Library and Information Science

Permanent URI for this community

https://repository.udsm.ac.tz/handle/123456789/299

This collection

Browse

Now showing 1 - 16 of 16

Access to Electronic Library Resources and Services in Academic and Research Institutions in Tanzania
(International Network for the Availability of Scientific Publications (INASP), 2008) Manda, Paul A.
Civil Society in Tanzania: An Analytical Review of Sources of Information
(2007) Manda, Paul A.; Mungwabi, H.
This paper is an examination of the profile of civil societies in Tanzania and analytical review of sources of information relating to these societies. Data for research were obtained from secondary sources, self-administered questionnaires, interviews and document searches. Secondary sources of data were gathered from library and documentation centers in Dar es salaam, Arusha and Mwanza. Questionnaires were sent to various Civil Society Organizations (CSOs). Interviews were conducted with key informants who are involved in civil society issues. Document searches were carried out to identify and list items on civil society. Data processing and analysis included the preparation of abstracts and creation of computerized database of civil society in Tanzania. The findings show, among others, that forty two percent of all the civil societies surveyed were established and registered in the period between 1997 and 1999; ninety six percent of all the civil societies were local as opposed to four percent which were international. Forty three percent of all civil societies were located in Dar es Salaam. Sixty percent of civil societies deal with social development programmes. Additionally, results show that most civil societies had disproportionate staffing problems; and sixty six percent depended on international sources of funding while 46% reported that they secured funds from both local and foreign sources of financing.
Electronic Resource Usage in Academic and Research Institutions in Tanzania
(SAGE Publication, 2005-12) Manda, Paul A.
This article is based on a rapid assessment of conditions under which electronic resources are used in 10 academic institutions in Tanzania. Its primary focus is on the use of electronic resources available through the Programme for the Enhancement of Research Information (PERI). Data was collected using face-to-face interviews and questionnaires. Major findings are: availability of basic technical and human resources for electronic resources access and use; limited access to PCs for student use; variations among institutions in accessing electronic resources. Other findings include: problems in marketing electronic resources; inadequacy in enduser training; limited levels of use of PERI resources. Identified challenges of using electronic resources were: slow Internet connectivity; limited access to PCs; poor search skills to effectively use electronic resources and power cuts. Based on the findings the study makes policy recommendations on training in the use and marketing of electronic resources for specific user groups and resources.
Gender Analysis of Electronic Information Resource Use: The Case of the University of Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania
(2007) Manda, Paul A.; Mukangara, F.
This article is based on an empirical study that examined the association between gender and the use of electronic information resources among postgraduate students at the University of Dar es salaam, Tanzania. The study was conducted in December 2005 and integrated both qualitative and quantitative research designs. A sample of 100 postgraduate students was selected using a stratified proportionate random sampling procedure with a 97% response rate. Face to face interviews was the major technique of data collection. In addition, focus group discussions (FGDS), key informant interviews, analysis of records and observations were employed in data collection. Data analysis involved the use of cross-tabulation and qualitative descriptions. Findings revealed that gender is associated with the use of electronic information resources and male postgraduate students were more likely to use electronic information resources than female students. Results further showed that even when we controlled for attitude toward the use of electronic information resources or training in the use of e-resources the relationship between gender and electronic information resource use was maintained. Other variables that were found to have positive association with the use of electronic information resources included: training in the use of electronic information resources, access to e-resources, awareness of the availability of resources and year of study. Generally this study revealed that the use of electronic databases and electronic journals among postgraduate students is low although the use of internet search engines such as google, yahoo and other free internet resources was found to be high and frequent. Specifically, female students faired low in the use of electronic information resources. Based on the findings the study concluded that access and use of electronic information resources creates a “social digital divide” along gender lines. The study recommends that: high speed internet connectivity be made available to postgraduate students; and establish computer rooms for female graduate students which are conveniently located. Design and implement free literacy classes for female postgraduate students for capacity building. Develop web site for postgraduate students and a listserv for postgraduate female students only. Computer labs at the University should keep gender disaggregated statistics in the use of electronic information resources. Finally, the library needs to change its marketing strategies on the availability of electronic information resources to increase awareness of these resources.
Gender Analysis of Sexual and Reproductive Health Information Access and Use: a Study of university Student Communities in Tanzania
(2008) Manda, Paul A.
