Browsing by Author "Kavulya, Joseph M."

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Challenges facing information literacy efforts in Kenya: a case study of selected university libraries in Kenya
(MCB UP Ltd, 2003) Kavulya, Joseph M.
The ability to access, evaluate and use information is a prerequisite for lifelong learning, and a basic requirement for the information society. At the university level, students are expected to contact independent exploration in diverse disciplines and topics and therefore, irrespective of their areas of study, they need to use information effectively. They should not only master the skill of finding information in print format or electronic formats, but also be able to evaluate and use it competently both in their study activities as well as in their later lives. This paper examines why the acquisition of these information skills is a matter of necessity and they are a prime factor in quality learning in Kenyan universities. It concludes that although there have been efforts to ensure information literacy among university students, there is need to build on these efforts through collaborative efforts between librarians and faculty members particularly through joint curriculum design and implementation.
Challenges in the Provision of Library Services for Distance Education: A Case Study of Selected Universities in Kenya
(2004-06-04) Kavulya, Joseph M.
With the increasing popularity of distance education, focus has turned to the role of libraries in the distance learning process. It is widely agreed that like their campus-based counterparts, distance education learners need adequate library services if they are to gain quality education. This paper examines the efforts being made by Kenyan university libraries to fulfil the information needs of the distance education students in their respective institutions. It concludes that although efforts have been made, there is room for improvement through adequate planning, financing and especially through collaboration between information personnel and those who design and implement such distance education programmes.
Digital libraries and development in Sub-Saharan Africa
(2007-06) Kavulya, Joseph M.
Purpose -- The aim of this paper is to review some of the critical information needs in Sub-Saharan Africa and the challenges that face libraries in the region in establishing digital libraries as a way of overcoming the great information shortfall in the region. Design/methodology/approach -- A selective survey of relevant literature is carried out in the study with focus on the role of libraries and information in social development, sectoral information needs and the issues involved in the establishment of digital libraries. Findings -- The paper argues that lack of social development in Africa is exacerbated by lack of adequate information. The paper concludes that, through better information gathering, processing and especially by taking advantage of today's digital transfer of knowledge, countries in the Sub-Saharan region can experience rapid economic, social and political development. Originality/value -- The paper concludes that digital libraries in the Sub-Saharan region can be strategic gateways to the global information and a boost to development in the region. The goal of establishing digital libraries in the region can be achieved through measures such as adoption of modern information communication technologies, amassing relevant digital content, investing in digital skills for library staff and users, strategic partnerships between local institutions, and funding agencies and above all government-backed strategy on digital libraries.
Digital libraries and development in Sub-Saharan Africa A review of challenges and strategies
(Emerald Group Publishing Limited, 2007) Kavulya, Joseph M.
The aim of this paper is to review some of the critical information needs in Sub-Saharan Africa and the challenges that face libraries in the region in establishing digital libraries as a way of overcoming the great information shortfall in the region. Design/methodology/approach – A selective survey of relevant literature is carried out in the study with focus on the role of libraries and information in social development, sectoral information needs and the issues involved in the establishment of digital libraries. Findings – The paper argues that lack of social development in Africa is exacerbated by lack of adequate information. The paper concludes that, through better information gathering, processing and especially by taking advantage of today’s digital transfer of knowledge, countries in the Sub-Saharan region can experience rapid economic, social and political development. Originality/value – The paper concludes that digital libraries in the Sub-Saharan region can be strategic gateways to the global information and a boost to development in the region. The goal of establishing digital libraries in the region can be achieved through measures such as adoption of modern information communication technologies, amassing relevant digital content, investing in digital skills for library staff and users, strategic partnerships between local institutions, and funding agencies and above all government-backed strategy on digital libraries.
Implementing E-learning and the Quest for Quality in Higher Education in sub- Saharan Africa: Conceptualizing the Prospects and Challenges
(2014-07) Kavulya, Joseph M.; Misava, Edward Ombajo
This paper explores the impact of implementing e-learning on the quality of higher education in Africa and the possible challenges that such initiatives have to overcome. It is envisaged that among other advantages, e-learning strategies can improve access, create better learning experiences for students, promote collaborations in the curriculum implementation, and provide efficiency in accessing academic information. However, e-learning initiatives in sub-Saharan Africa face challenges of ICT-related infrastructure, poor policy, and lack of requisite skills for Virtual Learning environments (VLEs) among the higher education workforce and other stakeholders. This paper concludes that there is a need for institutional strategies, and local and international collaboration among government agents, e-learning sponsors, educators, policymakers, ICT as well as and LIS professionals if the e-learning paradigm shift to yield benefits.
