Faculty of Accounting and Informatics

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Academic integration of libraries at Universities of Technology (UoTs) in South Africa
(2014-09-16) Neerputh, Shirlene; Singh, Penny; Underwood, Peter
Academic libraries should lead in the instructional change process by being at the nexus of teaching, learning and research in the university. This study was set in the context of the current higher educational landscape of South Africa. In particular, it focused on the emerging role of the University of Technology (UoT) library to enhance academic success. This was an exploratory study juxtaposed with a literature review pertinent to national and international library integration programmes and practices. Justification for this study stemmed from the current local and international trend for academic libraries to become proactive partners in teaching and learning through academic integration and leadership in promoting the university’s mission and goals. Underpinned by the process learning theoretical framework, the aim of this study was to explore the extent to which academic integration has been adopted by UoT libraries in South Africa. Process learning was chosen by the researcher because it is considered a learner-centred teaching technique for student engagement and it is consistent with the constructivist theory postulated and applicable to UoT libraries. The specific objectives of the survey were to determine: what academic integration programmes are offered by UoT libraries to enhance teaching, learning and research in South Africa; existing information literacy programmes and assessment practices in UoT libraries; what postgraduate/research programmes are offered by the library to academics and students and how they are represented in strategy or policy documents; and the similarities and differences in academic integration programmes in all six UoTs in SA. A mixed methods approach (quantitative and qualitative methodologies) were used to collect data regarding programmes and practices prevalent in UoT libraries across all six UoTs in South Africa. An online questionnaire was administered using SurveyMonkey. Forty-two subject librarians participated in the survey, yielding a sixty- two percent response rate. The objectives of the study were achieved by the identification of the following key academic integration programmes: embedded information literacy programmes; resource collection and development; faculty collaboration and partnerships to promote academic success; research scholarship and open access initiatives; social media networking; and reading and writing programmes. This study found that while academic integration has gained momentum in UoTs in South Africa, greater effort should be made in collaboration with academics in: embedded information literacy and blended learning; open access and scholarship; reading and writing programmes; and collaboration in postgraduate interventions. The findings also revealed that while most libraries internationally have embraced reading and writing programmes, libraries offering reading and writing programmes to enhance academic success are relatively scarce in UoTs in South Africa. It is recommended that the subject librarians engage in academic integration practices by: supporting the curricula and research programmes; improving institutional outcomes; improving collaborations; building intellectual or knowledge centres and providing relevant information to students and staff within a knowledge society.
Academic staff perceptions of empowerment training programmes initiated by Durban University of Technology
(2018) Bingwa, Luyanda Loraine; Ngwane, Knowledge Siyabonga Vusamandla; Reddy, Radha
Higher education in South Africa underwent a significant change during the last decade. Lecturers may not be necessarily equipped to face all the changes that are a result of changes faced by higher education. Academic staff needs to be trained so as to strengthen their teaching competencies. Training serves as an opportunity to upgrade their qualifications. Without training, it would be challenging for academics to perform their core activities. The problem that arises is that the type of routine tasks typical of the functions of academic staff does not require only training in the form of coaching but also learning in the form of gaining knowledge and competence within the academic disciplinary context. However, hands-on training seems to be the crucial component that will ensure the correct application of routine procedures. The purpose of this study was to identify the academic staff perception of empowerment programmes initiated by the Durban University of Technology (DUT), and the challenges involved in successfully empowering staff. This study also identified problems encountered during academic staff development process and further investigated if the academic staff were provided with reasonable opportunity to participate. In this study, a quantitative approach was used, and data was collected from academic staff, comprising of professors, head of departments, senior lecturers, lecturers and junior lecturers of the Durban University of Technology. A sample size of 132 was drawn from the population. Questionnaires were designed with both closed and open-ended questions, and were personally administered by the researcher to all academic staff members in all faculties of the Durban University of Technology. Analysis of data revealed that the University provide academic staff with sufficient and relevant training however staff felt that they should be included in the planning of these programmes. Furthermore there was a need for follow-up to evaluate effectiveness of the training programmes and if they served the purpose for which they were intended to. This study, therefore, recommended that respective faculties should involve their staff members in planning, and that a follow-up be conducted after completion of training.
Adoption of augmented reality to enhance Durban University of Technology's learning management system
(IEEE, 2022-10-27) Djumo, Wappi Francis; Govender, Shaolin Lee; Matha, Sanele Raphael; Adeliyi, Timothy T.
