JOURNAL OF RESEARCH METHODOLOGISTS

Mapping the New Generation of Academics Programme (nGAP) to the C.O.S.T.A. Postgraduate Research Supervision and Coaching Model: A Value Proposition for New Researchers in South Africa

King Costa — 2024-12-14

The Department of Higher Education and Training's (the Department) New Generation of Academics Programme (nGAP) is a prestigious program that involves the recruitment of highly capable scholars as new academics. These academics are recruited based on carefully designed and balanced equity considerations, as well as the most critical disciplinary areas in the higher education system. The nGAP is currently the largest program within the Staffing South Africa's Universities Framework (SSAUF), a component of the University Capacity Development Programme that focuses on university staff development (UCDP). The C.O.S.T.A. Postgraduate Research Supervision and Coaching Model is a tool that has been developed to capacitate both researchers and supervisors with a specific intent to lighten the journey of research for postgraduate students in South Africa. For students who have never been exposed to research methods, postgraduate research is a huge obstacle. Students' lack of exposure to research language was one of the challenges revealed in a recent study of postgraduate supervision. Whereas difficulties students face with methods within the positivist and realist philosophical dimensions are not insurmountable, a variety of approaches, including rigor determination in qualitative research results in complexities, which present a plethora of challenges to novice researchers. This document introduces the C.O.S.T.A. model as a tool for academics and students, with a systematic guide to understanding foundational concepts and the language of research, as well as making informed decisions about research methods and design strategy options available to the prospective researcher. Furthermore, the tool is also powerful instrument for monitoring and measuring development and performance of researchers. With five nodes that fundamentally inform application (Concepts, Objective, Situation, Tact and Assessment), the C.O.S.T.A provides a framework and a standard against which researchers should benchmark their development.

POSITIVE PSYCHOLOGY INTERVENTIONS AND INITIATIVES – THE UBUNTU APPROACH – A MAPPING REVIEW PROTOCOL

Motlalepule Mokhine-Martins — 2024-12-21

This research protocol outlines a systematic investigation into the integration of Ubuntu philosophy with positive psychology to enhance well-being in African communities. Recognizing the growing need for culturally relevant mental health strategies, this study aims to explore how the communal values inherent in Ubuntu can complement the strengths-based approaches of positive psychology. The theoretical framework combines Ubuntu principles, positive psychology, and cultural psychology to provide a comprehensive understanding of mental health in the context of African societies.

The research will adopt a systematic review methodology, employing the PRISMA guidelines for transparent reporting. A comprehensive literature search will be conducted across multiple databases, including PubMed, PsycINFO, Scopus, and Google Scholar, using specific keywords related to Ubuntu, positive psychology, and well-being. Inclusion criteria will focus on qualitative studies that examine the intersection of these frameworks within African communities. The data extraction process will utilize a standardized form to capture key details such as study design, population characteristics, and findings related to the integration of Ubuntu with positive psychology.

Data analysis will be performed using content analysis and thematic analysis methods facilitated by COSTAQDA cloud-based software. This dual approach will allow for both quantitative assessments of theme frequency and qualitative exploration of participants’ experiences. Key themes anticipated include interconnectedness, communal support, resilience, and cultural relevance, which will help illustrate how Ubuntu principles can enhance positive psychology interventions.

This study aims to contribute significant insights into the development of culturally sensitive mental health practices that resonate with African values and traditions. By highlighting the synergies between Ubuntu and positive psychology, the research seeks to inform future interventions and policies that promote holistic well-being in diverse cultural contexts. Ultimately, this protocol sets the foundation for a robust exploration of how indigenous philosophies can be integrated into contemporary psychological frameworks, offering a pathway towards improved mental health outcomes in African communities.

An Evidence Synthesis Protocol for Exploring African Customers' Experiences in the Hospitality Industry: A Review of Service Perceptions in Post-Apartheid South Africa

King Costa — 2024-12-14

Background: This qualitative systematic review protocol aims to explore the experiences of African customers in white-owned restaurants and hotels in post-apartheid South Africa, focusing on the dynamics of service interactions and their implications for racial relations within the hospitality industry. Despite the end of apartheid in 1994, the echoes of historical racial disparities and power imbalances persist, potentially influencing customer experiences in this sector, particularly in establishments owned by individuals of European descent. In view of above, the research question for this study is “How do African customers in white-owned restaurants and hotels in post-apartheid South Africa perceive and experience service interactions, and what are the underlying factors influencing these perceptions, considering historical power imbalances, societal perceptions, lingering effects of apartheid, inclusive practices, and the varied experiences across different hospitality establishments?

Study Objectives: Objectives include examining the dynamics of service interactions, identifying factors influencing perceptions and experiences, evaluating alignment with inclusive practices and post-apartheid ideals, and describing African customers' experiences regarding service.

Methods: The study will employ the SPIDER Framework to craft a nuanced research question that seeks to understand how African customers perceive and experience service interactions in these settings, considering historical power imbalances, societal perceptions, lingering effects of apartheid, inclusive practices, and varied experiences across different types of hospitality establishments. This approach aims to dissect the intricate interplay of historical, societal, and economic factors that shape these experiences, providing insights into the complexities of achieving a truly inclusive and equitable hospitality landscape in post-apartheid South Africa.

Expected Contribution to knowledge and practice: This review will contribute to a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing the hospitality industry in fostering environments that reflect the nation's diversity and commitment to reconciliation and social cohesion. By highlighting the lived experiences of African customers and examining the extent to which white-owned establishments embody post-apartheid ideals, this study aims to offer valuable recommendations for industry practitioners and policymakers to promote cultural sensitivity, equity, and inclusivity, thus enhancing the role of the hospitality industry in South Africa's broader societal transformation.