Social Sciences
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Item Evaluation of Training Programmes: A Review of Selected Models and Approaches(Finesse Publishing Ltd, 2021) Kitivo, E. M.; Kanga, A.; Mbae, J.Evaluation is a critical requirement of any programme implementation process. It is estimated that over the last fifty years, over sixty models or approaches of evaluation have been developed. 7e main objective of this paper is to review selected evaluation models with the view to distinguish their underlying assumptions and processes and assess their strengths and weaknesses and implications for application. Specifically, the paper examines first, the various definitions of educational evaluation to clarify understanding of the concept and secondly, it explores the role and benefits of evaluation in the successful implementation of educational programmes. 7irdly it reviews three commonly used approaches to educational evaluation namely: - Context, Input, Process and Product (CIPP) Evaluation Model; 7e Consumer- Oriented Model, and the Utilization-Focused Evaluation Model. 7e paper argues that models of evaluation are critical in programme implementation. It concludes that educators need be versatile with various approaches to evaluation and apply them with due consideration to the given circumstances. It recommends the need to carefully select an evaluation model that fits a given situation in programme implementation.Item Information Literacy Standards of School Libraries of Nairobi and Tharaka-Nithi Counties, Kenya(Chuka University, 2022) Ireri, J.M.; Evans, N.; Ocholla, D.Information literacy is described as a set of abilities that require individuals to recognize when information is needed and locate, evaluate, and use the needed information effectively (American Library Association, 2018). Information literacy skills are essential to secondary school students in developing countries such as Kenya. A preliminary investigation by the researcher revealed that many secondary schools in Kenya have poor literacy standards and have no room for information literacy programs for their students, despite the fact that secondary school education is transitional to university education. This study assessed the information literacy standards of school libraries in Nairobi and Tharaka-Nithi Counties. The study selected Nairobi and Tharaka-Nithi counties, which represent urban (Nairobi) and rural populations (Tharaka-Nithi). Data was collected using questionnaires. Systematic sampling was used to select 30 secondary schools (20 schools from Nairobi and 10 from Tharaka-Nithi) out of 304 secondary schools, while stratified random sampling was used to classify the students into four strata (Form 1-4). A total of 385 students were sampled (255 from Nairobi and 130 from Tharaka-Nithi. The results show that more needs to be done towards improving the libraries so that the students can be encouraged to visit them frequently. Secondary school libraries do not have apart from books various formats of information resources that would be more appealing to the students. Secondary school libraries should incorporate in their collection a variety of formats of information resources that are more captivating than books.Item Genome-Wide Identification, Phylogenetic and Expression Pattern Analysis of GATA Family Genes in Cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.)(MDPI Journals, 2021) Zhang, K.; Jia, L.; Yang, D.,; Hu, Y.; Njogu, M. K.; Wang, P.; Yan, C.GATA transcription factors are a class of transcriptional regulatory proteins that contain a characteristic type-IV zinc finger DNA-binding domain, which play important roles in plant growth and development. The GATA gene family has been characterized in various plant species. However, GATA family genes have not been identified in cucumber. In this study, 26 GATA family genes were identified in cucumber genome, whose physicochemical characteristics, chromosomal distributions, phylogenetic tree, gene structures conserved motifs, cis-regulatory elements in promoters, homolo- gous gene pairs, downstream target genes were analyzed. Tissue expression profiles of cucumber GATA family genes exhibited that 17 GATA genes showed constitutive expression, and some GATA genes showed tissue-specific expression patterns. RNA-seq analysis of green and virescent leaves revealed that seven GATA genes might be involved in the chloroplast development and chlorophyll biosynthesis. Importantly, expression patterns analysis of GATA genes in response to abiotic and biotic stresses indicated that some GATA genes respond to either abiotic stress or biotic stress, some GATA genes such as Csa2G162660, Csa3G017200, Csa3G165640, Csa4G646060, Csa5G622830 and Csa6G312540 were simultaneously functional in resistance to abiotic and biotic stresses. Overall, this study will provide useful information for further analysis of the biological functions of GATA factors in cucumber.Item Beyond the Rhetoric: The Case for the Institutionalization of Comprehensive Sexuality Education in Kenyan Schools(European Journal of Social Sciences Studies, 2021) Kiswili, K.Comprehensive Sexuality Education remains one of the most controversial topics in global development discourse. Organizations such as