PHD-Department of Library & Information Science

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A Model to Enhance Tutorial Management in Teaching and Learning Using Cloud Computing
(Kenyatta University, 2024-02) Thuku, John Kiiru
Integration of ICT in teaching and learning has been a growing concern that has attracted a lot of research and inquiry following the increase in the availability, accessibility and affordability of ICT among learners and the emergence of E Learning systems. Universities face unprecedented demand to shift their pedagogues to be more learner-centered in an effort to improve student learning experience and outcomes using modern technology. However due to the increase in student enrolment there has been a gradual decline in the use of the learner-centered tutorials despite potential in enhancing students learning experience and acquisition knowledge and other academic skills. Modern technology, such as cloud computing can indicatively be integrated to improve tutorial administration and help increase students’ participation in learning. There is a lack of locally developed E-Learning systems to address challenges appropriately. The main purpose of this study was to improve the management of tutorials in teaching and learning by developing an online application model based on cloud computing. The study was guided by collaborative and constructivist theories of learning. The study was conducted at Kenyatta University where the researcher used a snowball sampling method to identify participants since not all academic programs are taught using tutorials. The study was conducted in three stages: survey on tutorials, development of online tutorial management system (Tutmas) and experimentation of the platform. The main methodology was action research but it combined agile software development approach and qualitative method at specific instances. The findings show that students and lecturers appreciated the learning experience and skills gained in regular tutorials and that Tutmas platform was quite effective in the management and administration of tutorials as well as enhancing students’ learning experiences. The recommendation is that institutions should purposefully enhance the use of tutorials and enhance their efficiency by using the cloud-based system. Students should be experiencing tutorials early once they join the University in their first year. It is recommended that tutorials should be harnessed and the system should incorporate peer review of tutorial papers in order to publish quality papers in an institutional online tutorial journal.
Farmer Information Literacy and Agricultural Productivity: A Case of Rice Farmers in Kano State, Nigeria
(Kenyatta University, 2024-06) Abubakar, Aliyu Haidar
Farmers must locate the finest agricultural information sources to make informed farming choices. Due to time and expense, rice farmers struggle to discover convenient information sources despite many. So, this research examined access and utilization of agricultural information by rice farmers in Kano State, Nigeria. The study's specific objectives were to determine rice farmers' information needs in Kano State, Nigeria, their awareness of agricultural information sources, their use of them, and the significant relationships between farmer information literacy, productivity increase, and information needs. The research study targeted 6,340 and 634 were selected using Krejcie and Morgan (1970) proportional sampling. The research collected data by questionnaire. Pilot tests ensured the instruments measured the desired goals. Farmers' demographic profiles were descriptively analysed using frequencies and percentages and shown in tables and graphs. The research found that rice producers require knowledge to make choices and boost crop output and profitability. Rice growers need current meteorological data to plan planting, harvesting, irrigation, and pest and disease management. Most Kano State rice farmers were aware of radio, television, internet, library, and information centres, among other agricultural knowledge sources, according to the survey. The research found a substantial positive correlation between information awareness and agricultural production (r = 0.278, n =634, p<1268). The survey also revealed that most rice farmers had access to radio, television, agricultural extension agents, books, agricultural shows, newspapers, and magazines. Information and Communication Technologies were few, according to the report. The association between farmer information demands and agricultural information sources in the research region has a chi-square value of 23.57, higher than the tabulated 21.03 under 12 degrees of freedom highlighting the potential for variation in findings depending on the specific context or factors being examined. The research found that Kano State rice farmers need information literacy to increase output. Information literacy helps rice farmers in the area use new technology, make educated choices, and adopt best practises. The report proposes that Nigeria create and execute a comprehensive farmer information literacy programme in Kano State. This programme should teach rice farmers how to identify access, assess, and apply agricultural information to enhance farming practises.
Adherence to Reference Service Standards for Service Delivery in Selected Federal University Libraries in Northeastern Nigeria
(Kenyatta University, 2023-11) Bukar, Inuwa
The criteria for delivering efficient reference services are defined by reference service standards. The extent to which these standards are implemented in reference service delivery can be used to measure a service's effectiveness. Despite the importance of the standards, few documented research on the evaluation of reference service efficacy utilizing the standards as a critical criterion for assessing reference service transactions have been conducted, particularly in Nigerian university libraries. As a result, the adoption and adherence to the International Federation of Library Association (IFLA) and Reference Users Service Association (RUSA) reference standards in the selected university libraries in Northeast Nigeria was thoroughly examined in this study in order to offer ways in which the reference service can reinvigorate the patron's perception of the use of Libraries. The study addresses reference services and methods of delivery used by reference librarians to provide services, evaluation of reference librarians' behavioral performance by postgraduate students to determine whether it aligns with IFLA and RUSA guidelines, establish how reference librarians' behavioral performance meet the information needs of post graduate students', and users’ satisfaction with reference librarians' behavioral performance, challenges to effective service delivery, and best practices for dealing with these challenges. 302 postgraduate students, 86 reference librarians, and 4 heads of library services were proportionately used from four federal institutions in Northeast Nigeria and utilized as the study's sample. Data was gathered using a questionnaire and an interview schedule. The instruments were verified by panel experts to determine the content validity ratio = CVR of 1 by subjecting replies to Lawshe's template, and r-coefficients of 0.89 and 0.85 were obtained as r-coefficients using the Cronbach Alpha technique to verify the instrument's internal consistency (homogeneity). Data was collected using a non proximal approach and analyzed using descriptive statistics (frequency count and percentages), while chi-square was used to establish statistical significance of quantitative data obtained from participants across the universities under investigation. The qualitative data gathered through interviews was coded and thematically analyzed to supplement the quantitative data source's conclusions. According to student reports, traditional reference services are provided at universities utilizing both face-to-face and digital reference service techniques, and the behavioral performance of reference librarians in accordance with IFLA and RUSA standards practice was not satisfactory. Students' information needs were constant across institutions, however postgraduate students' satisfaction with reference librarians' behavioral performance was inconsistent among universities, and students were dissatisfied with the reference librarian’s behavioral performance. According to the findings of the study, conventional reference services are the basic services that university libraries provide to their patrons via traditional (face-to-face and digital means), postgraduate students' informational needs, and satisfaction is significantly influenced by reference librarians' behavioral performance as suggested by IFLA, and RUSA standards practice. The study recommended that; reference librarians should take advantage of training that will have a direct impact on their behavioral performance. This would improve contact between librarians and patrons, increasing user satisfaction
