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The Ability of Form Four Pupils in the Secondary School of Tanzania to Read Contour Maps
(University of Dar es Salaam, 1972) Aldridge, Roger Michael
Contour map symbols are more complicated than most symbols as they- portray the third dimision in twodimensions. Thus, before understanding a contour map, one must acquire a specific Spatial ability --the ability tolerate the two --dimensional maps to the three-dimensional landscape it represents. According to Piaget, the pre-adolescent Swiss child has the ability to imagine different viewpoint --- ability related to contour map reading, although other evidence indicates that some adolescents, lack this ability. Other studies have revealed that somenon – Western cultural groups have considerable problems in understanding perceptual symbols especially depth cues. Itis thus possible that African Secondary school pupils havemore difficulty in understandingcontour maps than their Western counterparts. From the 1iterature and the considerable variationin contour map reading ability among University students in Tanzaniathe author expected that Secondary school pupils would beweak in certain basic skillsnecessary for contour reading. In addition, certain variables were expected to affect perfomance.Two instruments- a contour map reading test for pupils and a teacher questionnaire-were devised to answer questions and test hypotheses. The questions asked whether or not there was poor performance in contour map reading in the Secondary schools of Tanzania and whether or not poor performance wasrelated to weaknessin fourskills identified as important: 1. The ability to relate the two-dimensional contour map to the three-dimensional Landscape. 2. The ability to find the approximate height of any point on the contour map. 3. The ability to analyse slopes. 4. The ability to draw or to interpret cross-sections. Thehypotheses tested whether or not variability in performance was related to home bacground, age, sex, school type, school facilities and teaching. Aftera pilot study, the pupil contour map reading test (the final pupil test), which included ten perceptual items, was given to 1714 form four pupils (27% of the total population) in 40 schools from seven school types. Statistics were obtained from a computer programme and hand, analyses in particular a detailed item analysis or based on 2% of the total sample randomly selected. The test attempted to answer thequestions posed and also providedinformation relevant to the hypotheses regarding the age, sex and home background of the pupils. After revision of the draft form a teacher questionnaire was sent to all the Secondary schools in Tanzania taking Geography at form four levels. Eightypercent of the schools replied (86% of the schools whose pupils took the final pupil test). Results were recorded on punch cards which were then hand—sorted. Informationwas provided as to the facilities for teaching map readingin the schoolsthe amount of experience of the teachersthe organization of' map reading training the subjects matter covered and the types of aids used. Most pupils scored under 60% on the final pupil test, indicating that there is poor performance in contour map reading in the secondary school in Tanzania. There were close relationships betweenthe perceptual items and the rest of the test indicating a relationship between spatial ability, as measured by this sub -test, and the contour map reading section of the test. Some pupils were un able to imagine a different viewpoint from their own, suggestion that they have not yet reached the final Piagetian stage of development in spatial concepts. Consequently, they have difficulty in the first importantskill identified abovethe ability to relate the two-dimensionalmap to the three—dimensional landscape. Pupils were weak in two other basic skills-the ability to analyse slopes and the ability to draw or interpret cross sections. Although the pupils were able to find the approximate height of any point on a contour map,they were unable torelate height to each other. This is symptomatic of a more general weakness - an inability to apply knowledge of contour principles to problem solving situations.Performance varied considerably, for in spitegeneral weakness, individual pupils score very highly on the test. An important variable was sex, males performing better than females on three sub-tests, especially the perceptual sub-test. It is possible that role indoctrination and traditional attitudes to the education of girls may affect their performance on the test. Nevertheless, one girls’ school obtained the highest mean on the final pupil test of all 40 schools, thus suggesting that other variables can overcome sex differences. There were only slight relationships between home background measures and test performance. However, other measures, especially clinical observation indicates. There was an inverse relationship between age and test performance, possibly because some pupils are repeating years at school and are either less intelligent than other pupils or else have missed vital works through illness. Performance inday schools varied more than in boarding schools, and was possibly related to the urban setting of the day schools, where there is less control over the study habits of the pupils. No significant relationship was found between any of the variables measured by the teacher questionnaire and the test results.Within its limits, the questionnaire is a fairly accurate measure. it could notattempt to measure important factors such as the teacher’s person ability. Based on the results, it is recommended that perceptual training at primary school level should precede map reading work. Practice in observing simple three - dimensional models from different viewpoints would lead to pupils drawing their own contours on potatoes or clay shapes. Pupils participation in making and using the modes is vital.Specific practice in training the four basic skills is also recommended after assessment of the performance of pupils on a test consisting of twenty items from the final pupil test. Teachers sometimes do not give adequate contour map reading instruction because they themselves lack the necessary skills. Thus, weaknesses should be identified and some form of remedial work should be provided at the teacher training level. Training teachers to criticize themselves and to learn from experience is also important. The investigation closes with recommendations for further research.
