Research Publications (Engineering and Built Environment)

Permanent URI for this collectionhttp://ir-dev.dut.ac.za/handle/10321/215

Browse

Now showing 1 - 20 of 29

Airborne satellite antenna steering and mounting systems
(IEEE, 2016) Ilcev, Stojce Dimov
This paper describes the steering and mount systems of Airborne Satellite Antenna (ASA) as a most important and sensitive part of both Aeronautical Mobile Satellite Communication (AMSA) and Aeronautical Mobile Satellite Broadcasting (AMSB) systems. In general, most of ASA solutions are small and easy to install onboard aircraft such as Low Gain Antenna (LGA). However, in particular, some of ASA systems are quite complex, relatively large and heavy, especially airborne High Gain Antenna (HGA) for Aircraft Earth Stations (AES), such as Inmarsat-H, High Speed Data (HSD), Swift64, SwiftBroadband and Digital Video Broadcasting-Return Channel via Satellite (DVB-RCS) antennas, so they need sophisticated steering and mounting systems. Over the past decade are developed the steering ASA broadband system, which main components are reduced considerably in both physical size and weight. These reductions are presented in this research that brings greater Effective Isotropic Radiated Power (EIRP) from satellite transponders coupled with GaAs-FET technology at the front end the satellite receiver. In this paper are also introduced existing types of mechanical, electrical, combined and other mount systems of ASA steering system. The ASA has to be always pointed towards the satellite in spite of aircraft motions. At this point, the mount airborne satellite system as one of the main requirements in designing the mobile satellite antenna systems from the technical and rational viewpoints is discussed.
Analysis of current Pulses in HeLa-Cell Permeabilization due to high voltage DC corona discharge
(IEEE, 2016-09) Chetty, Nevendra K.; Chonco, Louis; Ijumba, Nelson M.; Chetty, Leon; Govender, Thavendran; Parboosing, Raveen; Davidson, Innocent Ewaen
Corona discharges are commonly utilized for numerous practical applications, including bio-technological ones. The corona induced transfer of normally impermeant molecules into the interior of biological cells has recently been successfully demonstrated. The exact nature of the interaction of the corona discharge with a cell membrane is still unknown, how-ever, previous studies have suggested that it is either the electric ﬁelds produced by ions or the chemical interaction of the reactive species that result in the disruption of the cell membrane. This disruption of the cell membrane allows molecules to permeate into the cell. Corona discharge current constitutes a series of pulses, and it is during these pulses that the ions and reactive species are produced. It stands to reason, therefore, that the nature of these corona pulses would have an inﬂuence on the level of cell permeabilization and cell destruction. In this investigation, an analysis of the width, rise-time, characteristic frequencies, magnitude, and repetition rate of the nanosecond pulses was carried out in order to establish the relationship between these factors and the levels of cell membrane permeabilization and cell destruction. Results obtained are presented and discussed.
Assessing the impact of undergraduate research on graduate attributes development : a case study of DUT Civil Engineering Students
(Durban University of Technology, 2022) Ngubane, Zesizwe; Hay, Shanley; Adedeji, Jacob Adedayo
Engineering graduates are expected to demonstrate competence after their engineering programmes in the form of graduate attributes (GAs) prescribed by the Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA). It has, however, been challenging to develop and assess these attributes, especially using conventional assessment or examination methods, just as on the global scale. Nevertheless, studies have demonstrated that undergraduate research enables students to develop independent critical skills, as they do in graduate studies, by identifying a problem that needs to be solved. Undergraduate research has not been widely explored as a tool in developing and accessing GAs in engineering students. This study examined the impact of undergraduate research in engineering student ECSA GAs development and assessment using a case study of civil engineering diploma students. Therefore, using purposeful quantitative sampling methods, first-year and second-year diploma students were interviewed on their experience with newly introduced undergraduate research. Observations of the students' responses indicated that students' understanding, and views of GAs do improve from the first year to the second year due to continuous exposure to research. A conceptual model for assessing and developing GAs among engineering students is proposed in this study. This conceptual framework can assist in the further development of strategies in the implementation of undergraduate research at universities of technology.
