School of Science and Technology
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Welcome to School of Sciences and Technology collection.This collection contains Journal articles published by faculty affiliated to the school.
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Item Gamification on Social Media to Enhance Library Services in Kenyan Private Universities(Journal of Science & Technology, 2025-09) Naisula, Segel Winner; Gichohi, Paul Maku; Murugi, EdithThis study examined the application of gamification strategies on social media as an innovative approach to enhance student interaction with library services at Strathmore and Riara Universities, Kenya. Guided by the Self-Determination Theory, which emphasizes competence, relatedness, and autonomy as intrinsic motivators, the study explored how game elements such as contests, quizzes, and digital badges influence engagement. A descriptive survey design was employed, targeting a population of 2,100 individuals (1,800 students and 300 librarians). Stratified random sampling yielded 300 students, while purposive sampling selected 36 librarians, resulting in a final response of 255 students (85%) and 20 librarians (55.6%). Data were collected using structured questionnaires and semi-structured interviews, with reliability confirmed through Cronbach’s alpha values above 0.7. Quantitative data were analyzed using SPSS v26 (descriptive statistics), while qualitative insights were thematically analyzed. The findings revealed that gamification significantly improved interaction with library services, with 50.6% of students reporting motivation from contests, 48.2% from digital badges, and 60% from quizzes. Despite these benefits, challenges such as limited resources, inadequate training, and access to gamification software constrained scalability. The study concludes that gamification offers a practical framework for bridging the student-library engagement gap in Kenyan private universities. It recommends investing in affordable gamification tools, training librarians in digital engagement strategies, and conducting regular audits of library social media initiatives. Adoption of such measures would enhance both the visibility and utilization of library services in resource-constrained academic environments.Item Assessing Financial Investment and Maximization of Electronic Resources Usage at Technical University of Mombasa and Kenya Methodist University(EdinBurg Peer Reviewed Journals and Books Publishers: Journal of Information and Technology, 2024-09) Kochumba, Teresia Atieno; Gichohi, Paul Maku; Nkoroi, LilianPurpose: Academic libraries, such as those at the Technical University of Mombasa (TUM) and Kenya Methodist University (KeMU), have invested heavily in electronic resources to enhance academic performance and research output. These investments, funded by parent institutions, partners, and donors, are costly, prompting libraries to justify their spending and develop strategies for maximizing resource utilization. This study assessed financial investments and the maximization of electronic resource usage by analyzing budget allocations, user perceptions, utilization patterns, and benefits derived from these resources. Methodology: Guided by Edward Freeman’s 1984 Stakeholder Theory, the study employed a descriptive survey design with a target population of 23,039 and a sample size of 426, including undergraduate and postgraduate students, faculty, and library staff. Data was collected through questionnaires and interviews, with pretesting conducted at the University of Nairobi’s Mombasa campus. Results: The findings revealed that TUM and KeMU collectively spent $124,320.12 on electronic resources, with 83.8% of library staff expressing satisfaction with the budget, while users reported low perceptions of budget allocations. However, 75.8% of users actively utilized these resources and reported substantial academic benefits. Conclusions: Financial investments significantly impact resource maximization, and involving users in the acquisition process could improve budget alignment with user needs. It recommended increased investment in electronic resources, staff training, user engagement in acquisition, and user involvement in resource reviews to enhance satisfaction and resource utilization. Further research is suggested to explore factors like user needs assessments, technological infrastructure, and information literacy programs to develop comprehensive strategies for optimizing electronic resource management in university librariesItem Digital Resources Accessibility as A Strategy for Enhancing User Engagement in University Libraries in Meru County(EdinBurg Peer Reviewed Journals and Books Publishers: Journal of Information and Technology, 2024-09) Mutuma, Martin Muthomi; Gichohi, Paul Maku; Nzioka, Catherine M.Purpose: The engagement of users in university libraries is defined by the interactions between students, faculty, and staff with library resources, services, and facilities. Digital resource accessibility serves as a critical strategy to enhance user engagement in university libraries by removing barriers to access and facilitating remote access. The study investigated the challenges and opportunities of enhancing user engagement in university libraries through digital resource accessibility, focusing on Meru County, Kenya. The research aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of digital resource accessibility as a strategy to increase user engagement in Meru County's universities. Methodology: The study adopted a descriptive survey research design, targeting 13,000 undergraduate students, 665 postgraduate students, and 25 library staff from Meru University and Kenya Methodist University. A sample of 716 participants was selected using stratified and simple random sampling for students, and purposive sampling for library staff. Data was collected via questionnaires and interviews, with qualitative data analyzed thematically and