Department of Information Science and Knowledge Management

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Open Access
Access to and use of Tobacco Production Health Hazard Information Sources by Tobacco Farmers in Kuria West Sub – County, Migori County, Kenya
(SRELS Journal of Information Management, 2022-09) Chacha, Jackson Manchare; Amunga, Hellen; Ongus, Raymond
Tobacco production poses serious dangers to tobacco farmers especially in developing countries. Previous studies have shown that tobacco production activities continue to expose tobacco farmers to health risk. This study examines sources of health hazard information that tobacco farmers in Kuria West Sub- County of Migori County, Kenya access and use in an effort to protect themselves. The data was collected from a sample size of 100 tobacco farmers and 41 key informants. A representative sample was chosen from the four selected wards of Kuria West Sub-County. Software Packages for Social Sciences (SPSS) was used to analyse data. A major finding was that majority of tobacco farmers used various sources of information whose adequacy about potential risks associated with the crop farming remained a challenge. The paper concludes that, the sources of information that tobacco farmers relied on are unreliable and not trustworthy. The study recommends the establishment
Open Access
Adapting Social Networking Sites for Scholarly Communication among Postgraduate Students in Kenyan Universities
(SRELS Journal of Information Management, 2021-10) Kipruto, Martha; Kitetu, Catherine; Ongus, Raymond
The study examines how postgraduate students use Social Networking Sites (SNS) in communicating scholarly information in Kenyan universities with reference to use of WhatsApp, Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn and Academia.edu. The objectives of this studies are: to determine how social networking sites are used for scholarly communication and to find out the reasons for using social networking sites by postgraduate students. Descriptive research design was used to guide the study. From four universities with a sample size of 242 postgraduate students who filled the questionnaire. The findings of the study showed that postgraduate students use SNS to share research ideas, class experiences, to know where to meet for lessons, when lectures are starting and updates on deadlines for submitting class assignments; the reasons for using SNS are for academic purposes and group discussion. In conclusion, the findings of the study show that postgraduate students use SNS to share daily experiences within campus rather than sharing information on how and where they can get scholarly information that will enable them to add new body of knowledge.
Open Access
Analyzing application of Information communication technologies and use for information provision by library Staff of Mount Kenya University Library, Kisii Campus
(World Journal of Computer Application and Technology, 2016) Wamalwa, Lucas Wanangeye; Omallah, Benard George
Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) play a crucial role in creating access to and utilization of library information resources and services through the use of library management systems leading to the current stampede to train and refresh library staff skills in order to promote and engender service delivery. When academic libraries integrate ICTs in acquisition, processing, storage, dissemination and accession to their holdings, user needs are addressed quickly and on time. In this study the researchers sought to determine the application of Information Communication Technologies (ICTs) and Use for information provision by library staff of the Mount Kenya University Library, Kisii Campus. The target population was Mount Kenya university library staff and students. A survey research design aimed at identifying users’ views and interpretation of the application and use of ICTs in the provision of library information resources and services. Stratified sampling was used to identify the students-respondents and purposive sampling used to select the library staff. While questionnaires were placed to collect the data from students, library staff respondents were interviewed. The study sample comprised four hundred (320) library users and staff out of a population of three thousand five hundred and twenty eight (1456). The study showed among other findings, that there are improved access and use of library resources and services through the use ICTs in Mount Kenya University, Kisii Campus.
Open Access
Analyzing the Use of Mobile Phone Technology in Access and Utilization of Library Resources in Mount Kenya University, Kisii Campus
(World Journal of Computer Application and Technology, 2016) Omallah, Benard George; Maina, Jane; Wamalwa, Lucas Wanangeye
Tremendous advancements attained in the last one decade in computer and mobile phone technologies have completely changed patrons’ information seeking behavior and left librarians and information professionals rethinking about ways of re-engineering library resources to foster their utility. Libraries and information centres have invested heavily on holding library resources and services from different disciplines in a frantic move to address users’ needs but limited readership is still recorded. In this paper, the researcher delved into analyzing the use of mobile phone technology in access and utilization of library resources and services as a way of re-engineering library holdings to promote their (library resources and services) consumption. The targeted population was Mount Kenya University Kisii campus library users. A cross sectional survey research design aimed at identifying library users’ perception on the use of mobile phone technology was used. Stratified sampling was used to identify the students-respondents and purposive sampling used to select the library staff. While questionnaires were placed to collect the data from students, library staff respondents were interviewed. The study sample comprised four hundred (445) library users and staff out of a population of three thousand five hundred and twenty eight (1467). Once the data collection is complete, quantitative data was analyzed using descriptive statistics such as mean, distributions in percentages and frequency counts. Qualitative data was recorded from field data, transcribed and reported in themes and sub themes. The study showed among other findings, that there are increased retrieval and use of library resources and services through the use mobile phone technology in Mount Kenya University Kisii Campus.
