RP-Department of Library and Information Science

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Education in Kenya since independence: a bibliography, 1963-1983.
(Kenyatta University College Library, 1983) Ng'ang'a, J. M.
The bibliography includes material on all aspects of education in Kenya (and in East Africa in general) covering books, periodical articles and university theses. It also includes a list of Kenyan educational journals available in Kenyatta University College Library, a list of official documents, and a list of educational research in progress at the University. References are classified by subject.
Creating a needs-responsive LIS curriculum in a developing country: A case study from Kenya
(Elsevier, 2007-06) Gathegi, J.N.; Mwathi, P.G.
The Department of Library Studies at Kenyatta University in Nairobi, Kenya has for some time now been reviewing its curriculum, for the purposes of meeting the requirements and needs of a twenty-first century global, networked society and to meet the country's information needs. To achieve this, the University has been working on approximately 10 different programs from certificate to masters in both library and information science and archives administration/records management. This paper analyzes the process involved in this undertaking and critically examines the underlying assumptions embedded in the exercise. It discusses problems encountered, solutions devised, and the products derived from the curriculum review. The paper is a collaborative effort between a faculty member based in Kenya and one based in the United States.
The development of libraries in Kenya
(2011-10-31) Otike, Japhet
Indigenous Materials in Libraries and Information Centres in Kenya
(2011-11-01) Otike, J. N.
This work examines the accessibility of indigenous materials to libraries and information centres in Kenya. An attempt is made to define the term "indigenous materials." Sources of materials are examined, and methods of procurement described. Types of materials produced in Kenya are discussed. Attention is given also to the bibliographic tools roduced and what remains to be done in this area. It is concluded that publicizing the existence of local materials is desirable
Introducing information ethics in the curriculum at Kenyatta University : views from lecturers and post-graduate students
(2013) Amunga, Hellen A.
Universities the world over are grappling with academic malpractice among their students and staff. The use of plagiarism checkers have failed to stop the practice just as academic codes of conduct have not worked. Behavior change brought about by a deep understanding of information ethics and the need to embrace and encourage positive practices in regard to access and use of information within and outside universities seems to be a new starting point in preventing this problem. The aim of this study was to assess the perceptions of lecturers and students on the introduction of information ethics into the university curriculum. The findings point to an acknowledgement by both lecturers and students of cases of academic malpractice in universities in Kenya and how complex it is to solve them. Tactics used in cheating and the challenges related to introducing information ethics into the curriculum, as well as suggestions on the way forward are also presented.
An Exploration of Academic Library Involvement in the Adaption of Open Educational Resources
(East African Journal of Information Science, 2014-02-09) Mutwiri, Caroline; Muhinja, Salome
Library involvement in the adoption of Open Educational Resources (OERs) is critical to their development, use and sustainability in higher education. Academic librarians’ position at the core of higher learning in educational institutions makes the right go between for effective OERs adoption. OER users need to be equipped with information literacy skills such as assessing the quality of the material, its origin, currency, and fit with the students ‘current learning patterns Libraries can offer advice to institutions, academic staff, and students as they engage with OERs. This paper presents an exploration of academic libraries’ involvement in OERs adoption
Elearning Induction Model for the Uptake of Online Courses: A Case of Kenyatta University
(IEEE, 2017) Njoroge, Rose; Nzuki, David
The eLearning induction model that is well informed by both the theory and practice is a sure way of being responsive to the dynamism of the educational technologies. Kenyatta University (KU) has embraced elearning as a means of teaching and learning in its various modes of study. The first year students, “freshers”, are subjected to elearning induction in preparation to enable them to adapt to a different way of teaching and learning from what they were used to in secondary school level. Given the complexity of elearning and the changing nature of technology, learners have continuously been faced with challenges of adapting to the changing technological needs of Learning Management Systems (LMS) used in the institutions of higher learning. In response to these concerns, Kenyatta University through its Directorate of elearning uses a Model which is depicted in this paper. This is geared towards ensuring a smooth uptake of elearning in the institution. The Model has led to the establishment of conducive eLearning environment which is characterized by well-coordinated training mechanisms, monitoring and evaluation approaches. The paper depicts how the Model was used to unearth digital literacy gaps, adequacy of elearning induction as well as demonstrate the relevance of elearning induction Model used by KU.