Continuous Staff Development Programs on Librarians Job Performance in Selected Academic Libraries in North - Central Nigeria
(kenyatta university, 2023) Goshie, Rhoda Wusa; Daniel Muthee; Caroline Mutwiri
In the 21st century, Continuous Staff Development Programs are considered intentional training programs meant for enhancement of professional knowledge and competency over the course of a person's working life through webinars, online classes, mentorship, job shadowing, conferences, and seminars. They are intended to help librarians deliver quality services and improve job performance. They also assist librarians in receiving the full benefit of the training as well as transfer of newly acquired competencies on the job. Staff in Nigerian libraries undertakes the training. However despite the training received through CSDP, there is low performance on the job evident in inadequate service delivery, a lack of understanding about recent best practices, and inadequate collection management. The study sought to determine the impact of CSDP on librarian‟s job performance. The study's objectives were to: determine strategies adopted for imparting the online competencies; evaluate the knowledge acquired from programs; determine the extent of application of knowledge gained from training; and evaluate online competencies acquired through programs. Finally, highlight the challenges encountered by librarians in carrying out their responsibilities after undertaking the training. The purpose of the study was to determine the impact of continuous staff development programs on librarian‟s job performance in selected academic libraries in North- Central Nigeria. The Donald Kirkpatrick four- level training evaluation model was adopted for the study. The research used a descriptive design. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze quantitative data. The sample size was 382 librarians. The comprehensive enumeration survey, a type of census, was applied in determining the sample size. A closed-ended and open-ended questionnaire served as the data gathering tool. A pilot study was carried out to assure the instruments' reliability and validity. Cronbach's coefficient was utilized to ascertain the instrument's reliability. According to the findings of the study, there are no mandatory policies requiring librarians to attend programs for the acquisition of online competencies. The research findings also established that librarians have not acquire and applied knowledge-based skills and online competencies adequately. The research concludes the low performance is caused by an insufficient knowledge and abilities, as well as inconsistencies in training. As a result, the study recommends that functional policies for program attendance be implemented. Also more library professional bodies, such as the Nigerian Library Association (NLA) and the Librarians Registration Council of Nigeria (LRCN), work to organize sufficient re-tooling for librarians. The study also suggests that adequate budgetary allocation, good working condition and effective managerial and administrative policies be made available for librarians to attend the programs.
Preparedness for Adoption of Patron Driven Acquisition Framework in Selected Federal University Libraries, Nigeria
(Kenyatta University, 2023) Ahmed, Adamu; Abu; Peter Wamae; Kamau Maina
ABSTRACT The patron-driven acquisition (PDA) framework is an evolving method of acquisition in the area of collection development that supports academic libraries in developing vast collections of content that will meet patrons' needs. Evidence indicates that the existing collections of selected universities in Nigeria do not meet users' needs due to a lack of updated print materials, high subscription costs, and a low budget. Therefore, the purpose of the study is to determine the level of preparedness for the adoption of the patron-driven acquisition (PDA) framework in selected Federal University libraries in Nigeria. The objectives of the study are to establish whether graduate students' information needs are fulfilled, identify the existing acquisition method, assess library staff preparedness, and assess technical and library management preparedness for the adoption of the PDA framework in selected federal university libraries in Nigeria. The study is based on the theory of organisational readiness for change, and a descriptive survey design was adopted. The total population of the study is 14,365, and a sample size of 599 was determined using Krejcie and Morgan's sample size determination table for a population of 15,000. Of the 599 sample size, 4 were university librarians, 217 were library staff, and 378 were graduate students. Simple random sampling techniques were used for selecting graduate students and library staff due to the large number of their populations. Descriptive statistical analysis was used to analyse the data obtained from the quantitative method, which is presented in tables and figures. Data from interviews is presented in terms of themes, policy frameworks, and funding. The study revealed that graduate students' demand for information was low, mostly for academic activities, except for citing and citation management. The use of electronic resources was more prevalent than print among students, although satisfaction derived from both resources was less than 60%, which may not fulfil their information needs. The existing acquisition method showed that the use of other acquisition methods, such as interlibrary loans, usage-based subscriptions, and consortia, which are components of PDA, is low, implying that the studied university libraries have yet to adopt PDA. In terms of preparedness, the findings showed that library staffs have a high level of awareness and basic knowledge of the PDA method, although they seem to lack the skills required to carry out key PDA activities. The studied libraries were prepared in terms of ICT infrastructures, except for Uniagric and Futminna, which lacked internet connections. Most staffs were not trained on critical areas of the PDA method, and library management was not prepared to adopt the PDA method due to a lack of active use of collection development policies, which contain key processes of the PDA method, and a continued decline in funding. This has affected the acquisition of critical infrastructure and the training of staff towards the adoption of the PDA method. The study concludes that the low usage of electronic resources at Futminna could be attributed to a lack of access to relevant information resources due to insufficient subscriptions to databases. The low usage of print in the rest of the selected universities will also limit students' access to relevant materials that are only available in print, reflecting the reasons for graduate students' needs not being fulfilled. Therefore, the study recommends the full adoption of the PDA approach to fulfil users' immediate needs. Once this recommendation is addressed, the adoption of the PDA approach will fulfil users' needs and provide a return on investment for the selected Nigerian university libraries.