The Durban University of Technology's (DUT) elearning system is used as a case study in the research as it investigates the various learning management systems in higher education. due to the expanding technological trends and the requirement to support students who belong to "Generation Z." This study examines how augmented reality can be used to transform the DUT E-learning system from a three-standalone system into a unified system. The study illustrates how the Business Analysis Core Concept Model, a conceptual framework for business analysis, would be employed to analyze the proposed augmented reality system and the current DUT e-learning model. Additionally, the use cases of the three standalone platforms that make up the current DUT E-learning are contrasted with a single augmented reality E-learning system.
The adoption of target costing as a contemporary management accounting technique in a public higher education institution : a case study of Durban University of Technology
(2022-05-14) Thango, Thobelani Sabelo; Marimuthu, Ferina; Nzuza, Zwelihle Wiseman
There is a growing need for public higher education institutions (HEIs) to opt for all cost management tools following the government’s shortfalls in the budget allocation for public HEIs. The focus should be on the suitable pricing methods that will consider the students’ perception of the value of education and give fees that are reasonable and accepted by students, while ensuring that the institution meets target returns. The biggest concern is that fees are based on the cost-based pricing model. Cost-based pricing always results in higher prices, where the accurate costs are unknown, despite the strategy used to implement it. Furthermore, fees are based on historic cost models, not on a continuously reworked costing model. Following cuts in the budget allocation to HEIs, the institutions have increased fees rapidly to remain sustainable. A fee calculated on uncertain historic costs while government support falls results in a rapid increase in fees. Target costing can assist in cutting down on unnecessary costs and ensure acceptable fees for students. Target costing is a known cost management tool that assists in ensuring costs management and keeping fees low. Despite the cuts in government spending on HEIs, adoption of target costing will result in reasonable costs to keep the fees low. Considering the limited empirical studies conducted on the adoption of target costing in South African public HEIs, study's main aim is to investigate the factors that influence the adoption of target costing in public HEIs, using the Durban University of Technology (DUT) as the case study. Therefore, this study will massively contribute to research pool on the adoption of target costing in HEIs. The study used the quantitative research method with a sample of 52 Heads of Departments and 15 finance staff. The research instrument employed was a questionnaire, which was dominated by close-ended questions. The study was guided by the positivist philosophy where data analysis was done using the Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS version 27 ®), in which descriptive and inferential statistical analysis were undertaken. The results have shown that DUT is using the full cost-plus method to account for fees. The costs are allocated using the traditional absorption method. The results showed that target costing had not been fully used but exists in selected areas of the university. Findings further reveal that costs to fees are subject to historic judgement, implying that costs to fees are not reworked annually. While the fees increase, many respondents perceive the current pricing methods to be the best for the university and that the cost-plus pricing method is most appropriate to ensure it’s the university’s sustainability. Findings revealed that the variables which influenced the adoption of target costing at the DUT included: size of DUT, management style and staff inclusion, information system and technological advancement, vertical differentiation and centralisation, formal support to accounting for adoption of target costing, resource adequacy, intensity of competition, and government regulations. The respondents have disagreed that sufficiency in the expertise of target costing has an influence in the partial adoption of target costing at the DUT. The students’ perception on the value of education is also not the reason that the concept of target costing exists in some parts of the DUT. Overall, the results help to understand the current pricing method used at DUT. It has further brought a clear indication of the factors that influence the adoption of target costing and whether the elements of target costing exist at the university.
Analysing the empowerment of women leadership : a case of the Durban University of Technology
(2016) Ngcobo, Akhona Denisia; Ngwane, Knowledge Siyabonga Vusamandla
The purpose of the study was to explore the empowerment of women leadership, focusing on the Durban University of Technology. Statistics around the world have highlighted that women are under-represented in decision-making positions, with a specific focus on the academic sector; this study aims to review these statistics and establish which barriers prevent females from progressing to leadership positions. The target population was comprised of staff members from the Durban University of Technology and ranged from leadership, management, and lecturing, to entry-level employees. The technique of probability sampling was chosen in this research, with a sample size of 100 participants drawn from the population. Questionnaires were designed with both closed-ended and some open-ended questions, and were personally administered to all campuses of the Durban University of Technology, namely Ritson Campus, Steve Biko Campus, ML Sultan Campus, City Campus, Indumiso Campus and Riverside Campus. This study revealed that, although women are still under-represented in Higher Education, there are efforts being made to bridge this gap. This study found female leaders more productive than male counterparts at the Durban University and are able to run their department smoothly and efficiently. The study also found that there are internal respondents agreed that there are hidden difficulties in their department that women face and prevent them from moving into higher positions. Additionally, the study found that there are programs at the Durban University that empower women into leadership. This study contributes to knowledge of gender-based leadership and female empowerment into leadership positions, in the higher education sector.
The applicability of accounting information systems for the Financial Accounting curriculum in the Fourth Industrial Revolution era : a case study at the Durban University of Technology (DUT)
(2022-12-01) Cele, Welcome; Bhana, Anrusha; Malti, Walter
Accounting technologies must be prioritised by South African higher education institutions (SAHEIs) to best prepare accounting students for the job market. This study explores students’ perceptions of the applicability of accounting information systems (accounting software packages) in the teaching and learning of financial accounting in the era of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR), at the Durban University of Technology. The research objectives focused on the students’ awareness, knowledge, usage and perceptions of accounting software packages. Additionally, the research objectives examined the students’ knowledge of the 4IR. The research used the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) as the theoretical framework for the study. This was a census study that used a quantitative approach. A survey with closed-ended questions was used. A pilot study was carried out before the research questionnaire was distributed. The questionnaire was the primary data collection tool and it was distributed to Financial Accounting 3 students enrolled for the Diploma in Accounting at the Durban University of Technology (DUT), Ritson Campus, in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal. The study found that a significant proportion of the students had never heard of the accounting software packages or had heard of them but knew nothing or only a little about them. According to the data analysis, the average use of accounting software packages for learning financial accounting is significantly low. The findings showed that students are not competent in using accounting software packages. Data collected also revealed that students have positive perceptions of accounting software packages and a significant number of students perceived accounting software packages as important to their financial accounting learning. The study found that a significant number of students understand what the 4IR is. The financial accounting curriculum has long been criticised for not keeping up with industry standards. Several recommendations have been made to improve students’ awareness, knowledge and use of accounting software packages, as well as their understanding of the 4IR. Furthermore, the research contributes to the existing body of knowledge on the use of technology in financial accounting teaching and learning, as well as the impact of the 4IR on accounting.
Assessing information distribution practices adopted by the Durban University of Technology and the Central Applications Office
(2023-04-13) Ngcobo, Lungile Preety; Dongwe, C. K.; Parbanath, Steven
Information distribution to prospective students remains crucial for the South African higher education sector and when handled inappropriately, can negatively impact access to universities. Hence, the practices adopted when distributing information are an area that requires serious exploration by HEIs. Considering that accessing information is a primary need in the higher education sector, this study assessed the information distribution practices adopted by the Durban University of Technology (DUT) and the Central Applications Office (CAO) in South Africa. The study adopted a qualitative research approach. Semi-structured individual interviews with thirteen staff members who are responsible for distributing information at DUT Riverside campus were conducted to collect primary data. Furthermore, primary data was also generated from one focus group discussion comprising six staff members from both academic and support departments. The study further analysed secondary data in the form of DUT and CAO websites, news headlines as well as social media sites of these two organisations. Data were analysed thematically. The findings illuminate various practices adopted to distribute information to prospective students. Furthermore, it was found that there is use of several information distribution channels. These include distributing information by means of visits to schools and on campus, during registration period. Other channels include manual distributions, the use of digital platforms and traditional media such as radio. Of concern, was the mushrooming of fake social media websites claiming to distribute information on behalf of DUT and CAO. There were also concerns regarding the role of student political organisations and security guards. The findings further indicate factors influencing the practices adopted when distributing information. These include political, economic, social and technological factors. The study further highlights existing confusion in the distribution of information between DUT and CAO. Therefore, HEIs have to pay attention to clarifying this through various policies and communications. There is also a need to clarify what information should be distributed, in order to enhance access.
An assessment of management skills on capital budgeting planning and practices : evidence from the small and medium enterprise sector
(Informa UK Limited, 2022-12-31) Nunden, Naresh; Abbana, Sharanam Sharma; Marimuthu, Ferina; Sentoo, Naresh
Budgets are a compass and guiding light for businesses. Therefore, management and owners of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) must carry out suitable and precise capital budgeting activities and methods to ensure business longevity and progression. There is a high risk of SMEs failing soon after they are found, with one likely cause being poor management skills. Thus, the study aims to assess the management skills of the capital budgeting planning and practices of SMEs. The objective is to ascertain the influence of management skills and owners on current capital budgeting planning and practice. The study adopted the quantitative method by administering questionnaires to 108 owners and managers in the Springfield Industrial Park. The findings of the study indicate that owners and managers were solely responsible for decision-making. Secondly, owners and managers lacked the financial skills, ability to control and lead staff. The study was limited to owners and managers in the SMEs and therefore cannot be inferred to any other area or subject/s. Future studies can be conducted in other regions, of which a comparative study is recommended that owners and managers in SMEs improve their business knowledge, as well as upskilling their financial ability in the capital budgeting process. Thus, the implications of improving owners and manager’s business knowledge will lead to timeous, smarter, and informed decision-making. It is therefore recommended that owners and managers take up short courses to improve computer literacy and financial skills in business processes.
An authentic e-assessment task
(ACM Digital Library, 2019-12-21) Marimuthu, Ferina; Ramraj, Upaasna
Assessment is integral to ensuring whether an academic programme has achieved its learning outcomes, as well as an essential means of providing the crucial evidence necessary for seeking and maintaining accreditation from authorities. A major element of any e-learning strategy, is e-assessment. In this digital era, academics should be encouraged to envisage various forms of e-assessment and then build and evaluate them using student feedback. A combination of information technologies together with e-learning strategies can enhance the learning and teaching process by supporting traditional, authentic, and alternative assessment practices. Benefits of e-assessments may be convenience and flexibility to learn anytime and anywhere. However, practitioners need to assess whether those benefits contribute to student learning, that students should not be disadvantaged by any e-assessment procedure and these assessments should be valid and reliable. This paper reports the findings of whether authentic e-assessments enhance student learning in comparison to the traditional assessment methods. Using a descriptive research method, this study investigated the perceptions of a group of students that were exposed to both an authentic e-assessment and the traditional closed-book assessment methods. Data were solicited from participants using a questionnaire survey instrument. A comparison of student perceptions between the different forms of assessments revealed that they are very keen on authentic e-assessments as it relates to situations experienced in the real-world. These assessments also measure the students' ability to apply the knowledge or skills, but more importantly, that it is used as a vehicle for student learning.
Bio-inspired optimisation of a new cost model for minimising labour costs in computer networking infrastructure
(2024) Nketsiah, Richard Nana; Millham, Richard Charles; Agbehadji, Israel Edem
This thesis revolves around the bio-inspired optimisation of a newly formulated cost model tailored for initial installation of a user-specified computer networking infrastructure, motivated by requirements of networking industries, with a focal point on minimising labour costs. The new cost function of this infrastructure installation incorporates essential decision variables related to labour, encompassing the daily requirements and costs of both skilled and unskilled workers, their respective hourly rates, installation hours, and the overall project duration. This deliberate emphasis on labour-centric factors aim to offer nuanced insights into the intricacies of project budgeting and resource allocation. The research critically evaluates the effectiveness of the cost function by examining various factors, such as daily fixed costs, a size and complexity factor tailored to individual scenarios, and a penalty coefficient aimed at ensuring compliance with project schedules. Significantly, the deliberate exclusion of equipment, material, maintenance and operational costs underscores the focused examination of labour-related expenditures, providing a unique contribution to the optimisation landscape within the installation of the user-specified computer networking infrastructure projects. Utilising advanced bio-inspired optimisation techniques, alongside real-world data, this study endeavours to gauge the effectiveness of the new cost model in minimising labour expenses while upholding optimal network performance. The anticipated outcomes of this study extend beyond theoretical contexts to practical implications, providing actionable insights and recommendations for network infrastructure planners. The significance of labour-centric considerations in project planning and design is underscored, providing a more encompassing perspective that aligns with the evolving landscape of modern technological infrastructures. By giving attention to labour-intensive aspects within installation of computer networking infrastructure projects, the thesis aspires to enhance budgeting accuracy and streamline resource allocation processes, thereby fostering more efficient and cost-effective project outcomes.
Bottlenecks faced in administering and managing student leadership development programmes at a selected University of Technology (UOT) in South Africa
(2024) Mfeka, Kholeka; Ngibe, Musawenkosi
The primary objective of this inquiry was to educate student leaders about crucial administrative processes and challenges associated with political clubs at UoT’s. We aimed to advocate for specific changes within the Department of Student Governance and Development (DSGD) to facilitate the development of policies and eliminate obstacles hindering political clubs’ initiatives in fostering student leadership programmes. To guide our investigation, we adopted the social change model for leadership, which helped shape our study literature and interview questions. The investigator chose this framework because it nurtures potential leaders who share similar values with specific organisations and society, thus enhancing student learning. The research focused on assessing how streamlining administrative procedures could enhance the efficiency of political clubs and their leadership programmes. The investigator successfully demonstrated that a better understanding of administrative procedures could help UOT’S adhere to administrative standards, thereby upholding the credibility of student-associated programmes. To achieve this, the investigator employed a mixed-method approach, combining qualitative and quantitative methods to gain insights into the bottlenecks associated with administering student development programmes. In this investigation the philosophy of pragmatism was embraced, allowing for the flexibility to select methods, techniques, and procedures that best suited the research goals in exploring the correlation between leadership programmes and bottlenecks. The study had two distinct populations: student leaders responsible for managing and administering student development programmes, and employees from the DSGD. The study primarily focused on assessing student leaders responsible for programme administration from 2018 to 2020. The aim was to understand the challenges these elected student leaders faced during this three-year period. For data analysis, we utilised the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 26 to analyse the surveys. This software employs both inferential and descriptive statistics to present study findings. In the case of interviews, we employed content analysis to analyse the collected data. Thematic analysis enabled us to extract meaning from participants’ views, knowledge, opinions, experiences, and values, considering both written and spoken data. The findings were presented by means of both numerical and nonnumerical formats to highlight the differences in findings between students and university participants. To establish trustworthiness, the research employed triangulation to validate the findings; this involved cross-referencing information from various sources, including participants, academic articles, and various data structures, among others. Additionally, the study utilised detailed notes from diverse authors’ research to draw comparisons in terms of research context and methodologies. To maintain the study’s reliability, an audit trail was maintained, encompassing comprehensive documentation of the data collection, analysis, and interpretation procedures. The study's findings recommended that student leaders advocate for substantial institutional changes aligned with the goal of reducing administrative obstacles. To facilitate this, the model endorsed ongoing assessment and feedback to enhance collaboration in simplifying procedures and policies. Student leaders were encouraged to evaluate results and adjust their programs based on the evaluation's conclusions, which would facilitate effective reporting on implemented programs.
A careful blend of general and vocational education: is this still necessary in the education and training of the modern LIS professional?
(2006) Raju, Jayarani
In the context of a rapidly evolving discipline almost completely dominated by digital technology, this paper revisits the long-standing debate on the value of general education in higher education in which professional information and library science (ILS) education and training is located. In doing so it reviews the literature to draw out the dominant discourses on general education as well as refers to findings on the subject in a recent study of library and information services (LIS) employers, employees and ILS educators in South Africa. The purpose of the paper is to examine whether general education is still necessary for the modern information context. The paper concludes that general education is as essential as vocational preparation for the current LIS work environment. It recommends that the modern ILS curriculum must capture a careful blend of general and vocational education.
Challenges impeding women into leadership roles in a student-led organization at the South African higher education institution
(Business Perspectives, 2021-12) Jali, Nokwanda; Suknunan, Sachin; Bhana, Anrusha
The study shows that a patriarchal society where women are still in the minority when it comes to leadership positions is still dominating. A few studies are exploring the role of women in leadership in government and industry, and very little focus is paid on higher education institutions and more especially – from a female leadership perspective. Therefore, this paper aims to determine the factors that hindered female students from attaining leadership positions and simultaneously make recommendations to create more leadership opportunities in a nationally recognized student-led organization known as the Student Representative Council at a large public South African higher education institution – the University of KwaZulu-Natal. The target population was 16 female leaders who served in the University’s Student Representative Council from 2019 to 2020 of which 13 had responded. A qualitative approach was followed and interviews were conducted. The study employed inductive qualitative thematic analysis using NVIVO 12. Findings revealed that the Student Representative Council structure at the university was patriarchal with little commitment to gender equality. Males outnumbered women in leadership roles. Portfolios assigned to women were mainly administrative rather than leadership. Females were subjected to stereotypical behavior. The study recommended ways to promote female student leadership whereby policy and constitution change is required to facilitate gender equality and the implementation of quotas. Women should be empowered to enhance their leadership skills via effective leadership development programs specifically designed for females to address the leadership gap between males and females.
Creating a framework for promoting perceptions of ease of use for e-learning
(2019-06-28) Dhebideen, Sharitha; Heukelman, Delene
Information Technology is so widespread and moving at such a rapid speed that it has influenced the education sector at a fast and pressurised pace. This influence has placed focus on the new terminology education technology and blended learning. In order to introduce and implement education technology, Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) worldwide have been introducing Learning Management Systems (LMSs) to support the charges in pedagogy to improve the collaboration learners themselves and between learners and educators. The implementation of LMSs at South African HEIs are still lagging behind in comparison to first world countries. Nonetheless, changes and advances in education technology have been taking place. These changes have to some degree brought about resistance towards the use of technology (software) to change teaching technique. Mixed methods research (quantitative and qualitative) was used to conduct a case study analysis at the Durban University of Technology (the case of DUT academic staff using a LMS). The case study allowed the analysis of perceived ease of use (PEOU) of LMSs at this HEI. The perceptions of the academic staff was analysed by executing a survey and by conducting interviews. The study identified additional factors that have a significant influence on PEOU on the Technology Acceptance Model 3 (TAM) (Venkatesh and Bala 2008). Literature, information from the interviews and the themes that emerged from the qualitative results was used to propose a theoretical tiered pedagogical framework that could be adopted by other HEIs planning to adopt a LMS.
Critical success factors within an Enterprise Resource Planning System implementation designed to support financial functions of a public higher education institution
(2021-09-02) Epizitone, Ayogeboh; Olugbara, Oludayo O.
The Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system of an organization is a highly significant integrator of various processes of the organization that comes with many intrinsic merits. ERP systems will soon become intelligent enterprise systems as the world shift towards the fourth industrial revolution. This capability will make it significant to resolve the current snags plaguing the systems. Many of the snags that have been encountered and presented by the ERP systems have successfully been curbs with the concept of Critical Success Factors (CSFs). However, the nature and attributes of these factors have been inadequately dissected coupled with the lack of sound scientific methodology to validate the factors. Hence, turning them to be numerous without worth has prompted the quest to uncover CSFs in a sector that experience the most adverse impact is the Higher Education Institute (HEI) and the seldom researched area is the financial sector. The successful implementation of CSFs would significantly aid the efficacy of failing implementation of ERP systems. The study aims to pinpoint CSFs for ERP system enactment within the financial information system of a public HEI. Exploring four overarching objectives of identifying the minimal lot of CSFs for ERP enactment that would support financial function. To reconnoiter the magnitude of each of the CSFs in the financial sub-system arbitrated by a successful contrivance. To investigate an effective model that when adopted would support financial functions. To give wide-ranging reference to management for the efficient enactment of ERP systems that would sustain financial functions. To achieve these objectives, a mixed method methodology coupled with a pragmatism philosophy stance was employed that involved literature review, expert opinions, and application of advanced impact analysis technique. In this study, 205 CSFs were aggregated from the related literature and trimmed after a preliminary analysis to yield a minimal set of 20 CSFs that are applicable to the context of financial systems. Each factor was evaluated by a nadir sample size of nine experts through the deployment of an online data collection tool. The opinions of experts generated the Cross-Impact Matrix (CIM) that was evaluated using the advanced impact analysis (ADVIAN) technique. Application of ADVIAN explores the significance of the CSFs in a financial system. Presenting a resolution to the efficacious enactment of CSFs for ERP systems in HEIs determined by criticality, integration, and stability measurements. Additionally, ranking the CSFs utilizing the precarious, driving, and driven criteria to structure an effective model to assist financial functions. The outcomes can afford an eclectic practical blueprint as an allusion and bearing gage for planning, enacting and utilizing ERP systems to improve organizational performance.
