Browsing by Author "Rugeyasila, Augustina Aliseni"

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    Information needs and seeking behavior of pupils with visual impairments of Uhuru Mchanganyiko primary school in Dar es Salaam
    (University of Dar es Salaam, 2013) Rugeyasila, Augustina Aliseni
    The research investigated the information needs and seeking behaviour of pupils with visual impairments at Uhuru Mchanganyiko Primary School in Dar es Salaam region. The purpose of this research was to establish the visually impaired pupils' information needs and seeking behaviours with the aim of determining whether the services that are provided to them meet their information needs or not. The study was basically qualitative in nature and employed explorative methods to gather descriptive data. Semi-structured interviews, focus group discussion, observation, questionnaires and checklist were data collection methods used. The findings of the study revealed that the main information needs of visually impaired pupils were academic, disability services and general health care information. The main sources used by pupils with visual impairments to meet their educational needs include teachers, library, lecture notes,' Braille books and colleagues/sighted friends. Pupils use the librarians for assistance, asked friends and used tactile skills to find the needed information. The pupils' information seeking behaviour involves purposeful information seeking because of the need to complete assignments and doing examinations. Visually impaired pupils face problems such as insufficient/lack of specialized equipments, shortage of Braille text books, inaccessible reference materials as well as lack of mobility skills and time constraints. Consequently it is a challenge for them to seek and access information independently, satisfy their information needs and affect negatively their seeking behaviour. Based on the findings, it is recommended that MoEVT should increase special equipments and Braille text materials, provide current and accessible/appropriate materials, organize seminars, workshops and special educational programmes, and supply necessary facilities for teachers and pupils. Whereas, the Government should purchase computerized assistive devices and electronic information sources, increase teachers for special pupils, establish appropriate policy and curriculum that could fit need of in the visually impaired pupils. Pupils with visual impairments should also be trained in information literacy (IL), searching skills and ICT tools usage which will help them to be competent in accessing and using information, and appropriate training progresses for library staff and teachers to support visually impaired pupils be established.