UNESCO, WHO and UNICEF have championed for the institutionalization of CSE in countries across the globe, citing the relative merits of this education on young people. Kenya, like a lot of other countries has faced formidable opposition in the institutionalization of CSE with much of the opposition being spearheaded by religious groups and advocacy groups that posit that CSE would have negative consequences on young learners. This review sought to document the milestones that have defined the institutionalization of CSE by the Kenyan government and to establish the legal policy regimes that have informed the process. It also sought to highlight the barriers that have impeded the process and lastly, it endeavored to suggest ways which these impediments can be overcome. This review was a culmination of systematic analysis of the available literature on sex education in Kenya.Item Maximizing the Value of Information Communication Technologies (ICTs) and Its Implications on Library Operations in Public Universities in Kenya: Potential and Challenges(Centre for Democracy, Research and Development, 2022) Guto, R.; Wasike, J.The advent of information age has significantly changed the environment in which libraries operate in the 21st century. Technological encroachment has forced librarians to adopt various technologies for their continued existence in line with the constant changing information seeking behaviors of varied readers and development in education and research. The purpose of this paper was to examine the value of information communication technologies (ICTs) and its implications on library operations in public universities in Kenya: Potential and Challenges. The objectives of the research were to: Establish the efficiency of emerging ICTs in public university libraries in Kenya, determine the application of ICT on performance of duties in public university libraries and evaluate the effects of ICTs on access and retrieval of information. The study employed survey research design in collecting data from 31 public universities in Kenya. The respondents were university librarians. The data was collected by use of questionnaires which was later analyzed with the aid of SPSS software (version 22). The findings of the study showed that the application and usage of information communication technologies (ICTs) had significant impacts on library service provision such as circulation, E-books, internet services, OPAC and increased work output. The study recommendation indicated that there is need for adoption of a comprehensive ICT policy to create an enabling framework for the application and development of ICTs in libraries and, train both staff and information users on how best to apply ICTs features in accessing, and retrieving information materials. The study, if adopted will enhance information provision and service delivery in university libraries.Item The Quest for Quality in University Education in the Post COVID-19 Era: Do Anti-plagiarism Tools Still Matter?(Kavulya, J. M., 2022) Kavulya, J. M.; Kiilu, D. V.; Kyengo, B. N.Plagiarism is a major global challenge to quality assurance in higher education. Various efforts have been made to overcome the menace including the use of anti-plagiarism tools. At the same time, many questions have been raised about the efficacy of the current generation of tools in detecting, preventing plagiarism, and guaranteeing the quality of education. This paper examines the limitations of plagiarism detection tools in enhancing quality in academic outcomes and proposes measures for improvement. The paper argues that while anti- plagiarism software has a role in preventing plagiarism in academic writing and academic integrity, they are not the panacea to the plagiarism pandemic, especially in the COVID-19 era. It proposes that there is a need to reform methods of assessment and implement forward- looking policies to address the underlying causes of plagiarism, provide students with appropriate information literacy skills training, and above all cultivate a culture of academic integrity in higher education institutions (HEIs).Item Assessment of Seasonality on Performance of Star-Rated Beach Resorts in the Coastal Region of Kenya(Science Publishing Group, 2022-09-21) Kwenga Japhet; Fwaya Erick; Davis BarasaHotel sector have bright vision for the growth of travel and tourism industry by providing the country’s economic growth. Despite increased efforts by the beach resorts managers and Government of Kenya to make them a driving force in achieving the national economic growth, they have continued to suffer from annual seasonal fluctuations in the volume of business due to tourism seasonality each with different expectations and demands. This paper assessed seasonality and performance of star-rated beach resorts in the coastal region of Kenya. Mixed method approach was used to do a cross- sectional survey. Questionnaires and interview schedule were used to collect data. Target population comprised of managers (23) and guests (586). Managers were purposively selected while guests were randomly sampled. Descriptive and inferential statistic were used to analyse quantitative data while qualitative data was analysed thematically. Results revealed high Standard Deviation (1.27), observed