The Emerging role of digital libraries in e-learning: A review of opportunities and challenges facing Kenyan universities

Abstract

Both e-learning and digital libraries are gradually converging to transform the learning environment in many universities. This trend, which is widespread in the developed countries, is gradually gaining momentum in sub-Saharan countries such as Kenya. Elearning is recognised 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 organized collection of knowledge which 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 the supporting learning information services . This paper discusses the potential complementary interaction between library environments and learning environments to create more productive experiences for the 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 environment and digital library world.