Faculty of Social Sciences and Technology

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The use of indigenous Kenyan children's songs for the development of a music curriculum and pedagogy for the primary school in Kenya
(1997) Akuno, EA
Music education in Kenya has been characterised by the teaching of Western musical literacy and a curriculum content with a Western classical bias. To date, few students graduate with sufficient music making skills, and even less pursue training at higher levels. The research aimed to formulate a learning programme that would make music education successful for Kenyans, through a curriculum content and pedagogy that would promote Kenya's cultural heritage while ensuring pupils' development of musical knowledge and skills. Firstly, an analytical survey of past and current music teaching practices in Kenya revealed the deficiencies in the music education programmes. Secondly, a critique of the Kodaly, Curwen, Eurythmics, Orff and Music in the National Curriculum (England) programmes identified the elements that contribute to their success. These were evaluated for their suitability to Kenya's educational environment. Field trials with Kenyan pupils used musical elements derived from indigenous Kenyan children's songs to teach musical concepts and skills. The collection of indigenous Kenyan children's songs involved recording live children's performances and iterviews with adults. Transcribing the songs using staff notation facilitated a rhythmic and melodic analysis, while a study of the texts gave insight into the songs' cultural functions. The musical elements characteristic of these songs were used to design the Rhythm-Interval Approach (RIA), a music teaching programme focusing on the use of rhythm and interval to teach musical concepts and skills. The study resulted in the postulation of the elemental theory of music; aesthetic functionalism as a culture-sensitive view of African music; the Rhythm-Interval curriculum model; and a primary school music curriculum based on indigenous Kenyan children's songs.
THE E-GOVERNMENT ARTIFACT IN THE CONTEXT OF A DEVELOPING COUNTRY: TOWARDS A NOMADIC FRAMEWORK
(2009) Muganda, Nixon O
This thesis is concerned with exploring alternative conceptualizations of the e-government artifact relevant to developing countries in Africa. The premise is that e-government, as an artifact of human conception, remains relatively poorly developed at the levels of theory, methodologies and practice. The investigation is focused on two problematic areas of e-government: its conceptualization and its operationalization as an artifact. There is evidence to suggest that conceptualization of e-government takes place at various levels : international, national, local. The thesis therefore explores how e- government is taking form by focusing on the following research question: "How is the e-government artifact conceptualized in the context of a developing country"? The analysis draws on various perspectives; some of which are grounded on empirical results of the study, while others are based on an analysis of literature. Under the alienating conditions of social exclusion, the emergent e-government artifact emerges as an evolving and technical artifact, with strong managerialist orientations of augmenting and reinforcing central governments control over its polity . To achieve this defining logic, the focus or ideology for addressing the social problem of governance is that of information Taylorism with an emphasis on economic rationality and some form of political rationality. Two consequences are highlighted: • an evolution of public administration towards a technocracy, and • increasing the efficiency of the bureaucracy through managerialization. To address the shortcomings of this artifact concept, the study further presents literature and insights from prior analyses to underpin a nomadic e-government model for building information infrastructures (NECE Framework). The emphasis of the framework is on the need to adopt long term organizing visions in building these infrastructures by focusing on using the existing installed base as a foundation. The nomadic framework, anchored on strong modular design borrowed from an information infrastructure perspective, is clustered around three major layers of building confident local communities ; building nomadic networks of governance and building flexible infrastructures . The 'glue', cementing these layers elevates a critical need for building social, human, digital and physical resources targeting the individuals, various organizing forms and formal institutions, services and physical infrastructure respectively. Such an approach to building an e-government information infrastructure is postulated to minimize the unintended negative social implications of its adoption.
INDIGENOUS RAINMAKING PRACTICES AND THEIR IMPLICATIONS ON CLIMATE CHANGE IN WESTERN KENYA
(2012-12-01) OMUHAMBE, BILHA
This study investigated the Indigenous rainmaking practices & implication on Climate Change in Western Kenya. The study particularly focused on the Nganyi clan of Bunyore which is a sub-ethnic group of the Abaluhya community living in Vihiga County. The study found out that climate in Western Kenya has changed drastically as a result of atmospheric changes.This change has affected the rainy seasons.. The specific objectives of the study were to: (a) investigate the prevalence, evidence, seriousness, and effects of climate change in Western Kenya;(b) analyse the local community’s response to the effects of climate change in Western Kenya; (c) identify and document indigenous rainmaking practices which can be used for climate change mitigation and adaptation in Western Kenya; (d) describe how the traditional rainmaking practices can be used to confront the consequences of climate change; and(e) explore strategies which can be used to mainstream traditional rainmaking in building climate change resilience in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Vision 2030 and the “Big 4” Agenda in Kenya. The research approach was qualitative. Primary data was collected through interviews using interview guides with open-ended questions. The population of the study were traditional rainmakers in Western Kenya and weather forecast experts from the Kenya Meteorological Department. Secondary data was collected through documentary analysis of relevant literature. Data was analysed qualitatively and used a case study design. The local community has responded to climate change by planting drought resistant crops that can withstand the changes, and planting trees to attract rainfall. Traditional rainmaking practices such as making of rain, prevention of rain from falling, and prediction of rain can be used to enhance the community’s capacity to adapt to and/or mitigate climate change effectively. Related knowledge of how to arrest lightning, thunderstorm and hailstorm can also be used to confront the consequences of climate change such as drought, , and overgrazing. Through traditional rainmaking, the community under study has been able to mitigate and adapt to the changes in climate to some extent. It is evident from the study that traditional rainmaking can contribute to food security, improved manufacturing through the provision of raw materials, healthy livelihood, social security, increased employment through sustainable agriculture, as well as safeguarding houses from thunder and floods. For this to happen, there is a need to mainstream traditional rainmaking in the national response to climate change through documenting, popularising and validating the practice
