID-19 outbreak era (McAfee & Brynjolfsson, 2012). Businesses can no longer ignore the role data plays in making crucial decisions about the next major step to be taken, particularly during the time of disaster or facing potential threats resulting from COVID-19 or similar occurrences. Data informed decision-making will be beneficial to leaders who need to be at the vanguard of knowledge generation within the realm of ideation. COSTA Technique on the webQDA software provides organisations with cutting-edge technology using mix-media applications and web-based strategies to keep up with current trends, insights and muti-perspectival stakeholder analysis in real-time with high levels of efficiency and integrity. This paper presents ideas adapted to the capabilities framework developed by Jia, Hall and Song (2015), addressing five key dimensions in decision-making, such as data governance, data analytics, insights exploitation, performance management and data integration. Using the COSTA Model technique with webQDA, we present how large volumes of textual data, also known and referred to as “big qualitative data” may be transformed to structured, coherent, meaningful and timely decision-making enablers.
Data Driven Decision-Making (DDDM) for Business Leaders post COVID-19 Outbreak: A COSTA-webQDA Technique Proposition at 5th World Conference on Qualitative Research - 20/01/2021
(2021-01-20) Costa, King
Business leaders with an aptitude for using data intelligibly will be able to perform better post COVID-19 outbreak era (McAfee & Brynjolfsson, 2012). Businesses can no longer ignore the role data plays in making crucial decisions about the next major step to be taken, particularly during the time of disaster or facing potential threats resulting from COVID-19 or similar occurrences. Data-informed decision-making will be beneficial to leaders who need to be at the vanguard of knowledge generation within the realm of ideation. COSTA Technique on the webQDA software provides organizations with cutting-edge technology using mix-media applications and web-based strategies to keep up with current trends, insights and multi-perspectival stakeholder analysis in real-time with high levels of efficiency and integrity. This talk will present ideas adapted to the capabilities framework developed by Jia, Hall and Song (2015), addressing five key dimensions in decision-making, such as data governance, data analytics, insights exploitation, performance management and data integration. Using the COSTA Model technique with webQDA, we will present how large volumes of textual data, also known and referred to as “big qualitative data” may be transformed into structured, coherent, meaningful and timely decision-making enablers.
Digital Transformation: Towards a model for competency-based governance of digital transformation for boards of directors in South Africa
(2022-11-12) Siwahla-Madiba, Nandipha, Daphne; Costa, King
The requirement for directors of boards to attain competencies in relation to governance of digital transformation is evidently increasing at global level. South Africa, as a player within the global economic landscape, cannot afford to have directors who do not understand the requisite competencies required for governance of digital transformation. Whereas many organisations and boards have implemented new corporate governance codes, principles, and standards, as well as new company legislation, frameworks or models on governance of digital transformation are not yet integrated into functional board activities. This study was hinged upon an interpretivist epistemology, with a case study design used as a strategy for inquiry. Using purposive sampling approach, a total of seven participants were interviewed using a semi-structured interview guide. Ethical considerations were followed in terms of the institutional requirements and participants were requested to sign consent forms for participating in this study. Implications of participations were clearly articulated to participants and their right to discontinue participation at any time was proffered. In this study, their participation is referred to as “Participant” followed by a number, which does not reflect the order of their participation, but to provide anonymity. Data was analysed through a thematic approach, using the COSTA QDA technique on webQDA software. The study findings culminated in three main themes as follows: • There is no standard definition of competence-based models for governance of digital transformation • Governance of digital transformation is perceived as governance of information technology (IT) • There is a need for digital transformation competence at board level Discussion of the meanings attached to these themes resulted in a development of a model entitled MADIBA Model, which is an acronym for six constructs that could be used to guide establishment of a competency model for governance of digital transformation by directors of different boards. Study limitations were mainly due to the fact that only a subjective approach to the inquiry was followed, justified by the fact that the researcher sought to explore in-depth views and perspectives of boards of directors in relation to governance of digital transformation competency model. The study further recommended that there could be another study focusing on pragmatic approaches or even positivistic perspectives, to obtain generalised perspectives on the phenomenon.
Enhancing Capacity for Local Economic Development in Creating Vibrant, Productive and Sustainable Rural Communities
(2021-11-04) Parker, Gail, Denise; Costa, King
Since the advent of South Africa’s democracy, there have been many pressing questions; one of which has been: ‘to what extent has the newly found political and civil freedoms, which is guaranteed for all South Africans, translated into an a more economically-viable life?’ This research investigated whether local economic development (LED) interventions necessarily improve the livelihoods of poor communities. The methods used were hinged upon the interpretivist paradigm, using literature as a basis of enquiry. Furthermore, semi-structured interviews with target groups (eg. project beneficiaries, government officials, municipal manager, town mayor, etc) were conducted, followed by focus group-style interviews with key stakeholders. The study found that sound economic development vision may thrive if linked to the following: clear policy guidance, institutional capacity building, intersectoral collaboration, political will and real empowerment.
Entrepreneurship Education’s Influence on Learner’s Entrepreneurship Intention in South African Schools
(2021-05-07) Tshehla, Steven; Chodokufa, Kudakwashe; Costa, King