Creating eco efficient township infrastructure projects with the use of green engineering solutions and sustainability criteria
(Institute of Municipal Enginering of South Africa, 2015) Saroop, Shian Hemraj; Allopi, Dhiren
Globally, the construction industry is one of the main contributors to the depletion of natural resources and a major cause of unwanted side effects such as air and water pollution, solid waste, deforestation, health hazards, global warming, and other negative consequences (Harvey and Wayne, 20084). As we face significant planetary issues such as global warming, it is clear that the engineering profession has a significant part to play in affecting the future of our planet. In order to stay competitive and to meet upcoming stricter environmental regulations and customer requirements, designers have a key role in designing civil infrastructure so that it is environmentally sustainable. These and other factors have compelled the engineer to design with greater care and in more detail. The changing roles of engineers will be highlighted, in order to react to changes in climate. Mainstreaming environmental aspects and incorporating the eco-efficiency concept into various stages of infrastructure development have not been considered as much as they should have been. Engineers need to look at greener technologies rather than just using traditional engineering solutions. This paper looks at the effects of climate change on infrastructure and the changing role of engineers. It aims to demonstrate the use of sustainability criteria on infrastructure projects. The use of the proposed criteria would ensure a sustainable design for township infrastructure services through the consideration of scare resources, ecological sensitivity in the design and planning of infrastructure projects. This paper focuses on the concept of eco-efficiency in infrastructure design that promotes the use of the greener engineering options, enabling him/her to choose the one likely to yield the best performance with the least environmental impact. It looks at a number of recommended green practices on infrastructure services design, that are environmentally sound placing, fewer burdens on the environment.
A D2D communication based lightweight customer side data securing scheme in smart grids
(2022-08-20) Nleya, Bakhe; Khumalo, Phlani
With the emergence of modernized power grids into smart equivalents referred to as smart grids (SGs) the bulk generation, transmission, distribution, and end-user infrastructures must be appropriately long-term planned concurrently with the required privacy and security. Notably, the objectives of modern SGs are to minimize power energy losses through theft or physical dissipation. The embedded device-to-device (D2D) communication technology in 5G networks will enable an affordable fail-safe ICT subsystem platform for the SGs. However, Privacy preservation is necessary for D2D services in SGs. In this paper, we propose an anonymity privacy-preserving, and data aggregation scheme. We carry out both security and performance and obtained theoretical analysis and simulation results the privacy algorithm is effective and at the same time, fewer communication overheads are exchanged.
Designing environmentally sound engineering solutions on infrastructure projects
(World Academy of Research and Publication, 2013-12) Saroop, Shian Hemraj; Allopi, Dhiren
There is a growing complexity of infrastructure planning and the need for coordination of design and environmental requirements. The lack of appropriate tools and skills for sustainable Infrastructure design is often seen as a barrier to sustainable design. Infrastructure development has been focused mainly on financing issues and engineering aspects in the region. Mainstreaming environmental aspects and incorporating the eco-efficiency concept into various stages of infrastructure development have not been considered as much as they should have been. Improvement in the awareness of eco-efficiency concepts is urgently needed among policy-makers, planners and decision-makers. However, the criteria applicable to, and measures for developing eco-efficient and sustainable infrastructure are yet to be fully identified (United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific, 2006). Engineers need to look at greener technologies rather than just using traditional engineering solutions. The paper focuses on the concept of eco-efficiency in Infrastructure Design that promotes the use of the greener engineering options, enabling him/her to choose the one likely to yield the best performance with the least environmental impact. This paper discussed the application of ‘green technology’ on infrastructure design projects. It gives an overview of the proposed Green Township Infrastructure Design toolkit and looks at a number of recommended green practices on infrastructure services design, that are environmentally sound placing, fewer burdens on the environment. It would ensure a sustainable design of township infrastructure services enforcing the consideration of resources, environmental impacts of design decisions, ecologically sensitivity, innovation, maintenance and materials, at the design stage of a project.