The Design and Use of AIDS- Posters in Kenya
(2013) Pido, John Peter Odoch
The hypothesis of this study is that differences in aesthetic and communication systems confound the efficacy of posters used in efforts to control IDV-AIDS in Kenya. The study is based on empirical observation of the apparent failure of AIDS education campaigns to influence risk-taking behavior. Applying the theories and principles of design education as a filter and an analytical tool, the study takes into account the models and practice of several disciplines including communication, health education and health care delivery. The lack of substantial success of the health education approach, in general, and posters, in particular in curbing AIDS in Kenya invites questions on the efficacy of posters as a medium of communication. The study focuses on the poster, and in so , doing takes into account various parameters including perception of disease, sexuality, and design for health education as well as aesthetics and communication systems. Using archival data, relevant literature in several disciplines, participant observation as well as qualitative and quantitative analysis of data gathered in the field, the study established that conflicts among various models impact negatively on the efficacy of posters rendering them more or less ineffective in the campaign against AIDS. The field sample consisted of seventy eight users of posters and eleven health Workers in Kisumu who were interviewed to find out their opinions on the effectiveness of posters in the fight against AIDS. In general, the concerned users think that posters are not effective in controlling HIV infection and the spread of AIDS in Kenya. A few selected posters were analyzed with views to advancing recommendations for improving on the design of AIDS-posters and heal the education in general. The conclusion of the archival, experiential and observational components of this study coupled with the data gathered by report from a surveys ampleist hat posters are an inappropriate and ineffective medium for communication about HIV/AIDS if the objective of that communication is to slow down,or halt the spread of the virus
MODELING AND EVALUATION OF PLATFORM-LEVEL INTEROPERABILITY FOR MOBILE MONEY TRANSFER SYSTEMS
(2015-07-29) Micheni, Elyjoy Muthoni
Techniques to expedite money transfer have been perfected over time. The use of Mobile phone to transfer money as an alternative to existing traditional payment systems is one of the evolutions of mobile telephony. Mobile money services offer the most convenient means of transferring money and are constantly evolving and are predicted to become the number one choice for cashless transactions in emerging markets. However, despite these prospects, there are various challenges to the expansion of this technology, cross network money transfer being one of them. For example, it is not possible to directly transact money between the different mobile money service providers in Kenya seamlessly. Although the money will be finally transacted, one has to pass through several agents before being able to transact. The research study was aimed at developing a platform level interoperability model for mobile money transfer systems using the Real Time Gross Settlement (RTGS) money transfer system as a reference model. The study used both qualitative and quantitative data from the four main mobile money providers in Kenya, M-Pesa, Airtel Money, Orange Money and Yu Cash to provide empirical evidence for the study. The study is grounded on two theories of interoperability. The first is Institutional Theory of interoperability which stipulates that organizations respond to pressures arising from both their external and internal business environments and adopt structures and practices that are accepted as appropriate organizational choices. The second one is the Interoperability Theory, which indicates that there is no single form or optimal amount of interoperability that will suit every circumstance and therefore, it should be allowed to evolve naturally. Data was collected using mainly a structured Questionnaire and face to face interview. The study used an interpretative exploratory research approach, simple random sampling to distribute the questionnaires and purposive sampling technique for the interview schedules. Qualitative and quantitative data collected was analyzed using both descriptive (frequencies, mean and standard deviation) and inferential statistics (Spearman’s rho and factor analysis). Expert opinion survey was used to develop the proposed interoperability model. The model was validated by Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) using Analysis of Moment Structures (AMOS). The interoperability metric was developed based on ISO/IEC 15504-2 standard; the metric was applied to the four main mobile service providers. The model was successfully accepted by experts. The findings of this study are essential to the government in regulating mobile money and also form a basis for future development of interoperability of mobile money transfer systems.
DECISION QUALITY: THE IMPACT OF PROCESS REDESiGN AS AN INTANGIBLE, BENEFIT ON INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY INVESTMENT DECI SIONS
(2015-07-31) Ndede-Amandi, Atieno A.
IT investment decisions often focus on tangible costs and benefits such as technical, strategic, and financial issues. Less tangible benefits such as process redesign integration, bave been largely ignored. Decisions makers who rely solely on these tangible costs and benefits for their assessment of IT investment value without integrating intangible benefit consideration may be making sub-optimal decisions and investments. This study looked at rhe important, yet often overlooked, intangible benefits consideration in the IT investment decision process with particular focus on process redesign as an intangible benefit. Survey questionnaires were sent out to a sample of 949 firms in three industries: healthcare, chemical, and insurance to solicit information from the chief information officer (CIo) on the level at which they integrate process redesign consideration in the IT inr-eshnent decision. Several important findings resulted from this research effort. First, the study irm"nr;fied seven component factors of process redesign and used these factors to measure the M of process redesign integration into the IT investment decision. Second, the study mfirmed, empirically, that there was an association between the consideration of tangible and intangible benefits. Those firms that expend large effort or resources towards tangible benef,rts consideration also spend more effort or resources toward intangible benefits consideration than otherwise. Third, it was empiricaliy determined that certain process redesign benefit factors received greater consideration than others. Fourth, it was determined #mr decision makers considered tangible benefits to be more important than intangible hmefits consideration and expended a greater portion of effort or resources towards the mideration of the former. Finally, this study found that the strategic relevance of IT in an organization was associated with the level of effort or resource deployment towards intangible benefits. Additional areas for further research were also identified.