Implementation of Electronic Medical Records for Service Delivery in Selected Southwest Nigeria State University Teaching Hospitals
(Kenyatta University, 2022) Ajayi, Stephen Adekunle; Peter Wamae; Daniel Wambiri Muthee
Electronic Medical Records (EMR) is an essential communications channel relating to patient health conditions. Unfortunately, many hospitals in Africa, including Nigeria, have not implemented EMR. The few hospitals with some level of EMR are still struggling with the use of paper and hybrid medical records, which has led to poor medical follow-up, medical error and long waiting times for patients. The study is anchored on five main objectives: determining the existing types of EMRS, level of readiness, usefulness, and the relationship between user readiness EMR usefulness, among others. A sample size of three hundred and forty-one (341) was determined using krejcie and morgan models, comprising strategic managers and the operational staff drawn from a population of 2889 in the selected hospitals. Weighted sampling was used to determine the respondent to pick from each hospital. The study chooses 108 from LAUTECH, UNIMEDTH 79; EKSTH 104 and LSUTH 106. The purposive sampling technique was applied at the hospital level in selecting strategic managers, while operational health workers were determined using a stratified random sampling technique. Questionnaires were used for data collection. A pilot study was conducted at Olabisi Onobanjo University teaching hospital Ogun state Nigeria, where 45 questionnaires were administered to strategic healthcare managers (20) and operational healthcare workers (25) in a similar secondary healthcare hospital to determine the instrument's validity. This study adopted the Cronbach alpha reliability procedure. The result indicates the reliability of .789 for operational healthcare staff and .878 for strategic managers, respectively. The study used a descriptive statistical analysis technique to describe the present medical record systems in the hospitals under study. The data from the quantitative method was presented in tables and figures. The finding indicated that the systems in the hospitals are mainly paper-based. The hospitals also use a hybrid system with a few treatment areas having fully electronic medical records systems. The findings indicated that management readiness, which covers financial (ability to provide funds for implementation) and political readiness (wiliness of the strategic managers and government to implement EMR), was very low. In the area of readiness, which covers the availability of electronic record managers, ICT support staff, computer compatible medical devices, among others, was low. In the area where EMR has been implemented, the finding indicates poor penetration of the EMR system in treatment areas, limited modules and poor staff readiness. The study concluded that hospitals in Nigeria are not taking an adequate preparatory step in implementing EMR. In hospitals that have implemented, EMR is not serving the classical purpose of the medical record of supporting treatment and follow up. Before embarking on the implementation of EMR, the study recommended that the selected hospitals ensure the availability of funds by liaising with international donors and prioritising their budget on the implementation of EMR. There should be staff training on how to troubleshoot and operate the EMR system and its usefulness, and technical infrastructures like electronic record managers, ICT support staff, and computer compatible medical devices, among others.
Usability of Digital Libraries during Information Retrieval by Persons With Visual Impairment in Selected Public Universities in Kenya
(Kenyatta University, 2021) Kiambati, Fridah Gatwiri; Caroline Mutwiri; Rose Njoroge
Usability studies play a key role in advancing best practices in the design of usable digital libraries. Users with visual impairment have been excluded in design of digital libraries due to unintentional biasness towards the sighted majority. As a result, these users experience difficulties when using the digital libraries to retrieve information. The purpose of this study was to evaluate five usability attributes of digital libraries from the perspective of a user with visual impairment regarding information retrieval. The study sought to determine the level of user friendliness, efficiency, user satisfaction, learnability, and the level of accessibility of digital libraries by persons with visual impairment when retrieving information. Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology was adopted for the study. The study used a cross-sectional survey design in which 126 students with visual impairment and 12 special needs librarians were targeted. Complete enumeration technique was used to select all for the study. Questionnaire, interview guide and focus group discussion guide were used to collect data from the students and special needs librarians. A pilot study was conducted at the University of Nairobi to improve the reliability and validity of the data collection instruments and enhance data collection logistics. A mixed method approach to data analysis was used, where descriptive and inferential statistical methods were used in the analysis and presentation of quantitative data while thematic approach was used to analyse qualitative data. The study findings revealed that digital libraries were not friendly to use by students with visual impairment. On efficiency of digital libraries, slightly more than half of students with visual impairment reported that digital libraries are efficient. On user satisfaction with digital libraries, it was found that a bigger percentage of students with visual impairment were dissatisfied. The findings further revealed that user’s level of satisfaction was independent of their gender and age. Research findings also established that majority of students with visual impairment found the digital libraries not easy to learn. Further, the study findings revealed that digital libraries were not accessible to persons with visual impairment and that some of them lacked the basic accessibility requirements for the visually impaired as guided by the World Wide Web Consortium standards. This study established that there is a close interrelation among four of usability attributes; friendliness, efficiency, learnability, and accessibility as they all correlated positively to user satisfaction. The study concludes that prior training of students with visual impairments in assistive technology improves overall user experience with digital libraries. Thus, the study recommends institutionalization of assistive technology training as a strategy to enhance the use of digital library resources among users with visual impairment. The study also recommends involvement of persons with visual impairment in usability testing of information retrieval (IR) systems such as digital library to facilitate design of friendly, efficient, easy to use, easy to learn and accessible systems.