Enhancing the performance of Eskom’s Cahora Bassa HVDC Scheme and Harmonic Distortion Minimization of LCC-HVDC Scheme using the VSC-HVDC link
(MDPI AG, 2022-04-20) Davidson, Innocent Ewean; Oni, Oluwafemi Emmanuel; Aluko, Anuoluwapo; Buraimoh, Elutunji
Cahora Bassa, a thyristor-based High Voltage Direct (HVDC) link, transmits 1920 MW of power from a hydro-power plant in Zambezi River, north of Mozambique, to Apollo Substation in Johannesburg, South Africa. The high degree of harmonics distortion that is transferred into the AC side of the transmission network and the continuous increase in the rate at which commutation failure occurs during systems disturbance are both flaws in the utilization of this HVDC converter technology. AC and DC filters with rugged controllers are often used to minimize this effect but are limited in scope. Modern converter technology, such as the Voltage Source Converter (VSC), was proposed in this study to reduce harmonics content level, increase power transfer capabilities, enhance network stability, and reduce the rate of commutation failure occurrence. This paper, therefore, evaluates the performance analysis of the Cahora Bassa HVDC link and its level of harmonic distortion in the line commutated converters. A proposed method of utilizing VSC HVDC is provided as a suitable solution using three modular-level voltage source converter technology. Current and voltage waveform characteristics during a three-phase short circuits fault were analyzed, and the latest developments in the area of VSC HVDC were discussed. The results show a lower total harmonics distortion with the usage of VSC HVDC converter technology at the inverter station. The continuous occurrence of commutation failure was minimized by implementing a new converter architecture. The network simulation and analysis were carried out using the DIgSILENT PowerFactory engineering software tool.
An evaluation of digital and artificial intelligent tools in an electronic and computer engineering curriculum at a university of technology in South Africa
(2023-12-08) Maharaj, Shaveen; Pillay, Nelendran
Digital tools have become integral to higher education, offering a wide array of opportunities for improving the learning experience. This study explores the adoption and impact of digital tools in engineering education. The study employed a mixed-methods approach, utilizing quantitative data and qualitative data collection. Participants included both staff and students in a comprehensive analysis. The integration of technology in higher education has witnessed significant growth, encompassing educational software, learning management systems (LMS), and online platforms. In engineering education, tools like Moodle, MATLAB, Turnitin, Simulink, and MS Teams have gained prominence (Joksimović & Milosavljević, 2016). However, their effectiveness in achieving educational goals remains to be fully evaluated. One key advantage of digital tools is personalized learning. Advancements in technology, including artificial intelligence (AI), enable adaptive learning software like ChatGPT to tailor lesson plans based on individual needs. Furthermore, digital tools expand students' access to resources, such as online lectures, readings, and simulations, supplementing traditional teaching methods. They also facilitate collaborative learning and group projects through platforms like Moodle and Blackboard, enabling effective communication, document sharing, and teamwork. The findings of this study shed light on the current landscape of digital tools in engineering education. A SWOT analysis is applied to inform future strategies. The study emphasizes the need for a comprehensive evaluation of the effectiveness of these tools and their potential to transform engineering education. This research contributes to the ongoing dialogue on optimizing digital tools for personalized learning and collaborative education in engineering programs. It underscores the importance of evaluating their impact and tailoring their use to enhance the overall educational experience.
An evaluation of WIL training for Durban University of Technology Civil Engineering - employer and student experience : lessons for the new programme
(Stellenbosch University, 2021-11) Khuzwayo, B.P.; Vahed, S.