MODELING AND EVALUATION OF PLATFORM-LEVEL INTEROPERABILITY FOR MOBILE MONEY TRANSFER SYSTEMS
(2015-09-14) Micheni, Ellyjoy Muthoni
Techniques to expedite money transfer have been perfected over time. The use of Mobile phone to transfer money as an alternative to existing traditional payment systems is one of the evolutions of mobile telephony. Mobile money services offer the most convenient means of transferring money and are constantly evolving and are predicted to become the number one choice for cashless transactions in emerging markets. However, despite these prospects, there are various challenges to the expansion of this technology, cross network money transfer being one of them. For example, it is not possible to directly transact money between the different mobile money service providers in Kenya seamlessly. Although the money will be finally transacted, one has to pass through several agents before being able to transact. The research study was aimed at developing a platform level interoperability model for mobile money transfer systems using the Real Time Gross Settlement (RTGS) money transfer system as a reference model. The study used both qualitative and quantitative data from the four main mobile money providers in Kenya, M-Pesa, Airtel Money, Orange Money and Yu Cash to provide empirical evidence for the study. The study is grounded on two theories of interoperability. The first is Institutional Theory of interoperability which stipulates that organizations respond to pressures arising from both their external and internal business environments and adopt structures and practices that are accepted as appropriate organizational choices. The second one is the Interoperability Theory, which indicates that there is no single form or optimal amount of interoperability that will suit every circumstance and therefore, it should be allowed to evolve naturally. Data was collected using mainly a structured Questionnaire and face to face interview. The study used an interpretative exploratory research approach, simple random sampling to distribute the questionnaires and purposive sampling technique for the interview schedules. Qualitative and quantitative data collected was analyzed using both descriptive (frequencies, mean and standard deviation) and inferential statistics (Spearman’s rho and factor analysis). Expert opinion survey was used to develop the proposed interoperability model. The model was validated by Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) using Analysis of Moment Structures (AMOS). The interoperability metric was developed based on ISO/IEC 15504-2 standard; the metric was applied to the four main mobile service providers. The model was successfully accepted by experts. The findings of this study are essential to the government in regulating mobile money and also form a basis for future development of interoperability of mobile money transfer systems.
THE ROLE OF KENYA NATIONAL LIBRARY SERVICES IN PROMOTING LIFELONG LEARNING THROUGH INFORMATION LITERACY SKILLS
(2016-02-19) NGANGA, FRANCIS G.
Abstract In Kenya there is no lack of information, but the skills needed to search, select, use and evaluate information can vary from total lack of information retrieval skills to some level of literacy. Public libraries have rightfully staked their claim as gateways to participation in society through lifelong learning and information skills. This study investigated the role played by public libraries in promoting lifelong learning through information literacy skills and to come up with a framework for developing Information Literacy skills in KNLS. The specific objectives of the study were to: examine the kind of information literacy programmes if any that have been put in place; establish how KNLS assist users in the promotion of lifelong learning through provision of information services; assess the adequacy of information literacy policies if any; determine how ICT can be applied in KNLS to promote access and use of information; identify the challenges preventing users from acquiring information literacy skills; propose an information literacy training framework to promote lifelong learning among the users of KNLS. The study was informed by the Big6 information literacy model. The research was a case study which employed survey research methods. The study was predominantly qualitative with some aspects of quantitative techniques. The sample comprised 120 users who were selected through convenient sampling and 30 informants comprising 25 librarians and 5 senior management officers who were selected using purposive sampling. Data was collected through semi-structured interviews, using qualitative techniques. The key findings of the study were: KNLS lacks a standardized information literacy programme; inadequate professional staff to promote lifelong learning; lack of information literacy training policies; the institution has not integrated ICT’s and internet connectivity in all its libraries and the heterogeneous nature of users affects information literacy training. The study concludes that there are some forms of information literacy training in the institution, however the training offered is not adequate to promote lifelong learning due to lack of standardized information literacy programmes and lack of information literacy policies. The study recommends that the institution should improve the information literacy programs and teaching methods; address human resource readiness to help in the promotion of lifelong learning; formulate information literacy training policies; integrate ICT and internet connectivity in all its branch libraries; explore alternative sources of funds; embrace attainment of online readiness and enhancement of capacity building for staff. The research also recommends a framework for developing information literacy skills whose components includes strategy, ICT infrastructure, users training, building partnership with local organizations and evaluation of the information literacy programs.
LIBRARY FUNDING: A STUDY TO IDENTIFY RELIABLE AND EQUITABLE SOURCES OF PUBLIC LIBRARY FUNDING IN KENYA
(2016-02-26) CHEBON, PHILEMON
The premise from which this research project begins is that public libraries particularly in the developing world, are unable to fully finance their services and thus should seek alternative sources of funding. This project attempts to identify sustainable funding options for the Kenya National Library Services (KNLS) with specific reference to user fees for library services. In order to put the study into perspective, an outline of library history in Kenya is presented together with an overview of social, economic, technological, and social factors which influence the provision of library and information services. The literature review traces the origin of the user fee debate and summarises the arguments for and against fees in libraries. It also attempts to determine whether economic theory could present a theoretical perspective in reconciling the divergent views. The review shows that the issue of charging for library services is hotly contested within the LIS profession and that there is no easy solution. The position of the public libraries within the African continent is contextualised by briefly detailing prevailing conditions, particularly the pressures brought to bear on library budgets during difficult economic periods. An overview of user fee policy in Kenya and the current position of library funding and income generation in South Africa are presented. Data was collected from both primary and secondary sources. A survey method was employed to gather both quantitative and qualitative data. The study used questionnaires and personal interviews to collect data from users in 20 of the 36 KNLS branches. The questionnaires contained both open and closed ended questions. In total, 249 library users from all 20 sites responded to the questionnaire. Using descriptive and relational statistics, the data from the survey were analysed using the STATA software package to establish specific and general aspects of the study and opinions relating to the ability and willingness of the respondents to pay user fees. This was then followed by an in-depth analysis of interviews with 20 willing library users who had taken part in the initial survey. The aim was to establish underlying reasons for the users’ perceptions. Interviews were also conducted with senior librarians drawn from five of the KNLS branches, specifically to elicit their professional views on the topic of user fees and to determine whether the KNLS has the legal framework to support such a policy. The results show that while the majority of the respondents were willing to pay user fees, they were not willing to pay for the traditional ‘core’ library services. It emerged, however, that although the respondents were willing to pay for annual subscription fees, the amount likely to be generated would be of little significance since the patrons were only wiling to pay a minimal amount. It is clear that while the respondents have the will to pay subscription fees they lack adequate income to translate their willingness into a tangible contribution. The study demonstrates that the issue of user fees is complex and the project further shows that the complexities are exacerbated by the nature of the public library, in itself a complex institution. The public library is one of those institutions tied into legal, economic, educational, social and political processes. Therefore, the issue of user fees transcends the library. It is a public policy issue. The study indicates that the introduction of fees for specific library services would have a range of undesirable effects, and would not solve the library’s funding problems. In addition, the study shows that user fees will negatively affect those who are in most need of the service but may be unable to pay. Taking into consideration the financial implications and staff time needed to implement and manage the scheme it also became evident that it will not be cost effective for the KNLS to introduce user fees. The researcher therefore does not recommend the introduction of user fees, but rather the setting up of sustainable income generating options and cost saving measures which could be adopted by the KNLS.