quantitative data processed using SPSS to generate descriptive statistics. Results: The findings revealed that while students generally engaged well with online databases and public access catalogues, they struggled with e-journals and institutional repositories due to usability challenges and the poor quality of digital resources. These issues hindered effective engagement, as the resources also often failed to meet academic needs. Conclusion: The study concludes that improving the quality and user-friendliness of digital platforms is critical for enhancing user engagement. It recommends that university libraries in Meru County collaborate with publishers to improve digital resource quality and provide students with targeted training to navigate digital platforms more effectively. This study contributes to the field by offering actionable insights into how universities can optimize digital resource accessibility to boost user engagement, thus providing a valuable framework for libraries in similar educational contexts.Item How Training in Scholarly Writing by University Libraries Supports Postgraduate Research at University of Embu and Kenya Methodist University in Kenya(International J ournal of Professional P ractice (IJPP), 2023-08) Mwangi, Maina Antony; Gichohi, Paul Maku; Nzioka, Catherine MueniAcademic dishonesty is a significant challenge facing postgraduate research in universities. While this challenge persists, students across the globe continue to enroll in postgraduate studies. Universities employ various measures to mitigate academic dishonesty, including using anti-plagiarism software, creating academic dishonesty awareness, and training students on scholarly writing. However, academic dishonesty continues to persist in postgraduate research, lowering research quality. The current study sought to investigate how training scholarly writing supports postgraduate research at the University of Embu (UoEM) and Kenya Methodist University (KeMU) in Kenya. The research used a survey research design. The target population was 1008 participants, consisting of postgraduate students, Directors of Postgraduate Studies, and librarians. Using Mugenda and Mugenda (2003) formula, the study used a sample size of 208 participants, including 195 postgraduate students, two directors of postgraduate studies, and 11 librarians. The research used stratified random sampling to establish the research sample and simple random sampling within each population stratum. Interviews and questionnaires were used to collect data from the respondents. Descriptive statistics and thematic analysis were used to analyze research data. The study established that training in scholarly writing is an effective approach in mitigating academic dishonesty. The findings indicated that postgraduate research is vital in academics. Therefore, the use of scholarly writing training as a mitigation measure against academic dishonesty among postgraduate students is necessary. The training approaches used by many universities to introduce postgraduate students to scholarly writing concepts include practical training and orientation of new students. The research recommended inclusion of training in scholarly writing to the curriculum. Further, it recommended collaboration of all stakeholders to identify areas that need more emphasis and training, and to incorporate social media platforms and student university portals in the training.Item The Role of Information Searching Proficiency in Shaping E-Resource Utilization among Graduate Students in Christian Universities: A Nairobi County Perspective(International Journal of Professional Practice (IJPP), 2023-09) Mwaki, Kinoti Dennis; Gichohi, Paul Maku; Gatimu, WinfredThe global shift to virtual libraries and widespread e-learning in tertiary institutions has notably increased electronic resource adoption in university libraries and information centers. To optimize e-resources use, the proficiency to effectively search for information remains a crucial factor in facilitating the research, learning, and scholarly accomplishments of graduate students. However, empirical investigations indicate that e-resources continue to experience suboptimal utilization. This study examined how the proficiency to search for information impacted the utilization of e- resources by graduate students in Christian universities in Nairobi County. The descriptive survey research design was used. The target population comprised 843 graduate students and 8 librarians. A 20% sample was taken for graduate students, resulting in 168 graduate students being selected using a stratified and systematic technique. All librarians were purposively picked for this study. Data was collected through the administration of questionnaires and interviews. Qualitative data underwent thematic analysis and thematic presentation. The quantitative data, which was presented using tables, was analyzed using measures such as mean, frequencies, standard deviation, percentages, linear regression, and Pearson correlation. The findings indicated that graduate students demonstrated a high level of familiarity with search databases. Additionally, they exhibited considerable expertise in formulating search strategies and proficiently applying various search techniques. Furthermore, the findings revealed a positive association between searching for information and the utilization of e-resources. The results of the regression analysis confirmed that the proficiency to search for information significantly predicts 81.9% of the variation in the utilization of e-resources. The study concluded that the proficiency to search for information significantly shapes e-resource utilization among graduate students in Christian Universities. The study recommends prioritizing information retrieval training, enhancing the acquisition of e- resources, involving librarians in pedagogy, incorporating and evaluating Information Literacy (IL) courses into the curriculum, and facilitating academic