The Durban University of Technology (DUT) previously offered the now phased-out National Diploma in Civil Engineering, incorporating a two-year academic enrolment and a year-long work- integrated learning programme (WIL). The support offered by the University lecturers was essential in the WIL, to ensure that the engineering tasks assigned to students aligned with the DUT curriculum; any concerns or comments expressed were investigated further and addressed appropriately. In 2017 and 2018 interviews were conducted, generating 918 structured comments by employers. These included 304 general comments (with no academic value) and 593 comments specific to disciplines by students, of which 346 were general comments. This exploratory study aims to determine critical feedback that should be considered when enrolling for the new qualification: Bachelor of Engineering Technology Degree in Civil Engineering (B Eng Tech degree). The data received helped to discover and understand the experiences, perspectives and thoughts of the participants who responded to open-ended questions (i.e., comments about their experiences, without any limitations). The data collected were presented and evaluated using the thematic analysis method to discover patterns and to develop subjects for discussion. Findings show that employers were generally happy with the quality of the students from DUT, however, they found professionalism among the DUT students to be a major concern. They also requested that the institution communicates with employers regarding the curriculum so that employers might properly align the WIL with it. Most students were challenged by the new work environment they had entered. The most common factor that made the experience more challenging was the exposure to the state- of-the-art equipment used in the workplace.
Harmonic distortion of LCC-HVDC and VSC-HVDC link in Eskom's Cahora Bassa HVDC Scheme
(IEEE, 2016-11) Oni, Oluwafemi E.; Davidson, Innocent Ewaen
Cahora Bassa, a thyristors based HVDC link transmits 1,920 MW of power from hydropower plant located in Zambezi river, north of Mozambique to Johannesburg, South Africa. This HVDC converter suffer few deficiency in its high level of harmonics distortion that transferred into its AC side of the transmission network couple with persistence rate of commutation failure. AC and DC filters with rugged controller are often used to minimize this effect but are limited in some aspect. Modern converter technology used for different HVDC links reduces harmonics content level, increases power transfer capabilities, enhances network stability and finally reduced the rate of commutation failure. This paper therefore investigate the level of harmonic distortion in line commutated converter used in Cahora Bassa link and thus proffer a suitable solution with the use of VSC-HVDC link. Current waveform characteristics and latest developments was also addressed. Simulation analysis was carried out using DigSILENT PowerFactory.
Inclusivity of ICT based solutions to public transportation problems : challenges and opportunities for Bloemfontein
(The Road Association of Serbia Via-vita, 2023-09-22) Bashingi, Ndakhona; Adedeji, Jacob Adedayo; Kumar Das, Dillip; Mostafa Hassan Mostafa, Mohammed
Promoting information and communication technologies as mobility and transportation accessibility solutions in efforts to achieve sustainable transportation excludes socioeconomic vulnerability. ICT-related efforts do not meet the mobility and accessibility needs of every single group in society, resulting in socioeconomic exclusion for specific groups of people. Social exclusion disadvantages vulnerable social groups in society's mobility, while limited mobility reduces access to activities for disadvantaged groups; travel for job hunting, education, work, and health facilities further increases these groups' physical isolation. The need to travel for activities, services, and basic goods for human consumption such as food, water, and medication must be addressed by developing inclusive transportation systems. Through tele-activities, e-payments, security and surveillance, among other components adaptable to travel and mobility, technological solutions have been at the forefront of prescriptions to transportation problems. However, they remain inaccessible to some of society. The study investigates whether inclusive, sustainable public transportation can be fully realized in developing countries by utilizing technology-based travel behavior solutions. It also investigates the effectiveness of ICT solutions to travel, mobility, and accessibility issues in a South African city with a relatively traditional public transportation system. The study considers socioeconomic travel processes as well as travel behavior constructs to inclusivity in order to weigh the prospects of equitable provision of ICT-enabled public transportation services in the developing world. This study discovered that travelers have smartphone access; however, the purposes of smartphones are not directly related to travel and transportation. Furthermore, public transportation service providers do not have an online presence. Overall, for ICT-enabled public transportation to thrive in developing countries, accessible technologies such as calls and SMS that do not require internet access must be considered.
