Social Sciences

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Breaking the Criminogenic Cycle: Exploring Parental Influences on Juvenile Delinquency in Nairobi and Mombasa Counties, Kenya
(INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND INNOVATION IN SOCIAL SCIENCE, 2024-08-17) Lumadede Japheth; Dr. Charles Mwirigi.; 2Dr. Nyachoti W. Otiso,
There has been a rise in juvenile delinquency worldwide, particularly in developing countries such as Kenya. Failures in interventions point to the possible inefficacy of the measures, misdiagnosis, or scanty analysis of the security problem. This was precipitated by mixed results and insufficient documented research. There has been therefore a need to comprehensively confirm, analyze, and document the relationships between various criminogenic situational predictors and juvenile delinquency in Kenya. The purpose of this study thus was to examine the relationship between parental characteristics and juvenile delinquency in Nairobi and Mombasa counties in Kenya. For this purpose, the researcher hypothesized that there is no statistically significant predictive relationship between parental characteristics and juvenile delinquency in Nairobi and Mombasa counties. This was both evaluated on both non-delinquents and delinquents to establish clear relations. The study was anchored on Social Learning theory. The study adopted a Concurrent Nested mixed-method Research approach with a qualitative component being embedded in a quantitative Causal-Comparative Research Design. The target population of the study was 2,908,950 juveniles in the two counties. The accessible population was 235,861 respondents, out of which a sample of 400 was drawn, from which the researcher got 360, a response rate of 90%. The researcher drew the sample using a disproportionate stratified random sampling thus ensuring representation of both delinquents and non-delinquents in each county. The delinquent population entailed both delinquents who had committed minor violations and delinquents who had committed serious violations. Delinquents who had committed serious violations were drawn from borstal institutions, while those who had committed minor violations were drawn from the Probation Department. The non-delinquents were drawn from county secondary schools in each of the counties. Random sampling was done using the Excel data analysis tool pack. In addition, 12 respondents were selected purposively from the authorities dealing with children matters, 6 from each county. The total sample size attained was thus 372 respondents. A face-to-face interview questionnaire and an in-depth key informant interview schedule were the main instruments of data collection. Binary logistic regression was conducted on the quantitative data at a 95% confidence interval (CI) and a p-value < 0.05 considered significant with the help of Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 26.0 software. Thematic content analysis was conducted on the qualitative data with the help of Max. Qda software. The odds ratio indicates that when holding all other variables constant, a child is 7.2 times more likely to turn out delinquent with poor parental characteristics than turn out non-delinquent. Therefore, employing a .05 criterion of statistical significance, the null hypothesis was thus rejected because the findings show a statistically significant predictive relationship between parental characteristics and juvenile delinquency. The findings of this study will be useful to the government, academia, policy actors as well as parents in developing crime prevention policies, contributing to theory and literature, informing on better family management practices, and informing effective tailoring of relevant social policies respectively.
Challenges to Women’s Participation in Elective Political Leadership; Evidence from Meru County, Kenya
(Journal of Frontiers of Humanities and Social Sciences, 2024-09-08) Mwirigi Muriungi Paul; Kanake Kananu Mercy; Kiboro Nkonge Christopher; Mucece Kithinji Caroline1
Women participation in elective political leadership is gaining traction with many nations seeing women holding political leadership positions in high offices. However, in most African societies, women participation in elective political leadership is still worryingly low. Therefore, this study investigates the challenges faced by women seeking elective political leadership in Meru County, Kenya. The research used a descriptive design, combining quantitative and qualitative methods. The study collected data from 341 registered voters and 16 key informants, using structured questionnaires for quantitative and interviews for qualitative data. The study utilized SPSS version 24 for quantitative data analysis to examine challenges related to electoral participation and their impact on women's political leadership, using frequencies and means and regression analysis respectively. Thematic codes were extracted using NVIVO 14 software to identify recurring themes. The study established that sociocultural, political intimidation and economic challenges are most prevalent and significantly affected women's elective leadership aspirations in Meru County. Social cultural challenges had a negative influence on women participation in elective leadership in Meru County (β=-0.405, p<0.001). Similarly, political interference had a negative and significant influence on women participation in elective leadership (β=- 0.319, p<0.001). However, the influence of economic challenges though negative, had no significant effect on women elective leadership participation (β=-0.031, p>0.05). The study reveals that while women in Meru can significantly contribute to the county's development through elective leadership, they face socially constructed challenges, emphasizing the need for political stakeholders to address these issues for full women's inclusion in decision-making.