in October-December and April-July (1.8) while low Standard Deviation (0.51) was observed in April Easter week and December-March (0.85). Thus, a homogeneity of the responses that April Easter week and December- March are actually peak seasons interpreting to good performance. A number of factors were perceived to cause seasonality; internationally, climatic changes and travel patterns while domestically, holidays, religious festivals, sports and trade fairs. The study recommended extensive assessment on causes, impacts and effective management strategies to smoothen performance.Item Strategies for enhancing community development: a case of Anglican development services in Kenya(Journal of philosophy and religion, 2022-09) Wambugu, Peter Muriithi; Dickson Nkonge Kagema; Stephen MicheniThis research sought to investigate the strategies employed by Anglican Development Services in enhancing Community Development in Kenya. The study targeted four Anglican Development Services regions in Kenya. A sample of 330 respondents drawn from a target population of 1,827 was acquired through a Descriptive Research design. Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 26. Quantitative data were analysed using frequencies and percentages while thematic analysis was done on qualitative data. The findings illustrated that there were well- founded strategies for enhancing Community Development in Kenya employed by the Anglican Development Services. These findings illustrated that the Anglican Development Services has an array of strategies for enhancing Community Development in Kenya. It is recommended that for the effectiveness of Anglican Development Services strategies, the target recipients should be expanded through a conscientization process, biblical and theological interventions and a participatory transformation approach, with the most vulnerable members of the community receiving priority.Item The Transition from Subsistence to Cash Crop Farming in Abogeta Sub County of Meru from 1937 -1980(Journal of Scientific Research & Reports, 2022-12-08) Kaburu, Lydia Gaceri; Kithinji, Caroline Mucece; Dickson K. NkongeThis study is about a history on the transition from subsistence to cash crop farming in Abogeta Sub-County is in Meru County, Kenya from 1937-1980. Before 1937 farming practices were mainly for subsistence. Crops grown included millet, sorghum, peas, arrowroots, yams, beans and cowpeas. The purpose of this study was to examine the transition from subsistence to cash crop farming in Abogeta Sub County of Meru from 1937 to 1980. It was guided by Articulation of Modes of Production theory whose main precept is that penetration of capitalism in Africa affected modes of production. The study employed descriptive research design to describe the events as they occurred systematically. The instruments of data collection were interview schedules, focused group discussions and observation schedule. The sources of data included oral sources, archival sources and secondary sources which were corroborated to meet the reliability and objectivity of the research. The study was analyzed and presented through Qualitative Data Analysis. The study revealed that traditionally people from Abogeta Sub County engaged in subsistence farming. Farming shifted to cash crop farming from 1937 with introduction of cash crops like coffee and tea. This drift was fueled by search for money and industrialization. The study also noted that the transition had both positive and negative impacts on people of Abogeta. Food insecurity and migration were noted while on positive side it became the major economic activity and hence a source of livelihood to those that practiced. The study may be useful to future researchers in related area. Policy makers in the government may use the study to find solutions to food insecurity in Abogeta Sub County of Meru-County.Item Effect of Institutional Digital Repository Information Services on Utilisation of Library Resources by Postgraduate Students at Selected University Libraries in Kenya(Edin burg, 2024-08-09) Pauline Masaa Kavila1 , Paul Maku Gichohi2 & Faith Mwendwa Mwiti 3Purpose: Every year, Kenya does local studies worth billions of shillings, which are rarely disseminated outside of the institutions' office drawers and library shelves. Therefore, research findings should be shared for advancement right away. Institutional repositories are a significant recent development in the field of research exchange within libraries. Effective utilization of these services is essential for postgraduate students to access relevant resources, expand their knowledge, and complete quality research projects. However, gaps in the use of information services by postgraduate students have been observed, indicating the need for a deeper understanding of their usage patterns, preferences, and challenges. This study examines how postgraduate students in selected Kenyan universities utilise institutional digital repositories to support their academic needs. Methods: The study was grounded in the Diffusion of Innovation Theory (DIT) focusing on 2,452 individuals - 2,372 postgraduate students and 80 librarians from the University of Embu, Kenya Methodist University, Kirinyaga University, Meru University of