Academic staff turnover at selected institutions of higher learning in Tanzania
(University of Dar es Salaam, 1993) Munishi, Anthonia Gaspar
This study attempts to discover salient reasons which have propelled academicians to abandon their institutions of Higher Learning (IHL) in Tanzania. Academicians at IHL are trainers of high level manpower whose demand is yet to be met. The study is Behaviorally approached using Vroom's Expectancy Theory to Motivation. Some literature reveals that the way incentives are administered and provision of adequate remuneration and working conditions are extremely important to realize better services in an organization hence, the control of turnover trend. Based on a sample of 186 teachers, it was largely found out that academicians were incapable of subsisting on their monthly earnings. Moreover, most of the IHL encountered inadequate working conditions. Such a situation sparked off teachers' low morale and lack of commitment to work which in turn influenced high rates of departure. Findings concretized that availability of higher remuneration jobs outside the country extensively contributed to high turnover. Shockingly, it was also found out that 64% of the total attrition comprised of senior academicians. Those who were motivated to remain at their institutions were apparently influenced by desire of attaining higher status (senior academic rank) through long service. To them, higher remunerations and adequate working conditions as factors to induce their staying did not play a significant role as it appears in Tables 3.5 (a) and 3.5(b).To wind up the study it is widely envisaged that the national dismal economic performance is the root cause of influence of teachers' departure. To ameliorate the situation, the government needs to provide higher budgets to the IHL.
Access and use of information communication technology in records management: a study of the ministry of education and vocational training
(University of Dar es Salaam, 2013) Mahenge, Alfa Alinuwe
This study examined the way Information and Communication Technology (ICT) can be deployed to enhance record management in Tanzania’s Ministry of Education and Vocational Training. The study also examined the factors that facilitate or undermine access to use of ICT in record management in the ministry’s three departments. Specifically, the study assessed the availability of ICT facilities in three ministerial departments Administration and Personnel Human Resource Management; Primary and Secondary Education and the Inspectorate.A Questionnaires, observation, interview schedule and survey of the existing literature were the data collection methods deployed in this study. In all, 60 respondents made up of heads of department, Information managers and registry officers took part in the study.The findings indicate that access and use of ICT in the Ministry’s three Departments was slow because most of the members of staff were ICT illiterate. There was also an acute shortage of ICT facilities. The few existing ICT facilities were used mainly by director(headof Department) and secretaries or information managers.There was also lack of qualified staff to operate ICT facilities also the management in the three departments have no say on the budget allocations and that ICT was not a priority at MOEVT, hence the poor availability of ICT facilities in the three departments.On the basis of these findings, the study recommends training for all of the staff in the ministry’s three Departments, allocation of more funds to procure more ICT facilities, establishment of ICT units within the departments and formulation of an ICT policy at Ministerial level based on the National ICT policy
Access and use of information on contraceptive methods of family planning among married women in Ilala district, Dar es salaam
(University of Dar es Salaam, 2019) Ochieng, Lucy Mathoro
The main objective of this study was to investigate access to and use of information on contraceptive methods of family planning among married women in Ilala district, Dar es salaam, Tanzania. The study specifically aimed at: identifying channels and sources of information through which married women access information on contraceptive methods of family planning; assessing the patterns in which women access information on contraceptive methods of family planning among married women and examining challenges faced by married women in accessing and using information on contraceptive methods. The study used mixed methods approach to collect, process, and analyze data. A total of 60 married women from Buguruni, Amana, Mnazi Mmoja and Muhimbili hospitals participate in the study. Also, eight key informants from the hospitals were also included in the study. Interview and questionnaire methods were used in collecting data. The study’s key findings show that married women need contraceptive information on : the kinds of contraceptive methods available; effects of contraceptive methods usage; advantages of contraceptive methods usage and the general information about contraceptive methods. Married women mainly depend on human sources of information namely health service providers, friends, neighbours and relatives to access contraceptive information. Some married women do not make use of contraceptive information they access. Furthermore, the findings indicate that income of women, format and language content and spouse’s disapproval are the main factors that hinder access to and use of contraceptive information. Basing on the findings, the study recommends training, partners’ involvement in contraceptive methods clinics and information repackaging as mechanisms to increase access to and effective utilization of contraceptive information
Access to and usage of mobitel and vodacom mobile telephones for information communication in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
(University of Dar es Salaam, 2002) Birungi, Sarah Kaddu
The study investigated the access to, and usage of Mobitel and Vodacom mobile telephones for information communication in Dar es salaam, Tanzania. The two were selected because of the services that they offer to their users. Mobitel provides both analog and digital services whereas Vodacom provides Digital services. Secondly, because of the increasing competition, globalization and the drive for market share among the companies. A purposive sampling technique was used. Both primary and secondary data was used. The sample was 70, that is 35 from each, 20 for the service providers therefore, 10 each. Questionnaires, Interviews, published and un published works were used in data collection. Only data that was relevant to the study was summarized. The study revealed that information communication through mobile telephones is important for business communication, convenience, safety and micro coordination. Recommendations included making the services affordable to all, adequate telecommunication network to ensure accessibility to all in all parts of the country, and technical support. To a large extent, most of today's communication and information services are centralized. They require some basic underlying infrastructure without which the service cannot exist.
