Department of Information & Library Sciences

Permanent URI for this collectionhttps://koha2.tukenya.ac.ke/handle/123456789/919

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Access to and Use of ICT's in the Provision of Information to Distance Learners in Kenyan Universities
(2018-03-13) Kamau, Grace Wambui; Kiplang’at, Joseph; Odini, Cephas
The purpose of the study which informs this chapter was to investigate access to and use of ICTs in the provision of information to distance learners at the University of Nairobi (UoN) and Kenyatta University (KU) libraries; and to make recommendations for improvement. The study employed a mixed methods research design. Stratified, purposive and census sampling techniques were alternately used to select key participants namely: distance learners, directorate of distance education, deans of schools and chairmen of departments, university librarians and senior library staff. A sample of 200 distance learners and 56 respondents from the other strata was selected. Data was collected through a semi–structured questionnaire administered to distance learners, semi-structured interviews with the other respondents and documentary review. The data was analysed using descriptive statistics. The key findings of the study were that: distance learners had limited access to and use of ICTs; they could not access e-resources from the university library remotely; and they experienced challenges in accessing information through ICTs. Distance learners will benefit from this study from improved access to information through ICTs thereby increasing the quality of their education. This study will also inform university libraries in Kenya in general and the University of Nairobi and Kenyatta University libraries in particular on improving their information services for distance learners through ICTs.
Adsorption and detection of some phenolic compounds by rice husk ash of Kenyan origin
(2002) Mbui, Damaris N; Shiundu, Paul M; Ndonye, Rachel M; Kamau, Geoffrey N
Rice husk ash (RHA) obtained from a rice mill in Kenya has been used as an inexpensive and effective adsorbent (and reagent) for the removal (and detection) of some phenolic compounds in water. The abundantly available rice mill waste was used in dual laboratory-scale batch experiments to evaluate its potential in: (i) the removal of phenol, 1,3-dihydroxybenzene (resorcinol) and 2-chlorophenol from water; and (ii) the detection of 1,2-dihydroxybenzene (pyrocatechol) and 1,2,3-trihydroxybenzene (pyrogallol) present in an aqueous medium. The studies were conducted using synthetic water with different initial concentrations of the phenolic compounds. The effects of different operating conditions (such as contact time, concentration of the phenolic compounds, adsorbent quantity, temperature, and pH) were assessed by evaluating the phenolic compound removal efficiency as well as the extent of their color formation reactions (where applicable). RHA exhibits reasonable adsorption capacity for the phenolic compounds and follows both Langmuir and Freundlich isotherm models. Adsorption capacities of 1.53 × 10−4, 8.07 × 10−5, and 1.63 × 10−6 mol g−1 were determined for phenol, resorcinol and 2-chlorophenol, respectively. Nearly 100% adsorption of the phenolic compounds was possible and this depended on the weight of RHA employed. For the detection experiments, pyrocatechol and pyrogallol present in water formed coloured complexes with RHA, with the rate of colour formation increasing with temperature, weight of RHA, concentration of the phenolic compounds and sonication. This study has proven that RHA is a useful agricultural waste product for the removal and detection of some phenolic compounds.
Adsorption of Congo Red Dye from Aqueous Solutions Using Roots of Eichhornia Crassipes: Kinetic and Equilibrium Studies
(Elsevier, 2014) Wanyonyi, Wycliffe Chisutia; Onyari, , John Mmari; Shiundu, Paul M
Adsorption of Congo red (CR) from aqueous solution using dried roots of Eichhornia crassipes was studied. Batch experiments were carried out for sorption kinetics and isotherms. Experimental results obtained showed that adsorption process was highly dependent on contact time, adsorbent dosage, initial dye concentration and particle size. The sorption equilibrium for Congo red dye by E. crassipes (roots) was reached within 90 minutes and adsorption efficiency of up to 96% achieved. The sorption kinetics followed a pseudo-second-order kinetic model while Freundlich isotherm model was best applicable for obtaining the equilibrium parameters. These results demonstrate that roots of E. crassipes are effective, environmentally friendly and low-cost biomaterial for dye removal from aqueous dye solutions and industrial effluents.