Integrating the 4th Industrial Revolution in spatial planning curricula : the case of South African tertiary institutions
(Deakin University, 2021-10-29) Pretorius, Ockert; Pillay, Nischolan; Letsoko, Vuyiswa; Huston, Zinea
The 4th Industrial Revolution (4IR) – the narrative of change associated with technologyrelated disruptions through the proliferation of cyber-physical systems – is set to have a profound impact on the built environment. Technological applications that include big data analytics, cloud computing, and machine learning will affect spatial conceptualisation and design, construction activities, building operations and management, and real estate activities. The statutory and strategic nature of spatial planning processes may be disrupted by future technological applications. Equipping current and future spatial planning practitioners with the necessary skills is essential in maintaining property sector productivity and catalysing renewed efforts toward spatial transformation in South African human settlements. The objective of this research is to evaluate current approaches in tertiary education institutions in effectively transferring knowledge regarding 4IR as it relates to the spatial planning discipline and equipping said students with the relevant skills to prolong sector competitiveness. A qualitative case study analysis is applied, which includes the assessment of the curricula of selected accredited spatial planning schools and their relevant integration of 4IR applications. Research findings highlight the limited inclusion of 4IR and related multidisciplinary, practical, and theoretical themes in spatial planning education. Recommendations include increased knowledge transfer on the theoretical synergies between 4IR and spatial planning; development of computer-based skills; and implementing existing competencies, including critical thinking and problem solving, to foster sectoral adaptability.
A load flow analysis of the southern African power pool interconnections using high voltage AC, high voltage DC, and flexible AC transmission system
(IEEE, 2022-08-22) Ndlela, Nomihla W.; Davidson, Innocent Ewaen
Globally, the importance of power interconnections is growing due to the possibility of power exchange, Thus, the effective solution of bulk power transmission over large distances is achievable with High Voltage Alternating Current (HVAC) which has losses along the transmission line. High Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) uses converters to transform AC power into DC, resulting in superior active and reactive power compensation and reduced losses. The Flexible AC Transmission System (FACTS) combines shunt and series convectors for improved voltage control and power stability, and it enables the transmission of large amounts of electricity over long distances with lower losses than a conventional system. This study implements a load flow model between three substations with bulk power coupled by long-distance transmission lines to compare and conclude which technology is best for transferring bulk power over long distances to offer secure and sustainable electricity.
Machine learning and stem education : challenges and possibilities
(Research India Publications, 2022-04-01) Fomunyam, Kehdinga George
Science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields are important in national and international economies in driving innovation and improving the economy and workforce pattern to meet 21st century realities. For this goal to be achieved, there is a need for innovation that will drive the economy of the future, which can only be acquired from advances in science and technology. The major rationale behind STEM education is to foster critical thinking skills, which would result in our having more creative problem-solvers in the workforce. The world is gravitating towards a knowledge-based economy, therefore having creative problem-solvers will provide answers to the complex problems of the future. This paper relied on literature review to critically address the topic under consideration. A theoretical analysis of STEM education and machine learning was conducted to clarify the nexus between the two. The key point of this study is the impact of machine learning on STEM education, as properly enacted. Findings from this research revealed that, with the current changes manifested in the global sphere, generally, it is important to leverage STEM education. With more focus on some emerging technologies. such as artificial intelligence and machine learning, the multi-versatility of machine learning has been brought to fore in many areas of computing. This includes spam filtering, and optical character recognition. There are thus ample benefits of STEM education, in that it increases innovation and creativity. STEM reduces the time and stress associated with the rigours of teaching, by providing a better standardization system. STEM education also minimises the stress associated with scoring students, predicting future behaviour and performance of students, and changing the old methods of education. The study recommended that adequate support be provided to stakeholders in the educational value chain, such as teachers, students, policymakers, etc. to familiarise themselves more with machine learning as a concept and a practice. Capacity-building workshops should also be provided for these stakeholders to ensure that they are properly oriented to adopt machine-learning approaches in their classrooms, with minimal rigour and stress.
