Theses and Dissertations (Information Science)

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The feasibility of offering standardised data literacy services at selected private university libraries in Kenya
(University of Pretoria, 2024-02) Van Deventer, Martie; Bothma, T.J.D. (Theodorus Jan Daniel); agavastanislaus1759@gmail.com; Agava, Stanislaus Litsalia
In the era of rapid data generation and digital transformation, the ability to effectively navigate, interpret, and utilize data is fundamental for researchers in Kenyan universities. This study delves into the critical areas of data literacy to address the challenges researchers encounter while managing research data. Defined as the capacity to read, understand, create, and communicate data as information, data literacy, is necessary for researchers in diverse fields. It provides researchers with skills to access, analyse, interpret, evaluate, and employ data to enhance problem-solving and informed decision-making. Despite the ubiquity of data, researchers in Kenyan universities grapple with data management challenges. This study's primary objective was to assess the feasibility of implementing standardized data literacy services within private university libraries in Kenya. The study was aimed at achieving the following four key objectives: evaluating the data literacy needs of faculty members and postgraduate students in selected private universities in Kenya; assessing the organizational infrastructure within these private university libraries to determine their readiness for delivering data literacy services; investigating the technical infrastructure readiness of these libraries for implementing data literacy training and developing a comprehensive framework that encapsulates the requisites for successful data literacy initiatives in Kenyan universities. The study employed both quantitative and qualitative approaches, involving surveys, interviews, and document analysis. For data analysis the study used statistical tools and thematic analysis to extract meaningful insights from the collected data. Findings reveal a pronounced gap between existing library services and researchers' data literacy needs. Majority of the participants expressed dissatisfaction with the current level of data-related support, highlighting the necessity for education and training on data management, metadata creation, and research data services. Furthermore, challenges associated with data management, including data publishing and open data practices, were evident. The study identified key stakeholders in the implementation of data literacy programs in universities, including libraries, ICT departments, research directories, government agencies and regulators as well as research funders. A key role to be played by the library was well pronounced emphasizing the integral role of academic libraries could play in promoting data literacy. Libraries were pointed out having shown to possess the necessary capacity, infrastructure, and expertise to facilitate data literacy programs effectively. This study aligns with the Radical Change theory, Stakeholder theory, Intellectual Capital model, and the Bielefeld University RDM training model to provide a comprehensive framework for data literacy initiatives. It underscores the urgency for academic libraries to adapt to evolving research needs and embrace their role in fostering data literacy. The study lays the foundation for enhancing data literacy among researchers in Kenyan universities and offers practical recommendations to bridge existing gaps, emphasizing collaboration among stakeholders and the adoption of policies and infrastructure supporting open science and research data. The developed data literacy framework holds the potential of improving research quality, innovation, and societal impact within Kenya's academic community.
The PENSIEVE : psychological quasi-experimental neural study of induction efficacy of virtual environments
(University of Pretoria, 2024-06-04) Bothma, T.J.D. (Theodorus Jan Daniel); Bosman, Isak de Villiers; weich14.malan@gmail.com; Malan, Adolf Weich
Virtual reality contributes to the successful treatment of patients by assisting those who have difficulty with the process of imagining the required visual images needed during psychotherapy. It has been used in tandem with exposure therapy and has been as successful as in vivo exposure therapy in the treatment of various phobias and for trauma. According to SHIP®, a form of psychotherapy that promotes the idea that spontaneous healing is a predominant tendency that emerges from within a person, there are certain necessary activator images that provide an avenue into unconscious trauma material that needs to heal. The purpose of this study is to examine whether a simulated virtual environment can be used as a medium to induce memories through the utilisation of neutral images based on the SHIP® Frame. The door image of the SHIP® Frame will be used during this human computer interaction (HCI) study to determine whether a virtual environment can serve as a medium during the SHIP® process. Participants will be gathered and divided into two groups: one group will undergo a traditional, imaginal SHIP® session and be tasked with imagining the required visual stimuli while the other group will undergo the virtual induction with the aid of a head mounted display (HMD). A qualitative method approach will be used to determine the level of induction in both groups and identify the helpful aspects in both groups that contributed to the induction. The results of both groups will then be compared to determine how virtual reality could aid as part of an effective therapeutic method and to identify where the technology can be improved in the future.