Hashtag Activism: Examining #RutoMustGo and #RejectFinanceBill in Showcasing Kenyans on X as an Imagined Community of Language Users
(Open Access Library Journal, 2024-10-30) Emmanuel Njuki; Nancy Mbaka; Christine Atieno
This paper explores linguistic features used by Kenyans on X by examining the role of hashtags in showcasing Kenyans on X as an imagined community of language users. #RutoMustGo and #RejectFinanceBill were selected for this study. The paper was guided by the objective to examine linguistic features used by Kenyans on X. This paper used multimodality theory to analyze how different modes of communication—such as texts, images, hashtags and emo- jis—interact to create meaning and shape discourse. It showed how Kenyans on X create social identities by expressing themselves through a variety of se- miotic resources. It helped understand how different modes work together to shape and reflect Kenyans on X social identity. This theory helped to unravel how Kenyans on X form a collective identity through language and hashtag usage. Data was elicited from tweets under the two hashtags and analyzed using content analysis method. Purposive sampling technique was used where only tweets that showed how language used by Kenyans on X help in forming an imagined community of language users were selected for this study. Qualitative research design was used for this paper. A total of 47 tweets were used. Findings revealed that Kenyans on X use a variety of linguistic features that showcase them as a community of language users. Hashtags play an important role in activism and uniting Kenyans on X as a community.
Assessing the capacity building programs pursued by university libraries in Meru County, Kenya
(Journal of Information Science and Knowledge Management, 2024-08-14) Faith Ntinyari Gitonga; Paul Maku Gichohi
Changing user demands require libraries to develop unique capabilities for supporting the delivery of quality teaching, learning, and research. This shift further requires librarians to develop competencies in handling emergent technologies, dissemination of information, scholarly communication, and strategy formulation. Nevertheless, there has been overreliance on conventional ways that have stifled innovation and creativity in most libraries raising questions on continuous training programs for information professionals. The purpose of the study was to assess capacity-building programs pursued by university libraries in Meru County. The study used a qualitative approach and employed a case study research design. The Technology Organization Environment Model guided the study. The unit of analysis was KeMU and MUST university libraries, unit of observation was 15 university library staff, specifically, 2 university library heads and 13 heads of library sections who were selected through the purposive sampling method. The study interviewed university librarians and conducted Focus Group Discussions [FGDs] with library heads of sections. The two FGDs comprised 5 and 7 participants in KeMU and MUST respectively. Validity of the instruments was ensured through conducting a pretest at Chuka University Library to appraise the dependability of interview and FGDs questions. One librarian and 2 library section heads participated. Data was analyzed using content analysis and thematic categorization. The study identified several capacity-building initiatives undertaken by libraries which included leadership training, customer care training, information retrieval skills development and training on reference management systems. This led to a conclusion that library staff were prepared to deliver quality services through a combination of skill enhancement. Notably, the study highlighted opportunities for library personnel to engage in ongoing professional development. It urges library management to organize seminars and workshops periodically to help its staff to keep abreast with latest developments and innovations in the field of library science.
Effect of Institutional Digital Repository Information Services on Utilisation of Library Resources by Postgraduate Students at Selected University Libraries in Kenya
(EdinBurg Peer Reviewed Journals and Books Publishers, 2024-11-08) Pauline Masaa Kavila; Paul Maku Gichohi; Faith Mwendwa Mwiti
Purpose: 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.
Revolutionizing Pre-Probation Assessments In Kenya: A Mixed-Method Analysis Of Juvenile Evaluation Practices And Recidivism Reduction
(African Journal of Emerging Issues, 2024-09-18) Kenneth Seth Omonya; Dr. Charles Mwirigi; Dr. W. Nyachoti Otiso
Purpose of the Study: The study's purpose was to assess existing juvenile assessment practices prior to probation placement and their effect on probation outcomes. Methodology: The current study used a concurrent-triangulation mixed-method approach, with 226 respondents drawn from Nairobi County's juvenile probationers and probation practitioners. Data was collected using structured questionnaires and a key informant interview guide, and it was analysed descriptively (frequency and percentages), inferentially (binary logistic regression model), and qualitatively. Findings: The study found that properly carried out pre-probation assessment practices significantly reduce recidivism. However, the lack of juvenile-specific Risk-Need-Responsivity (RNR) assessment tools, a one-week induction period with only passing mentions of juvenile issues, and insufficient training in the existing juvenile assessment mechanisms hampered the optimal juvenile assessment procedure. Rushed assessments were also identified as a barrier to the optimal juvenile assessment process. Conclusion: Overall, while the existing probation assessment process plays an important role in shaping the outcomes for juvenile offenders by lowering recidivism rates, a number of flaws limit its effectiveness. Recommendations: The study recommends that probation develop and implement specialized Risk Needs and Responsivity (RNR) assessment tools tailored to juveniles. The probation department's entry-job induction guidelines should be revised to include training with a strong emphasis on juvenile topics, as well as the use of RNR assessment tools. Further, juvenile probation officers require more training focused on the juvenile offender population.