Science and Technology, and Chuka University. A random sampling technique was used to select a sample of 493 respondents, including 475 postgraduate students and 18 librarians. Data was collected through self-administered questionnaires for students and interviews with selected librarians to provide both quantitative and qualitative insights. Quantitative data was analysed using descriptive and inferential statistical methods, while qualitative data was presented narratively. Results: Findings revealed that digital repository services (β=0.109, p < 0.05) had significant positive effects on library utilization. Conclusion: The study concludes that Digital Institutional Repositories (DIRs) are essential in supporting postgraduate students' effective use of library services. It recommends the university management together with the ICT department should ensure the provision of reliable internet connectivity to facilitate the seamless use of digital resources, Initiative for regular training and workshops should be organised by the library administration. To provide librarians with knowledge of digital resources, information services, and efficient user support and service delivery. Additionally, Librarians should create more awareness of DIR functionalities among postgraduate students to maximize their engagement and benefit from these resources.Item The Use of Mock Politeness as a Communicative Strategy by Kenyans on �(Open Access Library Journal, 2024-10-21) Emmanuel Njuki1, Christine Atieno2, Nancy Mbaka2Kenyans on 𝕏𝕏 function as a community of language users where language is not just a tool of communication, but an instrument for achieving social goals where they use language to navigate social interactions, have fun, critique leaders and assert their social identities. This paper examines the use of mock politeness as a communicative strategy by Kenyans on 𝕏𝕏. With a focus on their language, the study discusses how mock politeness helps Kenyans on 𝕏𝕏 discuss various social, political and economic issues around this virtual space. Impoliteness theory by [1] Culpeper (1996) helps to analyze how impolite language is used in this virtual space. A qualitative research approach is used in the study as the data is linguistic. Purposive sampling technique was used to select tweets that showed how mock politeness impoliteness strategy was used by Kenyans on 𝕏𝕏. A guiding card was used to collect and place data collected in various categories. Content analysis method was also used to analyze data that was collected. This research is im portant as it helps to understand how Kenyan 𝕏𝕏 users employ mock politeness to express themselves and negotiate power dynamics on 𝕏𝕏. The study sheds light on the communicative practices of Kenyan 𝕏𝕏 usersItem Ensuring Long-Term Viability: A Proposed Framework for Institutional Repository Sustainability(Journal of Arts and Humanities, 2024-09-15) Onsinyo Charity Nyaboke, Richard GutoUniversities in developing countries are faced with the challenge of accessing scholarly information to support their research and teaching mandate (Ammarukleart 2017:16; Saina 2022:1). The increased cost of academic publications like books and journals, the significant growth in the overall volume of research, and the long latency in the traditional print publications paradigm have affected research and teaching in institutions of higher learning (Ukwoma and Dike 2017; Saini 2018). As such, institutional repositories (IRs) are developing as vehicles to possibly support universities achieve their roles (Jain, Bentley & Oladiran 2016; Wesolek 2016: xv) An IR is defined as a digital archive of intellectual output created by the faculty, research, staff and student of an institution of higher learning and accessible to end users both within and outside of the institution with few if any barrier to access (Lynch 2003; Murugathas & Balasooriya 2014; Jain et al 2015; Demetres, Delgado & Wright 2020). These digital documents consist of all electronic publications such as thesis, journals, books and conference papers (Okumu 2015; Kodua 2020).Item Types of Sex Programmes Aired on Vernacular Radio(IOSR Journal Of Humanities And Social Science (IOSR-JHSS), 2017-07-17) Mwangi, Allan; King’ara, George Ngugi; Waita, Zachary NjoguVernacular FM radio is a fairly new mass medium in Kenya. This paper explains the types of sex programmes aired by vernacular radio in the country. It focuses on two radio stations broadcasting in Gikuyu language, a native language with the highest number of speakers in Kenya. The two radio stations in this study are Kameme FM and Inooro FM. The researcher listened to sex talk aired by the radio stations and transcribed the broadcasts. From the transcripts, it was possible to categorise the types of content broadcast. The study also gave questionnaires to 384 listeners to know what sex talk programmes they listened to. Sex talk in this study refers to radio broadcasts that address romantic love and sexual intercourse topics.Item Equipping Lay Leaders for Christian Ministry in the Anglican Church of Kenya through Theological Education by Extension(Missionalia: Southern African Journal of Missiology, 0001-05-21) Kiarie,George and Mwangi,MaryThe mission of ecclesia is to empower and equip its