STAKEHOLDER ATTITUDES TOWARDS TOURISM TRAINING IN MIDDLE LEVEL COLLEGES IN KENYA
(2017-05-12) KAMBAGA, DUNSTAN
ABSTRACT Training is critical to human resource development and in the promotion and development of the tourism industry. In Kenya, Middle Level Colleges (MLCs) have been instrumental in manpower training for the tourism sector and national development. Despite this, no comprehensive study has been undertaken to assess the performance of MLC trainees in tourism training under the changing global tourism environment to realize Kenya’s Vision 2030. As such, this study assessed attitudes of key tourism stakeholders towards tourism training in MLCs and their contributions to human capital for the tourism industry in Kenya. Objectives of the study were to assess the types of programmes and management of tourism training offered by MLCs, the attitudes of trainees and trainers towards tourism training in MLCs. The study utilized the descriptive research design and targeted college administrators, tourism trainees and trainers. Twenty (20) MLCs were randomly sampled for this study from Nairobi County. College administrators from 16 MLCs were interviewed to get details on student enrolment in each college, number of staff, and infrastructure and equipment. A sample of 326 trainees out of 4,110 in public and 1,429 from private MLCs were selected using Krejcie and Morgan Table (1970) for the administration of questionnaires. These were composed of 172 trainees from public and 154 from private MLCs. 105 trainers comprising of 45 from public MLCs and 60 from private MLCs were purposively selected. These gave an overall sample of 447 interviewed who participated in the study. Data was collected using questionnaires and interviews, and analyzed using descriptive statistics to generate means, percentages and frequency, while inferential statistics including ANOVA and Chi-square test were used to do further analysis on selected variables. Findings revealed that there were significant differences in the types of programmes and management of tourism trainings offered by MLCs based on college administrators’ attitudes (χ2=8.878, df=15, p<0.05). Diploma courses were rated as excellent for public MLCs and average and good for private MLCs and foreign diploma programmes respectively. Certificate courses in public MLCs were rated as good, while those in private MLCs and foreign certificates were rated as poor and average respectively. Trainees perceived tourism training in public MLCs as above average, while facilities in private MLCs were ranked higher than those in public MLCs. These facilities are used to market respective colleges. Trainers in both public and private MLCs cited tourism training in Kenya as adequate, and satisfactorily utilized radios and televisions as promotional strategies while lack of practical skills within the tourism sector hindered teaching in MLCs. Public MLC trainers complete their syllabi on time and the entry behavior for trainees to programmes is crucial to trainers in these institutions as compared to private MLCs. Middle level colleges are a critical source of middle level technical human capital in the tourism industry and different types of colleges are critical for healthy competition that leads to better trained graduates. It is recommended that the government coordinates tourism trainings in all MLCs in Kenya through regular training of trainers teaching in MLCs, and review of tourism programmes and curriculums to ensure production of quality graduates who are critical for tourism promotion and development. This can be realized through policy reviews, formulation and regulation of tourism training.
EFFECT OF FIRM SIZE ON THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN STRATEGIC PLANNING DIMENSIONS AND PERFORMANCE OF MANUFACTURING FIRMS IN KENYA
(2017-07-20) ALI, MAHAMUD
Strategic planning has been regarded as a prerequisite to successful organizational outcomes and while the contexts of strategic planning differs by sector and geographical orientation, there is renewed interest in strategic planning- performance linkage in developing economies, this, due in part to the realization of the role of firm based factors such as strategic planning dimensions. This study aimed to determine the relationship between strategic planning dimensions and firm performance in the manufacturing sector in Kenya and to establish, the moderating effect of firm size on the relationship between strategic planning and firm performance in the manufacturing firms in Kenya. The study was informed by not only the low performance of the manufacturing sector over the past two decades, but also, by the mixed results and contentious debate on the effect of strategic planning dimensions of management participation, functional integration, strategic orientation and strategic control on performance. The study has adopted the use of multidimensional constructs to study strategic planning dimensions and performance linkage. The study utilized a cross sectional survey design, while stratified simple random sampling were used to obtain the sample comprising 191 firms in twelve subsectors among manufacturing firms in Nairobi and its surroundings. Data was collected through a structured questionnaire for key managers involved in the strategy formulation and implementation. Out of the 191 questionnaires administered, 111 were returned and found usable questionnaires, representing 58% which is adequate for this stream of research. SPSS Software was utilized to analyze data. Inferential data analysis was carried out by use of correlation analysis. Regression models were fitted using multiple regression analysis and hypothesis testing were done using standard F and T-tests. The study revealed that strategic planning analyzed through the dimensions of management participation, functional integration, strategic orientation and strategic control were significant and positively related to firm performance. However, firm size, was not found to moderate the relationship between strategic planning dimensions and firm performance in the manufacturing firms in Kenya. Thus, emphasis on specific strategic planning dimensions contribute positively to both large firms and small firms despite their difference in resources and development levels. The study contributes to the strategic planning performance discourse in the context of developing countries and furthers the discussion on the factors moderating in the relationship between strategic planning dimensions and firm performance. The study confirms that, firm size is neither a prerequisite nor a factor for successful application of strategic planning dimensions in both small and medium and large firms in the manufacturing sector in Kenya. The study recommended high participation and involvement of top management in the whole process of strategic planning, anchoring of deliberate functional integration processes in the firm, heightened strategic oriented paradigms for market orientation, customer focus and competitiveness and the development, design and customization of management control systems to enhance implementation, monitoring and evaluation of the strategic planning process outcomes.