Adsorption of methylene blue dye from aqueous solutions using Eichhornia crassipes
(2013) Wanyonyi, Wycliffe Chisutia; Onyari, John Mmari; Shiundu, Paul M
Adsorption of methylene blue (MB) from aqueous solution using dried roots, stems, and leaves of Eichhornia crassipes biomass obtained from Lake Victoria was studied. Batch experimental results revealed that the adsorption process was highly dependent on adsorbent dosage, initial MB concentration, E. crassipes particle size and aqueous solution temperature. The isotherm data fitted Freundlich mathematical models with maximum dye adsorption of 35.37 mg g−1. Roots adsorbed over 99 % of the MB in <5 min. Sorption kinetics followed a pseudo-second-order model. Results provide evidence that E. crassipes is an effective and inexpensive biomaterial for dye removal from aqueous dye solutions and industrial effluents.
Adsorption of Pb (II) Ions from Aqueous Solutions by Water Hyacinth (Eichhornia Crassipes): Equilibrium and Kinetic Studies
(2014) Anzeze, Davis Amboga; Onyari, John Mmari; Gichuki, John W; Shiundu, Paul M
The Eichhornia crassipes roots for the removal of Pb (II) ions from aqueous solutions has been investigated. The adsorption of Pb (II) ions was found to be affected by solution pH, contact time, adsorbent dosage, initial metal ion concentration, and temperature. The equilibrium was analysed using Langmuir and Freundlich isotherm models. The data was found to have a closer correlation with the Freundlich isotherm as evidenced by a higher correlation coefficient (R2). The biosorption capacity for E. crasippes was found to be 16.350 mg g-1. The Kinetics data was also subjected to pseudo-first-order and the pseudo-second-order kinetic models. The data could be explained better using the pseudo-second-order kinetic model.
Air and blood lead levels in lead acid battery recycling and manufacturing plants in Kenya
(Taylor & Francis, 2012) Were, Faridah H; Kamau, Geoffrey N; Shiundu, Paul M; Wafula, Godfrey A; Moturi, Charles M
The concentration of airborne and blood lead (Pb) was assessed in a Pb acid battery recycling plant and in a Pb acid battery manufacturing plant in Kenya. In the recycling plant, full-shift area samples taken across 5 days in several production sections showed a mean value ± standard deviation (SD) of 427 ± 124 μg/m3, while area samples in the office area had a mean ± SD of 59.2 ± 22.7 μg/m3. In the battery manufacturing plant, full-shift area samples taken across 5 days in several production areas showed a mean value ± SD of 349 ± 107 μg/m3, while area samples in the office area had a mean ± SD of 55.2 ± 33.2 μg/m3. All these mean values exceed the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration's permissible exposure limit of 50 μg/m3 as an 8-hr time-weighted average. In the battery recycling plant, production workers had a mean blood Pb level ± SD of 62.2 ± 12.7 μg/dL, and office workers had a mean blood Pb level ± SD of 43.4 ± 6.6 μg/dL. In the battery manufacturing plant, production workers had a mean blood Pb level ± SD of 59.5 ± 10.1 μg/dL, and office workers had a mean blood Pb level ± SD of 41.6 ± 7.4 μg/dL. All the measured blood Pb levels exceeded 30 μg/dL, which is the maximum blood Pb level recommended by the ACGIH®. Observations made in these facilities revealed numerous sources of Pb exposure due to inadequacies in engineering controls, work practices, respirator use, and personal hygiene
An Analysis of Indigenous Knowledge Legislation and Policies in Kenya
(2019-07-24) Chepchirchir, Sally; Kwanya, Tom
Since the dawn of history, humanity has always sought more knowledge to feed families, stay healthy, argue with neighbours, and understand the immediate environment, among other issues. Before scientific approaches of knowledge discovery emerged, local ways of solving problems were already strongly established. These ways have persisted to date and comprise what is known as indigenous knowledge (IK). As society scientifically developed, IK became a neglected area whose potential as a resource in development was forgotten. This neglect has led to myriad socioeconomic challenges affecting food security, environmental conservation, health and social cohesion, among others. Therefore, the need to rediscover and mainstream IK in development is great. This need is anchored on the understanding that IK is the basis for local-level decision making in agriculture, healthcare, food