Implementing E-learning and the quest for quality in higher education in sub-Saharan Africa: Conceptualizing the prospects and challenges
(2014-07) Kavulya, Joseph M.; Ombajo, Misava Edward
This paper explores the impact of implementing e-learning on the quality of higher education in Africa and the possible challenges that such initiatives have to overcome. It is envisaged that among other advantages, e-learning strategies can improve access, create better learning experiences for students, promote collaborations in the curriculum implementation, and provide efficiency in accessing academic information. However, e-learning initiatives in sub-Saharan Africa face challenges of ICT-related infrastructure, poor policy, and lack of requisite skills for Virtual Learning environments (VLEs) among the higher education workforce and other stakeholders. This paper concludes that there is a need for institutional strategies, and local and international collaboration among government agents, e-learning sponsors, educators, policymakers, ICT as well as and LIS professionals if the e-learning paradigm shift to yield benefits.
Integration of KOHA Library Management System and RFId Technology: A Review of Prospects for Modern University Libraries in Kenya
(Finesse Publishing Ltd, 2019-06) Kavulya, Joseph M.
This book reviews of the current prospects of the use of KOHA library management system in a RFID technology-driven library in Kenya. As an open-source software, KOHA presents the possibility of saving money for the institution. However, due to its current limitations, there are charges for installation, customization, and training. The integration of KOHA and RFID presents potential challenges/complications that will make it difﬁcult for the institution to achieve its objectives in establishing a modern library. The book recommends a careful review of all options before embarking on an integration process for KOHA and RFID technology.
Marketing of library services: A case study of selected university libraries in Kenya
(Emerald Group Publishing Limited, 2004) Kavulya, Joseph M.
Regardless of the type, libraries are under pressure to justify their existence and funding through provision of customer- or market-oriented services. This requires a shift from product or service orientation to customer or need orientation. Different marketing concepts provide libraries with the tools for collecting and analysing useful data about information needs of customers, which assists in designing, developing and delivering appropriate services. This paper examines the methods used by university libraries in Kenya to market their services to different categories of users and the problems experienced therein. It concludes that, although efforts have been made to achieve this, more emphasis must be put on promotion of the already existing services and therefore on the need for university libraries in Kenya to adapt more systematic techniques in collecting data on their user needs, if they are to design and deliver services that fit user requirements.
PERCEPTIONS TOWARDS THE PERSISTENCE OF FEMALE GENITAL CUTTING AMONG THE ABAGUSII OF NYANZA, KENYA
(Finesse Publishing Ltd, 2019-01) Kavulya, Joseph M.
This survey was carried out in the context of the current concerns over FGC in Kenya and other regions and ongoing efforts to eradicate it. Recent studies show that FGC practiced in over half the districts in the country in Kenya, with 38% of all women aged 15-19 years reporting being circumcised. It is nearly universal among the Kisii (97%) and the Maasai (89%), and is also prevalent among the Kalenjin (62%), Taita-Taveta (59%) and the Meru/Embu (54%) and to a lesser extent among the Kikuyu (43%) and the Kamba (33%) (KDHS, 1998). All types of FGC have been associated with immediate and longterm complications. The immediate complications can include severe pain, trauma, tetanus, urine retention, urethral or anal damage, excessive bleeding, and shock from hemorrhage. The long-term health and physical complications may include urinary and bladder incontinence, recurrent urinary track infections, lack of sexual stimulation and painful sexual intercourse, infertility, vaginal cysts and abscesses, blockages of menstrual flow and elevated risks of obstructed labour. Due to the negative physical and mental impact on women the practice has received global attention and condemnation and several strategies have been adopted in campaigns for its eradication through education, advocacy and religion. Following the initiatives to eradicate the practice of FGC through out Kenya by church groups, government agencies and NGOS, there have been declines in the prevalence of the practice, in some of the Kenyan communities including the Meru, Taita and the Kikuyu. However there has not been significant decline among the Abagusii (Chege and Askew, 2001).