Open Access
Application of Text Mining for Explicit Knowledge Retrieval at Kenya Coastal Development Project
(Journal of Information Science, Systems and Technology, 2021-12) Onkundi, Ednah Nyakerario; Ongus, Raymond Wafula; Nyamboga, Constantine Matoke
This study applied and evaluated a Text Mining model and tools in the retrieval of explicit knowledge at the Kenya Coastal Development Project (KCDP). The study identified textmining techniques that could be used to develop and evaluate a text-mining model for the task, complemented with system analysis of the existing systems through surveys of 52 purposively sampled relevant staff of the KCDP using a questionnaire and focus group discussions (FGD) to collect data to establish the current situation at the KCDP in terms of records and knowledge management systems in place and how text mining may be used to retrieve knowledge from the existing systems. Text data were also collected from the project and related websites, using various Python programming language libraries including Python Request 2.22 and Beautiful Soup 3, and summarized using algorithms that included Luhnsummarizer, Lsansummarizer, Lexranksummarizer and Edmondsummarizer. Topic modelling was also performed with the text data using Latent Dirichlet Allocation (LDA) topic-modelling algorithm, and the model was evaluated to establish its performance. It was concluded that text mining and analysis could be used to analyze explicit knowledge from both structured and unstructured electronic data at the KCDP using the model. The study recommended that more research be done in the development and evaluation of proposed models and text analysis tools and code libraries should be developed to support other languages than English, such as Kiswahili
Open Access
Assessment of Hybrid Records Management Systems at Mount Kenya University, Kenya
(International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), 2017-10-10) Mulati, Noreen; Wasike, Jotham
Records are pillars of business activities. In their absence the organizational management is likely to sabotage decision making. This study aimed at assessing the effectiveness of hybrid records management system at the Mount Kenya University. The study was guided by the following objectives to establish whether MKU has an adequate records management policy that governs hybrid records management system, analyze the extent of staff training on records management and determine the security measures that have been put in place to manage records. The study adopted a case study which involved in-depth analysis of how records were being managed using a hybrid records management system at MKU. Target population consisted of 240 respondents drawn from University`s main campus. Stratified sampling technique was used to select respondents from administration, examinations, Information Communication Technology (ICT) and Library departments. Data was collected using questionnaires, interview schedules and documentary evidence. Quantitative data was analysed using Statistical Package for Social Science Software (SPSS) version 20. The study found out that Mount Kenya University (MKU) has embraced hybrid records management since most of its records were in paper and electronic formats, the university has policies governing management of records using a hybrid records management system which has led to effective management of records, staff training does not affect the use of hybrid record management system since most staff that have been employed are managing records especially the electronic records due to the technological changes most staff are computer literate, the university records have been secured and that personal records and vital records can only be accessed by authorised personnel. By embracing the hybrid records management system the universities records will be effectively managed and it will also enhance decision making by policy makers. The study is vital to researchers who will use it for benchmarking and for future reference.
Open Access
An assessment of the framework of skills and competencies of staff managing student records at Kenya Technical Teachers College
(Journal of Library and Information Science Technology, 2016-01) Makwae, Evans Nyanyu; Omallah, Benard George; Masese, Mogaka Jasper; Nyamosi, Grace Gesare
Universities and Colleges are consistently facing challenges in managing student records in a bid to promote service delivery in the academic field. It is with this background that the study endeavored to assess the framework of skills and competencies of staff managing student records at Kenya Technical Teachers College (K.T.T.C.). Descriptive survey was adopted in conducting this research, primary data was collected by use of questionnaires while secondary data was collected from documented materials particularly textbooks and other relevant materials such as internet, newspapers and journals. The target population consisted staff managing student records, Human resource personnel and Heads of departments (HODs) of KTTC. The target population was therefore 30 respondents. The sample size for the study comprised twenty-two (22) staff in charge of student records, four (4) HODs and four (4) human resource personnel totaling thirty (30) respondents. The study employed purposive sampling and simple random sampling techniques to select the sample. Purposive sampling was also used to sample key information like staff of the college. Simple random sampling was used to select staff in KTTC registry. The data was analyzed using the Microsoft excel package. The study findings indicated that the majority of the staff managing student records were skilled and trained in student records management skills. It’s therefore imperative for the college to train its staff as this will facilitate better student records management. This implies that the majority of staffs have no experience that will enhance efficiency. The study also established that skills and competencies lead to efficiency and effectiveness of student records management. Based on the findings of this study the following recommendations were made that: the philosophies of the heads of the college as well as the records staff must represent a critical framework of skills and competencies of staff managing student records at Kenya Technical Teachers College (K.T.T.C.).