leaders for Christian ministry. This has been possible through theological education, particularly for the ordained ministry. Though laity form a substantial number in the Anglican Church of Kenya (ACK) ecclesiastical context, they are theologically ill-equipped for Christian ministry despite their integral roles in pastoral and administrative functions in their respective local congregations. The article was informed by both empirical and non-empirical data drawn from the ACK diocese of Thika in 2020. The data was derived from 11 questionnaires where two former diocesan Theological Education by Extension (TEE) co-ordinators and nine Archdeaconry TEE facilitators in the diocese of Thika were engaged. Archival documents from the diocese and review of literature also enriched the study. The study’s findings show that the success of the 21st century ecclesia solely depends on how thoroughly the lay leaders are empowered and equipped theologically through TEE.Item Strategies for enhancing community development: a case of Anglican development services in Kenya(Journal of philosophy and religion, 2022-09-05) Wambugu, Peter Muriithi; Kagema, Dickson Nkonge; Micheni, StephenThis research sought to investigate the strategies employed by Anglican Development Services in enhancing Community Development in Kenya. The study targeted four Anglican Development Services regions in Kenya. A sample of 330 respondents drawn from a target population of 1,827 was acquired through a Descriptive Research design. Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 26. Quantitative data were analysed using frequencies and percentages while thematic analysis was done on qualitative data. The findings illustrated that there were well- founded strategies for enhancing Community Development in Kenya employed by the Anglican Development Services. These findings illustrated that the Anglican Development Services has an array of strategies for enhancing Community Development in Kenya. It is recommended that for the effectiveness of Anglican Development Services strategies, the target recipients should be expanded through a conscientization process, biblical and theological interventions and a participatory transformation approach, with the most vulnerable members of the community receiving priority.Item Influence of Social Capital on Livelihood Outcomes for the Internally Displaced Persons in Kenya(European Scientific Journal, 2017-09) Kiboro, Christopher NkongeSocial capital is increasingly recognized as important in influencing economic development, establishment of safe neighborhoods and wellfunctioning communities. There is growing evidence that communities with relatively higher stocks of social capital in form of grassroots associations appear to achieve higher levels of growth compared to societies with low stocks of social capital. This study sought to investigate the influence of social Capital on the livelihood outcomes for the internally displaced persons in Kenya. Membership to local level associations was used as a predictor of social capital. The study revealed that majority of the households that were affiliated to local level associations obtained essential services that influenced their livelihoods positively. Overall, the findings reveal that memberships in local associations (social capital) tend to insulate households from risks and other exigencies. The study recommends that government and other stakeholders such as non-governmental organizations should formulate projects and programs that seek to promote wider participation in local level associations particularly by the poor and those whose livelihoods are vulnerable.Item Gender Comparison in the Effectiveness of Guidance and Counselling Services in Enhancing Students’ adjustment to School Environment in Boarding Secondary Schools in Kenya(International Journal of Advanced Engineering Research and Science (IJAERS), 2017-03) Kanga, Benjamin MugambiSchool adjustment is the process of coping in a new school environment in order to attain the individual and school’s set goals and aspirations. The government, education managers and parents have expressed the need to strengthen school Guidance and Counselling services in order to enhance students’ adjustment to the school environment. Public boarding secondary schools are expected to implement Guidance and Counselling policy of the Ministry of Education and help students adjust to secondary school environment. This study investigated the Gender comparison in the effectiveness of Guidance and Counselling services in enhancing students’ adjustment to school environment in public boarding secondary schools in Kenya. The study adopted a descriptive research survey design. The study target population was 36,671 comprising of 35,659 form 3 students, 506 Form 3 class teachers and 506 teachers in charge of Guidance and Counselling from boarding secondary schools in Kitui, Nyeri and Nairobi counties in Kenya. Purposive and simple random sampling techniques were used to select 756 respondents comprising of 720 Form 3 students, 18 Form 3 class teachers and 18 teachers in charge of Guidance and Counselling from 18 secondary schools for the study. Questionnaires were used to collect data from Form 3 students and their class