Browsing by Author "Mkhize, Mthembeni."

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Dystopian narrative as a tool for the rejuvenation of brown field sites : a proposed mixed use park for Colenso.
(2015) Atkinson, Zane Brian.; Mkhize, Mthembeni.
The main function of this undertaking is to explore the theory behind dystopian Science Fiction [SF] and to see how this can be of use in the architectural design process; this exploration will be approached based on, what began as one of the most simple observations, the visual similarity between dystopian SF and places in the built environment. The presence of urban and peri-urban dystopias in South Africa forms the basis of the research problem as well as defines the context [scope] for the research; the initial part of this research will be the setting out of the research problem, the definition of the research boundaries and the structure of research. The research will be motivated based on global trends within the built environment as well as from a South African perspective; stating why dystopian environments should be considered as a very important part of South African heritage and built environment. The method or approach to the research will be outlined; illustrating the thorough process by which the research data will be accumulated and organized within this document. The general structure of the research will be described and can be viewed as a map to the whole document; it could even go as far as being a rudimentary theoretical framework as it shows the supposed links between the research data. The rigorous examination of contemporary literature that falls within the scope of the research will form the main body of this undertaking; it will attempt to build a strong base understanding of the various theories and concepts while tying them back to the topic and sub-topic of the research. The literature will follow the research structure which will make it relatively easy to navigate from dystopia to narrative in an understandable manner. The precedent studies form the second part of the secondary research data and will be analyzed through the previous literature in a critical manner; the main limitation being the connection to the research topic. The precedents will reflect a contemporary perspective on the literature and serve as comparable data for the case studies. The case studies will make up the first part of the primary research data and will undergo a rigorous analysis that is comparable to that done with the precedent studies. These studies will place the secondary data within a new context; highlighting facts that are unique to being in South Africa. The critical analysis of the literature and precedents, carried out through the case studies and questionnaires will drive the research towards its conclusions. It is here that a more refined theoretical framework can be established which will pave the way for the design recommendations that both conclude the research and begin the design process. The aim of this research can be described in two parts; firstly it is to develop the fore mentioned theoretical framework that can be applied to the design of a mixed use park, focusing specifically on brown a field site in KwaZulu-Natal. Secondly, and less directly, the research intends to illustrate a means for architecture, which is rooted in dystopian theory and reality, to be a positive force in the built environment. Creating a dynamic and exiting architecture that can satisfy the human needs for meaning, continuity and hope.
Experiences of general workers on Human Immunodeficiency Virus/Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome management policies and programmes at Technikon Laboratories, Johannesburg.
(2024) Mkhize, Mthembeni.; Dlamini, Mbalenhle Bridget.
South Africa still maintains the highest number of individuals who are HIV carriers in the world at the moment. HIV knowledge remains integral to the epidemic’s control from prevention and management perspectives. Despite the efforts by the government and international organisations to educate and enforce companies to offer educational programmes about the pandemic, there is still a need for more involvement of researchers to investigate several factors in factory environments, including understanding and ascertaining the perceptions of employees’ in factory environments, as well as investigating their experiences with these policies and programmes. In this qualitative study, the mini dissertation is divided in the following three parts. A research protocol (Part A) focuses on understanding general workers’ knowledge, experiences, and perceptions of HIV/AIDS management policies and programmes at Technikon Laboratories in Johannesburg, South Africa. A literature review (Part B) identifies the literature on: the knowledge, experiences, and perceptions of HIV/AIDS management policies and programmes of general workers in factory environments; the perceived benefits of HIV/AIDS policies and programmes; and the gaps in the current literature. Lastly, a qualitative ‘journal-ready’ manuscript (Part C) focuses on workers' understanding, experiences, and perceptions of HIV/AIDS management policies and programmes in the Technikon Laboratories factory, Johannesburg. Desirably, the mini dissertation will inform health interventions that are specific to factory employees’ health needs, while also aiming to focus on policies and programmes that are inclusive of People Living with HIV. Its further aims are to grow the body of knowledge on HIV/AIDS management in the workplace and provide useful information for improving support networks and policies in industrial environments such as Technikon Laboratories. This study will in part address the core issues that factory workers encounter when living with HIV/AIDS in factory environments.
Human perception and the built environment : a proposed Autism Life Learning Centre for Durban.
(2012) Reeves, Helen.; Mkhize, Mthembeni.; Mhlaba, Dumisani.
Buildings affect people both physically and psychologically, this study analyses this impact which the built environment has on people's lives. This interrelationship between people and the built environment is based on human perception. The study explores this relationship further in order to develop an understanding of the ways in which architecture influences peoples' moods, behaviours and experiences. By determining the importance of this interrelationship and developing a better understanding of it, a deeper analysis of the specialized needs of individuals with altered or impaired perceptions is developed. Focus is placed on individuals with autism spectrum disorders, who are known for their difficulties with perception. In addition, despite its overwhelming prevalence, they have a history of being inadequately catered for within the built environment because their wide range of complex needs are poorly understood. The purpose of this study is to establish an understanding of the unique needs of this particular user group, to interpret the implications of these needs with regards to the built environment, to assess existing facilities in regards to these findings and to provide information which can be used to develop guidelines for creating positive environments which can enhance the daily lives of individuals with autism spectrum disorders. The research was carried out by way of a review of existing relevant literature on the subject of perception, experience and autism spectrum disorders, a review of relevant precedent studies, a critical analysis of relevant case studies and interviews with parents, teachers and principals who have had first-hand experience with individuals with autism spectrum disorders. The built environment, which plays a large role in people's lives, must be carefully considered and designed to ensure that the needs of its users are met and their overall wellbeing is maintained. In contemporary society, where human needs are often ignored, built environments have become ego-driven objects of visual seduction (Pallasmaa, 2005). This study calls for re-humanising architecture, considering human aspects in design and catering for all human needs. By focusing on responding to users particular needs, throughout the design process, buildings which make significant, positive contributions to the lives of individuals can be made.