preparation, education, natural-resource management, and a host of other activities. One of the perspectives of enhancing the creation, use and perpetuation of IK is enactment of facilitative policies and legislation. This chapter analyses the IK legislation and policies in Kenya and the extent to which they have been implemented and thereafter recommends strategies which can be used to enhance the impact of IK in socioeconomic development in Kenya. Data that informed the study leading to this chapter were collected through content analysis of the existing IK policies and legislation. Additional data were collected through key informant interviews with information science professionals and policy makers. The study revealed that several legislative and policy provisions on the regulation, preservation, management, use and development of indigenous knowledge exist in Kenya. However, there are many gaps in the content and implementation of these provisions which should be addressed to enhance their impact on the promotion, growth and perpetuation of indigenous knowledge in Kenya. The findings here may be used by information practitioners, policy makers and communities to enhance the creation, use and impact of IK.
An analysis of the opportunities for information technology in improving access, transfer and the use of agricultural information in the rural areas of Kenya
(MCB UP Ltd, 1999) Kiplang’at, Joseph
Presented at the SCANUL‐ECS Conference held in Kenya 23‐26 July 1998. Examines the opportunities of information technology (IT) in improving access, transfer and use of agricultural information in the rural areas of Kenya. This paper has used the term “information technology” to include CD‐ROM, computer networks, desktop publishing, interactive video, packet radio, expert systems, geographical information systems and satellite communications. The methodology adopted by the study was the use of case studies of the organisations and institutions that use IT in disseminating agricultural information to the rural population in Kenya. The study was limited to agricultural information. The information technologies examined include CD‐ROM, computer networks, video and desktop publishing. Highlights the advantages and limitations of IT in disseminating information in the rural areas of Kenya. Among the factors that make IT relevant for rural development are vast storage, fast and inexpensive communication channels, links between different media, easy and enjoyable use at comparatively and steadily declining costs. Concludes that for IT to have more impact on rural development, it should be needs driven, rather than technology driven. This can only be achieved if the needs of the users are placed at the centre and appropriate technologies adopted.
Application of Information Systems Theories in Library and Information Science Research: A Content Analysis
(2019-07-17) Onyancha1, *Omwoyo Bosire; Kwanya1, Tom
There is a widely-held belief that the library and information science (LIS) field does not have theories of its own but borrows heavily from a variety of fields. One of the subject domains from which LIS borrows theories is information systems (IS). The purpose of this study was to examine the extent and nature of application of information systems theories in the library and information science research using content analysis techniques. The study extracted relevant data from the Library, Information Science and Technology Abstracts (LISTA), and Library Information Science Source (LISS) databases using the names of 130 IS theories. Data was analysed to determine the most commonly applied theories; the trend of application of the theories in LIS research; the nature of theory application; and the LIS subject areas in which IS theories are mostly applied. The findings reveal that the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) and the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) were the most commonly applied theories in LIS research; theoretical triangulation is rarely applied in LIS research; specific subject areas of IS application in LIS research are diverse with technology acceptance topping the list. Conversely, LIS researchers are increasingly conducting research on areas that relate to ICTs, hence substantial visibility of IS theories in the LIS literature. This pattern has immense implications on LIS research, education and training.