Information Seeking Behaviour of Practicing Nurses in Kenya: An Exploratory Case Study of Kenyatta National Hospital
(International Journal of Social Sciences and Information Technology, 2017-11) Mwenda, Mugambi Frankline; Njoroge, Rose
The objective of the study was to provide new insight on how practicing nurses at KNH find information to support clinical decisions. Previous research in the field, demonstrate that information seeking behavior has an effect on the nursing care and practice. The study adopted descriptive survey design; the target population was 1723 practicing nurses. Structured questionnaires were used to collect data. Data was analyzed by use of likert scale and Microsoft excel and presented through tables, charts, figure, graphs and percentage. Four information needs were cited by practicing nurses at KNH; patient care, in-service presentation, presentation at a professional meeting/seminar and scholarship application/career development. The most preferred source of information was human sources such as colleagues and doctors. Internet came second as preferred source of information. Public libraries and personal libraries were rated lowly. Practicing nurses at KNH ware aware of reference books, textbooks, personal contacts such as colleagues and doctors as sources of information. The insights from the study will help health organizations in design of information services, guide future researchers and contribute to the professional knowledge.
Opportunities and Fhallenges Facing Provision of Information Literacy to Multi-Cultural Communities: A case of Tana River County, Kenya.
(IJLIS, 2018) Muthee, Daniel W.; Masinde, Johnson Mulongo
Abstract - The existence of multicultural communities in Kenya has compounded provision of information literacy to diverse groups. Opportunities and challenges exist in equal measure. The people’s perceptions, cultural beliefs and practices, religious inclinations and language differences form the basis of the opportunities and challenges. This paper underpins the opportunities and challenges of providing information literacy to nomadic, agricultural and business communities in Tana River County. The objectives of the paper included identification of the different cultural groups, determining of the role of them and identification of the opportunities and challenges. The conclusions include existence of several opportunities and challenges. The multi cultural diversity in Tana River County amplifies information and literacy for development due to the literacy competition for the few existing opportunities. Challenges identified include lack of equity in income and resources, language differences and backward cultural practices. The suggested recommendations include promotion of literacy, translation of information into local languages and aggressive policies on HTPs.
An Exploration of Academic Library Involvement in the Adaption of Open Educational Resources
(East African Journal of Information Science, 2018-02-09) Mutwiri, Caroline; Muhinja, Salome
Library involvement in the adoption of Open Educational Resources (OERs) is critical to their development, use and sustainability in higher education. Academic librarians’ position at the core of higher learning in educational institutions makes the right go between for effective OERs adoption. OER users need to be equipped with information literacy skills such as assessing the quality of the material, its origin, currency, and fit with the students ‘current learning patterns Libraries can offer advice to institutions, academic staff, and students as they engage with OERs. This paper presents an exploration of academic libraries’ involvement in OERs adoption
Information Needs and Seeking Behavior of Young Small-Scale Dairy Farmers in Murang’a County, Kenya
(Publishingindia, 2018-12) Thuo, Martha Wanjiku; Njoroge, Rose Wambui
Access to agricultural information influences the farming practices adopted by farmers. Small scale dairy farmers need frequent access to agricultural information to cope with modern dairy farming practices. Inefficient access and dissemination of dairy agricultural information can negatively affect the production level of dairy products. The study sought to assess the information needs and seeking behavior of young small-scale dairy farmers in Murang’a County, Kenya. The area has experienced low dairy agricultural productions despite its high potential in dairy farming. The study established that all the young dairy farmers required dairy agricultural information however dairy agricultural information is not readily available to them. Also, factors such as lack of exposure, lack of confidence, illiteracy, inadequate time and lack of funds negatively affected their information seeking behavior. The study therefore recommended the government to; recruit more extension officers within Murang’a County to ensure improved extension services, set up agricultural resource centers with qualified information providers to assess, select, market and acquire useful agricultural resources, improve infrastructure and set up cyber cafes within the sub counties and also educate dairy farmers on th
The Role of Indigenous Knowledge Systems in Enhancing Agricultural Productivity in Kenya
(Gretsa University, 2019) Muthee, Daniel W.; Gwademba, Goudian Kilemba; Masinde, Johnson
This paper gives an insight into the role of indigenous knowledge systems in improving agricultural productivity in Kenya. It examines how application of indigenous knowledge can help to scale up sustainable agricultural intensification in order to increase production, protect the environment and reduce poverty. The paper describes different forms of indigenous knowledge and recognizes the important role that indigenous people and their knowledge of the environment, can play in the enhancement of agricultural productivity and environmental protection. While indigenous knowledge has been the basis for local-level decision-making in many rural farming communities in Kenya, the paper finds that, its application has not been wholly integrated into the farming systems not only by local farming communities but also by researchers, extension service providers, scientists, policy makers and planners striving to improve conditions in rural areas and suggests how indigenous knowledge can be applied in improving agricultural productivity among smallholder farmers in Kenya. The paper considers the broad knowledge indigenous people have on how to live sustainably, but discerns that formal education systems sometimes disrupted this sound knowledge by creating an assumption that it is outdated and irrelevant in addressing present-day agricultural challenges. The findings of this paper will help agricultural stakeholders change the perceptions and attitudes they have towards various Indigenous Knowledge Systems in enhancing agricultural productivity and should, therefore, be promoted and that awareness of this importance should be created through policy formulation and implementation in order to foster consciousness among smallholder farmers in Kenya.