Access to and use of breastfeeding information among parents in Mbeya city
(University of Dar es Salaam, 2017) Mwaisela, Neema Ephraim
The main objective of this study was to examine the access to and use of breastfeeding information among parents in Mbeya City. Specifically, the study aimed at: identifying breastfeeding information needs; examining breastfeeding information sources used by parents; exploring the perceptions of parents towards the usefulness of breastfeeding information sources; identifying factors influencing access to breastfeeding information; and examining challenges facing parents in accessing and using breastfeeding information in Mbeya city. The study deployed a mixed approach (quantitative and qualitative) to gather, process, and analyse data. A survey in which 70 respondents participated was conducted at Ruanda and Igawilo health centres in MbeyaCity. Stratified random, convenience, and purposive sampling techniques were used to select the respondents. Data were collected from parents of infants and children between 0 and 2 years of age, and health care professionals by using questionnaire, interview, and observation methods. The quantitative data collected were analysed with the help of Statistical Package for Service Solutions (SPSS) version 20 and Microsoft Excel 10 while content and thematic analysis was used to analyse qualitative data. The study’s key findings indicate that parents in the study area mainly depend on informal sources such as relatives and friends to access and use breastfeeding information as compared to formal sources such as print and electronic ones. The findings also reveal that majority of the parents perceived that access to and use of breastfeeding information as important in enhancing breastfeeding practices. Further, the findings indicate that low income, low level of education, bad attitudes, socio-cultural practices, and language and formats used are the factors hindering effective access to and use of breastfeeding. Based on these results, the study recommends that: health agencies and other stakeholders should ensure that breastfeeding information is available to parents; education on breastfeeding should be increased; and seminars and training should be used to promote breastfeeding practices. Further, the study recommends making breastfeeding information available in various packages to enhance access and usage.
Access to and use of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in selected agricultural research institutes: case study of the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security in Tanzania
(University of Dar es Salaam, 2002) Tumsifu, Elly
The purpose of this study was to investigate access to and use of information and communication technology (ICT) in selected agricultural research institutes of the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security in Tanzania. The survey method was used as a technique for data collection, using both the questionnaire and interview schedules as data gathering instruments. A total of five research institutes and the Information Documentation Unit of the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security headquarters were surveyed and a total of 61 respondents were interviewed. The major findings of this study revealed that there was generally poor access to and use of ICT for managing agricultural research information in the surveyed institutes. The findings also revealed that the causes for this poor access to and use of ICT were poor ICT infrastructure, lack of ICT policy, poor ICT skills of the potential users and generally poor management in some of the institutes. The root cause of these problems emanated from the poor economy which results in little funds being allocated for research information activities and the acquisition of ICTs. In addition, poor access to and use were also associated with unfavourable management conditions especially in those institutes with the required ICT. These include: bad physical settings/location of the gadgets, poor time allocation for use of ICT facilities and bureaucratic procedures in using those facilities. The study recommends an appropriate ICT policy formulation at both national and institutional level, training of the researchers and improved ICT infrastructure for effective and efficient ICT use for managing agricultural research information.