Application of resource dependency theory and transaction cost theory in analysing outsourcing information communication services decisions: A case of selected public university libraries in Kenya
(Emerald Group Publishing Limited, 1983) Kiplang’at, Joseph; Gichoya, David; Mwai, Naomi Wangari
Purpose – The aim of this paper is to establish how resource dependency theory (RDT) and transaction cost theory (TCT) can inform decisions to outsource ICT services by public university libraries in Kenya. Design/methodology/approach – The study adopted a multiple case study strategy in four selected public universities libraries in Kenya. Purposive sampling was used to identify respondents and data collection was done using a semi-structured interview schedule. Findings – The study highlights how RDT and TCT theoretical perspectives illuminate some of the reasons, and problems associated with Information and Communications Technology outsourcing in Libraries. The paper concludes with recommendations and the way forward. Research limitations/implications – The study was limited to the outsourcing of information technology services in four public university libraries in Kenya, namely, Kenyatta University (KU) in Kahawa, Nairobi; Moi University (MU) in Eldoret; University of Nairobi (UON) in Nairobi; and Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT) in Juja, Thika. This being a qualitative study (and taking into consideration the subjective views where bias could occur), the researchers ensured that the research was reliable by recording and taking notes during the interviews and by using peer-debriefing and professionals in the field to ascertain their views. Practical implications – The paper provides practical insights into outsourcing of Information Technology (IT) services in Public University libraries and information centres in Kenya. This study is useful for university libraries, information professionals, information communication technology professionals and university management. Social implications – The implications of the study are that outsourcing needs to be guided by clear policies that are documented and communicated to all the stakeholders. Originality/value – This research assesses IT outsourcing services in selected public academic libraries in Kenya
Automated exploration and exploitation of flow-injection response surfaces
(Elsevier, 1990) Wadell, A.P; Shiundu, P.M; Wentze, P.D
Three-dimensional plots of instrumental responses vs. chemical concentrations or flow parameters have been 1 obtained in an automated manner on a computer-controlled flow-injection methods development system. Consideration of several alternative responses for flow-injection systems is shown to help characterize a chemistry more thoroughly and reveal the best experimental conditions. One may see the effects of individual experimental variables (reagent concentrations, pH, flow-rates, etc.), the interactions of these variables, instrumental factors and limitations of the surface exploration procedure employed. Chemical systems studied were the photometric determination of phosphate, palladium(II), iron(II) and persulfate. The propriety of automated response surface mapping is demonstrated and the efficacies of simplex and grid search approaches to response surface exploration are contrasted. Responses obtained include absorbance at peak maximum, relative standard deviation of maximum absorbance, time from injection to peak maximum and wavelength of maximum absorbance. Higher dimensional response surface representations of peak shape and absorbance spectra are also presented. The results show that the response chosen governs the general shape of the surface and the height at any point. This approach to automated characterization of chemical reactions in flow analysis is critically assessed
Big Data in Land Records Management in Kenya: A Fit and Viability Analysis
(Springer International Publishing, 2014) Kwanya, Tom
Abstract. Big data is data whose size is beyond the ability of commonly used software tools to capture, manage, and process within tolerable time. The concept of big data has been necessitated by the growing capacity of the available information systems to facilitate the capture, processing, storage and use of large volumes of variable but credible data fast enough to generate optimum value for the users. Land records in Kenya have been over the years managed through paper based systems which are vulnerable to loss, wear and tear, compromise and poor usability. Consequently, land administration processes became inefficient, time consuming, unreliable, costly and ineffective. To address these challenges, the Government of Kenya in 2007 resolved to automate all land records and transactions by developing and deploying a land information management system founded on big data technology which is capable of holding vast and diverse data sets on land ownership and transactions. The decision to automate land records and transactions was in compliance with the provisions of the country’s National Land Policy launched in 2009. This study assessed how well the technology used by the new electronic system fits the needs and contexts of the users of land records in Kenya. The study was conducted as an exploratory research based on the fit-viability theory. Data for the study was collected using interviews with 48 users of the new land information management system. The findings revealed that big data has a high fit and viability for the performance of land records and transactions management in Kenya. In spite of the high fit and viability, it was noted that the viability of the system is hampered by inadequate infrastructure,skills, organisational culture and organisational structure. Addressing these challenges through essential infrastructure development, institutional strengthening and capacity building will enhance the viability of the land records management system. The findings of this study may be used by policy makers in other developing countries to model big data projects. The findings may also be used by the managers of big data projects to enhance their fit and viability so as to yield optimum impact for their stakeholders.
