Masters Dissertations
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Browsing Masters Dissertations by Subject "Academic libraries"
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Item Addressing challenges of access to and use of e-resources in Tanzania’s academic libraries: the case of Mzumbe University and Sokoine University of Agriculture(University of Dar es Salaam, 2015) Nyamadyaki, Bahati AliThe study examined the extent to which academic libraries address challenges of access to and use of electronic resources using twin cases of Mzumbe University and Sokoine University of Agriculture libraries in Tanzania. Simple random and purposive sampling techniques were used to obtain a sample of 50 respondents made up of 30 library staff, 10 academicians and 10 students. Primary data were collected through self-administered questionnaires with both open and closed ended questions, in-depth interviews and observations. Secondary data were collected through documentary review. As the study used a mixed methods approach, data were analysed both quantitatively and qualitatively. The study established that academic libraries have strived to overcome challenges of access to and use of electronic resources. In consequence, there have been notable improvements in access to and use of electronic resources. The improvements include increased level of users’ awareness, increased numbers of computers, improved internet connectivity and increased amount of relevant electronic resources .On the basis of these findings, the study recommends for continuous development of strategies aimed at promoting and marketing electronic resources to potential information users. Moreover, there should be frequent and continuous training of both the library staff and end-users to increase not only their access to these resources but also their use skills. There is also a need for a continuous subscription to relevant electronic resources and the university management funding support to address the challenges of access to and use of electronic resources in Tanzania in a sustainable manner.Item An assessment of users’ awareness on web 2.0 technologies towards accessing information in academic libraries: a case study of Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences (MUHAS)(University of Dar es Salaam, 2012) Musaroche, ChristinaThis study examined users’ awareness on Web 2.0 technologies towards accessing information in academic libraries MUHAS library was used as a case study. The general objective of the study was to assess users’ awareness on Web 2.0 technologies in accessing information at the MUHAS library. Web 2.0 technologies is a new phenomena in academic libraries, yet little is known regarding users’ awareness on Web 2.0 technologies in these libraries in Tanzania. Most communities use Web 2.0 technologies for promoting social networks but not much has been written about its integration into academe and more particularly in facilitating access to scholarly information. The study employed a case study design which used both qualitative and quantitative approaches to obtain primary data. Data for this study were collected through interview and questionnaire. The study also reviewed a number of books, articles, journals, dissertations and reports related to Web 2.0 technologies. The main findings of the study show that Web 2.0 technologies are still new in Tanzania and users are gradually getting familiar with them. Although Web 2.0 technologies are available and users are aware of them, there is lack of efficient and effective use of the technologies due to lack of skills and knowledge to both librarians and library users. Some of the Web 2.0 technologies are biased as users opts for few services. The major recommendation proposed in this study is provision of training to both librarians and library users.Item A comperative study on customer satisfaction among public and academic libraries: the Case of the national central library and Dr Wilbert Chagula library, University of Dar es Salaam(University of Dar es Salaam, 2015) Mulalike, WillfredaThe main objective of this study was to compare customer satisfaction in public and academic libraries with regard to service and resource provision. Specifically, the study examined the extent to which users of the National Central Library and Dr Wilbert Chagula Library, University of Dar es Salaam are satisfied with the services provided, find out customer care skills of library service providers in selected libraries, challenges they face and strategies for improving customer satisfaction in public and academic libraries in Tanzania. The study employed a survey research design. The study involved one hundred respondents including students, library heads, library staff and directors of libraries who were selected through simple random and purposive sampling techniques. Empirical data were collected using a questionnaire, interviews and observations, and then analyzed, discussed and presented in figures, charts, tables and text. Key findings revealed that selected libraries face many challenges that hinder the provision of quality services and customer satisfaction including insufficient number of current books, computers with internet connectivity, reading space compared to number of users, inadequate budget to purchase information resources and inadequate customer care training. In view of the above, the study recommends that, current library resources that meet teaching, learning, research and recreational information needs of users be increased. Library staff be trained on customer care, more computers with internet connecting be provided, library reading space be extended to accommodate the increased number of users and library budget be increased in order to cater for the needs of library users. Also, standby generators should be purchased to serve as backup during electric power failure. To conclude, the management of these libraries through their Boards should increase library budget in order to adequately cater for the needs of library users, and introduction of new services.Item Investigating marketing of library services in selected academic libraries in Tanzania.(University of Dar es Salaam, 2006) Sarai, Margaret GeorgeThis study examined Marketing of Library Services In selected academic libraries in Tanzania. It was conducted in the City of Dar es Salaam in four academic libraries, namely the University of Dar Es Salaam, Institute of Finance Management, Open University of Tanzania and the International Medical and Technological University. Data were collected through questionnaires, interviews and observation. Key findings revealed that the concept of marketing is new in Tanzania and not well understood by most librarians because it is not taught as a subject in Tanzanian Library Schools. The findings also revealed that academic libraries market their services using the website, information literacy, orientation, brochures etc to create awareness among users, still not all users (7%) are aware of the services provided by these libraries because the methods used are not very effective. The findings also show that all the surveyed libraries are faced with problems of financial constraints, staffing shortage, marketing skills, shortage of reading materials and equipment like computers. Funding is a major problem that hinders the effective marketing of library services. It was also found that these libraries lack marketing plans and strategies used are also not very effective. This study recommends the introduction of marketing