Open Access
Challenges and Opportunities of a Health Science College Library: Experience of the Faculty of Health Sciences at Moi University- Kenya
(DESIDOC Bulletin of Information Technology, 2003-11) Nyamboga, Constantine M; O Ochieng, Washington
This paper discusses the current environment in which health information is disseminated through the college library at the faculty of health sciences in Moi University, Kenya. It also highlights the emerging trends that have influenced the provision of health information. The hurdles that compound document delivery and possible solutions are examined.
Open Access
The Changing and evolving Roles of Information Professionals in the Digital Age: A Case of Egerton University.
(Kenya Library Association, 2011) Obegi, F. M.; Nyamboga, C.M.
Library and Information Service profession is one of the most challenging professions in the knowledge society. Librarians face complex challenges posed by recent trends in Information and Communication Technology. The role of the Library professional has become more dynamic and challenging in the modern world. This paper covers the role of library and library information service professionals that have undergone a large degree of change in recent years. This paper outlines and discusses the professional skills and technological competencies necessary for library professionals and considers how these are acquired and developed to survive in an ever changing technological environment and to meet the future challenges of the 21st century.
Open Access
Current trends in preservation of digital information in modern libraries: a case of Mount Kenya University
(2015-07) Simotwo, James Kiprono
Digital information is an essential resource in our knowledge economy, valuable for research and education, cultural activities and public policy. However, digital information is inherently fragile and often at risk of loss. It access of these valuable information in the future wholly depends on its preservation actions taken today. The practice of preservation of information begins, not when an information resource has begun to deteriorate from its use, abuse or age, but with its creation. Each resource ultimate value to the collection should be considered at the time of acquisition and initial preservation plans made at that time. This study intends to establish the current trends modern libraries has taken in order to preserve digital information resources. It aims to focus on the innovations Mount Kenya University has undertaken to ensure that digital information resource are preserved to enable valuable information resources continue to provide the much need knowledge to its users and its application to meet their information needs. This study will be guided by the following objectives: first, to identify the different types of preservation methods used to preserve digital resource in Mount Kenya University library. Second, to examine the challenges faced in preservation of digital information resources and lastly, to establish the benefits achieved by Mount Kenya University library when digital resources are preserved. The study will employ a case study research which describes in details and allow an in-depth investigation into the current trends of preservation of digital information resources. In this study, the targets population will be all Mount Kenya University Library staff which totals up to 22 staff. Stratified random sampling technique will be used to obtain the sample population for study. The researchers will administer questionnaires in its data collection. This study will reveals the important of preservation of digital resource in a fast moving world of technology, consolidate the recommendations of past research papers in the context of digital information in the libraries and information environment. The paper will propose recommendations that take the theoretical issues raised in the past and propose a checklist, or prototype to allow libraries to implement a preservation strategy.
Open Access
Data Smog and Information Literacy in Special Libraries: Case study of Kenya Agricultural & Livestock Research Organization (KALRO), Kitale Centre.
(The Maktaba Journal of Kenya Library Association, 2016-11) Odhiambo, Henry Kenneth; Nyamboga, Constantine M.
This paper aims at breaking the barriers that link information seekers and the information providers to enhance information literacy in the society with interest to the agricultural sector. Most special libraries have more than enough data banks of information and therefore to the parent organization, this behavior of having too much information results to Data Smog, which is produced by the amount of information, the speed at which it comes to us from all directions, the need to make decisions, and the feeling of anxiety that we are making decisions without having all the information that is available or what we need. The 21st century has been called Information Age because of the explosion of information output and information sources. Information literacy equips people with critical skills necessary to become independent. Literature review highlights Information Policy in Kenya, Promotion of use of information, Information Marketing and Information Literacy. The methodology that was used in the research was descriptive research design. Target populations were (i) Library users at KALRO (ii) KALRO Library staff. The researcher used questionnaires for Data Collection. In Data Analysis, qualitative and quantitative methods were employed. It can therefore be summarized that information resources in special libraries need to be shared, marketed, and disseminated to the rightful information seekers at the right time.
Open Access
Development of Libraries and Information Centres in the Electronic Age: A Developing Country Perspective
(Annals of Library and Information Studies, 2003) Nyamboga, Constantine M.; Kemparaju, T.D.