Biodegradability of Poly (lactic acid), Preparation and Characterization of PLA/Gum Arabic Blends
(2008) Onyari, John M; Mulaa, Francis; Muia, Joshua; Shiundu, Paul
In this study, the biodegradation of PLA films using microorganisms from Lake Bogoria (Kenya) were investigated. The biodegradation tests done using certain strains of thermophilic bacteria showed faster biodegradation rates and demonstrated temperature dependency. The biodegradation of the PLA films was studied using Gel Permeation Chromatography (GPC) and light microscopy. The biodegradation of PLA was demonstrated by decrease in molecular weight. The preparation and characterization of PLA/Gum Arabic blends were also investigated using DSC, TGA, TMA and NMR. In summary, the results obtained in this research show that PLA films undergo fast biodegradation using thermophiles isolated from Lake Bogoria. The PLA/GA blends studies show it is possible to prepare films of varying hydrophobic–hydrophilic properties for various applications.
Biosorption of Malachite Green from Aqueous Solutions onto Polylactide/Spent Brewery Grains Films: Kinetic and Equilibrium Studies
(2012) Chanzu, Harry Amuguni; Onyari, John Mmari; Shiundu, Paul M
Batch experiments were conducted to study the biosorption of Malachite Green (MG) onto polylactide (PLA)/spent brewery grains (SBGs) films. Films were prepared by solvent-casting method using dichloromethane. Effects of contact time, pH, salt concentration, and optimal experimental condition was evaluated. At pH 6.89 and low salt concentration, Malachite Green was removed effectively. The isotherm data fitted the Freundlich model with 0.969 R2 value and 0.738 slope implying chemisorptions process. The biosorption process followed pseudo-second order kinetics with calculated adsorption capacity at equilibrium (qe) of 0.572 mg/g at 23 °C. The investigation showed that PLA/SBGs films are effective in dye removal from textile, paper and leather industries effluents.
Biosorption of Zn (II) ions from aqueous solutions by water hyacinth (Eichhornia crasippes): Equilibrium and Kinetic studies
(2014) Anzeze, Davis Amboga; Onyari, John Mmari; Shiundu, Paul M; Gichuki, John W
The biosorption characteristics of Zn (II) ions were investigated. Experimental parameters affecting the biosorption process such as pH, contact time, biomass dosage, initial metal ion concentration, and temperature were studied in batch adsorption experiments. Langmuir and Freundlich isotherm models were applied to the adsorption data .The biosorption capacity for E. crasippes was found to be 16.50 mg g-1. The data was also subjected to pseudo-first-order and the pseudo-second-order kinetic models.
Case Study: Kenyan University Libraries Status of Access to Library Spaces and Facilities for Persons with Disabilities
(Journal of Arts & Humanities, 2023-07-12) Kwanya, Tom; Gikunju, Milcah; Odero, Damaris
ABSTRACT The purpose of this paper was to find out the position of library spaces and facilities at the university libraries in Kenya particularly in serving users with disabilities. The study was conducted using a pragmatic research philosophy, a convergent mixed methods design and a multiple-case studies strategy. The study population was university library users and librarians drawn from six public and private universities in Kenya. The six universities were selected purposefully based on their age (time they have been in existence) with an assumption that old universities have more developed infrastructure. Data was collected from students and academic staff who participated in an online survey; librarians participated in online focus groups and follow up online surveys while university librarians and students with disabilities had telephone call interviews. There were follow up telephone calls with the university librarians. The online survey was conducted using online questionnaires that were distributed via emails and Whatsapp. Online focus group discussions were conducted in Google Meet platform and interviews were conducted via personal telephone calls. The qualitative data collected was analysed thematically while the quantitative data adopted a statistical approach that encompasses descriptive and inferential statistics. After exploring inclusivity of university library spaces and facilities in Kenya for users with disabilities, this paper noted though the university libraries offered some space and facilities for PWDs, these were far from sufficient. The findings revealed that library staff required training on how to handle and assist PWDs and sign language was largely emphasised. However, the study concluded that accommodating diverse needs of persons with disabilities is a long-term process that requires involvement of all the relevant stakeholders. In addition, the study noted that access to services and facilities for PWDs is another significant aspect of modernised university library.