and professional development.Item The Aspect of Assurance of Digital Institutional Repository Service Provision to Postgraduates Students at Selected Universities in Meru County(International Journal of Professional Practice, 2023-08) Tsenga, Sophia Mjeni; Gichoya, David; Gichohi, Paul MakuTheses, dissertations, reports and other research works by university communities are housed in digital institutional repositories in the library department. Postgraduate students are expected to utilize these resources; hence, the nature of services provided therein is critical. The provision of digital institutional repository service in university libraries is expected to be courteous, professional, and credible. Professionalism is demonstrated through politeness, trustworthiness, honesty, friendliness, respectfulness and competence of the institutional repository staff serving users. These attributes usually communicate assurance and heighten customer satisfaction. The feeling of assurance is also reinforced by the experience that a user gets when interacting with the repository website; for example, the friendliness of the webpages. However, incidences of users getting disinterested and losing patience with institutional repositories have continued to be reported.This paper reports part of findings of a large study which aimed to determine how adopting SERVQUAL model can improve digital institutional repository information services to postgraduate students at universities in Meru County. This paper assessed the assurance of digital institutional repository service provision. It employed a descriptive survey research design. The target population constituted library head of sections and post-graduate students. Purposive sampling was employed to get librarians, while simple random sampling, to select students. A sample size of 101 was adopted. Data was collected using questionnaires and interviews. Data quality was achieved by checking construct, content and face validity, while reliability was ascertained using Cronbach alpha. Data was analysed descriptively and thematically. The study found that the level of assurance in digital institutional repositories at universities in Meru County was moderate. Assurance aspects are supported by elements like: knowledgeable staff, customer- centric service, adequate ICT infrastructure, resources and facilities; customer awareness; and adequate funding. The study recommended creation of awareness, staff training and upgrading the repository technology to enhance assurance aspects.Item Factors Determining Successful Adoption of Internet of Things (IoT) in University Libraries: A case of Catholic University of Eastern Africa Library(International Journal of Professional Practice, 2023-08) Maina, John; Gichohi, Paul Maku; Muriira, Lawrence MwendaThe potential of Internet of Things technology to enhance operational efficiency and effectiveness has been recognized across various sectors. However, its adoption in Kenyan university libraries remains limited. The primary aim of this study was to examine the factors that contribute to the successful adoption of Internet of Things (IoT) technology at the Catholic University of Eastern Africa library. The ultimate goal was to identify these factors and provide recommendations for best practices in implementing IoT in the library setting. The Unified Theory of Technology Acceptance and Use served as the guiding framework. Utilizing a descriptive survey research design, this study focused on a target population of seven section head librarians and five hundred library patrons. Employing a qualitative approach, data was collected through interviews with a purposively selected university librarian, five section head librarians, and six focus group discussions (7 each), involving simple randomly sampled library patrons. Document analysis was also conducted. Content analysis and thematic categorization were used for data analysis. The study found that IoT adoption in CUEA libraries is limited by infrastructure challenges, training gaps, and organizational barriers. Robust infrastructure, user acceptance, staff training, and organizational support are key success factors for IoT adoption. The study recommends that CUEA libraries should partner with university departments to allocate resources for IoT implementation and establish training programs to enhance staff skills. The university administration should support libraries by removing organizational barriers, facilitating budgets, and creating a conducive environment for seamless IoT integration. Implementing these recommendations will enhance knowledge management capabilities and contribute to research and learning environments. This study's novelty lies in its focus on university libraries and its actionable recommendations for improving operations and services through IoT technology.Item Technology Responsive Measures Adopted by University Libraries in Meru County, Kenya in Addressing Disruptive Forces(International Journal of Professional Practice, 2023-08) Gitonga, Faith Ntinyari; Gichohi, Paul Maku; Gichoya, DavidCommission of University Education guidelines demand university libraries to be responsive to the changing by modernizing infrastructure and technology. However, the university libraries are dealing with emergent changes in the information provision using outdated methods, and are either slow or unable to respond to the current user information needs and behaviors. The purpose of the study was to determine the technology responsive measures adopted by university libraries in Meru County. The study used qualitative approach and employed a survey research design. The target population was the senior library staff in Kenya Methodist University and Meru University of Science and Technology university libraries. The respondents comprised of 13 heads of library sections who were sampled using purposive method. This study conducted Focus Group Discussions for library heads of sections in each