This paper examines the state of access to and use of SRH information services in four universities in Tanzania in the context of gender dynamics and relations. The study was conducted among student communities at the University of Dar es Salaam, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Mzumbe University and Sokoine University of Agriculture. The overall research design integrated both qualitative and quantitative research methodology. The major methods of data collection were survey, focus group discussion and key informant interview. A final sample of 194 undergraduate students was selected conveniently with 51% males and 49% females. The key finding of this study was that gender does not influence SRH information access and use. The baseline conditions of SRH information and service provision in the four universities revealed the following. First, SRH information services were available but not adequate. Second, students could access a wide range of sources of SRH information but the actual use was concentrated and limited to only three major sources which were radio, television and friends. Specialized information sources such as health workers and brochures/leaflets were rarely used. Third, awareness of the availability of SRH services in the Universities was not wide spread among students and a significantly large percentage of students think that they cannot access SRH information in the universities and have a negative attitude towards the provision of SRH information services in the universities. Major factors that influenced access to and use of SRH information and services in the universities in Tanzania were diverse in nature. Despite the challenges, the findings have revealed that the following opportunities exist: extensive SRH knowledge among students, a reasonable degree of availability of SRH services, and an increasing demand for these services from students. Finally, the paper makes detailed recommendations on SRH service provision; gender mainstreaming in SRH service provision; family planning; IEC and BCC; marketing and promoting SRH services, etc.
HIV/AIDS Information and Changing Sexual Behaviour among Undergraduate Students in Tanzania
(Emerald Group Publishing Limited, 2012) Mosha, Neema F.; Manda, Paul A.
Purpose – This paper aims to investigate the level of HIV/AIDS information among undergraduate students at two university colleges in Tanzania, and its role in changing risky sexual behaviour. Design/methodology/approach – In total, 151 undergraduate students from Kilimanjaro Christian Medical College and Moshi University College of Cooperative and Business Studies were surveyed by means of a questionnaire. Findings – Of respondents 86 per cent were aware of the pandemic and its modes of transmission. The main sources of information were books, journals, magazines, television, internet, DVD/CD, radio and research reports. A total of 32 per cent reported having tested for HIV/AIDS; 40 per cent use condoms during sexual intercourse. Among condom users 63 per cent used them consistently. Factors hindering the use of HIV/AIDS information include the time spent on studies, the unavailability of the information, and the religious, cultural and family background of respondents. Research limitations/implications – In a country with over 30 university and university colleges, generalization is not possible on the basis of research restricted to a small number. Practical implications – Universities should establish partnerships and networks with various stakeholders to ensure access to HIV/AIDS information and to share experiences. Originality/value – The level of HIV/AIDS information among Tanzanian undergraduates is under‐investigated. This paper helps to fill some of the gaps in the research.
HIV/AIDS Information Flow and Access: Experiences from Babati District, Tanzania
(2008) Manda, Paul A.
This paper is based on an empirical study of the flow and access to HIV/AIDS information in the Babati District of Manyara region in Tanzania. The study integrated both qualitative and quantitative research designs. A sample of 131 respondents comprising of 50 male and 81 female was conveniently selected from three villages in Dareda ward. Primary data was collected using face to face interviews, focus group discussion, dissemination workshop, and in depth interviews with key informants. Findings revealed that the provision of HIV/AIDS information in the study area is undertaken by multiple agencies including: the district council, village governments, private and public health institutions, civil society organizations, schools, faith based organizations and other community-based organizations. The data showed that access to HIV/AIDS information is through radio; television and video show programmes, newspapers, oral presentations in schools and clinics, and various types of meetings. Other delivery methods include posters, songs, dances, and dramas. The findings revealed that, while information on HIV/AIDS prevention was available, limited information was available on care and support of people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA). Furthermore, access to current and up to date information on all aspects of HIV/AIDS was found to be problematic. Generally, HIV/AIDS information system and structure at local level was found to be inadequate. Major challenges that limit access to and flow of HIV/AIDS information include low levels of education, language barriers, lack of information and library services, limited access to radio, television programmes, and newspapers. Family structures were also found to inhibit the free flow of HIV/AIDS information between parents and children.
The Impact of Electronic Information Resource use on Research Output: Experiences from Universities in Tanzania
(2008) Manda, Paul A.; Nawe, J.
This paper examines the impact of the use of electronic information resources on research output in the universities in Tanzania. Research for this paper was conducted in five public universities in Tanzania with varied levels of access to electronic information resources. The selection of the sample universities was purposive. Data was collected using face-to-face interviews, questionnaires and key informant interviews. Analysis of data employed descriptive and quantitative techniques. Empirical data revealed that the use of online information resources has a positive impact on various research activities and milestones such as research proposal submission, research proposal funding, research report writing and journal article publishing. The results therefore provide empirical support for a positive relationship between the use of electronic information resources and research output and publishing in general. This was demonstrated in the increased number of proposals prepared, submitted and funded, research reports submitted, journal articles published and chapters in books and books published with increased access to and use of electronic information resources. Results also show that although researchers who are actually using the scholarly databases are small in number the core group of researchers using these resources is growing and the use of resources is becoming more frequent and diverse. The major challenges observed include ineffective marketing strategies on the availability of the resources, inadequate training of end users, questionable content relevance of some of the resources and issues of sustainability of access given high levels of donor dependency for subscriptions. Finally, limited variations in terms of intensity of use of resources were observed between junior and higher ranking academics; and younger and older members of faculty. The paper makes a number of recommendations.
Information and Agricultural Development in Tanzania: a Critique
(SAGE Publication, 2002) Manda, Paul A.