Collaboration Patterns in Knowledge Management Research in Eastern and Southern Africa Region, 1991 - 2016
(2019-07-17) Nyamasege, Geoffrey Gichaba; Onyancha, Omwoyo Bosire; Kwanya, Tom
Using a bibliometrics analysis, this chapter examines the collaboration patterns in knowledge management research in Eastern and Southern Africa (E&SA) region as indexed in Scopus database for the period 1991-2016. The study leading to this chapter used a quantitative approach as the study required numerical data to achieve its objectives. Data was collected from the SCOPUS database using a variety of keywords. The VosViewer software and Microsoft Excel were used to analyse, visualise and present the data. There were a total of 3,681 papers published on KM in Eastern and Southern Africa between 1991 and 2016. The number of publications is not consistent and varies from year to year. Seven (7) was the minimum number of publications per year while 518 was the highest. The number of publications stagnated between 1991 and 1992, with a slow growth rate being observed from 1993 to 2000. There was a significant steady increase of the number of publications from the 2001 to 2016. Two-author publications were dominant (33.93%), followed by three-author publications (23.03%) and then single-author publications (9.04%). Most of the publications emanated from academic institutions. The study has revealed collaborative efforts among authors and countries, both at the local and international level. The authors recommend that researchers should increase collaborations in the field of KM in a bid to advance KM research productivity and impact in Eastern and Southern Africa region. Both internal and external collaborations should be encouraged in a bid to increase visibility and research impact. In order to improve the impact of these publications, for instance through citations, it is highly recommended that authors should publish their findings in high quality open access journals.
A Competency Index for Librarians in Kenya
(African Journal of Library, 2015-02-24) Kwanya, Tom; Stilwel, Christine; Underwood, Peter G.
Computer-controlled apparatus for automated development of continuous flow methods
(1989) Wentzell, Peter D; Hatton, Michael J; Shiundu, Paul M; Ree, Ronald M; Wade, Adrian P
An automated apparatus to assist in the development ofanalytical continuous flow methods is described. The system is capable of controlling and monitoring a variety ofpumps, valves, and detectors through an IBM PC-AT compatible computer. System components consist of two types ofperistaltic pumps (including a multiplepump unit), syringepumps, electrically andpneumatically actuated valves, and an assortment of spectrophotometric and electrochemical detectors. Details ofthe interface circuitry are given where appropriate. To demonstrate the utility of the system, an automatically generated response surface is presentedfor theflow injection determination of iron(II) by its reaction with 1,10-phenanthroline.
Copyright Challenges in Digital Libraries in Kenya from the Lens of a Librarian
(2018-03-13) Kamau, Grace Wambui
This chapter examines copyright issues and challenges facing digital libraries with a specific emphasis on Kenya. It covers a number of issues such as the meaning, characteristics and advantages of a digital library; the copyright concept, copyright challenges in the creation of digital libraries such as permissions for digitisation of copyrighted materials; critical issues that influence access and use of electronic information resources such as excessive information protection; as well as lack of or limited knowledge on copyright among users and librarians. Other issues discussed include Digital Rights Management (DRM), access to published works by people with visual disability, and orphan works. The author recommends additional education and training on copyright for librarians and information users; regular updating of the copyright law; copyright law reforms that ensure a balance between copyright restrictions and exceptions; promotion of open access publishing, and development of copyright policies for libraries.

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