RP-Department of Library and Information Science

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https://repository.ku.ac.ke/handle/123456789/1403

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Browsing RP-Department of Library and Information Science by Author "Gichuhi,Zipporah Wanjiku"

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    Proficiency in Citation and Referencing by Postgraduate Students and its Effects on Academic Reputation in Selected Public UniversitiesinKenya
    (RIIKM, 2025-07) Wanene,Lucy; Gichuhi,Zipporah Wanjiku; Njoroge,George Gitau
    Abstract Rationale of the Study – The study examines the citation and referencing skills of postgraduate students at selected public universities. Methodology – The study adopted a descriptive research design. The population consisted of 200 postgraduate students, 60 lecturers, and three software administrators, all selected from Kenyatta University, Karatina University and Dedan Kimathi University of Technology. The study employed a stratified sampling technique for postgraduate students, while purposive sampling was used to select lecturers and software administrators. Selfadministered questionnaires were distributed to postgraduate students and lecturers. Quantitative data were analysed using SPSS Version 25, while qualitative data were analysed using content analysis. The results are presented in tables and frequencies. Findings – The findings show that, while the majority of respondents were familiar with citation and referencing tasks, only a few had received formal training in these areas, and others had no formal training, indicating a considerable gap in structured skill development. They also did not understand the importance of referencing and citation in preventing plagiarism. Implications –The study recommends that, to improve students’ capacity to generate original academic work, programmes should focus on practical experience with citation practices, referencing skills, and the appropriate use of digital resources, through regularly offering training on a range of topics, including how to strengthen academic writing skills, citation and reference abilities. Originality – While other studies have focused on forms of plagiarism and its consequences, this research has focused solely on citation and referencing skills among postgraduate students.
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    The Postgraduate Students’ Awareness of Forms of Plagiarism and their Effects on Academic Reputation in Selected Public Universities, Kenya
    (EAJCR, 2025-06-03) Mugera,Lucy Wanene; Gichuhi,Zipporah Wanjiku; Njoroge,George Gitau
    The standard of original, plagiarism-free research conducted by universities determines academic accomplishment. It emphasizes the caliber of the study and backs the university's initiatives to convey its significance on a global scale. A university can build a strong reputation and generate qualified individuals who aid in the advancement of society. The objectives were knowledge on forms of plagiarism and their effects and consequences of plagiarism. The study adopted descriptive research design using a survey approach. The locale was at Kenyatta University, Karatina University, and Dedan Kimathi University of Technology. The target population was 247 from three schools in the three public universities. Sample size for students was 200, 60 lecturers and three Anti-plagiarism software administrators. The study adapted stratified sampling technique. Purposive sampling was also used to determine sample size from lecturers and Anti-plagiarism software administrators. Quantitative and qualitative data was collected through self- dministered questionnaires and interview schedules respectively. The study was grounded on the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB), which served as its foundation. The data was analyzed using descriptive statistical methods. The results of the study indicated that most of the postgraduate students were not exclusively aware of all forms of plagiarism had a reasonable understanding of the different penalties associated with plagiarism. It was recommended that, a campaign should be practiced to raise the level of awareness on forms of plagiarism and its effects. The study suggested that university management should also provide researchers with continuous sensitization through workshops and training on a variety of topics, such as how to improve academic writing abilities and steer clear of plagiarism.