Developing a framework for data quality-focused RDM to guide the data management planning process in a Social Sciences Research Organisation
(University of Pretoria, 2024-03-29) Van Deventer, Martie; Bothma, T.J.D. (Theodorus Jan Daniel); gtshweu@gmail.com; Tshweu, Glenn Tiisetso
The aim of the study was to conceptualise how RDM (research data management) can facilitate best practice and the production of quality data in a social sciences research organisation, with this to be achieved by focussing on the full research data lifecycle (i.e. all the different phases) and the activities in each stage of the data lifecycle. The goal was to create a practical, quality-focused RDM framework that can be utilised to direct the data quality management planning process in a Social Sciences Research Organisation. In the first part of the study, a literature review was conducted, focussing on ten topics: research data management as a theoretical concept; data quality as a theoretical concept; data quality as documented by international RDM role-players; data quality as recognised by significant RDM initiatives; data quality as an interest for large research funders; data quality as expressed in evaluation systems; quality recommendations as expressed in books on social science methodology; quality as an element of data management planning; data quality evaluation in South African RDM initiatives; and RDM refocused to incorporate data quality. The reason for reviewing these topics was to discuss and understand how the concepts of RDM, data quality and quality assurance are perceived and addressed in the literature. The literature review chapter was a necessary point of departure for this study, making it possible to identify gaps in the knowledge in the field and bringing to light opportunities to contribute to the development of a quality-focused RDM framework. The reviewed literature facilitated the identification of measuring indicators that are used to assess how quality assurance is maintained as part of the different phases in the research data lifecycle. The criteria thus identified are social sciences data measuring criteria based on selected data quality dimensions. In the second part of the study, the framework development was outlined. The chosen strategy used to develop the quality-focused RDM framework employed a theoretical approach. The theory reviewed in the literature review chapter was used firstly as the foundation of the quality-focused RDM framework and, secondly, as the measuring criteria to assess how data is managed in the different stages of the data lifecycle. In the third part of the study, the research methodology was defined. The selected methodology involved a hybrid approach consisting of a non-empirical section comprising a literature review, and an empirical section consisting of a case study from a social sciences organisation. The case study was selected because the social sciences institution concerned already had a mature data curation system in place – one that prioritised quality assurance. Investigating how the concept of ‘data quality’ is maintained – using RDM services – was another reason why this social sciences organisation was chosen. This study is regarded as a qualitative rather than a quantitative study, as the primary aim was to establish and explore the utility for a social sciences organisation of a developed framework based on data quality. The contribution of this study lies primarily in the presentation of a revised quality process model RDM framework that includes anecdotal suggestions (from research participants) on how to better manage research data. These suggestions were used to produce a concentrated quality-focused RDM framework that is based on theoretical best practices and the refined practical measures that researchers use and trust.
Using proprioception to support menu item selection in virtual reality
(University of Pretoria, 2023-02-15) Bothma, T.J.D. (Theodorus Jan Daniel); Bosman, Isak de Villiers; dave.ka@up.ac.za; Ka, Kwan Sui (KSD)
There is an abundance of literature that informs menu system design, specifically for the context of a two-dimensional flat monitor display. These guidelines that are used to inform menu system design used in two-dimensional flat monitor displays were reconsidered to identify criteria that can inform the design of a menu system used in a three-dimensional (3D) virtual environment that makes use of immersive virtual reality technology. Considering the immersive nature of such technologies, it can be hypothesized that proprioception, a sense used to establish awareness of objects and space in a physical environment, can be transferred into the virtual environment to guide menu item selection. Various properties of menu system design were investigated to identify properties that can be used together with proprioception to support menu item selection. Further investigation to understand the usage of proprioception in a 3D virtual environment revealed that spatial awareness and memory needs to be established first. Therefore, criteria that inform the design of menu item selection to be supported by proprioception needed to take this fact into consideration as well. Consequently, a menu system was designed and developed based on the identified criteria to test its feasibility to inform the design of a menu system in a 3D virtual environment that enables users to rely on non-visual senses to guide their selections. The system was designed and developed using commercially available hardware and software to ensure that the findings of this study can be accessible to the general public. The results of this study identified that participants were able to establish spatial awareness and develop familiarity with the 3D virtual environment, therefore enabling them to make use of proprioception, along with their visual senses and haptic feedback, to improve their ability to select menu items. The results also revealed that participants had varying levels of relying on visual guidance for menu item selection and that the varying levels of reliance were based on personal preference.
Data Rescue : defining a comprehensive workflow that includes the roles and responsibilities of the research library
(University of Pretoria, 2023) