THE USE OF SOCIAL MEDIA AS A COMMUNICATION TOOL IN THE SPORT INDUSTRY: A CASE OF THE KZN FOOTBALL INDUSTRY

Volume 80, Oct 2024
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2024.10.4
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Abstract: Over the years the football industry has revolutionized into a modernized game through social media platforms (Wang, Cheng, and Sun 2021: 102). Social media platforms such as Facebook and X (formerly known as Twitter) have been used globally among soccer stars, fans, and football clubs to engage in communication (Weimar, Holthoff, and Biscacia 2020: 335). It is evident that communication plays an integral role in the sporting industry. Nairaine (2019: 223), adds that football clubs are now exposed to advanced technology opportunities resulting from the development of social media platforms such as Facebook, X, Instagram, YouTube, etc. This paper aimed to establish how social media is used as a communication tool within the KwaZulu-Natal football industry. Three selected football teams where investigated in terms of how they used social media platforms to build and maintain relationships with their stakeholders. A qualitative research approach was adopted for this study. The findings indicated that social media has become an integral part everyday life. Social media platforms such as Facebook, X, and Instagram have transformed communication practices globally, thereby making it easier for the sports teams to engage with their stakeholders. This study further highlights that football clubs also adopted social media as a communication tool to engage with and to disseminate information to their fans and stakeholders. Despite possible barriers may exist when using social media platforms, research has shown that it serves as a powerful tool when addressing social issues and fostering communication with stakeholders. The study suggests that soccer clubs should be constant with their social media posts and ensure that a social media strategy is developed and managed by the respective soccer clubs.

Author(s): Asanda Dzelwa, Paulene Naidoo, Sameera Banu Hussain


RETHINKING INCLUSIVE ORGANIZATION: EXPERIENTIAL MODEL FOR INTEGRATION OF DIFFERENCES OF DIVERSE WORKFORCE

Volume 80, Aug 2024
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2024.8.3
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Abstract: Inclusive organizations capitalize on diversity by recognizing, respecting, and valuing the differences of a diverse workforce for business and social benefits. Diverse individuals feel included in an organization by evaluating their experiences of inclusion. The existing models of inclusive organization found in the literature do not conceptualize inclusion on the basis of experiential dimensions. This study, through a combination of a systematic review of literature and qualitative research, brings out four experiential dimensions that synergistically formulate an inclusive organization. Through a systematic review of the literature, 13 models presented by various scholars during the past 20 years were critically analyzed to synthesize a model based on the experiential dimensions of inclusive organization. The qualitative study, comprising 26 in-depth interviews, aimed to confirm the dimensions derived from existing models and delve into their pertinent sub-dimensions, with a particular focus on incorporating the diversity of a workforce.

Author(s): Dr. Omar Khalid Bhatti

TRANSLATIONAL ANALYSIS OF SPORTS MEDICINE TERMINOLOGY: TRANSLATION FROM LATIN, ENGLISH, AND FRENCH INTO MONTENEGRIN

Volume 80, Sep 2024
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2024.9.1
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Abstract: This article pertains to the analysis of a corpus in sports medicine, specifically focusing on the shoulder joint. It investigates the terminology encompassing bones, ligaments, muscles, joints, and movements in Latin, English, and French, as well as their equivalents in Montenegro. The article's aim was to analyze specific lexemes that perform a terminological function in the Montenegrin language when translating sports medical terminology from Latin, English, and French. The analysis process faces challenges due to Montenegro's lack of standardized terminological dictionaries. This research emphasizes the importance of aligning terminology to achieve precise and consistent understanding among linguistic experts and professionals in specialized medical disciplines. This research, through systematic analysis and interpretation of available sources, provides a foundation for improving terminological standards in the field of sports medicine in the Montenegrin language, thereby facilitating professional communication and education in this modern medical discipline.

Author(s): Andrea Perunicic, Gabriel Barbulet


CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES OF COLLABORATIVE WORK WITH COLLEAGUES ACROSS THE GLOBE IN A COMMUNITY OF PRACTICE

Volume 80, Oct 2024
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2024.10.1
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Abstract: This paper explores the challenges and opportunities of collaborative work with colleagues across the globe in a community of practice. The rise of technology and globalization has made it easier for professionals to collaborate with colleagues from different parts of the world. However, this also comes with its own set of challenges. The paper discusses the challenges such as time zone differences, cultural barriers, and communication issues that may arise when working with colleagues from different parts of the world. It also highlights the opportunities such as diverse perspectives, knowledge sharing, and cross-cultural learning that can be gained from collaborative work in a global community of practice. The theoretical framework is based on the concept of communities of practice, which emphasizes the importance of social learning and knowledge sharing within a group of individuals who are united by a common interest or profession. The paper delves into how collaborative work within a community of practice can lead to the development of new ideas, best practices, and innovative solutions to complex problems.

Author(s): Jeremiah Madzimure

THE EFFECT OF EDUCATIONAL COMÄ°CS ON COGNITIVE AND AFFECTIVE LEARNING ON ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION COURSE TOPICS

Volume 80, Jul 2024
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2024.7.2
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Abstract: The aim of this study is to determine the effect of educational comics on cognitive and affective learning in teaching the subjects of the environmental education course taught in universities and to describe the opinions of pre-service teachers about teaching with educational comics in environmental education. For this purpose, the research was conducted with mixed design method. The research was conducted on 87 pre-service social studies teachers studying at a state university in the Black Sea Region. There were 46 pre-service teachers in the experimental group and 41 pre-service teachers in the control group. Quantitative data of the study were obtained with the academic achievement test and attitude towards the environment scale, and qualitative data were obtained with the semi-structured interview forum. As a result of the application, there was a statistically significant difference between the pre-test and post-test mean scores of academic achievement and attitude towards the environment of both the experimental group students, in which activities were carried out with educational comics, and the control group students, in which activities were carried out according to the constructivist approach, in favor of the post-tests. When the effect of academic achievement pre-test scores was controlled, it was found that the academic achievement post-test scores of the students in the experimental and control groups differed significantly and this difference was in favor of the experimental group. When the effect of the pre-test scores of attitude towards the environment was controlled, it was found that the post-test scores of the students in the experimental and control groups differed significantly and this difference was in favor of the experimental group. According to the qualitative data analysis, it was determined that the qualitative pre-service teachers had a positive affective perspective towards teaching with educational comics.

Author(s): Yavuz Topkaya

THE UPTAKE OF DIGITAL MARKETING BY RURAL COMMUNITIES IN FLAGSTAFF, SOUTH AFRICA

Volume 80, Aug 2024
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2024.8.4
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Abstract: Retail outlets in rural South African communities are increasingly concerned about sustainability. Many of these outlets are therefore adopting digital marketing as a means to assist with sustainability initiatives. The implementation of digital marketing within this context face challenges. These challenges therefore limit the full potential of digital marketing. This study therefore set out to assess the uptake of digital marketing among consumers in rural Flagstaff. Using a qualitative research approach, data was gathered through five focus-group discussions involving an average of six participants each. Thematic analysis of the data revealed a limited adoption of digital marketing by in Flagstaff, with some consumers admitting to never having used digital devices. The main barriers cited were inadequate internet access due to poor mobile network coverage and the absence of WiFi hotspots. To improve adoption rates, the study recommends enhancing network infrastructure, offering affordable data plans, and improving access to digital devices by rural consumers. These measures may aim to increase the utilisation of digital marketing initiatives within South African retail outlets.

Author(s): Zizipho Noqazo, Elvis Madondo, Veena Parboo Rawjee


INTERCULTURAL COMMUNICATION BARRIERS WITHIN A MULTICULTURAL WORKPLACE: THE CASE OF A COMMUNITY RADIO STATION IN DURBAN

Volume 80, Oct 2024
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2024.10.2
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Abstract: Organisations are increasingly multicultural due to globalisation and migration trends. Intercultural communication, crucial in diverse workplaces, involves exchanging messages among employees from different cultural backgrounds. This can lead to varied interpretations of verbal and non-verbal cues, particularly in regions with high immigration rates, posing communication challenges. Cultural barriers can hinder smooth operations and contribute to less inclusive work environments. Therefore, addressing cultural communication barriers is crucial as they directly impact organisational effectiveness. This study aimed to investigate cultural barriers among employees at a local radio station in Durban. A quantitative research approach was employed, and structured questionnaires were distributed to all 55 employees at the radio station. A response rate of 82% was attained as 45 employees participated. The findings highlighted language barriers, instances of racism, cultural stereotyping, ethnocentrism, and nonverbal communication issues as prominent challenges. Language barriers were particularly prevalent, with respondents frequently experiencing difficulties in verbal communication. To mitigate these challenges, practical recommendations include fostering patience among employees, promoting understanding of diverse perspectives, encouraging open communication, enhancing language proficiency, and cultivating empathy. Emphasising essential communication skills like active listening and respectful dialogue in diverse settings is crucial for improving intercultural interactions and workplace inclusivity.

Author(s): Lindiwe Sharon Vilankulu, Veena Parboo Rawjee, Elvis Madondo


EXPEDITING THE ACRONYM CHANGE IN HIV FROM ABC TO ABCDEF: COMMUNICATION IS VITAL IN REDUCING THE INFECTION RATE

Volume 80, Aug 2024
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2024.8.2
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Abstract: Among the many acute and chronic illnesses inflicting humankind, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is the one acquired infection that continues to plague society. Despite numerous scientific breakthroughs, there remains no cure for HIV. Millions of people throughout the world are currently infected and affected by the virus. A vast majority of HIV-positive patients are on chronic medication known as antiretroviral treatment (ARV). The acronym used by the South African government to educate people on how to prevent HIV is ABC, which stands for Abstain, Be Faithful and Condomise. This paper proposes that this be changed from ABC to ABCDEF (Abstinence, Blood (tests), Condomise, Dedication, Education and Facts (Myths). This paper aims to reduce the current HIV infection rate by expediting the acronym change in HIV from ABC to ABCDEF by maximizing the various channels of communication. The researcher believes that ABCDEF is a crucial foundation in reducing the HIV infection rate. Transformative learning theory is the theoretical framework for this study. The researcher utilized desktop research to collect data by selecting relevant newspaper articles, various internet sources, journal articles, books and statistics on the title. Communicating knowledge will empower people to make wiser decisions regarding protecting themselves from contracting HIV or preventing others from being infected by HIV.

Author(s): Dr Mike Megrove Reddy

SMALLHOLDER TRANSITION TO AGRIPRENEURSHIP: THE ROLE OF AGRICULTURAL EXTENSION EDUCATION

Volume 80, Oct 2024
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2024.10.6
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Abstract: The agricultural sector, worldwide, is viewed as the vehicle that can take developing countries to the next level of development as it promises not only to deliver food security but also poverty alleviation, employment creation as well as economic growth. Contemporary literature suggests that this can be achieved when smallholder and subsistence farmers move from their current levels of farming and grow into Agripreneurship. One of the most powerful strategies that the agricultural sector relies on to achieve agricultural productivity, rural development and economic growth is the Agricultural Extension Services (AESs). It can then be argued that the AESs have a huge role to play in ensuring farmers’ growth and development from just agriculture to Agripreneurship. Little has been done towards investigating the role of the AESs in Agripreneurship. This paper was aimed at examining the role of the AESs towards helping farmers develop from agriculture to Agripreneurship. Journal articles, books and published reports by the Department of Agriculture were extensively reviewed. Results show that AESs has a strong potential in influencing farmers to advance from agriculture to Agripreneurship. These can be achieved when facilitation changes from farming only for food to farming for profits through knowledge and information transfer. This implies that facilitation and communication skills and models must be innovative to ensure that the youths are carried alongside. It is also of paramount importance that the farmers’ support be coined with incentives for farmers willing to advance from just agriculture to Agripreneurship. Farmers also have a role of maintaining good track of record keeping to accessing financial assistance for their agribusinesses. Therefore, it is recommended that government interventions be focused towards Agripreneurship at its most and reduced concentration on just agriculture. Future studies can explore the dimensions of Agripreneurship on poverty alleviation and employment creation, especially, for the youths.

Author(s): Moses Sithole, Isaac Agholor, Mishal Morepje, Nomzamo Msweli, Variety Thabane, Shalia Ndlovu, Lethu Mgwenya


THE BEGINNING PHASE IN THE FOLKTALES FOUND IN NKOSI AND ZAMA’S KANISAMILI ZIMPONDO

Volume 80, Oct 2024
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2024.10.5
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Abstract: This article explores the beginning phase of isiZulu folktales. This phase will be discussed based on the views of Propp and Olrik, who are folklore theorists. For the sake of clarity on the theories, their explanation will not be limited to the views of these theorists on the beginning phase, but they will be discussed comprehensively, and have the application effected on the phase under scrutiny. These theorists are selected, as their ideas are applicable to the folktales to be analysed. Consideration will also be made of the combined approaches of the theorists. The folktales to be considered are ‘UNanana Nendlovu’, ‘Abafo Ababili’, ‘KwaNtunjambili’, and ‘Ukuqinela Amazimuzimu’, all found in Nkosi and Zama’s Kanisamili Zimpondo. These folktales are selected, as the beginning phase is depicted very vividly in them, and they lend themselves clearly to the ideas of the above theorists. The subtopics of this discourse are introduction, Propp’s approach, Olrik’s Laws, combined approaches, and conclusion.

Author(s): Jabulani Pato, Zilibele Mtumane