Knowledge Acquisition and Use by Tenants to Create Businesses through Incubation Centers in Kenya. A Case of Strathmore and Kenyatta University
(Kenyatta University, 2021) Nkoroi, Lilian Kathambi; Caroline Mutwiri; Rose Njoroge
Commercialization of university generated knowledge through the creation of innovative products and services cannot be overemphasized. Business incubation programme in universities provides tenants with an enabling environment to hone their ideas and knowledge in a controlled setting before venturing out. However, previous research has indicated that even after going through business incubation initiatives, the survival rate of young businesses in developing countries is low and there is high rate of business failure. The current research sought to determine the degree to which knowledge from various internal and external incubation centre networks and business support initiatives help tenants to create successful enterprises. The study objectives were: to establish the use of internal and external networks by incubation centre tenants; find out the attitude of incubation centre tenants towards business support services; establish the use of knowledge by incubation centre tenants and to establish challenges affecting incubator tenants in their endeavour to acquire knowledge in incubation centres. Social Capital Theory proposed by Nahaphiet and Ghoshal (1998) was used to guide this research study. Census approach was adopted and all the incubator tenants, incubator staff and incubator managers in the two universities were involved in the study. An initial target population of 60 comprising of incubator managers, incubator staff and incubator tenants was involved. Data collection instruments were questionnaires and interview schedules. A pilot study was conducted to assure validity and reliability. Descriptive statistics were used for data analysis to generate tables, graphs and charts for display of data. The findings of the study revealed that incubation centre tenants relied on self-organized internal networks comprising of fellow tenants, academia and alumni. Business advisory training was held on need basis while mentorship programmes were not well coordinated due to shortage of funds. This influenced the attitude of tenants towards business support services because to a great extent, incubators were not satisfying the needs of the tenants. The findings also noted that a majority of the incubation centre tenants utilized knowledge acquired from the incubators to develop their business ideas. Lack of competence to tap tacit knowledge impended knowledge acquisition initiatives in the incubation centres. It was also noted that rivalry among tenants was observed around collaboration activities due to limited workspace and lack of trust. The study recommended that incubation centres should establish a knowledge management system to increase the capacity and competence of tenants to tap tacit knowledge and utilise it in the creation of sustainable businesses. Further research on factors influencing the survival of businesses after the incubation programme was recommended.
Relationship between Use of Extension Information Services and Agricultural Productivity among Smallholder Farmers in Tana River County, Kenya
(kenyatta University, 2021) Gwademba, Goudian Kilemba; Daniel Wambiri Muthee; Peter Wamae Wahome
Food security assessments reports have demonstrated that, most food insecure people stay in remote areas, with limited access to information and technology geared towards enhancing agricultural productivity. This foregoing suggests that agricultural information is relevant to agricultural productivity, particularly for smallholder farmers, who remain the foundation of agricultural production in emerging economies. Literature review of the study established that agricultural information is prerequisite to farming as it enables proper utilization of limited production resources and therefore regarded as a significant factor in enhancing productivity, but disclosed that while considerable efforts have been made by the Kenyan government to improve agricultural extension information services for smallholder farmers, low agricultural productivity has continued to be experienced in Tana River County, Kenya. It was in recognition of this value that this research was carried out with a purpose of evaluating the relationship between use of extension information services and agricultural productivity among smallholder farmers in Tana River County, Kenya. The main objective of the study was to ascertain whether increased use of extension information services correlated with increased agricultural productivity. The study adopted the Information Search Process (ISP) theory by Caroline Kuhlthau. The location of the study was Tana River County where a sample of 382 farming households was chosen from a population of 68,242 and 79 public extension information service providers selected from a total population of 85 through stratified sampling. Data was collected using questionnaires and interview schedules and both qualitative and quantitative data was captured. The research took a correlational study design and through statistical analysis using the Pearson Correlation Coefficient, Simple Linear Regression and Paired Samples T-Test, evaluated the relationship between the use of extension information services and agricultural productivity among smallholder farmers in Tana River County. A piloting of data collection instruments was undertaken in Kilifi County to test their reliability and validity. Data analysis focused on responding to research hypothesis and considering appropriate level of interpretation for each situation. The research findings revealed that, there was a moderately strong correlation coefficient averaging r=0.6 between use of extension information services and agricultural productivity in Tana River County. The study also underscored the role of ICT in improving the usefulness of agricultural extension information services and recommended the need to streamline extension information service delivery in order to ensure smallholder farmers had seamless access to agricultural information. The study was significant in that its findings are expected to benefit all agricultural stakeholders by enabling them appreciate the role of extension information services in enhancing agricultural productivity. It is expected that this study will add credibility to the agricultural extension information policy agenda for smallholder farmers all over the world.
Adoption of Knowledge Management Practices for Service Delivery in Selected North-West Nigeria Federal University Libraries
(Kenyatta University, 2019-10) Fakandu, Muhammed
Knowledge management practices entail generation, acquisition, organization, sharing, preservation, applying and re-use of knowledge. In libraries, the practice aims at improving services and administration. Evidence indicates that university libraries in Nigeria are facing a series of challenges ranging from lack of mentorship, reluctant to share knowledge, lack of research collaboration, inadequate training, seminars among others and the cause of these challenges is not known. The purpose of this study was to establish whether North-West Nigeria Federal university libraries have adopted knowledge management practices (KMP) in acquisition, organization, and sharing and also evaluate the role of information and communication technology (ICT) in the whole process. The objectives of the study was to assess the knowledge acquisition, to determine the knowledge organization, to establish the knowledge sharing and assess the role of ICT in enhancing KM practices. This study reviewed literature in the area of knowledge acquisition, organization, sharing and ICT application. It applied descriptive research design and had a target population of three hundred and ninety-three (393) respondents from the selected north-west Nigeria university libraries. The sample size of the study was 191 which was calculated using Krejcie and Morgan. Questionnaires and interview schedules were used for data collection from different categories of librarians in university libraries. A pilot study was conducted in Gusau University Library and data analyzed to ensure the validity and reliability of the instruments. Descriptive statistic methods were used in analyzing the data into tables, frequencies, percentages, and charts were used for tabulation and presentation. Among the key findings, were practices amenable to knowledge management were in place in all the selected university libraries. The acquisition of knowledge was in place, though a lot were still inclined to explicit knowledge while tacit knowledge was limited. Knowledge organization was mostly done using classification scheme while expert based knowledge was not adequately used. A variety of methods were used for knowledge sharing. Information and communication technology (ICT) were available and used to support library services. Lack of mentorship service, lack of management support and research collaboration were major challenges in knowledge sharing. The study concludes that the adoption of knowledge management practices in the selected university libraries would not be a challenge as practices amenable to knowledge management are in place. The study also recommends the acquisition of tacit knowledge among librarians, the use of expertbased knowledge to organize knowledge in the library and to improve knowledge sharing through mentoring services and research collaboration as methods of sharing knowledge.