teachers while an interview schedule was used to collect data from teachers in charge of Guidance and Counseling. Using Spearman Brown Prophesy formula by split half technique reliability coefficient of 0.745, 0.746 and 0.736 were realized for students, class teachers and teachers In charge of Guidance and Counseling respectfully. This was accepted because an alpha value of 0.7 and above is considered suitable for making group inferences that are accurate. The data was analyzed by use of inferential anddescriptive statistics with the help of the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 17.0 for windows and presented in frequency distribution Tables and percentages. The findings of this study provide information to school administrators, policy makers,parents and other stakeholders on various issues that need to be addressed in Guidance and Counseling to enables students adjust to school environment. The study further suggest ways of ways of improving Guidance and Counselling services in order to make it more effective in public boarding secondary schools.Item Effect of Computer Assisted Teaching Strategy on Students Achievement by Gender in Agricultural Education in Tharaka Nithi County, Kenya(International Journal for Innovation Education and Research, 2018-02-28) Muchiri, Joyline MugeroGender has remained relevant in education because it has been linked to achievement and participation in certain professions. Gender differences in achievement has been shown to vary according to school subject. This has partly been attributed to the teaching strategy adopted by the teacher. Computer Assisted Teaching (CAT) strategy is a method that uses computers in a learning media and strengthens student’s motivation and educational processes. Little or no information is known about the impact of the strategy in teaching agriculture and consequently it’s effect on achievement by gender. The purpose of the present study was to examine whether there is gender difference in achievement in agriculture among students exposed to CAT strategy. The study employed Solomon Four-Quasi-experimental design. The study was conducted in eight county secondary schools in Tharaka Nithi County, Kenya. Stratified random sampling technique was used in selecting sample schools. A sample of 327 Form One students participated in the study. The research instrument was Agriculture Achievement Test (AAT) with a reliability coefficient of 0.91. Descriptive statistics (means and percentages) and inferential statistic (ANOVA) were used for data analysis. The study showed that CAT strategy improved achievement in agriculture but male students performed better than female students after exposure to CAT strategy. The study concluded that CAT is an effective strategy in improving achievement in agriculture and therefore agriculture teachers should incorporate CAT strategy in their teaching.Item Challenges of accessing library and information services for Persons with disabilities in university libraries in Meru county, Kenya(International Journal of Economics, Business and Management Research, 2018) Onsinyo, Charity NyabokeDespite the availability of library and information services in University libraries, the services are not accessible and optimally utilized and benefited by persons with disabilities (PWDs). This is because the typical library favors the able-bodied patrons more. Therefore, this study sought to find out challenges that Persons with Disabilities in University libraries in Meru County faced in accessing library and information services and to present practical solutions that were appropriate to the situation. The researcher adopted descriptive survey design. The study targeted four (4) University Libraries in Meru County. The study population comprised of all professionally trained librarians from the selected universities and all library users with disabilities with biasness towards the visually impaired, the hearing impaired and the mobility impaired. A purposive sampling technique was employed and the sample size was fifty five (55) respondents composing of thirty one (31) librarians, six (6) visually impaired library users, sixteen (16) mobility impaired library users and two (2) hard hearing users. Data was collected using questionnaires and interview schedule. Data was analyzed quantitatively and qualitatively using descriptive statistics. The results were presented by use of percentages, frequency tables, bar graphs and pie-charts. The evidence emanating from the study strongly indicated that provision of library and information services in the four libraries to students with disabilities was largely characterized structural inadequacies, unskilled staff , and absence of internally formulated policy frameworks. In particular, the study revealed that the libraries had no sufficient facilities, resources and equipment such as the lifts, spacious ramps, Braille materials, hearing aids required by students with disabilities. Thus, the study concluded that the libraries do not have the needs of students with disabilities at heart. The study makes several recommendations for considerations to the research community, library decision makers, staff at the various library sections and to students with disabilities themselves.