Research excellence and sustainable development in Africa: an overview of current concerns and prospects in the 21st century
(Chuka University, 2025) Kavulya, Joseph M.; Kyengo, Bernadette N.
This paper uses the concept of “research excellence” to investigate the contribution of research to sustainable development in Africa and propose strategies for enhancing research practice in the region. Specifically, the paper the causal relationship between research and sustainable development, the concept of research excellence, the factors that retard the growth of research in Africa, and propose strategies for enhancing research excellence in the African region. Significantly, the paper proposes that to improve the relevance and impact of research in sustainable development there is a need to enhance quality in assurance in research processes, intense investments in research infrastructure, a close collaboration between various stakeholders such as research agents, the local community, policymakers, and practitioners. More importantly, there need to revisit the scholarly communication ecosystem in the region with the view to make dissemination and access research information on the continent affordable and visible through more investment in digital libraries, repositories, and adoption of open access publishing of research findings
RESEARCH EXCELLENCE IN AFRICA: OVERVIEW OF CURRENT CONCERNS AND PROSPECTS IN THE 21ST CENTURY
(Chuka University, 2022) Kavulya, Joseph M.; Kyengo, Bernadette N.
This paper uses the concept of “research excellence” to investigate the contribution of research to sustainable development in Africa and propose strategies for enhancing research practice in the region. Specifically, the paper the causal relationship between research and sustainable development, the concept of research excellence, the factors that retard the growth of research in Africa, and propose strategies for enhancing research excellence in the African region. Significantly, the paper proposes that to improve the relevance and impact of research in sustainable development there is a need to enhance quality in assurance in research processes, intense investments in research infrastructure, a close collaboration between various stakeholders such as research agents, the local community, policymakers, and practitioners. There need to re-visit the scholarly communication ecosystem in the region with the view to make dissemination and access research information on the continent affordable and visible through more investment in digital libraries, repositories, and adoption of open access publishing of research findings
The Emerging role of Digital Libraries in E-learning: A Review of Challenges and O pportunities for Universities
(Strathmore University, 2008-09) Kavulya, Joseph M.
Both e-learning and digital libraries are gradually converging to transform the learning environment in many universities. This trend, which is widespread in developed countries, is gradually gaining momentum in sub-Saharan countries such as Kenya. Elearning is recognized as the ultimate convergence of learning and the internet approach to building the knowledge and skills of learners through web-enabled technologies. On the other hand, digital libraries provide technology-based information services and an organized collection of knowledge that is accessible to users via digital or electronic interface technologies to support the learning process. With the emergence of e-learning as a novel avenue to provide course content, digital libraries are viewed as appropriate means to provide supporting learning information services. This paper discusses the potential complementary interaction between library environments and learning environments to create more productive experiences for learners. The paper will also explore strategic and technological issues involved in creating systems that facilitate high-level and effective interaction between future e-learning environments and the digital library world.
Training of library and information science (LIS) professionals in Kenya: A needs assessment
(Emerald Group Publishing Limited, 2007-03-27) Kavulya, Joseph M.
Purpose – First, to assess the status of the job market for library and information science (LIS) professionals in Kenya and the adequacy of current curricula and training resources in LIS training institutions in the country. Secondly, to identify priority areas of training and critical IT skills required by LIS professionals in relation to current job market and performance requirements. Design/methodology/approach – Using a survey research design data was collected from various categories of LIS stakeholders: students, lecturers, professionals and employers. In total 110 subjects were selected for this study using various sampling techniques and a response rate of 76.4 per cent was achieved. Questionnaires with closed and open-ended questions were used to collect data. This was a descriptive study and therefore descriptive statistics were used. Findings – A job market for LIS professionals in Kenya is perceived to exist. However, there is a general observation that the current LIS training programmes in the country do not sufficiently address current job market requirements due to: inadequate teaching resources in LIS training institutions; lack of adequate ICT content in the courses; courses that are irrelevant to the job market and inadequate length of industrial attachment. Practical implications – The paper recommends review of the current LIS curricula in Kenya in order to enhance the suitability of graduates to the current labour market. This includes integration of modern ICT into training, recruitment of qualified teaching staff, ensuring adequate learning resources and facilities, and enhancement of industrial attachment. Originality/value – The paper investigates some of the critical issues that planners of library and information science courses have to consider in the 21st century. These issues include: the emergence of the ‘‘information society’’, the multidisciplinary heritage of LIS education, the choice between liberal vis-a`-vis technical education, the emergence of the concept of digital library, and finally the need for thorough management and leadership competencies. These issues are part of the current discourse on LIS training in the sub-Saharan Africa where communities are in transition to the ‘‘information economy’’.