Provides a critical evaluation of the relationship between the flow of information and the pace and process of agricultural change and development in rural Tanzania. Examines the adequacy of the diffusion of innovation model from which the hypothesis of the positive relationship between information and agricultural development is deduced. Highlights the major weakness of the applicability of this model in explaining and predicting the process of agricultural change and development in a developing country like Tanzania. Drawing from an extensive literature review and empirical findings, the paper makes some policy recommendations.
Information Needs of Tanzanian Industries: Problems & Prospects
(1984-08) Manda, Paul A.
Discusses the importance, problems and prospects of satisfying information needs of industries in Tanzania. Industries in Tanzania being small and medium in size need a planned industrial information network which will enable them to acquire new ideas central to industrial progress. Major problems encountered in trying to meet industrial information needs in Tanzania, brought up, include; greater emphasis put on agriculture, lack of funds, lack of awareness on the part of decision makers of the important role information plays in industrial development, low status accorded to information units in industries, unwillingness among industries to share vital know-how, complexities of industrial information needs and lack of staff trained in library and information science work. Recommends that information units be established in major industries in Tanzania, identifying their functions.
Information that mobilizes in Minnesota Press
(1995) Manda, Paul A.
Planning For the Automation of the University Of Dar Es Salaam Library
(2004) Manda, Paul A.
The paper examines the planning process for the automation of the University of Dar es Salaam Library. The planning phases described include the preparation phase, planning for implementation and database construction. The major issues during the preparation phase are the discussion on the context of automation, proposal write-up, and the formation of various Library Committees to oversee the implementation and stakeholders' workshop. Phase two planning activities described are technical aspects such as network design and implementation, hardware and software selection and procurement. Others are the memorandum of understanding and putting the system in place. In setting up the system planning, activities described are missions by technical consultants and software engineer and planning for training. Planning for database development is discussed in the third phase. Planning activities in this stage are retrospective conversion, standardization and quality control, maintenance and backup issues. The paper concludes by summarizing the planning areas that were successful and those in which improvements could have been made.
Review of the State Of Research Methodology in African Librarianship
(2002) Manda, Paul A.
The paper reviews of the state of research methodology in African Librarianship. The data for the paper is based on the content analysis of journal articles published in the African Journal of Library, Archives and Information Science between 1991 and 1999. The study has revealed major weaknesses in research methodologies in African Librarianship. Among the major shortcomings are researches not being grounded on theory and the findings having no bearing on theory construction. Additionally, operational definitions of underlying concepts or variables are not provided. The study did not reveal a clear pattern of development towards either qualitative or quantitative methodology although there is a total dependence on the questionnaire for data collection. Research in African Librarianship is at its weakest in sampling and data analysis phases. Studies employ crude descriptions and sampling strategies. The individual is the major unit of analysis. Overall, the study concludes that quality of research methodology and consequently the entire research process in African Librarianship requires major improvements.
Social Impact of Improved Rural Roads: A Case Study from Tanzania
(2003) Manda, Paul A.
This paper evaluates the social impact of the improved rural roads. Data is taken from a social impact assessment study carried out in the year 2001 along the improved (upgraded from earth to engineered gravel) Msata-Bagamoyo road in Coast Region, Tanzania. Data collection techniques employed were rapid rural appraisal of social services; in-depth interviews with a sample of households and secondary data. Results of the assessment reveal that the improvement of the road increased agricultural production, commercialization of agriculture and improved the timely availability of agricultural inputs to farmers. It has led to greater accessibility of markets, reduced transportation costs and enhanced food security. Other challenges are increases in sexually transmitted diseases including HIV infections. The major conclusion drawn is that peasant farmers are rational economic beings and that rural roads play a significant role in the transformation of the agricultural sector in Tanzania.
Socio-cultural Determinants of HIV/AIDS Information Impact : Experiences from Babati District in Tanzania
(IFLA publications, 2007) Manda, Paul A.
This paper examines the socio-cultural contexts that influence the impact of HIV/AIDS information on changes in sexual behaviors and attitudes in Babati district, Tanzania. The study integrated both qualitative and quantitative research designs. The sample of 131 respondents comprising of 50 male and 81 female was purposively selected from three villages in Dareda ward. Primary data was collected using face to face interviews, focus group discussion, dissemination workshop and in depth interviews with key informants. Data analysis involved the use of cross tabulation and qualitative descriptions. Results revealed that HIV/AIDS information provision though inadequate is flowing into the communities. The providers of HIV/AIDS information include the district council, village government, private and religious health institutions, civil society organizations, schools, faith based organizations and other community groups. The identified major sources of HIV/AIDS information are mass media such as radio, television and newspapers. Major factors that limit the positive impact of HIV/AIDS information include the weaknesses in the information infrastructure, information provision not structured to enhance local ownership of the process and service provision. Others are cultural norms on multiple sex partners, gender inequality and high rates of poverty made HIV/AIDS information less effective and led to individual decisions that tend to increase HIV/AIDS transmission rather than its reduction. The study recommends HIV/AIDS Information and Knowledge Management Strategy (IKM) for Babati district, in Tanzania.
The Withering Away of Library and Information Science as a Discipline in the 21st Century
(2001) Manda, Paul A.

Browse

Browsing Library and Information Science by Author "Manda, Paul A."

Results Per Page

Sort Options