concept in academic libraries. The study also recommends a review of marketing methods, an increase in funding by parent organizations and the need to put in place marketing plans, effective strategies, the training of library staff in marketing of library services and introduction of Marketing of Library Services in Library Schools. This study examined Marketing of Library Services In selected academic libraries in Tanzania. It was conducted in the City of Dar es Salaam in four academic libraries, namely the University of Dar Es Salaam, Institute of Finance Management, Open University of Tanzania and the International Medical and Technological University. Data were collected through questionnaires, interviews and observation. Key findings revealed that the concept of marketing is new in Tanzania and not well understood by most librarians because it is not taught as a subject in Tanzanian Library Schools. The findings also revealed that academic libraries market their services using the website, information literacy, orientation, brochures etc to create awareness among users, still not all users (7%) are aware of the services provided by these libraries because the methods used are not very effective. The findings also show that all the surveyed libraries are faced with problems of financial constraints, staffing shortage, marketing skills, shortage of reading materials and equipment like computers. Funding is a major problem that hinders the effective marketing of library services. It was also found that these libraries lack marketing plans and strategies used are also not very effective. This study recommends the introduction of marketing concept in academic libraries. The study also recommends a review of marketing methods, an increase in funding by parent organizations and the need to put in place marketing plans, effective strategies, the training of library staff in marketing of library services and introduction of Marketing of Library Services in Library Schools.Item Modern library-assisted learning strategies for students in higher learning institutions in Tanzania.(Universityof Dar es Salaam, 2011) Ndekao, Siril PatrickThe study assessed modern library-assisted learning strategies for students in higher learning institutions in Tanzania using the Institute of Finance Management (IFM) as a case study. A survey design was used in the study where both quantitative and qualitative approaches were employed. The population of the study comprised of undergraduates as well as post graduate students, library staff and teaching staff. Both purposive and stratified random sampling techniques were employed to obtain samples. The study involved a total sample size of 120 respondents; both secondary and primary data collection methods were used whereby self administered questionnaires, interviews and direct observation were applied. The key findings revealed that the library has strategies which intend to help students to become independent learners and thereby reduce overdependence on lecture notes from their instructors. The strategies are implemented through several ways such as provision of electronic information resources alongside the IL skills necessary to utilize the resources. However, the extent to which the majority of the students were aware of, and were effectively trained to utilize the resources in their day to day academic enderavour pose a very critical challenge to the library. Other challenges faced include frequent power interruptions, internet connection problems, shortage of trained and experienced professionals, as well as the little attention paid to IL programmes at the Institute. The major recommendations made in this study include: the need for a clear and written library policy; adequate and reliable facilities; measures to have in place alternative sources of power such as such as solar energy and biogas; expansion of the library building to match the ever increasing number of users; the need for continued career development and formulation of clear marketing strategies with the aim of raising the awareness level of the various services offered.Item Perception of visually impaired students on library resources and services in academic libraries: the case of University of Dar es salaam and Open University of Tanzania(University of Dar es Salaam, 2015) Kawogo, Emmanuel JohnThis study examined the perception of visually impaired students on library resources and services in academic libraries. The study was conducted in Dar es Salaam region, particularly at the University of Dar es Salaam and Open University of Tanzania. The survey method was employed in which questionnaires, interviews, focus group discussions and observations were used to collect data. A total of 60 sample, 32 from University of Dar es Salaam and 28 from Open University of Tanzania took part in the study. The key findings reveals that unavailability of specialized services for the visually impaired students, inadequacy of modern technological equipments, lack of materials in alternative format such as (Braille materials, audio books), lack of librarians who are subject specialist, lack of skills to access electronic information and lack of committed staff to assist visually impaired students were all factors responsible for the ways visually impaired students perceive the services offered by the academic libraries. Based on the findings, recommendations were made that university authorities should attempt to provide well established specialized services with modern technological equipments so as to ensure equal access to information for all categories of user. The study concluded that the information services that are provided for all the students at OUT and UDSM do not adequately meet the needs of visually impaired students.Item The role of academic libraries in enhancing information literacy skills for undergraduates: a case study of DUCE.(University of Dar es Salaam, 2012) Mgongolwa, LaurentThe study was conducted to investigate the role of the Dar es Salaam University College of Education (DUCE) Library in enhancing Information Literacy (IL) skills among undergraduate students. The study adopted Bloom’s Taxonomy Model of Cognitive Domain which guided the collection of data. Both qualitative and quantitative research methods were employed in this study. Purposive and convenience sampling technique were used to select a total of 67 respondents who took part in the study. Primary data for this study was collected through survey method using self-administered questionnaires supplemented by face-to-face interviews and non-participant observation. Both descriptive and quantitative techniques were employed in data analysis. The findings of the study reveal that DUCE students still faced difficulties in finding, critically evaluating and using information for their academic endeavour, despite there being some evidence of the institution’s library in providing IL services. The study identified Lack of adequate resources, inadequate time, and lack of IL policy as major constraints underpinnings IL effectiveness at DUCE. The study concluded that DUCE has yet adequately recognise IL as an important learning tool. Thus, the study recommends that DUCE Library should provide training and appropriate information sources, introduce policies to combat plagiarism, allocate adequate time and resources to enhance IL programmes, advise and convince the university management to integrate IL programmes into the university curriculum, and raise students’ awareness on resources and services offered.