THE INFLUENCE OF BIG DATA ANALYTICS ON ORGANISATIONAL PERFORMANCE: A COMPARATIVE STUDY OF THE TECHNICAL UNIVERSITY OF KENYA AND STRATHMORE UNIVERSITY
(2019-04-01) KIBE, LUCY WACHERA
ABSTRACT This study investigated the influence of big data analytics on organisational performance of academic institutions in Kenya. The Technical University of Kenya (TUK) and Strathmore University (SU) provided the context for the study. They provided insights into the differences and/or similarities between the influence of big data analytics on organisational performance from the perspectives of private and public universities in Kenya. Previous studies on big data analytics have primarily focused on theorisation and formulation of expectations with positive aspects of big data analytics. However, within current literature the influence of big data analytics on organisational performance has received less attention. The specific objectives of the study were to: establish the characteristics of big data produced by the TUK and SU; investigate the techniques and tools used in big data analytics in the TUK and SU; examine the relationship between big data analytics and organisational performance of the TUK and SU; and propose strategies for enhancing the positive influence of big data analytics on organisational performance of TUK and SU. The study adopted convergent parallel mixed methods research design. Quantitative and qualitative data was collected using questionnaires and key informant interviews. The target population for the study was 22,050 respondents consisting of clients (students) as well as ICT staff, directors and managers from both TUK and SU. Information-oriented purposive sampling was used to select information-rich subjects. This gave TUK a sample size of 580 and 114 for SU. Quantitative data was analysed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) while the qualitative data was analysed using thematic analysis. This study established that five of the variables of organisational performance have a positive relationship with big data analytics in both institutions while two had a negative relationship in TUK. The variables with positive relationship were: innovativeness, creativeness, effectiveness, productiveness and efficiency. Whereas competiveness and profitability had a negative relationship in TUK, the same had a positive correlation in SU. The findings confirm that big data analytics support academic organisations to perform their functions better. The study recommends that academic institutions should develop strategies and policies on big data analytics to guide them on how to maximise its benefits. The findings can be used to enhance organisational performance of academic institutions by facilitating effective decision making as well as strategy formulation and execution. Keywords: big data analytics, organisational performance, academic institutions, Technical University of Kenya, Strathmore University, Kenya.
ENHANCING KNOWLEDGE SHARING THROUGH SELF-ARCHIVING IN INSTITUTIONAL REPOSITORIES BY FACULTY IN SELECTED PRIVATE UNIVERSITIES IN KENYA
(2019-04-01) KAMURI, MARY WANJIKU
ABSTRACT Knowledge sharing is a tool for competitive advantage in every organization. Academic institutions have embraced and adopted this practice especially amongst academicians by creating a conducive environment for knowledge exchange. One of the practices adopted to make knowledge sharing successful is through self-archiving in institutional repositories in Kenya. Despite having an open access policy in place, statistics indicate that there is a low or no report of activities of self-archiving in most institutional repositories. The aim of this study was to investigate knowledge sharing through self-archiving by faculty in selected private universities in Kenya, and to propose strategies to maximize self-archiving in institutional repositories. The objectives of the study were to: investigate full-time faculty members’ awareness on self-archiving; establish how often full-time faculty publish or self-archive; explore motivators for self-archiving by the full-time faculty in the selected private Universities; establish the impeding factors affecting self-archiving by faculty in the institutional repositories; and propose strategies to maximize self-archiving in institutional repositories. This study was informed by Social Exchange Theory and was a qualitative multicase study. The population of the study was drawn from fulltime faculty and librarians from Strathmore University and United States International University Africa. This study employed purposive sampling to come up with a sample size of 26. Semi structured interviews were conducted on all the respondents from both Strathmore University and United States International University-Africa. Desk research was performed on the virtual documents from both Universities as well. A Pilot study was conducted at Strathmore University. Data was analyzed thematically and presented in thick description. The findings indicated that selfarchiving in the institutional repository is not practiced by the faculty and concluded that the faculty views self-archiving as a practice with no benefits attached to it. The study recommends self-archiving mandate as one of the key factors of success to this practice. The findings of this study are useful to academic institutions by proposing strategies to maximize knowledge sharing through self-archiving in institutional repositories.