Marketing Strategies Used for Promotion of Library Information Services in Kaduna State Public Library, Nigeria.
(Kenyatta University, 2019-04) Bawa, Yusuf
This study focused on marketing strategies for information service in Kaduna state public Library. The study was basically narrowed to only public libraries in Kaduna State Nigeria. The objectives of the study are to identify the type of marketing strategy adopted by Kaduna state Public Libraries, to assess the marketing strategies adopted by Kaduna State Public Library, to investigate the level effectiveness of the strategy in marketing information services to library users, to identify the challenges militating against effective marketing in Kaduna Public Library, to assess the problems of poor dissemination of library services to the users due to lack or inadequate marketing strategies used to promote the library and its services. The study considered one theory and compliments it with a model to be able to up with a conceptual framework for the study. A descriptive survey research design has been employed for the study, applying the qualitative method. The target population comprises of all 87 librarians in the three libraries and 400 library users. Literatures are reviewed base on the sub-heads, objectives and conceptual framework of the study. Gaps in empirical review of the literatures have also being established. Interview schedule and Questionnaire was used for collecting data. A Pilot study was conducted in a library which has similar characteristics to the Public library in order to ascertain the validity and reliability of the instruments to be used for data collection. Data collected has been sorted and analyzed. Tabulation and presentation of data has been done using Descriptive statistic methods which includes tables, frequencies and percentages. Piloting has been conducted in the National library in Kaduna state which shares with similar characteristics; validity and reliability of the instruments were found to be consistent with the study. Key findings from the study where strategies adopted in the libraries show how ineffective the strategies are to the promotion of library services. Solutions have been provided to the challenges affecting promotion of library services in Kaduna state public libraries.
Status of information science faculty and librarians collaboratory research in selected Kenyan universities
(Kenyatta University, 2018-07) Gichugu, Martin Uimbia
Collaboratory research concept is close to two decades old and it entails researchers working together on research projects irrespective of their geographical location resulting in co-authored publications. Collaboratory research could help address teaching, professional and industry based issues facing a host of disciplines. However, despite its potential, collaboratory research in the field of library and information sciences (LIS) is insignificant. This study therefore sought to examine the perception of this concept by LIS professionals in universities in Kenya. The current trends and collaboratory research practices were examined including the priority areas for LIS research. The opportunities and the challenges of collaboratory research were also investigated. The study was informed by Social Capital Theory fronted by Putnam (2000). This theory is about links, shared values and understandings in society that enable individuals and groups to trust each other and work together. A total of 143 respondents comprising of 61 faculty members, 6 chief librarians and 76 librarians from six Kenyan universities offering LIS degree programs constituted the informants for this study. Questionnaires, interview schedules and bibliometrics were used for data collection. A pretesting of the research instruments was conducted targeting respondents from two universities offering LIS programs but were not participating in the study. This helped to ensure validity and reliability of the instruments and data. Descriptive statistics were used for analysis. The key findings from the study were that research productivity in LIS is still at low levels, that majority of the faculty members and the librarian are familiar with concept of collaboratory research and they believe it can provide a solution to a number of challenges facing LIS profession. The study also found out that collaboratory research practice is still low and where it has happened, this has been to a large extent between colleagues that is between faculty and faculty and between librarians and fellow librarians. The study found low interaction levels between faculty and librarians, absence of working forums, absence of university support and lack of individual commitment as the major bottlenecks to collaboratory research. The study concluded that the uptake of the collaboratory research practice in the LIS profession in Kenya is significantly low. The study recommends that faculty members need to reach out to librarians to share ideas and experiences besides trying their hands in library practice. Librarians should shift from just being custodians and disseminators of information to creators through research besides engaging in teaching. The universities on their part need to come forth and provide support in terms of funds, necessary training and incentives for research. Professional organizations such as the Kenya Library Association (KLA) need to do more in bringing together members of the LIS profession in workshops, seminars and conferences besides helping to maintain links amongst the LIS professional. The individual players on their part need to demonstrate commitment and mutual trust for collaboratory research to flourish. The study proposes a three
Determinants of use of informal settlement community libraries by children in selected informal settlements in Nairobi County, Kenya
(Kenyatta University, 2018-07) Kibugi, Sarah W.