The philosophical dimensions of mathematics in engineering education
(Research India Publications, 2022-09-30) Fomunyam, Kehdinga George
Philosophical dimensions of mathematics education have drawn the attention of engineering educators and professionals in the 21st century, as it is perceived as a significant aspect in engineering education. Thus, engineering education has not witnessed critical changes with respect to mathematics as a lot of concerns such as staff capacity building and development, poor funding, and obsolete curriculum has become impediments in understanding the conceptual interpretation of mathematical philosophy in engineering education, hence the crux of this paper. This paper was guided by Social Constructivism Theory, which looks at how mathematics speciality forms its own epistemic knowledge-based domain that enhances and improves engineering education and contributes immensely to building potential engineering scholars. This paper addresses problems by filling the gaps in motivating the core investigation of unifying conjectures that are related to different areas of mathematics. This paper takes a broad look at the philosophical dimensions of mathematics in engineering education, while examining how mathematics as a body of knowledge is accounted as a means of enquiry in engineering education. The paper assesses the social philosophy and ethical dimensions of mathematics and its associated benefits; as well as its implications for engineering education (EE) in the 21st century. Thus, to address these gaps, recommendations on restructuring engineering education in areas such as curriculum revision, faculty capacity building and development as well as university funding in equipping students with contemporary mathematics textbooks were suggested.
Process improvement for traditional mould making process through group technology and rank-order clustering algorithm
(PONTE, 2022-06-23) Dewa, Mendon; Pancha, Uttam Bhana
The current environment of changing market trends that include mass customization, sustainability, environmental impact and localized production drives the manufacturing industry to strive for additive manufacturing because of the versatility of the technology. Injection Moulding Company (IMC) is using traditional manufacturing approaches which compromise its competitiveness resulting in decreased production rate and high operational costs due to lengthy changeover times. The aim of the study was to investigate the usage of group technology and rank-order clustering algorithm as mechanisms to aid the reduction of manufacturing lead time for the traditional mould making process. ABC mould demand classification analysis conducted for the top 16 moulds revealed that the moulds for the switch cover ranked highest in terms of the demand of moulds that were fabricated by IMC. The value stream map revealed that there was room for improvement in terms of push to pull and frequent lot transfer, standardising work, reducing cutting time and process scrap, as well as introducing poka yokes and cellular manufacturing, and it was proposed to reduce material movements and setup times. Through the deployment of group technology and rank clustering algorithm, three mould families and three machine cells were derived. As a result, the mould fabrication process was improved by reducing material movements and reducing setup times.
Prospects of synthesized magnetic TiO2-based membranes for wastewater treatment : a review
(MDPI AG, 2021-06) Tetteh, E. Kweinor; Rathilal, S.; Asante-Sackey, D.; Chollom, Martha Noro
Global accessibility to clean water has stressed the need to develop advanced technologies for the removal of toxic organic and inorganic pollutants and pathogens from wastewater to meet stringent discharge water quality limits. Conventionally, the high separation efficiencies, relative low costs, small footprint, and ease of operation associated with integrated photocatalytic-membrane (IPM) technologies are gaining an all-inclusive attention. Conversely, photocatalysis and membrane technologies face some degree of setbacks, which limit their worldwide application in wastewater settings for the treatment of emerging contaminants. Therefore, this review elucidated titanium dioxide (TiO2), based on its unique properties (low cost, non-toxicity, biocompatibility, and high chemical stability), to have great potential in engineering photocatalytic-based membranes for reclamation of wastewater for re-use. The environmental pathway of TiO2 nanoparticles, membranes and configuration types, modification process, characteristics, and applications of IPMs in water settings are discussed. Future research and prospects of magnetized TiO2-based membrane technology is highlighted as a viable water purification technology to mitigate fouling in the membrane process and photocatalyst recoverability. In addition, exploring life cycle assessment research would also aid in utilizing the concept and pressing for large-scale application of this technology.