university library under investigation. Additionally, the study also conducted an analysis on documents such as university library annual reports, university procurement plan, policy frameworks, subscription details and library strategic plan. Data collected was purely qualitative and was analyzed using content analysis and thematic categorization. The findings revealed that university libraries have adopted several technology- based measures such as remote access software, my loft software, anti-plagiarism software such as Turnitin, e-resources such as e-Books and e-journals, and social media platforms such as WhatsApp, to ease communication. Therefore, the study concluded that libraries had implemented some measures in responding to technology-related changes. The libraries were also using several measures to ensure long-term availability of digital content through institution repositories, and to promote good working relationship with the IT people. The study recommends that library management fosters development of own solutions to library problems, such as how to deal with artificial intelligence and emerging the technologies.Item Achieving Operational Efficiency by Adopting ICT in Diplomatic Records Management at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kenya(Stratford Peer Reviewed Journals and Book Publishing Journal of Information and Technology, 2022-10) Kajuju, Frida; Gichohi, Paul Maku; Serede, GeorgeInformation and Communication Technologies have become a critical success factor for service delivery in Kenya's public sector. Applying ICTs in service delivery has become a game changer in public records management. It has completely transformed records management work procedures, methods, and principles. The study aimed to assess how operational efficiency can be achieved by adopting ICT in diplomatic records management at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kenya. The study was guided by records continuum and hybrid theories and adopted the descriptive survey research design. The target population comprised 887 Ministry of Foreign Affairs employees, from which a sample of 87 participants was selected using a stratified and purposive sampling approach. Questionnaires and interview schedules were used to collect data, which was analyzed quantitatively and qualitatively using Statistical Package for Social Sciences and content analysis. The study revealed that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs had embarked on the assimilation of ICTs into its operational activities as a component of e-service delivery. As a result, the study established that diplomatic records, which were vital in achieving operational efficiency, were being created, accessed, and used in electronic format. Inadequate infrastructure for electronic records management programs was, however, found to be a significant hindrance to the realization and use of diplomatic electronic records. The study recommends that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs develop and execute a comprehensive electronic records management policy and regulatory framework to integrate e-records into Ministry's operational efficiency and service delivery. The Ministry of foreign affairs should collaborate with Information Communication and Technologies Authority to develop infrastructure for electronic records management systems to ensure that all software acquired for managing electronic records capture records management requirements to achieve operational efficiency and improved service delivery.Item Satisfaction with E-Resources and Perception of Libraries by Postgraduate Students at Daystar and Multimedia Universities in Kenya(International Journal of professional Practice (IJPP), 2020) Murithi, Caroline Kathomi; Gichohi, Paul Maku; Irura, GraceUniversity libraries are expected to provide current, varied, sufficient and authoritative information resources for all academic programs on offer, and adopt information communication technologies in information provision and management. However, issues of support services offered on e-resources, competencies of library staff, provision of diverse eresources and satisfaction with e-resources are some of the issues that cause dissatisfaction among postgraduate students. This study sought to examine how satisfaction with e-resources influences perception of libraries by postgraduate students at Daystar and Multimedia Universities in Kenya. The objectives of the study were: to determine satisfaction with eresources; to establish postgraduate students’ perception towards libraries; and to establish the effect of satisfaction with e-resources on perception of university libraries. Most postgraduate students’ perception of university libraries is inappropriate. This is attributed to users experience and satisfaction which they have had with e-resources. It adopted a descriptive survey research design in sampling 116 postgraduate students and 4 library staff using simple random sampling and purposive sampling methods respectively. Primary data was collected through online questionnaires and interview guides. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used in the analysis. The results revealed that satisfaction with e-resources had a significant correlation with perception of university libraries. An R squared of 0.415 was found, implying that satisfaction with e-resources accounts for 42% of variations in perception of libraries by postgraduate students. The study concluded that satisfaction with eresources has a statistically significant influence on postgraduate students’ perception of university libraries. The implication is that satisfaction with e-resources is a critical determinant of postgraduate students’ perception of university libraries. The university library management needs to strengthen the satisfaction related aspects such as friendliness, professionalism, communication, reliability, and timeliness, which seem to be strong drivers of perception.