Many libraries and information centres in the developing countries are still far behind the libraries in developed countries in the transition from traditional to electronic libraries. They are expected to continue acquiring print material, while simultaneously seeking out electronic sources. However, few developing countries such as India, Kenya and Thailand are competing with those in the developed world in the transition from traditional to electronic libraries. The libraries in these countries are seriously addressing the issue of electronic information resources acquisition keeping in view the meager economic resources. The paper discusses the challenges posed by the accelerating pace of change in the world of information especially in developing countries and stresses the importance of managing the change by focusing on col/ection development (inclusive of electronic resources). Training and development skills of the information professionals and also library users. It also examines and provides general vielVs on how libraries and information centres should approach the situation in order to accomplish and acquire at least simple electronic resources .while taking into consideration the library and information policy
Open Access
Digital Library Management: A Worthy and Well-timed Makeover for the Information Professional
(SRELS Journal of Information Management, 2008-09) Ongus, Raymond Wafula; Kemparaju, T. D.; Nyamboga, Constantine Matoke; Veerabasavaiah, M.
This paper examines digital libraries principally from the management perspective. For the purpose of appreciating the intrinsic concepts involved, it starts with a comprehensive discussion of definitions, followed by basic principles pertaining to digital libraries. Next, it gives a glimpse into a wide-ranging spectrum of reasons as to why digital libraries are mushrooming predominantly in the developed world and in some developing countries as well. Reasons for the management of these types of libraries are also brought into view. Core competencies expected of digital librarians are outlined, in the wake of the new and continuously dynamic technological dispensation. The paper stresses the need for a paradigm shift in information management strategies in as far as digital libraries are concerned. This is considered to be crucial if at all information professionals are to gain maximum mileage in their noble mission of satisfying evolving user needs. Urgent attention ought to be directed towards managing of digital libraries, as a means of enabling contemporary information professionals to assert their unique role in society, not only as information gatekeepers but as information gateways, as well.
Open Access
E-RESOURCES COMPLEXITIES AND THEIR USAGE AMONG THE INFORMATION SCIENCE STUDENTS IN MOUNT KENYA UNIVERSITY, KIGALI CAMPUS
(Global Journal of Engineering Science and Research Management, 2014-11) Nyamboga, Constantine; Bosire, Josephat; Tinega, Haron; Mucyo, Vincent
This study intended to ascertain the usage of e-library resources among the undergraduate students at Mount Kenya University (MKU)-Kigali Campus by determining the awareness level, e-library resources accessibility complexities and the challenges faced by information Science students. The study employed the use of a descriptive statistical research design in which the questionnaire instrument was administered the 178 undergraduate respondents of Mount Kenya University, Kigali Campus. The analysis of the study indicated that a large number of the students were aware of the availability of electronic library resources through library notice board. However, students showed low awareness via other modes of communication such as colleagues (39.7%) for the undergraduate and 34.5% postgraduate, also only 6.4% of the undergraduate and 6.9% of were aware of the e-library resources through e-mail from the library. Many students indicated that they face challenges in accessing and using e-library resources and the main reasons put forward were lack of advanced information searching skills, information overload due to too much information available online. This implies therefore that there is a high need to improve on the awareness campaign via other modes of communication such as e-mails and seminars. Trainings and workshops on how to use e-library resources should be organized by the library staff and management so that the subscribed e-resources databases are used effectively and efficiently to maximize research in higher learning institutions. In conclusion, the study suggested that it would be important to establish information literacy programs so that students and the entire university community are acquainted with the use of electronic resources.
Open Access
Electronic Document Delivery for Supporting Agricultural Research in Kenya: The Experience of Egerton University Library
(Journal of Information Management, 2002-03) Ongus, Raymond Wafula; Nyamboga, Constantine Matoke
Stringent economic conditions, coupled with the proliferation of information have incapacitated many agricultural research libraries in developing countries. Traditional means of document delivery have slumped, causing widespread user-dissatisfaction. Consequently, Compact Disc-Read Only Memory (CD-ROM) technology continues to gain preference, especially in Africa, as an electronic means of hastening document access. The Essential Electronic Agricultural Library (TEEAL), employing CD-ROMs, is examined in relation to its potential in promoting agricultural research at Egerton University in Kenya. A critical analysis of pertinent administrative and technical issues is made with envisaged challenges in focus. Ultimately, suitable solutions for sustainability and improvement are proffered.
Open Access
Evaluation of University websites targeting English speaking users: A comparative analysis of selected sites in developed and developing countries
(Malaysian Journal of library & Information Science, 2006-12) Ongus, R.W.; Kemparaju, T. D.; Nyamboga3, C.M.