A FRAMEWORK FOR INCENTIVES IN KNOWLEDGE CREATION AND SHARING BY ACADEMIC STAFF AT THE TECHNICAL UNIVERSITY OF KENYA
(2019-04-01) OWITI, JACKSON OMONDI
ABSTRACT Incentives for knowledge creation and sharing demonstrate an institution’s commitment to knowledge creation and sharing. The existence or absence of incentives can encourage or discourage individuals from contributing towards knowledge creation and sharing. The research aimed to investigate the role of incentives in knowledge creation and sharing by the academic staff at The Technical University of Kenya (TU-K). The secondary objectives of the study were to: investigate academic and administration staff perceptions of knowledge creation and sharing process at TU-K; establish the types of incentives in place for academic staff at TU-K; investigate the extent to which incentives encourage academic staff at TU-K to create and share knowledge and propose an incentives framework for knowledge creation and sharing by academic staff at TUK. The study was guided by both organisational knowledge conversion theory by Nonaka and Takeuchi’s (1995) and social exchange theory by Homan’s (1961). The study employed mixed method design (convergent parallel design) which involves collecting and analysing two independent aspects of quantitative and qualitative data at the same time or in a single phase. The study used stratified random sampling and purposive sampling to come up with a sample size of 314 drawn out of a target population of 627. Data was collected through semi-structured questionnaires and interviews, and analysed using MS excel and discourse analysis and presented in charts and tables. The findings indicated that TU-K did not have a formal incentive framework for their academic staff and there were notable gaps in ways the university encourages knowledge creation and sharing. A Positive effort towards enhancing knowledge creation and sharing is with the establishment of directorate of innovation and knowledge exchange. The study concluded that knowledge creation and sharing is critical process that should be supported and valued by the University through provision of both financial and non-financial incentives. Recommendation include adoption and implementation of an integrated financial and non-financial incentives framework. Implications of this study is that it contributes to different areas within the field of information and knowledge management and combines the fields of incentives and knowledge creation and sharing by developing existing research on social exchange theory and the knowledge organisation theory. Keywords: Knowledge creation, Knowledge sharing, Framework of incentives, Technical University of Kenya.
ROLE OF KENYA NATIONAL ARCHIVES IN PROVIDING ADVISORY SERVICES TO RECORD CREATORS IN GOVERNMENT MINISTRIES
(2019-04-01) OMOLLO, LILIAN ATIENO
ABSTRACT The Kenya National Archive and Documentation Service was formed through an act of Parliament in 1965 and given the mandate to ensure proper management of all government records due to the crucial role records play in government ministries. Extant literature reveals that despite continued advice, management of records at service delivery points has remained unsatisfactory. This study investigated the role played by the Kenya National Archive and Documentation Service in providing advisory services. The main purpose of the study was to determine the advisory services requirement for record management practices in government ministries and whether they conform with the legal framework .The specific objectives of the study were to: establish the nature of contact the KNADS has with record creators in the ministry; determine the type of advisory services the KNADS provide to the record creators in the ministries; establish the strategies put in place to promote the implementation of the advisory services in ministries; establish the challenges faced by KNADS and ministries in the process of providing advisory services and make recommendations for mitigating the challenges. The study used survey and combined quantitative and qualitative data as a means of triangulating results. The study established that KNADS is performing its advisory role to the satisfaction of data creators in the ministries. As is expected not all participants are satisfied at the same level as evidenced by the 60.5% of respondents being satisfied. This on its own indicate that KNADS still has room for improvement. Much more improvement is required in follow up in monitoring and evaluation to assure full compliance on the part of record creators in implementing advisory services which are anchored in legislation. To the extent that KNADS officials claim the legislations and regulatory framework are not enough, it is necessary to negotiate with legislators in improving these. The extent of professionalism evident in high professional qualification of KNADS office holders make it possible for KNADS to seek and achieve the desired improvements. The study made recommendations on steps that should be taken to improve advisory services and further studies to extend knowledge.
KNOWLEDGE MANAGEMENT AS A STRATEGY FOR ACHIEVING COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE AMONG SAVINGS AND CREDIT COOPERATIVES (SACCOS) IN NAIROBI COUNTY, KENYA
(2019-04-01) WASINDA, JACKLINE AWINO
ABSTRACT Savings and Credit Cooperative (SACCO) movement in Kenya play a critical role in national development by reducing poverty amongst citizens. This is demonstrated in the Kenya Financial Sector Stability Report of 2015 which indicates that the sector to date has mobilized savings to the tune of Kenya shillings 420 billion. It has an asset base of Kenya shillings 500 billion which accounts for 35% of the National savings. However, the SACCO sector faces numerous challenges which include, weak processes, shifting markets, rapid product obsolesces, high competition and financial upheaval. The aim of this study was, therefore, to explore knowledge management as a strategy for achieving competitive advantage among SACCOs in Nairobi County, Kenya, and propose a knowledge management framework which SACCOs can adopt. The study assumed that by harnessing knowledge management assets, SACCOs would be in a better position to deliver quality services to the customers thereby improving their competitive advantage. The objectives of this study were: to examine knowledge management practices in selected SACCO's in Nairobi County; assess knowledge sharing strategies employed by SACCOs in Nairobi County; investigate the factors influencing successful implementation of knowledge management strategies among SACCOs; explore the challenges experienced in harnessing knowledge management strategies; and propose a framework for improving knowledge management among SACCOs in Nairobi County. The study was informed by ‘Knowledge based theory of the firm’ by Carla Curado (1959) which states that knowledge is the most strategically significant resource in a firm. Because the study needed to grasp meanings, reasons and occurrences, qualitative method was employed in gathering data. The study was of the view that the concept of knowledge management is new in SACCOs hence exploratory research design was chosen. The study population was limited to three SACCOs namely: Police SACCO, Sheria SACCO and UNSACCO which were selected using information oriented purposive sampling. Target population totaled to twenty-one which comprised of top management, heads of departments, ICT personnel and Records Officers. They were also selected using purposive sampling because purposive sampling enabled the study to reach its targeted population quickly based on study objectives and population characteristics. Data was collected using in-depth interview schedules with open ended questions and analyzed using thematic analysis. The findings provided evidence that although SACCOs practice some aspects of knowledge management it is not as comprehensive hence an ideal knowledge management strategy ought to be adopted by SACCOs. The study therefore recommended that SACCOs adopt a 3-cycle knowledge management model by Kimiz (2013) which encompasses knowledge creation and capture, knowledge sharing and dissemination and knowledge acquisition and application. The study has proposed a knowledge management framework which SACCOs can adopt to improve knowledge management practices for competitive advantage.