Transforming Africa into a Knowledge-based society: Concretizing the case for Digital Literacies and Revision of ICT Strategies in the Education Sector in the Region
(IST-Africa, 2015) Kavulya, Joseph M.; Kyengo, Bernadette N.
In the recent past there has been a global push for the transformation of communities into knowledge societies as a strategy of achieving development. This transformation is expected to enable communities use knowledge to solve current societal problems, create employment, sustained democratic governance, and economic growth. Education is a key pillar in this process and in the African context of Africa, there is need to reform the educational strategy if countries in this region are to achieve this transformation. The new strategy should be include a curriculum reform to target digital literacies, intensive investments in ICT infrastructure in education sector, digitalization of curriculum content and re-alignment of human capacity among educators to the needs of knowledge-driven society. There is also need for continuous research on key knowledge society indicators to evolve best practices and ensure evidence-based approaches in ICT projects.
Trends in funding of university libraries in Kenya: a survey
(Emerald Group Publishing Limited, 2006) Kavulya, Joseph M.
Purpose – To investigate recent trends in funding and collection development in university libraries in Kenya. Design/methodology/approach – The paper is based on primary data collected from four university libraries in Kenya as well as secondary literature relating to university libraries in Kenya. Findings – This paper concludes that funding of university library services in Kenya is inadequate. Due to diminished governmental fund allocations for these institutions, their library collection development levels have deteriorated and are characterized by low monographic purchases and limited journal subscriptions. This decline is at odds with rapidly expanding student enrolment levels. Private universities experience these problems too, but to a lesser extent. Originality/value – The paper recommends that to ensure that university libraries continue to provide adequate information services supporting teaching, learning and research, the adoption of a strategic plan in all areas of library management, and especially in funding and collection development, is needed.
Trends in funding of university libraries in Kenya: a survey
(Emerald Group Publishing Limited, 2006) Kavulya, Joseph M.
Purpose – To investigate recent trends in funding and collection development in university libraries in Kenya. Design/methodology/approach – The paper is based on primary data collected from four university libraries in Kenya as well as secondary literature relating to university libraries in Kenya. Findings – This paper concludes that funding of university library services in Kenya is inadequate. Due to diminished governmental fund allocations for these institutions, their library collection development levels have deteriorated and are characterized by low monographic purchases and limited journal subscriptions. This decline is at odds with rapidly expanding student enrolment levels. Private universities experience these problems too, but to a lesser extent. Originality/value – The paper recommends that to ensure that university libraries continue to provide adequate information services supporting teaching, learning and research, the adoption of a strategic plan in all areas of library management, and especially in funding and collection development, is needed.
University Libraries in Kenya A Study of Their Practices and Performance
(Humboldt University of Berlin, 2004-02-19) Kavulya, Joseph M.
This study argues that the provision of library services in Kenyan public universities is characterised by extremely inadequate resources in terms of funds, information materials, equipment and staff. Private university libraries experience these problems albeit to a lesser degree. Although there is widespread opinion among students, lecturers as well as university administrators that university libraries play a critical role in the teaching, research, and learning activities, there is also awareness that university libraries in Kenya, especially those in public universities are not effectively providing services which has limited their role in research and learning in the university. Finally, modern information and communication technology is being incorporated in the management of university libraries in Kenya. However, this trend has been hindered by first, lack of funds to purchase equipment such as computers and set up networks, secondly by lack of skilled personnel in information technology, and finally by poor telecommunications infrastructure in the country. There is therefore need for adoption of strategic planning in all areas of library management and to remain viable sources of information, university libraries in Kenya have to make use modern information and communication technology. This will enable university libraries to facilitate better access to local and global information for example through electronic and internet media.