The Use of Mock Politeness as a Communicative Strategy by Kenyans on A
(Open Access Library Journal, 2024-10-21) Emmanuel Njuki; Christine Atieno; Nancy Mbaka
Kenyans on A 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 A. With a focus on their language, the study discusses how mock politeness helps Kenyans on A 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 A. 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 A users employ mock politeness to express themselves and negotiate power dynamics on A. The study sheds light on the communicative practices of Kenyan A users.
Ensuring Long-Term Viability: A Proposed Framework for Institutional Repository Sustainability.
(Great Journs, 2024-09-23) Onsinyo Charity Nyaboke; Richard Guto
Universities 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). Despite an increase in the adoption of IRs globally, there is a growing concern regarding the sustainability of OAIRs (Burns et al. 2013; Nkiko, Bolu & Chijioke 2014; Francke, Gamalielsson, & Lundell 2017). Like all new ICT driven innovations, maintenance and running cost, perceptions or attitudes towards change or innovations, ICT infrastructure, content quality, institutional policies, copyright, and skill sets or competencies of personnel have been identified as critical to the sustenance of IRs (Corletey 2011; Thompson et al 2016; Martin-Yeboah et al 2018; Anyaoku et al 2019). This paper presents a model for the sustainability of IRs, aiming to address the various challenges that threaten their long-term viability. By exploring the essential elements that contribute to sustainability, the proposed model offers a comprehensive framework that institutions can adopt and adapt to their specific needs.
Resource conflicts affecting criminality among the youth in Laikipia county, Kenya
(International Journal of Science and Research Archive, 2024-09-20) Lavender Alividza Atsiavulla; Wycliffe Nyachoti Otiso; Monicah Buyatsi Oundo; Abel Holla Bennett
Communities devoid of crime register profound developmental milestones due to optimal resource allocation, increased productivity and harmonious coexistence. However, Laikipia County in Kenya may not achieve the developmental goals laid down owing to persistent community conflicts and the rising number of youths convicted of various crimes. Competition for resources by constituent communities has been identified as the main driver of the long-drawn conflicts in the county, and as such, this study focused on examining resource conflicts affecting criminality among the youth in Laikipia County in Kenya. The study employed the descriptive survey research design on a population of 1324 convicted youths in Laikipia County. Stratified random sampling was used to select a sample of 302 respondents comprising youths serving custodial and non-custodial sentences as well as corrections and probation officers. Questionnaires and interview guides were used for data collection. The reliability of the research instruments was estimated using the Cronbach Alpha coefficient, while validity was established through the expert opinion of university supervisors. Data analysis was aided by the Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 25.0. Descriptive statistics were used to analyse quantitative data, while thematic analysis was used for qualitative data. Data analysis results were presented as frequency distributions and in prose narration. The findings revealed that resource conflicts played a role in the rising cases of criminality among the youth in Laikipia County in Kenya.
Spatial Distribution in the Adoption of Agroforestry among Small-Scale Farmers in Tharaka Nithi County
(Journal of Humanities and Social Sciences, 2024-12-14) Henry Murithi Mugambi; ; Stephen K. Wambugu; Paul Njue
The study investigated the spatial distribution in the adoption of agroforestry among small-scale farmers in Tharaka Nithi County, Kenya. Various efforts have been initiated to enhance the adoption of agroforestry. Despite the efforts made, farmers are yet to fully adopt agroforestry in Tharaka Nithi County. There is paucity of information regarding spatial variations in the adoption of agroforestry. The study was based on the Rogers Adoption-Diffusion Model. The study utilised a cross-sectional research design. The target population was 43,231 small-scale farmers in Tharaka Nithi County. Simple random sampling was employed to select 220 farmers to participate in the study. The data for the study was collected using questionnaires for farmers. Findings indicated spatial distribution in the adoption of agroforestry among small-scale farmers in the sub-counties in Tharaka Nithi County. Findings further showed that there were significant χ2 (chi-square) associations between soil fertility, topography, soil colour, soil depth, rainfall variability, flooding, temperatures and occupation in all the sites, showing that the agroforestry behaviour was associated with sites. Therefore, these factors accounted for spatial variations in agroforestry. Consequently, this study concludes that landscapes are important considerations for farmers who intend to adopt agroforestry. The findings of the study will be crucial in informing current agroforestry technology adoption decisions by the farmers within Tharaka Nithi County guided by the identification of constraints (socioeconomic, cultural and geophysical) that hinder wide adoption of agroforestry. The study recommends that the government introduce programs to sustain and continually improve agroforestry and reduce negative beliefs concerning agroforestry adoption.
Evaluation of Training Programmes: A Review of Selected Models and Approaches.
(Finesse Publishing Ltd, 2021) Kitivo, E. M.; Mbae, J.; Kanga, A.
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.
Information Literacy Standards of School Libraries of Nairobi and Tharaka-Nithi Counties, Kenya
(2022) Ireri, J. M.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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).
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 Barasa
Hotel 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.
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 Micheni
This 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.

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