A decision making tool for the improvement of service quality at universities
(The Clute Institute, 2014) Green, Paul
There have been numerous studies conducted on the evaluation of service quality at universities. However, there remains a deficiency on using a Multi Criteria Decision making approach in determining factors to consider for the improvement of service quality at a university. The purpose of this paper is to report on the use of Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) as a decision making tool in determining factors to consider for the improvement of service quality at a university. The study adopted a mixed method methodology and an action research approach was employed. A purposive convenient sample of 30 participants was used. Data was collected via questionnaires and face-to-face interviews. The data was captured in the software Expert Choice and the results were processed by taking the aggregated group judgements as the geometric mean of the individual comparisons. The findings reveal that organisational and educational issues are paramount to providing an effective service at tertiary institutions.
Developing a web-based research administration and management system : case study of a South African higher education institution
(2017-06) Nyirenda, Misheck; Olugbara, Oludayo O.; Moyo, Sibusiso
Research has become one of the major activities of higher education institutions (HEIs) worldwide. Increasingly important is research information that emanates from the published research as it has now become one of the major sources of funding especially within the South African higher education landscape. However, many HEIs are facing numerous problems managing research information to sustain and attract more funding. The lack of resources to build or acquire appropriate systems for managing research information has been identified as one of the major challenges in HEIs. However, recent studies show that advancements have been made in some countries to address the challenge. For instance, in South Africa, a proprietary research information management system (RIMS) has been implemented in some HEIs. Nevertheless, some HEIs still face problems regarding the use of RIMS. Studies further show that most proprietary systems do not adequately satisfy requirements as desired by the HEIs. This is mostly because proprietary systems are developed without fully understanding the user requirements of individual HEIs. Moreover, most proprietary systems are developed following ad hoc approaches which neglect the requirements specification stage in the development life cycle. Requirements specification is important as it brings developers and users to a common understanding about the requirements of the system before development. The initial lack of consensus about system requirements results in systems that have technical barriers which make users shun from using them. For instance, such systems do not adapt very well to devices with small screens such as mobile phones, and do not have attractive interfaces to make users want to use them. Proprietary systems are also costly to acquire and maintain. Moreover, HEIs may not be able to immediately implement the new desired features in the system because proprietary systems usually do not allow them access to the source code. This study develops a web-based research administration and management system (RAMS) as a proposed solution to the problems of using a proprietary system to manage research information at a South African higher education institution. The study emphasises the use of formal methods for requirements specification to build an optimal system. Consequently, the Zermelo-Fraenkel Z specification language was used to specify the requirements of the proposed system which was developed in close collaboration with the intended users who also assessed its usability. The system evaluation responses were made on a 5-point Likert scale ranging from Strongly Disagree to Strongly Agree. The overall results of the evaluation show that RAMS is usable and suitable for managing research information, nonetheless improvements are recommended.
The development of a computerised simulation model to guide the South African higher education sector in short and long-term planning of TEL infrastructure
(2023-05-11) Reddy, Pregalathan; Pratt, Deirdre Denise; Olugbara, Oludayo O.
This study deals with the development of a computerised simulation model to guide the South African higher education (HE) sector in short and longterm planning of TEL (technology enhanced learning) infrastructure. A critical realist orientation was adopted, using a case study approach focusing on provision of TEL infrastructure at three Natal universities, namely, the Durban University of Technology, the University of KwaZuluNatal and Mangosuthu University of Technology. A mixed methods approach was used, combining qualitative with quantitative techniques, in order to collect data to establish key model specifications. The qualitative aspect comprised an online survey to obtain user feedback on the proposed computerised simulation. Quantitative methodology involved using functional decomposition design to extract the specifications from the data. The computerised simulation model was developed using a system dynamics approach which could define forecasting in operational terms, and thus offer various scenarios to guide institutional decision-makers in future planning. The systems model thus developed was then configured online using simulation software and tested out with key stakeholders. While computerised simulations currently exist in the area of infrastructural forecasting, the new contribution to the field is thought to be in forecasting the provision of TEL infrastructure.