Information Communication Technologies (ICTS) Employed by Young Farmers in Access and Use of Dairy Agricultural Information in Murang’a County, Kenya
(Publishingindia, 2019-03) Thuo, Martha Wanjiku; Njoroge, Rose Wambui; Wamalwa, Lucas Wanangeye
Information Communication Technology (ICT) has changed the way information is created, stored, accessed and disseminated. It has the potential to enhance access and use of agricultural information by farmers in rural areas thereby improving their farming practices. The study was undertaken to assess how young farmers use ICT technologies in accessing and using dairy agricultural information in Murang’a County, Kenya. The study aimed at assessing the awareness by farmers on technologies available for use in accessing agricultural information and strategies used by farmers in accessing and using dairy agricultural information as a way of promoting dairy farming production. The results of the study revealed that 88% of the farmers agreed that they were aware of the use of technology in accessing agricultural information.75% of the respondents used radio where television was rated second while mobile phones were rarely used. Majority at (80%) never used technologies such as computers, CD/DVD and social media to access and use dairy agricultural information. Three quarters (75%) preferred using other sources such as extension workers, friends, and relatives over technology. All the extension officers interviewed used technology to acquire and disseminate information. Radio was highly used, followed by internet/web services and social media. The study concluded that dairy farmers have limited access to modern technologies such as mobile phones in access and use of agricultural information. The Kenya National Library Services in collaboration with the Department of Livestock Production should set up exhibitions and information literacy programs for dairy farmers. Infrastructure should be improved in the rural areas of Murang’a County by setting up Cyber cafes within the subcounties and educate dairy farmers on the use of ICT technologies to access and use agricultural information.
Preparedness towards adoption of cloud computing technologies by academic libraries in Kenya
(International Journal of Research in Library Science, 2020) Maina, Paul Kibet; Muthee, Daniel Wambiri
In many developing countries including Kenya, there is a great challenge determining the preparedness of libraries towards the adoption of cloud computing technologies. Paucity of resources and Information technology capabilities, lack of manpower, inadequate skills, inadequate infrastructure, and inadequate power supply have been identified as key impediments to institutions towards successful adoption of cloud computing. Despite the benefits of cloud computing technologies, education sector has not fully implemented this emerging technology. The objective of this study was to assess the preparedness of academic libraries towards of adoption of cloud computing technologies so that academic libraries can have clear path on how to prepare and measures to put towards cloud computing adoption. The study was undertaken at Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology library, Kiambu County, Kenya where 40 librarians were involved in the study. Random sampling procedure was used to select the sample population. The study used descriptive study design to carry out research. The results from the study showed that the library was experiencing shortage in infrastructure due to low student to computer ration, low bandwidth, only one OPAC point and centralized servers. Most library staff posed basic ICT skills with just few staff being experts in areas where cloud computing skills are required. The study recommends that the government and the university should concentrate on ways of making cloud computing affordable by budgeting more funds to improve the ICT infrastructure in the library. The library should concentrate on impacting the library with skills; invest more to improve the ICT infrastructure in the library
Implications of ICT Usage in Agricultural Extension Information Service Delivery in Tana River County, Kenya
(Eastern Africa Journal of Contemporary Research (EAJCR), 2020) Gwademba, Goudian; Muthee, Daniel Wambiri; Wamae, Peter
This study sought to establish the effects of ICT usage in agricultural extension information service delivery to farmers in Tana River County. Specifically, the study assessed the distribution of farmers across zones with varying ICT agricultural extension information services access within Tana River County; the nature and level of ICT agricultural extension information services accessed by farmers; and the extent to which agricultural production levels by farmers in Tana River County has been enhancement by access to ICT extension information services. The findings of this study indicate that a wide range of agricultural extension information services such as agricultural insurance, access to supplies credit and mobile banking as well as information on weather patterns, crop/livestock husbandry, markets, production forecasts and record keeping are effectively disseminated to farmers through ICT platforms such as cell phones, the internet, radio and television through customized messaging and this greatly empowers farmers to adopt better farming practices and improves agricultural productivity. It is recommended that agricultural extension officers should encourage and where possible facilitate more farmers to subscribe to ICT extension service platforms to enhance agricultural productivity. The findings of this study indicate that ICT tools such as cell phones, internet, radio and television, when properly applied in agricultural extension services, could greatly inform farming decisions and thereby enhance agricultural productivity. There is therefore need for agricultural extension officers to encourage and where possible facilitate more farmers to subscribe to ICT extension information services platforms to enhance agricultural productivity.