The existence of libraries in Africa goes back to the colonial period. A number of African nations have legislated the establishment of national libraries through Acts of parliaments. From such legislation, the Kenya National Library Services (KNLS) was established by an Act of parliament in 1967, with a mandate to establish libraries in the country (Mulindwa, 2010). Due to lack of capacity, such libraries have done little to establish community libraries in the slums of Kenya, and the few ones that the donors have established have not succeeded in encouraging their use due to such factors as lack of funds to stock a variety of resources required by children. This study sought to find out the determinants of use among the children in middle childhood in informal settlements in Nairobi. Specifically, the study sought to find out how geographical location, services and activities, resources available in the library and children’s perception about the library affect its use. The study was based on the theory of acceptance and use of technology. The study adopted correlational research design. The study was carried out in selected informal settlements community libraries in Nairobi. It covered six selected community libraries in the following informal settlements of Nairobi: Mathare North, Mathare 4A, Mradi Mathare, Mathare 2A, Korogocho, and Mukuru Kwa Njenga. The participants were selected through simple random sampling. The study covered 360 children, 36 Teachers and 18 library staff who were interviewed. Collected data was coded, classified and tabulated to facilitate analysis. SPSS was used to generate descriptive and inferential statistics. Descriptive statistics from the children, library staff and teachers produced results on means and frequencies of responses. Qualitative data gathered from open ended questions were contently analysed to provide results. Multiple linear regression was used to generate inferential statistics. From the study, it was evident that geographical location, the services and activities offered and the children’s perception about the library contribute significantly to the use of the library. The study revealed that there was a positive correlation between the independent variables (geographical location, services and activities offered, resources available and children’s perception of the library) and the dependent variable (library use). This means that an increase in either of the independent variables would result to an increase in the use of the library by the children aged six to nine in the community libraries. From the findings it was established that the informal settlement community libraries need to improve their services and activities in order to maintain children’s interest in using them. The staff working in the informal settlement community libraries should form a network in which they can share success stories to demonstrate how their libraries serve children in middle childhood in the informal settlement community libraries. Finally, the community libraries should also strive to make their services and activities more attractive to children.
An assessment of the performance of public record centres in facilitating proper records management practices in public offices in Kenya
(2017-09) Kamau, Harriet W. G.
Public record centres in Kenya are charged with ensuring proper record management practices by advising public offices on records creation, maintenance, use, appraisal and disposal, in order to achieve efficient, transparent and accountable governance in the public sector. The study was motivated by public outcry in the mass media about delays in information provision and ‗loss‘ of records in some public offices in Kenya, A delay in record retrieval can negatively impact on decision making on the part of the organization, frustrations on the part of clients and violation of the provisions of the ―Right to Information Act‖ in the Bill of Rights, Chapter Four of the Constitution of Kenya, 2010, which includes the right of access to information. The study objectives were to: find out the extent to which the policies and procedures in public record centres help in the achievement of public record centres‘ goals; assess the effectiveness of the Public Archives(Amendment) Act,(1990) on the mandate of the public record centres, examine the levels of facilitations in relation to equipment, funds and personnel and their effect on service delivery, find out how far awareness creation with their clients could be a factor in the achievement of public record centre goals and, finally determine the constraints that could be hindering public record centres from fulfilling their mandate and suggest solutions. The Theory of Constraints by Eliyahu (1984) and Information Society Theory were used in the study. The research design was descriptive survey design, found suitable for the collection of both quantitative and qualitative data as was on the ground. The target population of the study was the staff and management of the public record centres in Kenya and the Director, Kenya National Archives and Documentation Service (KNA&DS).The study used the whole targeted population because it was small and therefore manageable. The tools of research were questionnaires for the record centre staff, interviews for the record Centre management staff and the KNA&DS Director and an observation schedule. The tools were piloted at Nairobi record centre, selected through simple random sampling using raffle papers. The data collected was analyzed using Microsoft Excel (2013) and Google Drive Spreadsheet software. Quantitative data were interpreted, discussed and presented using tables, graphs and percentages while qualitative data was presented using textual narratives and voices. The key findings were that, public record centres did not have an official National Records management policy, operated under an outdated and incomprehensive legislation and was poorly facilitated in respect to staff, funds, equipment and other facilities. Awareness creation was, also, inadequate due to low levels of funding and staff. The main conclusion was that none of the public centres could adequately perform well enough to fulfill their mandate due to poor facilitation especially in staffing. Main recommendations were that the draft records management policy be officially ratified for proper implementation, the amended Archives legislation Act (1990)be updated to incorporate omissions and emerging issues and also, funding be improved in order to adequately meet the requirements for the expected performance of the public record centres. Included also, is a ‗Performance Improvement Model for Public Record Centres‘ and recommendations for further research
Role of media in disseminating Luyia indigenous knowledge for socio-economic development: the case of West Fm Radio, Western Kenya
(Kenyatta University, 2016-10) Wekalao, Namaande Ben
The study focused on the role of media in disseminating Indigenous Knowledge (IK) for socio-economic development. The media station narrowed on is the West FM Radio in Bungoma whose broadcast covers Western Kenya and some parts of the North Rift. The purpose of the study was to assess the role of media in disseminating Indigenous Knowledge and where possible develop a pragmatic framework for the process. The study objectives comprised determining listenership levels of West FM indigenous knowledge programmes, evaluating indigenous knowledge domains and practices in Western Kenya and assessing the programmes and tools used by West FM radio for disseminating indigenous knowledge, among others. The study is important to IK policy makers both at the national and West FM levels because it gives theoretical information relevant to policy formulation and incorporation into national policy instruments. The media especially FM radios have become an alternative means through which indigenous knowledge is disseminated. The study systematically described the different facets of IK in the Western and North Rift topographies of West FM listenership. Purposive sampling was used in identifying staff to be interviewed from the West FM Radio. Stratified sampling was used to categorize the strata of respondents (the staff, IK custodians and audience) of West FM. Since the target population was not homogeneous, systematic random sampling was applied in the study to determine the respondents from the listenership stratum. Multiple data collection comprising both primary and secondary data collection methods such as documentary review, face to face interview, telephone interview, observations and content analysis were applied. A pilot study on respondents from Nyota FM (based in Bungoma town) was undertaken to give baseline information for improvement on different aspects of methodology. Research instruments were pre- tested in the pilot centre to determine validity. Cronbach’s alpha reliability estimate was used to measure the internal consistency of data collected. Finally, thematic and explanatory data analysis approach was used to analyze qualitative data. SPSS was applied for quantitative data analysis. Among the findings of the study are that IK programmes have had a positive impact on the listenership in terms of agriculture, morality and family stability. However, though well intentioned, the programmes were yet to be evaluated on their appropriateness in terms of content transmitted, language used and other aspects pertinent to dissemination of IK. The study recommends the need for a national policy on IK and that the station’s IK policy be scaled up to factor other communities in its coverage area in terms of content and language used for dissemination. It also recommends gender parity in IK programmes and further research on harvesting and acquisition and documentation of IK.