The rapid development and increasingly popular usage of the Internet through the World Wide Web (WWW) have offered information professionals a very lucrative opportunity to assert themselves as information gatekeepers and gateways. Through systematic evaluation procedures on information resources such as websites, proper guidance may be offered to targeted end users in order to facilitate much more efficient retrieval of information and hopefully, better utilization of the same. This paper looks at several selected university websites designed in English, all of which were subjected to a uniform set of criteria for the purposes of evaluating the website design and content coverage. Following its classification into developing and developed countries of origin, the data collected was comparatively analysed and subsequent inferences together with recommendations proffered in line with the set objectives.
Open Access
Image management for information professionals in academic libraries: a case study of Mount Kenya University
(2015-07) Arita, Justus Onkware
Image management is the key to success in any walk of life because it involves ongoing evaluation and better utilization of personal resources. In this paper the researcher identified how image management is applied in academic libraries by information professionals, analyzed the benefits, challenges and possible solutions. This study adopted an exploratory research design as it allows problem formulation for more precise investigation or developing the working hypotheses from an operational point of view and major emphasis is put on discovery of ideas and insights. The study targeted six Mount Kenya University campuses which include; Thika campus, Nairobi campus, Nakuru campus, Kisii campus, Eldoret campus and Mombasa campus. A simple random sampling technique was used in arriving at the required sample population for the study whereby a sample size of 20 information professionals were selected from a population of 60 staff members. Questionnaires were administered as a data collection instrument. The study concluded that most libraries do have image management strategies though they do not practice them effectively. The researcher therefore recommended that, it is essential to create a positive first impression, both on personal and professional fronts, by managing one’s own image.
Open Access
Impact of the Amlib Integrated Library Management System on Information Management Practices at Egerton University Library, Njoro Campus, Kenya.
(SRELS Journal of Information Management, 2013-08) Nyamboga, Constantine Matoke; Ongus, Raymond Wafula; Njuguna, Andrew Kimanga
The rapid implementation of information technology in all spheres of life, including libraries and information centres, has led to concerns about the paradigm shift in these institutions. This is a case study conducted at Egerton University Library's campus at Njoro, Kenya. A total of fifty three (53) library staff and eight hundred and eighty nine (889) clients constituted the sample size. The sampled library users were stratified as follows: 384 students, 187 academic staff and 318 non-academic i.c. non-teaching staff, respectively. The ensuing data was collected, analyzed and presented using descriptive statistics, in accordance with the objectives formulated. The study focused on the positive changes and subsequent challenges brought about by the introduction and implementation of AMLlB Integrated Library Management System (ILMS) on information management practices in the academic library. Other aspects considered were the involvement staff and patrons in implementation of the system, staff training and attitudes of staff towards the system. Also explained is the influence that the automated system was observed to have, both on staff and patrons, in their day to day transactions. Results show that the system had a significantly greater impact on the overall library operations and on the library's improved image, thereby endearing it to its clients.
Open Access
Incorporating Digital Libraries Model in the Curriculum for Library and Information Science Education
(2013) Nyamboga, C.M.; Ongus, R.W •
This paper discusses the concept of digital libraries, embarking on why it is essential to adopt digitization in the present information intensive era. Besides, this study tries to emphasize on a course or module on digital libraries that ought to be considered for incorporation in the syllabi of graduate and undergraduate levels of library and information science education. It also examines the reasons behind necessity of introducing and adopting digital libraries to, the library and information science professionals at the end of their training
Open Access
Information centers enhancing peace and justice : a case of Mount Kenya University.
(The Maktaba Journal of Kenya Library Association, 2016-11) Kigen, Lucy Jelagat
Education plays a major role in uniting nations, bringing human beings closely together, through a participatory and interactive process of instruction and learning. Developing a culture of peace and non-violence goes to the substance of fundamental human rights. The aspect of providing peace, security and justice requires the contribution of all stakeholders in the society. It is important to recognize the crucial role of education in contributing to building a culture of peace and condemning instances in which education is undermined in order to attack democracy and tolerance. In line with this, information centers by it’s objective nature avails information promoting research and continuity. However, Information centers must be safe and secure to ensure the best possible situation for research and learning since they are the seats of wisdom. The study was intended to explore local, national, and international issues of violence and injustice along with practical strategies for enhancing peace and justice in Mount Kenya University. The study targeted three Mount Kenya university campuses including Mombasa, Malindi and Virtual campuses. The technique used was simple random sampling where respondents were selected to fill questionnaires placed to collect the data. The targeted sample population is six hundred users out of population of six thousand users. The study will show that peace and justice prevails in Mount Kenya University