IMPLEMENTATION OF ELECTRONIC DOCUMENT AND RECORD MANAGEMENT SYSTEM THE COUNTY PENSION FUND FINANCIAL SERVICES IN KENYA
(2019-04-01) MAGWILU, STEPHEN AYUYA
ABSTRACT The County Pension Fund (CPF) Financial Services is a retirement fund established in Kenya under the Retirement Benefits Authority (RBA) Act No. 01305 of 27th July, 2013. It is registered with the Retirement Benefits Authority for the staff of county governments with headquarters in Nairobi. This study investigated the implementation of Electronic Document and Record Management System (EDRMS) at the CPF with a view of proposing possible solutions to the challenges for successful implementation of EDRMS at CPF.The objectives were to: examine the functionality of EDRMS implemented at the CPF; establish the factors that influence the successful implementation of EDRMS; and establish the challenges of implementing the EDRMS at the CPF. The study was informed by the Records Continuum Model. This study adopted a case study design using a qualitative research approach. A sample of twenty six (26) out of a population of sixty four (64) were drawn from departmental heads, records management officers, ICT personnel and a focus group discussion with clerical officers were picked using purposive sampling. Data was collected using face-to-face interviews with the respondents. The thematic analysis was done using the ATLAS.ti software. Findings of the study established that the EDRMS was functioning effectively with increased multi-sharing of records and documents. However, implementation was faced with challenges such as high cost of maintenance, lack of a records retention and disposal software module and technophobia. This study concludes that EDRMS has improved the quality and consistency of CPF records management processes. The study recommended amongst others, investment on staff training specifically those dealing with EDRMS and change management, embracing new technology such as cloud computing to enhance records storage, installation of Optical Character Recognition (OCR) software which will enhance search capability of content and development of a records retention and disposal software module. The implementation process of EDRMS is a resource-intensive and complex with many challenges. This study provides practical implications on solutions and guidance on implementation of EDRMS.
HEALTH FOOD PRODUCTS AS A TOOL FOR MARKET GROWTH AMONG RESTAURANTS IN NAIROBI CITY COUNTY, KENYA
(TECHNICAL UNIVERSITY OF KENYA, 2019-06) CAROLYNE, KHASOA WASIKE
Though research shows that pro i. ion of nutririon informa tion on menus increases the number 01 pcople \\ ho use it to cl 'ct healthier mea l choices. the effect of healti1 fo oe! products on growt h of the h alth food market is not known. Research also shows that bealth eaLing is about fat end energy content of fo d. he re is, however. e idence that health rood market trends have long shift d from fat and energy lev Is in food to other components Ihal ar hased on cu:-wmers' ideas of what constitut es hea lth earing. TI1is srudy sough! to in\'cstigate heald l food produ cts a il t oj fl [ growing th market amo ng restaurant . The study adopt ed a cro , eClioJlal analytical design wl!u~e sample wa~ drawn u:-.i ng r allllofJl and purpo ivc sampli ng procedures for restaw-an ts, head. of department alld targeted customers. Ot t of thc L47 healrh food restaurants in airobi City County , 74 wcre randomly ~a.tnpled and included ill the study. Re pondents for the study entailed 296 heads of department and 382 customers yiclding a total of 6 8 resp onden s. Data was cull ct cl using structured questionna ires anti observation checkli (S . The coneeted data was screened an d analysed by irequencles. perce ntages. correlation, cross tabu atlOn. chi-square and multiple logistical regression. Data was presented by u se of tables. graphs anti prose explanations. W hereas 678 ljll s[ionnai res were administe red to respondents. a respon,: e rate of 97c k was achieved, accounting for (15 7 respondents. On the othe r hand. observation checklists that 74 health food product reo(aurants had 84o/r rc:spon se rate (6 2 health food product restaurants). Results of the study I'll w that the products on orfer perceived by restaurant cu to mers as health were: traditional foods, III di cinaL products cooked using health cooking methods (59%); vege tarian food products (19. 2%): gluten free products ( 12.2%) and sea food (9.6%). The tu dy eSLablished that a sign ificant relationship existed beLwee n health food products on offer jn restaurants in N airobi City and customer needs (a Pearson carrel ati on r value of -0 093 , a regression p valu =OOOL Li near logistic r value of 0.000 and X2. 0.443; a= 0.05 ). actors tha t signi ficantly in fluenced custom r needs for h alth food products were: desire to lead a hea lth hfestyle. family culture ; medical prescription: media, school and book ' (con-el ation p 'JlLlc of 0.001 ; o. = 0.( 5) Variables uf the . LUd y lhat were fOLlnd to be significant in growth If the he alth food product market were : capacity- menus (p =00(0), equipmetlt (p = OOOU ), rr duct quality (p == 0.000), raw ma terials (p = 0.01 3) and trained -taft' (p = 0.05); cllsromcr ,.Itisfaction- salisfied (p =0.(00). dis.-atisfied (p = 0.00 1). cmd vel') d issatisfied (p = 0.000). Oln r va riab l ~ [hat were significant iT marke t growth we re : loyal ty- non loyallY (p =0.0(0) ,mJ minimal 10 'aity (p = 0.( 15); intcrv lu ng factors-meeling frien Is (p == 0.