Quantum cryptography-as-a-service for secure UAV communication : applications, challenges, and case study
(Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE), 2021) Ralegankar, Vishakha K.; Bagul, Jagruti; Thakkar, Bhaumikkumar; Gupta, Rajesh; Tanwar, Sudeep; Sharma, Gulshan; Davidson, Innocent Ewaen
The sudden demand rises in security made researchers come up with solutions that provide instantaneous safety better than the state of the art solutions. The quest for securing data began in the Spartan era. People are now looking to expand this field of research by attacking the existing paradigms and inventing new algorithms that prove to be better than their vulnerable counterparts. Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) are very much prevailing due to their sleek design and flexible mobility in many sectors such as agriculture, army, healthcare, monitoring and surveillance, and many more. We discuss the growth and demand of drone technology along with its importance in this article. The paper also throws some light on the ongoing security issues in real-time scenarios and the role of quantum cryptography in securing the information over the traditional solutions. Motivated by this, we present a survey on quantum cryptography’s importance, role, and benefits in securing UAV communications underlying beyond 5G networks. A novel quantum cryptography-based layered architectural solution is also proposed to achieve high data security and efficient transmission. This paper also present a case study on the battlefield application on the Internet of military things. The performance of the proposed case study system is evaluated by considering the latency, security, and reliability
Re-constructing the use of educational technology in the deprived engineering classroom
(2018-11-01) Fomunyam, Kehdinga George
The use of educational technology in classrooms is gaining grounds in the world. Educational technologies such as Intercom, Internet use, Email, use of phones and tablets for research, video chats, YouTube video lesson, WhatsApp discussion groups and many others are used today to enhance learning. Despite this rapid embrace and use of technology, the bone of contention in this paper is that engineering classrooms in Cameroon are still being deprived of educational technology. The research sought out to examine the reason for this nonexistence of educational technologies in classrooms as well as state the advantages that accrues from using educational technology in deprived engineering classrooms in Cameroon. Data was collected through semi-structured interviews with final year engineering students and their lecturers, transcribed and analyzed using the qualitative analytical approach. The study reveals that ignorance of the significance of educational technology, fear of being replaced by the new technology, stiff administrative grip on funds for these technologies are some of the reasons why some engineering classrooms are deprived of educational technology. The advantages include: time serving, access to alternative educational materials, audio-visuals, knowledge sharing with distant and foreign students, an increase in on-line course availability and learning activities, the growth of interactive communications usage, a growing dependence on distant interactions and non-face-to-face learning, increasing numbers of international education and business relationships and partnerships. The article recommends that the reconstruction of educational technology in engineering education in Cameroon needs to be embraced by school authorities, and classroom teachers. It should begin with school administrators who should be intentional about introducing this alternative education technology in their institutions.
Resolving contractor commitment challenges in project delivery by using conceptual system dynamics models
(University of Johannesburg, 2016) Aiyetan, Olatunji Ayodeji; Das, Dillip
Contractors play a vital role in construction projects. However, their lack of commitment is argued to be one of the major barriers against successful project delivery. This investigation was aimed at to explore how contractor commitment challenges can be resolved to improve their performance in the project delivery. A survey research method was used to collect data, and Likert scale was applied to evaluate the relative importance of the contractor commitment challenges. Followed by conceptual System Dynamics (SD) modelling principle was used to develop causal feedback relationships among the variables influencing contractor commitment and to develop mechanisms to resolve the challenges. Findings suggest that lack of experience, skill, inadequate supervision, and lack of control over the subcontractors lead to contractor’s inefficiency. Poor planning and scheduling, poor professional management, poor execution of projects, ineffective/outdated equipment, and inefficiency of labour force result in poor quality of work and delay. In addition, design and documentation challenges disrupt the contractors’ schedule. The interlinkage among these variables hinders contractor commitment. However, policy/strategic interventions based on the causal feedback relationships among contractor efficiency, and (1) capacity building; (2) professional management; (3) construction methods; and (4) involvement of the contractor and client in the design process would enable the contractors to overcome their challenges to meet their commitment and improve efficiency in project delivery.