Gender and cognitive factors influencing information seeking of graduate students at Kenyatta University Library
(AOSIS, 2020) Masinde, Johnson M.; Wambiri, Daniel M.; Chen, Jing
Gender has been identified as a possible influencing factor in users’ informationseeking process. Previous studies have alluded to the fact that gender as a variable may be useful for a better understanding of the cognitive and social background of human information processing and may have important implications in the information-seeking process. Although a number of studies have investigated gender, amongst other variables, as having an effect on the information-seeking process of users, no attempt has been made to investigate the relationship between gender and cognitive factors on the information-seeking patterns of graduate students of Kenyatta University Library. Objective: The study investigates gender and cognitive factors influencing the informationseeking process of graduate students at Kenyatta University Library. Methodology: To achieve this objective, the study developed a theoretical framework which can be used by academic libraries as a basis for implementing both digital and reference desk services in order to meet the dynamic user needs. The study then investigated whether there were any gender differences through the correlation coefficient in the context of expectancy theory. The motivational process amongst the male and female users was then examined to establish whether there was any difference. Results: This study found no gender difference in all the variables considered, including interaction service quality, outcome (need satisfaction,) service satisfaction, users’ performance of service, past experience, expectancy and effort. Conclusion: This study found no gender difference in all the variables investigated. The implication of the findings was that there is no need for mainstreaming gender in service programming in the library service.
Use of Networks by Incubator Tenants to Acquire Knowledge to Create Businesses in University Incubation Centres in Kenya
(Scholar Touch Publishers, 2020) Nkoroi, Lillian K; Mutwiri, Caroline; Njoroge, Rose
The purpose of this paper is to analyze critically the Use of Networks by Incubator Tenants to Acquire Knowledge to Create Businesses in University Incubation Centres in Kenya. The methodology for the study is mixed methods including Document analysis, interviews, administration and analysis of questionnaires to obtain data from incubation centres in Kenyatta University and Strathmore University. The study revealed that the tenants of incubation centres relied on internal networks comprising of other tenants, academia and alumni to acquire and use knowledge for their businesses. External networks were organized on need basis by the incubation centre and therefore knowledge acquisition from such networks was only to a limited extent. The paper has significant theoretical, policy, and practical implications. From a theoretical perspective, the study finds that tenants in university business incubation centres have a high propensity for informal networks as opposed to the formal networks set up by the management of incubation centres.