(02) and l.Ul1\enience of restau ra nt locati on (p =0.000); ma rket re::;pon'ie: amI 'orlo-economic fac tors -(1r HOD and cm:tomers. The sLudy further fou nd th at marke t growth depended on the '1e~llt hy tood products on offer. It was. however, e stablished [ha t only 3.5 '70 (R:' = 0.035) of rlJrk l growth of the sampled restauranb could be accounted for by the health food product.s , lrfer. Tn order to significantly grow the hea.l th food market in reslauranb, there is need to I -.:rease the number of res aurants that offer he althy food products as well as restaurant .: _pa 'ity (inte nsify training of staff in health food and ss i t restaurants to source for _~[ ro li ate equipment) to offer this cadre of products. The study further concluded that _..11th f) d products 011 offe r in rc taurants in tl is ru l1~t category shoul cl cnt. it traditional. l~dkl L rroduc(s co k'd lIsillg he( Ith coo ing me thods, v get. rian, glute n i'ree and sea pr1 1duct.- tLlne vari tIes (l , lOw~ er. be pnJ vld tl hased 011 lli P r 'ei ve r! cus!omer
HEALTH FOOD PRODUCTS AS A TOOL FOR MARKET GROWTH AMONG RESTAURANTS IN NAIROBI CITY COUNTY, KENYA
(TECHNICAL UNIVERSITY OF KENYA, 2019-06) WASIKE, CAROLYNE KHASOA
Though research shows that pro i. ion of nutririon informa tion on menus increases the number 01 pcople \\ ho use it to cl 'ct healthier mea l choices. the effect of healti1 fo oe! products on growt h of the h alth food market is not known. Research also shows that bealth eaLing is about fat end energy content of fo d. he re is, however. e idence that health rood market trends have long shift d from fat and energy lev Is in food to other components Ihal ar hased on cu:-wmers' ideas of what constitut es hea lth earing. TI1is srudy sough! to in\'cstigate heald l food produ cts a il t oj fl [ growing th market amo ng restaurant . The study adopt ed a cro , eClioJlal analytical design wl!u~e sample wa~ drawn u:-.i ng r allllofJl and purpo ivc sampli ng procedures for restaw-an ts, head. of department alld targeted customers. Ot t of thc L47 healrh food restaurants in airobi City County , 74 wcre randomly ~a.tnpled and included ill the study. Re pondents for the study entailed 296 heads of department and 382 customers yiclding a total of 6 8 resp onden s. Data was cull ct cl using structured questionna ires anti observation checkli (S . The coneeted data was screened an d analysed by irequencles. perce ntages. correlation, cross tabu atlOn. chi-square and multiple logistical regression. Data was presented by u se of tables. graphs anti prose explanations. W hereas 678 ljll s[ionnai res were administe red to respondents. a respon,: e rate of 97c k was achieved, accounting for (15 7 respondents. On the othe r hand. observation checklists that 74 health food product reo(aurants had 84o/r rc:spon se rate (6 2 health food product restaurants). Results of the study I'll w that the products on orfer perceived by restaurant cu to mers as health were: traditional foods, III di cinaL products cooked using health cooking methods (59%); vege tarian food products (19. 2%): gluten free products ( 12.2%) and sea food (9.6%). The tu dy eSLablished that a sign ificant relationship existed beLwee n health food products on offer jn restaurants in N airobi City and customer needs (a Pearson carrel ati on r value of -0 093 , a regression p valu =OOOL Li near logistic r value of 0.000 and X2. 0.443; a= 0.05 ). actors tha t signi ficantly in fluenced custom r needs for h alth food products were: desire to lead a hea lth hfestyle. family culture ; medical prescription: media, school and book ' (con-el ation p 'JlLlc of 0.001 ; o. = 0.( 5) Variables uf the . LUd y lhat were fOLlnd to be significant in growth If the he alth food product market were : capacity- menus (p =00(0), equipmetlt (p = OOOU ), rr duct quality (p == 0.000), raw ma terials (p = 0.01 3) and trained -taft' (p = 0.05); cllsromcr ,.Itisfaction- salisfied (p =0.(00). dis.-atisfied (p = 0.00 1). cmd vel') d issatisfied (p = 0.000). Oln r va riab l ~ [hat were significant iT marke t growth we re : loyal ty- non loyallY (p =0.0(0) ,mJ minimal 10 'aity (p = 0.( 15); intcrv lu ng factors-meeling frien Is (p == 0.(02) and l.Ul1\enience of restau ra nt locati on (p =0.000); ma rket re::;pon'ie: amI 'orlo-economic fac tors -(1r HOD and cm:tomers. The sLudy further fou nd th at marke t growth depended on the '1e~llt hy tood products on offer. It was. however, e stablished [ha t only 3.5 '70 (R:' = 0.035) of rlJrk l growth of the sampled restauranb could be accounted for by the health food product.s , lrfer. Tn order to significantly grow the hea.l th food market in reslauranb, there is need to I -.:rease the number of res aurants that offer he althy food products as well as restaurant .: _pa 'ity (inte nsify training of staff in health food and ss i t restaurants to source for _~[ ro li ate equipment) to offer this cadre of products. The study further concluded that _..11th f) d products 011 offe r in rc taurants in tl is ru l1~t category shoul cl cnt. it traditional. l~dkl L rroduc(s co k'd lIsillg he( Ith coo ing me thods, v get. rian, glute n i'ree and sea pr1 1duct.- tLlne vari tIes (l , lOw~ er. be pnJ vld tl hased 011 lli P r 'ei ve r! cus!omer
l.\FLUENCE OF INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY INFRASTRUCTURE AND GOVERNMENT POLICY ON THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN SUPPLY CHAIN PROCESS INTEGRATION CAPABILITIES AND SUPPLY CHAIN PERFORl\IIANCE OF PUBLIC UNIVERSITIES IN KENYA
(TECHNICAL UNIVERSITY OF KENYA, 2019-08) JUDITH, NELIMA WASIKE MILIMO

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