The development of a framework for blended learning in the delivery of Library and Information Science curricula at South African universities
(2015) Rajkoomar, Mogiveny; Raju, Jayarani
The core interest in blended learning lies in the need to provide more engaged learning experiences while recognizing the potential of ICTs which has a profound impact on all aspects of life including the Library and Information Service (LIS) field. This doctoral study was undertaken with the objective of exploring the educational and pedagogical issues in blended learning for the development of a framework for designing and implementing blended learning in the delivery of LIS curricula in South African universities. The target populations for this study included, LIS educators from higher education institutions in South Africa offering LIS education, LIS students from these institutions exposed to blended learning interventions and facilitators of blended learning (individuals in institutional teaching and learning units) from the various institutions offering LIS education and using blended learning. The study adopted a mixed method research approach using a fully mixed dominant status design to explore and understand the phenomenon of blended learning at a more detailed level by using qualitative follow-up data (for example, interviews with LIS educators and institutional facilitators of blended learning and focus group discussions with LIS students) to explain and explore the results of a largely quantitative Web survey. The theoretical framework that underpinned the study involved various learning theories, learning styles as well as blended learning models relating to the higher education environment. The key findings of the study reveal that blended learning remains a complex concept with no clear consensus on the key components that need to be blended, how much of each component to blend and the criteria that are needed for the interventions to be regarded as blended learning. This flexibility, to an extent, allows for institutions to tailor the concept and maximise the potential of blended learning while still being responsive to the diverse student populations at South African higher institutions. The framework for blended learning in the delivery of LIS curricula at South African universities proposed by this study is generated from the theories informing this study; the literature reviewed; existing frameworks for blended learning such as Khan’s octagonal framework and the Community of Inquiry (CoI) framework; the findings of this study; the researcher’s own educational experiences; and, is grounded in the larger field of higher education. The use of blended learning has the potential to transform LIS education and training by encouraging LIS educators to reflect on their teaching and learning practices and to use the proposed framework as a guideline to design and implement pedagogically sound blended learning interventions for LIS education and training.
The development of a framework for the successful implementation of curriculum renewal : a case study of the office management and technology (OMT) programme
(2018) Moodley, Egashnee; Rajkoomar, Mogiveny
South Africa’s tertiary education institutions main goal is to train, educate, deliver high level professional and occupational skills, research and innovation required for development and economic growth for South Africa (Timm, Govender and Gonsalves 2016). To develop the manpower required for the advancement of South Africa’s economic development, tertiary institutions need to align their programme with the needs of social, economic and technology developments locally, nationally and globally. In an attempt to enhance the aligning needs of the industry and international education standards towards education, universities had started to accredit and renew their programme curricular. However, some researchers have identified that even though curriculum renewal of a programme had brought about some advantages for academics and students, there was many disadvantages as well (Bird et al. 2015: 19). Wormley (2004: 329) has identified that if there are many challenges, negative perceptions and lack of benefits because of a poorly planned framework for curriculum renewal of a programme. Ultimately it leads to the unsuccessful implementation of curriculum renewal. The aim of the study is to explore the curriculum renewal process amongst academics and students of the Office Management and Technology programme at Durban University of Technology to develop a framework for future successful implementation of the curriculum implementation process. As this case study will provide new insights into the perceptions and experiences of those most closely affected, that is the academic staff, the curriculum champion and students of the university involved in the curriculum renewal process, thereby assisting other departments or programmes embarking on a curriculum renewal process A qualitative methodology was employed for this study. Whereby semi-structured interviews were conducted with OMT academics, the OMT curriculum champion, representative from the Centre for Quality Promotion and Assurance (CQPA), and Academic Development Practioner (ADP) for the Faculty of Accounting and Informatics (FAI). Focus group discussion with OMT students was held to obtain the students’ perspectives on the curriculum renewal process of the OMT programme. The study revealed that the main barrier for academics implementing the curriculum renewal process and renewed curriculum lagged due to the lack of resources available to the department, lack of tutors for students, lack of student involvement in the advisory board for stakeholders, as well as lack of curriculum expert’s in department as the main factors that hinder the curriculum renewal process of a programme. On the other hand, the students revealed that the ‘’Blackboard, ThinkLearnZone’’ application notification system needs to be improved as most students do not own smartphones to access the internet. Moreover, students suggested that the academics should conduct more practical activities during the lecture period. Interestingly, students also suggested that lecturers begin to record lectures via the Podcast application which always them to download and learn. The recommendation highlights that students representatives from each level enrolled into the programme should form part of the advisory board for the curriculum renewal process and review, there should be a professional student body from the department, who must be given an equal opportunity to participate in the process discussion. Moreover, to resolve the lack of funds to purchase textbooks and resources, the researcher recommends that the OMT department should start using their own resources from the department and start creating revenue for the department.