The impact of experiential learning in designing buildings for adult education : a proposed interactive education and training centre in Durban.
(2014) Randeree, Faizal.; Mkhize, Mthembeni.
Due to the urgency in overcoming the unemployment epidemic in South Africa, vocational training institutions are very rigid in their approaches, serving to educate and train learners with minimal learner involvement. Learners are seen more-so as passive recipients, rather than active participants in a built learning environment that is meant to emphasise on “activity”. Hence, learners are not able to acquire the necessary tools towards a better life and employment opportunities. On that note, the aim of the research is to gain an understanding of “experiential learning”. The knowledge gained will be used to demonstrate a better understanding of how buildings for adult education should be designed. This will provide a new model for vocational training centres in South Africa, assisting in providing adult learners with the necessary tools for a better way of life and employment opportunities, not just for the present, but also for future growth, in a challenging socio-economic environment. The ability for adult learners to be involved in instructionally-based education (theoretical and practical) is discussed; collaborative learning and social connections are discussed as well; followed by the ability to “experience” the built learning environment – being “meaningful” to the users. Three theories have been identified, which all contribute to the research. The primary theory is an adult educational theory - “Experiential Learning Theory”. This is followed by secondary theories - “Social Constructivism of Knowledge” and “Genius Loci”. All of the theories are linked to their subsequent conceptual frameworks. The research initially draws on published literature pertaining to the theories and concepts. The precedent studies follows, analysing four existing successful built environments located abroad, which relates to the theories and concepts, as well as principles derived from the literature review. The study will eventually be located in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. It involves empirical research (observation and interviews), featuring two case studies within the suburban and township contexts, which are adult education and training centres. The culmination of this research will be the development of a final theoretical framework, the development of a detailed design brief comprising of site selection and a schedule of accommodation, followed by a design concept and the design of an Education and Training Centre for adults in Durban.
Indigenous arts and crafts on contemporary South African architecture : the influence of culture and identity : a proposal for an arts and crafts centre in Pietermaritzburg.
(2012) Sokhela, Andile.; Mhlaba, Dumisani.; Mkhize, Mthembeni.
No abstract available.
The social rehabilitation of youth substance abusers within the built environment : a proposed youth social rehabilitation centre for Durban.
(2014) Bothma, Simon.; Mkhize, Mthembeni.
The issue of youth substance abuse within the context of South Africa, and more closer to home, Durban, is of great concern regarding the further social development of the generation and the lives, dreams and ambitions that are apart of today currents society. The research carried out in this dissertation is aimed at understanding what the contributing factors are to youth substance abuse and furthermore investigating strategies of social rehabilitation and reintegration for youth problem drug users. The research will be examined through a theoretical framework in which the information acquired can be processed in context with the topic and sub topic, relevant to an architectural discourse. The theories that will be used to examine the literature are social construct theory, porosity theory, and lens theory of environmental perception. These theories represent a specialised scope that addresses the social and architectural responses, as well as the social implications within the context of youth substance abuse. The literature goes on to further explore appropriate architectural environments that benefit well-being and aspects of social rehabilitation. The specific aspects of the environments are explored for application within the design phase and how they may facilitate specific functions within the typology, and their impact on the occupants. Society and the constructs within it have influences on youth substance abuse and in many cases facilitate it; however the constructs of rehabilitation and society can be shaped by the built environment, and thus architects and designers. There is a social responsibility that comes with the understanding of these constructs, which this dissertation aims to explore.
Understanding the relationship between rural healthcare facilities and wellbeing of patients : a proposed healing centre in rural KwaZulu-Natal.
(2015) Fenner, Leighlan Cohen.; Mkhize, Mthembeni.
The poor condition of public healthcare facilities in rural areas, negatively affects the well being of patients. These facilities are designed to be service efficient as opposed to nurturing patients.Therefore, this dissertation is aimed at understanding existing challenges that affect patient well being. In addition, it will seek to outline strategies of improving patient well being, which will inform the design of a new model of public healthcare facility in rural KwaZulu-Natal. The study uses a Qualitative methodology, with an exploratory approach. The design of the study includes primary research methods in the form of case studies, observations, photographs,sketches and ten interviews of a purposive sample of past patients and staff. In addition, it includes secondary research methods in the form of library studies and precedent studies. The research was carried out at Appelsbosch Hospital, Ozwathini, KwaZulu-Natal and Umphumulo Hospital, Maphumulo, KwaZulu-Natal. The data was examined through exploratory methods of analysis which was informed by the recurrent issues/themes, research objectives and questions. In addition, the analysis of data will be done through aspects of the theoretical framework informed by primary theories or concepts, in the context of the topic and the sub-topic. The theories that were used to examine the literature are Genius Loci, Gestalt Theory and Social Construct Theory. These theories address the social and architectural responses within the context of patient well-being within public healthcare facilities in rural areas. The findings show that an environment that improves patients well-being are spaces within a physical setting designed to be nurturing. It was also revealed that, aspects of the built and natural environments such as: natural lighting, natural ventilation, open green spaces and healing gardens need to be considered in the design of an environment that improves patient well-being. Natural ventilation also reduces the transmission of airborne disease. The findings show that the natural environment needs to be integrated with the built environment. Views through openings of the therapeutic landscape and open green spaces provide positive distractions for patients. In addition, the findings reveal that design strategies in hospital design are context and climate specific, in order to achieve passive design principles for sustainability.