Re-engineering information literacy programmes of Nairobi - based public and private universities in Kenya

Abstract

The paper reports findings of a doctoral study at Moi University from 2006-2012. The aim of this study was to investigate the prospects of re-engineering information literacy programmes (ILP) in selected Nairobi - based public and private universities and develop a model that could be used to address the issue. This study was based on a mix of Jerome Seymour Bruner’s (1971) theory of discovery learning and the Seven Ways or Faces model developed by an Australian – based researcher Christine Bruce (1997). The study design was both exploratory and cross-sectional. The data collection instruments included key informant interview schedules, questionnaires and observation checklists . University librarians were interviewed as key informants while lecturers and other library staff directly involved in information literacy initiatives were interviewed through in- depth face-face interviews. In addition , first year undergraduate students (first years or freshmen) from the sampled universities were interviewed through a questionnaire. Data from the questionnaires was analyzed and is presented as descriptive statistics such as frequencies and percentages. The qualitative data was analyzed and presented on the basis of the Grounded Theory approach which is concerned with the refining of ideas. The findings indicated that all the universities which were sampled have various information literacy initiatives which lacked a systematic approach and a policy framework. It is recommended that a four tier system for undergraduates, post graduates, teaching staff and research fellows, non teaching staff and visiting scholars in both public and private universities be established . The recommendations will inform the librarians, lecturers, university administrators, curriculum planners and education administrators about the importance of information literacy in the learning process.