Implementation of Electronic Medical Records in Kenyan Public Hospitals: Challenges and Opportunities
(Kenyatta University, 2015-05) Wamae, Peter
An Electronic Medical Record (EMR), a computer system composed of the clinical data repository, clinical decision support, controlled medical vocabulary, order entry, and pharmacy module has become a growing subject of debate in the world today. While EMRs hold great promise, few studies have been conducted on their implementation and outcome. Despite the fact that Kenya has made tremendous steps in Information Communication Technology (ICT) as demonstrated by the growing number of telephone lines, Internet Service Providers (ISPs), the number of Internet users, broadcasting stations, mobile phones and the growing competition by mobile service providers, and development of National EMR standards, there has been no noticeable penetration of ICT in public hospitals. To unearth the issues surrounding implementation of EMR in Kenyan Public hospitals, this study aimed at exposing technical and socio-economic challenges during pre-implementation, implementation, and post-implementation stages in Kenya. It also examined opportunities for EMR which can be utilized to improve healthcare. Towards this end, the study employed a descriptive approach to systematically study and describe the existing medical records management systems, the available electronic infrastructure, attitudes towards EMR and the expected EMR by-products. Structured and unstructured inquiry methods were used to collect quantitative and qualitative data from a sample of 685 (Strategic Managers, Doctors, Nurses and Health records and Information Officers) drawn from Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital, Kenyatta National Hospital, Rift Valley, Embu and Nyeri Provincial General Hospitals, Naivasha District hospital and Thika, Level 5 Hospital, and Meru Level 5 Hopital. Data was analyzed to determine the respondents’ view on the procedures that were followed during EMR implementation, the existing EMR functionalities, user satisfaction with EMR output, and to look for EMR implementation trends and patterns. The key findings of the research included low consideration of financial strategies for EMR funding and sustainability, low utilization of existing national EMR standards, a disconnect between strategic managers and EMR users especially in the area of user involvement, Low EMR impact on healthcare services, and low reliability of EMR as evidence, maintenance of authentic records and lack of other records management functions such as appraisal, disposal and permanent retention of records among others. Based on the findings, the study recommends more sensitization on National EMR standards at both strategic and users level to ensure EMR quality, appropriate involvement of users and all stakeholders in all stages of implementation to enhance requirements analysis, ownership of system and utilization. The study also recommends before and after studies in health facilities implementing EMRs in order to ensure early corrective measures and control of the implementation process.
Constraints experienced in public record centres in the facilitation of proper records management practices in public offices in Kenya
(2013-05) Kamau, Harriet W. G.
Public record centres (PRCs are charged with ensuring that there are proper record management practices in public offices in Kenya. Failure by public record centres to facilitate proper record management practices in public offices can negatively impact on the latter‘s delivery of services. This study will investigate PRCs in Kenya in order to find out the constraints they might be facing in carrying out their mandate of helping public office registries practice proper records management as expected. This study has been motivated by the many complaints about delays in records retrieval raised by clients looking for services in a number of public offices in Kenya. The study will be guided by various objectives as namely; establish whether the procedures and policies guiding the public record centre have an impact on the attainment of their goals; determine whether the facilities available affect their service delivery to the public offices in Kenya; whether the available staff is adequate in terms of numbers and qualifications; whether awareness creation with their clients is a necessary component in the attainment of their goals and finally find out what other challenges the public record centre could be facing that are relevant to the study. The target population of the study will be fifty one, comprising the management and staff of five public record centres; Nakuru, Mombasa, Kakamega, Kisumu and Nairobi and the Director of Kenya National Archives and documentation service (KNA&DS). One of the five county record centres will be used for piloting the data collecting tools. The sample size will be twenty nine comprising twenty four staff members selected through simple random sampling (six from each of the remaining four record centres), and the Director, KNA&DS selected through purposive sampling to provide data on administrative matters. Nairobi public record centre, selected through simple random sampling using raffle papers, will be used for piloting the data collecting instruments for their validity and reliability. The tools of research will be questionnaires for the record centre staff, interviews for the record centre management staff and the KNA&DS Director and observation schedules for assessing appropriateness of the location of the record centre, accommodation for both personnel and records, as well as accessibility to the record centre. The research design will be descriptive qualitative survey because the researcher will collect data as is on the ground. The data collected will be analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) and descriptive statistics based on the themes contained in the objectives of this study. The results of the analyses will be presented by use of various graphs, tables, percentages and descriptions. Conclusions and recommendations will then be made based on the findings.