Utilization and Dissemination of Information Resources in District Information and Documentation Centres in Kisumu County, Kenya
(IJCAB Publishing Group, 2020) Wesonga, Doris Nellyanne; Wamae, Peter
Access to government-related information through District Information and Documentation Centres (DIDCs) is essential in monitoring development programs in counties and the nation at large. However, Kenyans remain detached from the government because of low levels of accountability. Low levels of accountability are associated with corruption, mismanagement, and poor service delivery which are likely to slow down development projects in the sub-counties. This study sought to assess utilization and dissemination of information resources in DIDCs in Kisumu County. This study aimed to: determine the level of awareness among users of DIDCs, establish the extent to which users utilize DIDCs, describe the strategies that DIDC staff employ to facilitate user utilization of information resources in DIDCs, and examine the challenges that DIDC staff face in providing information to users. The study was guided by Richard Oliver’s Expectancy Disconfirmation Theory. This study employed the descriptive survey design and mixed-methods approach to investigate the research objectives. The study was conducted in four sub-counties of Kisumu County: Kisumu Central, Seme, Muhoroni, and Nyando. The sub-counties were purposely selected because they host DIDCs in densely populated areas in their respective ministries with a target population of 205,935. Using Taro Yarmane’s formula, the study used a sample of 400 users and 20 DIDC staff. Random sampling was used to select participants of the study. DIDC User Questionnaires and DIDC Staff Interview Schedule were used to collect quantitative and qualitative data respectively. The data collection instruments were piloted with 10% of the participants. Reliability was determined using the test-retest method. Construct validity of the data collection instruments was ensured by deriving the questionnaire items from evidence presented in literature relevant to this study. Quantitative data was analysed using descriptive statistics like frequency tables and percentages. Qualitative data was categorized into themes and sub-themes as they emerged to make meaningful narratives for purposes of triangulating the quantitative results. Findings suggest that a significant number of users lack awareness on the products and services offered by DIDCs. This is associated with reduced visits and utilization of information resources in DIDCs. The study recommends use of workshops and open-days to create awareness about the products and services, and adequate funding for staffing and procurement of current and relevant documents. Librarians, information technologists, and records management personnel, and policy makers may use the findings of this study to improve service delivery for user awareness and utilization, and enhance users’ experiences in using government documentation centres for information seeking
Application of ICTs in Transforming Agricultural Extension
(The Regional Institute of Information and Knowledge Management, 2020) Gwademba, Goudian Kilemba; Muthee, Daniel Wambiri; Masinde, Johnson Mulongo
Purpose - The purpose of this study was to investigate how extension service providers employed ICTs in transforming agricultural extension information service delivery in Tana River County, Kenya. The study examined how the application of ICTs can help to transform public extension service delivery thereby improving the farmers’ access to agricultural information. Methodology – Data was collected from 456 farmers in Tana River County in Kenya. The farmers were identified using simple random sampling. Data was collected using structured questionnaires and interview guides. Data analysis was performed using simple descriptive statistics. Findings - The findings revealed that there was limited application of ICTs in the dissemination of agricultural extension information in Tana River County, Kenya. However, where application was prominent, an increase in productivity was noted. Implications – The findings of this study may be used by the County Government of Tana River and the national Government of Kenya to improve agricultural productivity in the country through improved extension services. Originality – The study was an original research conducted in a remote food-insecure county in Kenya. It links agricultural productivity to effective access to extension information services supported by ICTs.
Contemporary Academic Library Users in Kenya: Their Needs And Preferences in Access and Use of Information Resources
(Emerald Publishing, 2020) Ombogo, Tandy M.; Namande, Ben W.
Purpose – The purpose of this study is to assess the influence of generations on information behavior and needs to access and use of library resources and how well academic libraries in Kenya are simultaneously serving both generations. From literature reviewed, a study on the Kenyan scenario on generational behavior and needs was not identified and this study sought to fill that gap. Design/methodology/approach – Data collected were done through mixed-methods research using observation, structured interviews and questionnaires. The sample included 143 students and faculty within different generations, and three library staffs at The United States International University-Africa’s Library. Quantitative data were analyzed through SPSS and Excel, while qualitative data were analyzed according to the theme of this study. Likert-scale responses were used to measure information behavior of users’ needs and preferences. Findings – Findings showed that the library is serving two distinct generations with different needs: out of a mean score of 5.00 of sample surveyed; digital immigrants need information resources mainly for research at an aggregate 3.93 while digital natives need information resources mainly for examinations at an aggregate 4.01. Both generations need to use technology to access and use information resources at 94% of digital immigrants and an aggregate 81.5% of digital natives surveyed. The library is training both user groups accordingly. This answered the research problem this study sought to assess. Research limitations/implications – The generation of users was known only after administering the questionnaires. Consequently, the researcher targeted them using the status of respondents, faculty or student, to maximize sampling for each generation. Undergraduate and master’s students were used to target digital natives, while the faculty was used to target digital immigrants. PhD students were used to target both digital immigrants and digital natives. This study was done only in one location, USIU-Africa’s Library. Originality/value – This study assessed how different generations within academic libraries in Kenya could be guided to effectively and efficiently adapt to global changes. This study assessed generational influence on needs and preferences in access and use of information resources, and assessed how academic libraries are concurrently and successfully serving variant user needs in Kenya,

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