Access to and use of information for forest management among communities surrounding Kazimzumbwi and Pugu forest reserves, Tanzania
(University of Dar es Salaam, 2018) Mkhai, Emmanuel Marco
The main objective of this study was to examine how local communities access and use information for forest management. The study was undertaken in communities around Kazimzumbwi and Pugu Forest Reserves, Kisarawe District, Coastal Region, Tanzania. The study examined different sources of information consulted by local communities to access information for forest management. Additionally, Participatory Forest Management (PFM) activities and their significance to the local communities around forest management. Mixed research approach was used in conducting research. Kisarawe, Pugu Kajiungeni and Kimani (neighboring Kazimzumbwi Forest Preserve) and Kola, Kazimzumbwi, Kifuru and Maguruwe (neighbouring Pugu Forest Reserve) villages were selected purposively because of their proximity to the forest reserves. The data were collected through questionnaire from 282 respondents, interviews from 18 respondents using interview guide, two focus group (7 participants in each group) discussions and observation. Purposive sampling technique was used for selecting key informants and villages while stratified and simple random sampling techniques were used for selecting community members. The findings revealed that there is poor access to and use of information for forest management due to unharmonised policies from different ministries, unsupportive working environment for the leadership, and inadequate support from forest officers. Other factors contributing to inaccessibility of forest information included poor information infrastructure and poverty in most villages. The findings indicate that generally access to and use of information was significantly influenced by unharmonised policies from different ministries, poor infrastructure as well as cultural, demographic, economic, educational and social factors. This study recommends provision of up-to-date information for forest management, identifying alternative sources of income in the villages and government’s cooperation with communities in forest management through Participatory Forest Management.
Access to counselling services for students with visual impairment in the selected universities in Tanzania: focus on social-psychological and educational needs
(University of Dar es Salaam, 2018) Mgumba, Batista Francis
Students with Visual Impairments (SWVIs) are enrolled in most of the universities of Tanzania.Various studies have been conducted on problems facing SWIs in their interaction with different school environment. However, none of those studies has attempted to address SWVIs’ access to counselling services offered in the universities. This study investigated SWVIs’ access to counselling services provided in the universities and how those services address SWVIs’ needs. The study was guided by the following objectives: to identify sources of social psychological problems facing SWVIs in the selected universities; to analyse supportive counselling and other psychological services available for handling social, psychological and educational problems facing SWVIs; to analyse the extent to which the available counselling services are capable of addressing social, psychological and academic needs of SWVIs; and to explore challenges encountered by SWVIs in accessing counselling services in the universities. The study was conducted in two selected universities namely the University of Dar es Salaam (Main Campus), the Sebastian Kolowa Memorial University and the Dar es Salaam University College of Education. To obtain respondents who could be informative to this study, non-probability purposive sampling technique was employed. A sample of 55 subjects participated in the study. The study employed the qualitative approach to studying behavior in which interview, focus group discussion and documentary review were used to collect data. The results indicated that inadequate support in special education; barriers in interaction with physical and social environment and inaccessible information were the main sources of psychological problems faced by SWVIs in the universities, leading to anxiety, loneliness, aggressiveness, poor self confidence, frustration, fear and stress among SWVIs. It was also found that almost all basic counselling services were available in the studied universities but those services could not adequately address the special needs of SWVIs. The provision of counselling services to SWVIs encounters many challenges including: inadequate counselling professionalism among counsellors; counsellors’ lack of knowledge on disability issues; inadequate counselling personnel; absence of a counselling policy; counselling rooms not being user-friendly to SWVIs; inaccessible counselling information, and location of counselling offices in the areas that were not easily accessible to SWVIs. Among the recommendations given for action were the presence of counselling policy; ensuring that counselling services went hand in hand with adjustments of social, physical and educational environment and counsellors having knowledge on disability issues. The study has recommended that a similar research should be conducted on counselling services for PWVIs in other social settings such as the family, work place and lower level educational institutions.
Access to health care services and its influence on health status of children in Bahi district, Dodoma region, Tanzania
(University of Dar es Salaam, 2018) Manahiri, Joyce
This study assessed utilisation of health care services and influence on health status of under five children in Bahi District, Dodoma Region. This was a cross-sectional study carried out at 442 households with under five child born to mothers aged 15 to 49 years. The study used both quantitative and qualitative data collected through questionnaire, Focus Group Discussions (FGD) and documentary review. The study found that health services for under five children were mainly delivered through Mphangwe Dispensary including Bahi and Mwitikira Health Centers. However, such services were inaccessible and not utilized by some under five children. Findings revealed further that children given medicine other than panadol were 4.7 times more likely to die than those given panadol only (OR 4.689: 95% CI=1.597-13.772). That was due to incomplete dose and lack of adherence to prescribed medicines. Mothers aged 15-34 were 3.2 times more likely to experience child mortality than those aged 35-49 (OR: 3.230: 95% CI=1.177-8.867). It was because younger mothers did not have nursing experience. Mothers from households owning a mobile phone were 6 times more likely to experience child deaths than their counterparts with no phones (OR: 6.034; 95% CI=1.339-27.191). Their husbands owned mobile phones but did not use them for health matters. Children living less than 5 kilometres from health facilities were 2.6 times more likely to get malaria/diarrhoea/pneumonia than those residing more than five kilometres (OR: 2.381; 95% CI=1.312-5.077). Living near cultivated fields and swamps were sources for mosquito breeding and unimproved water sources. Households, whose sources of income involved agricultural products and household property were 3 times more likely to have stunted children than those who used agriculture and other sources (OR: 3.107; 95% CI=1.016-9.502). Agriculture was prone to harsh climatic condition(s). Children with health insurance membership were 4.4 times less likely to be stunted than those without such scheme (OR: O.225; 95% CI=0.661-0.826). Children from households that owned television/radio were 2.5 times less likely to be wasted than those who did not own such items (OR: 0.395; 95% CI= 0.235-0.664). Children who were given supplementary foods were 2.2 times less likely to be wasted than those who did not receive (OR: 0.45; 96% CI=0.236-0.857). The study found that there were poor implementation of child health programs by health practitioners and lack of commitment on program related tasks given to mothers/caretakers.Therefore, the study concludes that some under five children did not have access to available health services. Factors that had shown effect on child health imply that access and utilization of health services influence on a child's health status. However, contradictory findings show that some factors cannot show their effect on the child's health if there is no enabling environment. Similarly, prevalence of some health problems in particular places is determined by factors other than lack of access and utilization of health care services. In addition, the study recommends that health practitioners should assess quality of health services and make them attractive to users. Likewise, they should assess implementation of child health programs so as to identify gaps for better performance. On the other hand, mothers/caretakers should shape their health seeking behaviour and be committed as well as accept child health initiatives established by the government and other health practitioners in their settings.
Access to health care services and its influence on health status of children in Bahi district, Dodoma region, Tanzania
(2018) Manahiri, Joyce
study assessed utilisation of health care services and influence on health status of under five children in Bahi District, Dodoma region. This was a cross – sectional study carried out at 442 households with under five child born to mothers aged 15 to 49 years. The study used both quantitative data collected through questionnaire, focus group discussion (FGD) and documentary review. The study found that health services for under five children were mainly delivered through Mphangwe dispensary including Bahi and Mwitikira health centers . However, such servicers were inaccessible and not utilized by some under five children. Findings revealed further that children given medicine other than panadol were 4.7 times more likely to die than those given panadol only (OR 4.689: 95% C1 =1.597-13.772). That was due incomplete dose and lack of adherence to prescribed medicine. Mothers aged 15-34 were 3.2 times more likely to experience child mortality than those aged 35-49(OR:3.230:95%CI=1.177-8.867). It was because younger mothers did not have nursing experience. Mothers from household s owning a mobile phone were 6 times more likely to experience child deaths than their counterparts with no phones (OR: 6.034: 95% C1= 1.339-27.191).Their husbands owned mobile phones but did not use them for health matters. Children living less than 5 kilometers from health facilities were 2.6times more likely to get malaria/diarrhea/pneumonia than those residing more than five kilometers (OR :2.381; 95% CI= 1.312-5.077). Living near cultivated fields and swamps were source for mosquito breeding and unimproved water sources. Households, whose sources of income involved agricultural products and households property were 3 times more likely to have stunted children than those who used agriculture and other sources (OR:3.107; 95% CI= 1.016-9.502). Agriculture was prone to harsh climatic condition(s). Children with health insurance membership were 4.4 times less likely to be stunted than those without such scheme (OR:0225;95% CI= 0.661-0.826). Children from households that owned television/ radio were 2.5 time less likely to be wasted than those who did not own such items (OR:O.395; 95% CI=0.235-0.664). Children were given supplementary foods were 2.2 times less likely to be wasted than those who did not receive (OR: 0.45; 96% C1=0.236-0.857). The study found that there were poor implementation of child health programs by health practitioners and lack of commitment on program related task given to mothers/ caretakers. Therefore the study, concludes that some under five children did not have access to available health services. Factors that had shown effect on child health imply that access and utilization of health services influence on a child’s health status. However, contradictory findings show that some factors cannot show their effect on the child’s health if there is no enabling environment. Similarly, prevalence of some health problems in particular places is determined by factors other than lack of access and utilization of health care services. In addition, the study recommends that health practitioners should assess quality of health services and make them attractive to users. Likewise, they should assess implementation of child health programs so as to identify gaps for better performance. On the other hand, mothers/ caretakers should shape their seeking behavior and be committed as well as accept child health initiatives established by the government and other health practitioners in their settings This
Access to information for decision-making by parliamentarians: : case study of Dodoma parliamentary library in Tanzania
(University of Dar es Salaam, 2003) Kateule, Senorina
The Dodoma Parliamentary Library is an important source of information for parliamentarians, so it needs an effective system of information services in order to assist its users. In view of the above, this study was carried out at Dodoma Parliamentary Library of the Tanzania Parliament - Dodoma Municipal with the objective of assessing the level of its performance and effectiveness in providing information to parliamentarians. A Sample of 47 respondents involving the parliamentarians (users) and library staff at Dodoma Parliamentary Library was selected through convenience and purposive sampling techniques. Four methods of data collection were used namely the interview, questionnaires, literature review and observation. The findings revealed that the existing library in general failed to meet the information needs of parliamentarians. Also level of information services being provided was not much effective and its performance was not all that adequate. Some of the problems facing that library were lack of adequate staff and that most of staff members needed training so as to cope with the changing information environment. Other problems include lack of modem facilities such as computers for the management of information, inadequate space and lack of culture of reading.To improve the situation, the study recommends that management of Tanzania Parliament to consider computerization of its library, allocation of adequate resources, expansion of the library, creating awareness on the importance of information, recruitment of qualified personnel, library cooperation and resource sharing.
Access to quality health care services under community health fund scheme (CHF): a case of Igunga ward in Igunga district, Tabora Tanzania
(University of Dar es Salaam, 2007) Mwesiga, Ishengoma Nelson
This study examines the factors that inhibit access to quality health care services under Community Health Fund (CHF) scheme in Igunga Ward. It contends that issues regarding access to quality health care services are too complicated to be reduced either to a single indicator nr be scrutinized in isolation from the context where they exist. This study asserts that the process or rather the decision to access quality health care services under the CHF scheme cannot be divorced from the social, cultural, demographic, spatial, economic and health care delivery contexts of the society under study. Apart from the macro factors, it is within the aforementioned micro characteristics where the issues of access and quality could adequately be addressed and redressed at the local level. In line with the above framework used in conceptualizing access to quality health care under the scheme, this study used both qualitative and quantitative methodology whereby data were generated using in-depth interviews, narratives, focus group discussions and structured questionnaires with both open-ended and closed questions. This study found that the interaction between multiple forms of characteristics, namely; social, economic, cultural, illness, health care delivery, demographic and spatial, not only shaped and guided, but also hindered access to quality health care under the scheme in Igunga ward. The dynamics associated with the question of access under the scheme such as the decision to join or not join the scheme, the attitude of both parties (seeker and provider) in the process, health seeking behaviours of the health care seekers, competing demands on women, the quality of services provided under the scheme among others which are pertinent in understanding and examining the issue of access are enshrined in the preceding contexts.
Accessibility and quality of adolescents’ sexual and reproductive health services in Dar es Salaam
(University of Dar es Salaam, 2006) Seja, Sabina
Adolescence is a period of transition from childhood to adulthood, and is a period during which youths experience many changes such as biological, behavioral and psychological changes. Today than ever before, adolescents are becoming sexually active at very tender ages. As a result, they face many sexual and reproductive health problems that affect their health and development, for instance, sexually transmitted infections including HIV/AIDS and early pregnancies, which lead to many health and social dilemma. The main objective of the research was to assess the accessibility and quality of sexual and reproductive health services available to adolescents. This research was done in Dar es Salaam region. A total of 384 adolescents aged between 10 and 19 were sampled from four schools and three wards in the region. Also the study involved collecting information from five sexual and reproductive health services providers. Both primary and secondary data were collected using interview schedules and documentary review respectively. The raw data were processed and analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Scientists (SPSS). This study found that about 61 percent of the respondents were sexually active. About 77 percent of the respondents were aware of the adolescents’ sexual and reproductive health (ASRH) service centers, but only 32.5 percent had ever visited the centers to obtain any services. The services available for adolescents were mainly information on SRH, testing for HIV and counseling. Most of the respondents who had ever visited the centers mentioned the contraceptives as unavailable. The majority of those who ever visited the centers affirmed that the services were affordable, confidential and the reception was welcoming. All the staff at the centers admitted that they had received special training to serve youths. The majority of respondents, about 64 percent, had never visited the centers. Several factors were found to hinder the adolescents from visiting the centers. These factors include the distance of centers from adolescents’ areas of residence and schools; parents or guardians not allowing them to use the services; and most adolescents thought they could get the information and other services from magazines, shops, televisions and radios. It was further found that most adolescents preferred to obtain preventive services like condoms and contraceptives from pharmacies rather than specialized centers like the youth centers, and they would like to obtain services through outreach programs. From the findings it is recommended that drug dealers in pharmacies should be trained to offer youth-friendly services and proper counseling to adolescents; service providers expand their outreach programs to serve more adolescents; providers should use attractions such as recreation activities like sports and games to draw more adolescents to the centers.
Accessibility and use of family planning information among rural people in Kilombero District, Tanzania.
(University of Dar es Salaam, 2005) Emmanuel, Grace
This study investigated accessibility and use of family planning Information ( FPI ) among rural people in Kilombero District, Tanzania. The purpose was to examine the entire infrastructure required for accessing and using FPI in rural settings. The study used survey method for data collection. Data gathering instruments were questionnaires, interview schedule and observation guide. A total of 120 respondents were involved in survey. These included women and men of reproductive age, maternal and child health (MCH) clinic staff and community health workers. The study revealed that, there is high awareness of the availability of family planning services (FPS), inadequate knowledge of various family planning methods and limited access and use of FPI. This situation is mainly caused by number of factors which include: ignorance, inconsistent availability of family planning methods, few staff (provider) with limited training, inaccessibility of FPS and patriarchal gender relations. Furthermore, the study found the rural communities access FPI through radio and MCH clinic staff; and there are unequal opportunities between women and men in accessing FPI. The study concludes that the surveyed rural communities are disadvantaged in accessing and using FPI. In addition family planning knowledge has an influence on the adoption and use of family planning methods. The recommendations made include: provision of more health facilities in rural areas, providing training to family planning providers, raising public awareness of family planning, ensuring constant availability of all the family planning methods, provision of family planning education in schools for both sexes and provision of all the necessary facilities needed for effective dissemination of FPI in the rural settings.
Accessibility and use of information on human settlement planning by the public: a case study of Mwananyamala Kisiwani, Kinondoni District, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
(University of Dar es Salaam, 2017) Kanyuma, Leonida Simon
This study examined access to and use of information on human settlement planning by the public in Mwananyamala-Kisiwani Ward in Kinondoni District, Dar es Salaam. Specifically, the study was set to identify sources of information on human settlement planning consulted by the public, strategies used by human settlement officers for disseminating information to the public and challenges encountered by the public when accessing information on human settlement. Primary data were collected through questionnaires and interviews from 110 respondents while secondary data was obtained through documentary review. The findings revealed that sources most consulted by users were ten cell leader's office, ward offices, local government offices and channels most used by information providers were municipal council offices and local government offices. Various challenges were faced by the public in getting access to and using information; with major ones being bureaucracy and poor response from information providers. The study concludes that there is a mismatch between sources consulted and how information is disseminated. Secondly, the governments' sharing of information strategies are not user friendly, thus the level of public's awareness of the information on human settlement is low. The study recommended that the Ministry of Works, Transport and Communication should improve the information communication infrastructures and should set implementable strategies to ensure accessibility and use of human settlement planning information is disseminated and accessible. Also, the Ministry should work closely with information professionals so that they can help to package the information.
Accessibility and use of oral health care information among university students at muhimbili university of health and allied sciences and university of Dar es Salaam in Tanzania
(University of Dar es Salaam, 2017) Uki, Fatma Abdalla
This study examined the accessibility and use of oral health care information among university students in Tanzania, particularly at Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences (MUHAS) and University of Dar es Salaam (UDSM). The study was a descriptive case study and combined qualitative and quantitative methodologies where self- administered questionnaire, interview and observation methods were employed to collect data for the study. A sample of 191 undergraduate students and 6 dental surgeons was involved in the study. Mapping of the available sources of information for students in the two Universities showed that orthodontists were most sources to obtain oral health care information where by colleagues and traditional therapists as the least reliable sources. Available sources of oral health information have been revealed in this study where majority of students reported that the information obtained was useful. Oral hygiene practices of the students have been shown in the study and it was reported that more than half of students brush once a day, before breakfast and use toothpaste to maintain oral hygiene. Students were knowledgeable about bad smell while knowledge on gum disease, oral health plaque and prevention on gum bleeding were scarce. However, a large proportion of MUHAS students knew the signs of gum disease than their counterpart. The study also discovered that majority of students visited professional oral health care when they had a tooth ache though fear was the main reason for not visisiting professional oral health care. Based on the findings, the study concluded that students were knowledgeable about bad smell, however; there was a little knowledge on oral health plaque gum disease, and its prevention. The study recommends oral health education should be established for university students to increase students’ awareness and knowledge of oral hygiene and oral health care.
Accessibility and utilization of reproductive health information among secondary school students in Chunya district, Tanzania
(University of Dar es Salaam, 2010) Jackson, John
This study was undertaken in order to determine the accessibility and utilization of reproductive health (RH) information among secondary school students in Chunya District. The study investigated the extent to which students in the areas with poor information infrastructure like Chunya have access to and utilize RH information especially on the aspects of family planning and safe motherhood. Social survey method was used for this study. The data were collected from a total of 111 respondents through questionnaires, interviews and focus group discussions. The study found that most of the respondents, that is students, had little knowledge on RH. Most of them practise sex in their early age before marriage without knowledge that the practice could result into pregnancy. Although teachers and some parents mentioned to be the current sources of RH information to students, it was discovered that there is inadequate collaboration between parents and teachers in disseminating RH information to students as parents leave this responsibility entirely to teachers. The study concludes that youths in rural areas of Tanzania acquire little knowledge of RH information and rarely use it. Therefore, it is recommended that RH information to students and parents in rural communities should be given much more attention by both the government and non-government agencies. Also, disseminating information related to RH to rural communities should be considered as an important aspect in fighting against ignorance, underdevelopment, poverty and hunger.
Accessibility and utilization of scholarly electronic journals by members of academic staff: a case study of DUCE
(University of Dar es Salaam, 2009) Msagati, Nelson
The study was conducted to investigate whether there was an improvement in the level of access and utilization of scholarly electronic journals among members of academic staff at Dar es Salaam University College of Education (DUCE). The study employed both qualitative and quantitative research design. A total of total of forty seven (47) members of academic staff participated in this study. Purposive sampling was used to select respondents. Primary data for this study was collected through survey method using self- administered questionnaires supplemented by face-to-face interviews and observation. Analysis of data employed both descriptive and quantitative technique. The study findings revealed a low level of access and utilization of scholarly electronic journal by members of academic staff. The main reasons for this were limited access to computers connected to the internet, insufficient bandwidth, lack of awareness of available scholarly electronic journal databases, inadequate search skills, and the errelevance of electronic journals articles. The study further revealed that scholarly electronic journals were mainly used for academic and research purposes and that gender and faculty affiliation of members of academic staff influenced utilization of scholarly electronic journals. Moreover, the study revealed that most academic staff relied on search engines particularly Google for their main source of information compared to scholarly electronic journals and other library resources, due to perceived ease of using search engines and perceived usefulness of their search results. The study concluded that the institution has not play a significant role in influencing improvement in the level of access and utilization of scholarly electronic journals by members of academic staff by failing to implement recommendations made in previous studies on improving the level of access and use of electronic journals by academic staff. The study recommends increasing training along with formulating appropriate information literacy training, increasing awareness of electronic journal databases, increasing the number of computers connected to the internet, improving the bandwidth, formulating an ICT policy, subscribing to relevant electronic journals, and providing reliable electricity supply.
Accessibility of water supply at household level
(University of Dar es salaam, 2010) Mnabe, Anneth Jonathan
This aspect of the research addresses the accessibility of water supply at household level, the case of Ukonga ward in Ilala district, Dar es Salaam. The main method employed in household data collection was structured questionnaires. The Two Phase Stratified Random Sampling was employed in selecting the household sample. In the first phase sample, systematic random sampling covered 841 households. The results of this phase shows that households of Ukonga ward were of low and medium income levels, 63.0% and 32.8% respectively. Second phase sample was 20% of the first phase sample which covered 169 households. It also shows that in all the income levels of the research area, the daily water used per person was 36 litres, as compared to 50 litres of water needed per person (Hinrichsen, et al., 1998). A regression analysis test shows that there is an inverse relationship between population growth and rate of water consumption per person per day. There are a number of household and environmental factors that influence accessibility of water supply at household level. This entails that varieties of strategies have to be deployed to improve water supply systems in Ukonga ward. It is suggested that, besides the government, other private sectors should be encouraged to invest on water sector. Last but not least, the government strategy of borehole allocation to wards should take into consideration the already existing boreholes so that more boreholes should be drilled in areas where there are only a few of these available. This will ensure a more even distribution of water supply in all the wards.

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