Accessibility and Utilization of Written Publications for Enhancing Agricultural Productivity in Kandara, Kigumo, Murang’a South Districts of Murang’a County, Kenya
(Kenyatta University, 2015-01-20) Joshua, Reuben Njuguna
The aim of this study was to identify the challenges encountered by farmers in a accessing and using written information materials in Kandara, Kigumo and Murang’a South Districts of Murang’a County. The objective of the study was to investigate the accessibility and utilization of written agricultural information materials by the farmers in the three districts where low agricultural productivity and high poverty levels continue to be experienced, despite having some high agricultural potential areas with sufficient rainfall. The study used the survey design to establish the sources of information used by farmers in their agricultural activities. The target population was 114,578 farm families in the three districts from whom 390 heads of families were sampled using systematic random sampling technique. Three agricultural officers, three veterinary officers and three livestock development officers were also included in the sample. These were purposively sampled. Two questionnaires were used for data collection- - one for the farmers, and the other for the officers. Both questionnaires were pretested before they were used to collect data so as to ensure the reliability and validity of the test items. The questionnaires for farmers were hand-delivered by the researcher and collected immediately after completion, while those for the officers were also hand-delivered but collected later after completion. Collected data was analyzed both quantitatively and qualitatively as per the study objectives using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). Data was presented in form of Tables, Figures, Text and Percentages. The study established that relevant written agricultural information materials were not readily accessible to most farmers due to: unavailability of the materials (57.9%), illiteracy (20.4%) and lack of interest and time (8.5%) on the part of some literate farmers. The study concluded that many farmers in Kandara, Kigumo and Murang’a South Districts did not use written agricultural information materials for their farming activities. This could lead them to not making well informed decisions in their farming activities, thereby resulting to low agricultural productivity. The study suggested possible solutions to the problems encountered by the farmers relating to accessibility and utilization of relevant written agricultural information materials. One of the suggestions was establishment of Agricultural Information and Documentation Centres at several levels including district, divisional, locational, sub-locational and village levels. The centres should be stocked with relevant written agricultural materials for use by farmers. It also recommended establishment of bookshops within farmers’ neighbourhoods and stocking them with relevant written agricultural information materials which farmers could buy. To tackle the problem of illiteracy, the study recommended that Murang’a County Government embark on an ambitious adult literacy programme to empower illiterate citizens including farmers to learn how to read and write.
An investigation on disaster preparedness and mitigation for computer based information systems in selected University libraries in Kenya
(2014) Njoroge, Rose Wambui
This study was carried out at a time when the introduction of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in higher institutions of learning had become a key issue for service delivery. The introduction of e-learning and hence the need to provide access to information for learning, teaching and research had necessitated academic libraries to incorporate Information Technology (IT) to facilitate efficient and effective operations of the library. IT has seen the introduction of computerbased information systems (CBIS) in the libraries. The study aimed to investigate the status of disaster preparedness and mitigation for CBIS in libraries. To achieve this, it sought to find out threats affecting CBIS, established disaster preparedness and mitigation measures, find out personnel involved in disaster preparedness and mitigation, assess policies and programmes on issues addressed on disaster preparedness and mitigation and finally the challenges faced by university libraries which may CBIS. The study was carried out in selected academic libraries in Kenya. These included two public and two chartered private universities within Nairobi County and its neighbouring counties (Kiambu, Machakos and Kajiado). The study respondents included university librarians, deputy university librarians, ICT directors, information systems librarians, ICT technicians working in the libraries and circulation librarians. A total of 26 participants were expected to participate in the study. However, only 19 were eventually interviewed. Relevant data was collected from the respondents using several methods which included observation, interviews, document reviews and audio-visual aids. The collected data was coded, analyzed, interpreted and presented using qualitative methods. This entailed coming up with themes, coding the themes and writing narratives for the findings and drawing conclusions. Data was presented using tables, graphs, charts and plates. The findings revealed that libraries had taken several measures to protect their CBIS. The researcher noted that only basic measures had been incorporated and the personnel in charge of CBIS had varied levels of training which influenced the methods used to secure CBIS. Top management of the institutions studied were not fully aware of the dangers CBIS were exposed to and relied heavily on the advice given to them by ICT personnel. Three of the institutions studied had not developed policies and programmes pertaining to disaster management for CBIS. There were a myriad of challenges experienced in a bid to mitigate and prepare for disaster that could affect CBIS such as vandalism, lack of cooperation by various departments, lack of funding, inadequate qualified staff to deal with CBIS, among many others. The study came up with several recommendations on education and training, disaster management policy development, training programmes and plans development, establishment of data recovery centres for CBIS, cooperation and partnership with other stakeholders, provision of adequate funding for CBIS infrastructure among many others. Further research was recommended on CBIS business continuity planning in universities in Kenya.
Challenges facing academic staff in adopting open access outlets for disseminating research findings in selected university libraries in Kenya
(2014) Mutwiri, Caroline Muthoni
Open Access Journals (OAJs) and Institutional Repositories (IRs) are Open Access (OA) outlets that provide a platform for disseminating research findings. Although these outlets have been introduced in universities to increase dissemination, access and impact of staff, academic staff adoption of such outlets in Africa has been slow and their use of these outlets in disseminating their research works has been low. This study sought to establish the challenges academic staff face with regard to OA outlets. It established outlets employed by academic staff in dissemination, their awareness, skills and training, attitude and use of OA outlets. Rogers Diffusion of Innovations theory was used. Descriptive design using survey method was used for this study. The target population was 15,000 academic staff from which a sample of 381 was selected using stratified sampling technique. The study was conducted in 12 private and 7 public universities in Kenya. Questionnaires were used to collect data. A pilot study to assure validity and reliability was conducted, yielding a Cronbach correlation coefficient of 0.76 which was considered acceptable. Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) was used to generate data. Descriptive statistics such as percentages and means were used for analysis. The study established that academics preferred traditional publishing outlets for dissemination but they were associated with problems of accessibility, cost and delays in publishing while OA outlets were associated with low quality. General awareness of OAP among academic staff was high (66%) but awareness of specific OA aspects was low. A majority of academic staff were active consumers of OAJs (74.3%) and IR content (75.7%) but not prolific contributors at 20.9% and 27.5% respectively. Only 29% of the academic staff had training in OAJs and IRs. The study concluded that traditional publishing outlets were utilized more than OA outlets and awareness of OAP was low among scholars. The study recommends awareness creation of OA outlets, capacity building in self archiving, institutionalization of OA outlets in Kenyan universities and enhancement of academic - library staff collaborations, among others. The study findings are significant to all stakeholders interested in dissemination of research findings through OA outlets.

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