Youth unemployment remains a South African problem and a global concern. Entrepreneurial activity enables people to identify opportunities and start new business ventures helping in addressing Youth unemployment. This study focuses on assessing the influence of entrepreneurship education on the learners’ intention towards entrepreneurship careers in high schools. A quantitative study was conducted consisting of 240 grade 12 learners with entrepreneurship education from the three townships in the City of Tshwane namely Mamelodi, Atteridgeville and Soshanguve. A structured close-ended questionnaire was used to collect data. Data was analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics using SPSS software. Findings have proven a relationship between theoretical education and experiential learning with learners’ intention towards entrepreneurship, with experiential learning significantly influencing the development of entrepreneurship intention in learners. Hence, to improve effectiveness of entrepreneurship education in high school learners, there should be emphasis on experiential learning. Study further indicated that entrepreneurship as a subject has an influence on the choice of entrepreneurship as a career. It is for this reason that learners should interaction with business people globally in order to gain exposure to people who have succeeded by taking entrepreneurship as a career.
Graphical presentation of Lived Experiences of Educators in relation to CPTD within the Johannesburg West District High Schools
(2020-07-18) Thusi, Nisi; Costa, King
Continuing Professional Teacher Development (CPTD) is empowerment and enhancement of professionalism and competence of Educators within the education system, whether public or private sector. The Department of Basic Education implemented a standardized CPTD program throughout the schooling system, which is monitored and managed by a statutory body known as SACE (South African Council of Educators). This study sought to describe lived experiences of educators in relation to implementation of CPTD in Johannesburg West District. The study was designed within the interpretivist paradigm, employing phenomenology as a strategy of inquiry. 10 educators were selected purposively for interviews, which were recorded with permission of participants. The recording was critical for demonstration of member checking and audit trail required for rigor determination in qualitative research. Through thematic data analysis, the study generated three themes in pursuit of answering the research question, which were (1) Mentorship Vacuum, (2) Dis-interest and inertia and (3) Leadership Support. Whereas the first two themes report the negative experiences educators have had with CPTD, the last them reflected that participants had some form of leadership support.
Implementing the C.O.S.T.A Municipal Change Model (M-C-M)
(2020-07-16) Costa, King; Siganga, Selina
Corruption, mismanagement and incompetence are perceived as a significant prevention to great administration in progressive local government. Many attempts have been developed by government to curb the scourge of this problem by establishment of a number of public sector organizations hinged upon precepts of the constitution, such as Chapter 9 institutions. Regardless of so many watch-dog organizations in South Africa, it is obvious that these instruments are lacking to forestall and control debasement, because of helpless administration rehearses, for example, shortcoming and "holes" in practice. Moreover, the government and public sector continually see exposition of lack of ethical leadership, ethical administration and ethical public service as a result. Apparent refusal to follow the statutory prescripts in the form of PFMA and MFMA demonstrate a plethora of unending meanders to total decay and maleficence. According to Naidoo (2010) Administration and service delivery failures by local government can generally be ascribed to : (1) Poor leadership (2) Unrealistic planning (3) Lack of proper community engagement (4) Trust deficit (5) Incompetent staff and management It is interesting that issues raised over a decade ago, which were already proving a predominant challenge to service delivery, are still a problem 10 years later and over 25 years of democratic rule in South Africa. In 2010, Naidoo's study collected data from households, which indicated that appointment of officials to office was inappropriate and irregular. This was further compounded by low skills levels and non-responsive employee capacity development suitable to the paradigm of local government. It is in this way contended there is progressively a requirement for moral authority and ethical leadership culture in the public service and local government. This article hence recommends the requirement for a framework that will put local government leadership and staff on a trajectory with sequential development indicators providing verification at each stage. The C.O.S.T.A. Framework is hereby proposed.
Improving conditions of service for family caregivers in South Africa
(2020-11-30) Pule, Tebogo; Costa, King
Introduction: In most cases chronically-ill patients, the disabled and old persons are discharged from healthcare facilities to their families who have inadequate knowledge and skill. They may not be familiar with the kind of care expected to provide. The healthcare system does not provide continuity of care, especially to the family caregiver. The family caregiver is left to attend to the physical, economical, psychological needs of the patient with limited to no support from the healthcare system. This poses a huge challenge and increases the burden for the family caregiver which ends up becoming unbearable to the point where the process is no longer a healthy or viable option for both the caregiver and care recipient. The role of the caregiver in a patient’s health is often overlooked or underestimated in the South African health system, as a result, the caregiver is not recognized as part of the health system policy and financial inclusions. The aim of this study is to conduct a Qualitative Systematic Review of the conditions of service for family caregivers across four dimensions namely: Problems/challenges, burden, intervention and outcome, in South Africa. Method: A Qualitative Systematic Review was conducted, following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) methodology on Google Scholar database, and retrieved articles from 1994 to 2020. Following Boolean operators, words “AND”, “OR” and “NOT”, were used, to search key terms “family caregiving in South Africa”, “primary caregiving” or “informal caregiving”. Rigor was determined and documented throughout in order to allow readers to access its completeness. Inclusion and exclusion criteria were clearly outlined. Criteria for evaluating primary studies were clearly defined at the beginning of undertaking research. A total of 1810 articles, reports and dissertations were retrieved and only 85 studies were included in the review. Findings and Discussion: Studies were critically appraised using WebQDA software, whereby 198 comments emerged. Both the burden and challenges of caregiving experienced were categorized as problems, which came out 82 times (68%) compounding the role that they play. Other categories that emerged from the studies were Intervention and outcome which came out 53 and 13 times respectively. Interventions and outcome were also consolidated into one group, implying that interventions would have an impact on improving or declining outcome and these were only 32%. Four final themes emerged out of this research.

Browsing by Author "Costa, King"

Results Per Page

Sort Options