http://hdl.handle.net/11189/1915 2026-08-12T10:52:43Z http://hdl.handle.net/11189/10518 Title: Building competitive MCC brands through marketing strategy adaptation during the Covid-19 pandemic: evidence from Western Cape Winelands, South Africa Authors: Zwakala, Kuhle; Steenkamp, Pieter Abstract: Purpose: Adaptation capabilities are central to firms’ survival during global crises. The Covid19 pandemic disrupted business environments globally, and this highlighted the importance of strategy adaptation. This study explored marketing mix adaptation in the South African wine sector during the Covid-19 pandemic. Methodology: An exploratory qualitative research approach was adopted. To extrapolate indepth insights on marketing strategy adaptation during the Covid-19 pandemic, interviews were conducted with Méthode Cap Classique (MCC) marketing managers who were responsible for marketing strategy formulation of selected South African wine brands. Findings: Of the four Ps of marketing, product and price were not adapted during the Covid19 pandemic. Price adaptations were solely influenced by sin taxes in yearly government budget speeches. However, the environment necessitated place and promotional strategy adaptation. Value/contribution: This study empirically interrogates the relevance and usefulness of the traditional marking mix in current business environments. 2023-01-01T00:00:00Z http://hdl.handle.net/11189/10517 Title: Investigating effective ways to use artificial intelligence in teacher education Authors: Tunjera, Nyarai; Chigona, Agnes Abstract: The current advancements in natural language processing (NLP) have paved the way for the development of highly effective AI-powered language models. These models can produce human-like writing, making them valuable in various domains, including education. Given the importance of preparing pre-service teachers who can effectively facilitate student learning in the ever-evolving digital landscape, it becomes crucial to explore innovative approaches. This study focuses on investigating the potential integration of ChatGPT, an NLP model, in teacher training programs. The qualitative research involved 2nd and 3rd-year pre-service teachers enrolled in ICTs in the Education curriculum. Data collection was done through a questionnaire and class discussions to gain insights into the pre-service teachers' experiences with using ChatGPT. The findings shed light on the potential strategies for leveraging ChatGPT to enhance lesson planning and classroom activities, as it generates text that closely resembles human communication and exhibits independent learning capabilities. Implementing ChatGPT in teacher training programs holds promise for empowering pre-service instructors in creating engaging educational materials. 2023-01-01T00:00:00Z http://hdl.handle.net/11189/10515 Title: The relationship(s) between internal control activities used, perceived stakeholder reputation and the economic sustainability of South African small, medium and micro enterprises Authors: Bruwer, Juan-Pierré; Petersen, Ashwin Abstract: Purpose: This study aimed to determine the relationship(s) between the internal control activities used, perceived stakeholder reputation, as well as the overall economic sustainability of South African Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs). Design/Methodology/Approach: This study employed an empirical, exploratory, and quantitative approach. Survey research was utilised to collect data from 119 purposively and conveniently selected South African SMME owners/managers operating in the fast-moving consumer goods industry, based in the Cape Metropole. Findings: From the research revealed that the internal control activities used by sampled South African SMMEs mostly demonstrated a statistically significant negative relationship(s) with perceived stakeholder reputation and their respective economic sustainability. Originality/Contribution: This research provides insight into the importance of internal control activities concerning perceived stakeholder reputation and economic sustainability. Additionally, the study can serve as a foundation for further empirical research on the matter at hand. 2024-01-01T00:00:00Z http://hdl.handle.net/11189/10509 Title: Risk-based internal audit practices in a retail organisation Authors: Roberts, Michelle; Botha, Lise Muriel; Le Roux, Suzaan Abstract: Purpose: This study aims to understand how risk-based internal audit (RBIA) is utilised and implemented at a large retail business in Cape Town, South Africa and how it is used for audit planning purposes. Design/methodology/approach: Case study research was used to better understand the practice of RBIA. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with internal auditors, managers, and the chief audit executive (CAE) of the business. Interview transcripts were inductively coded to identify overarching themes. Findings: It was found that RBIA is used to some extent, however, there seems to be a lack of evaluation of organisational risk maturity before RBIA plans are prepared, which could limit the effectiveness of internal audit activities. The study does not imply that results will be generalisable to all South African retail businesses or other industries. However, the study serves as an exploration into the topic for consideration by other researchers as well as for the improvement of RBIA in practice. Originality/contribution: Since the retail sector plays a critical role in the South African economy, this research sought to contribute to the existing body of knowledge regarding RBIA of retail businesses. Unique access to understanding the real workings of an internal audit function (IAF) was obtained. The collected data could help practitioners improve their audit approach for increased audit effectiveness. Internal auditors could better understand their contribution to the business and help retailers see the benefit of an IAF. 2024-01-01T00:00:00Z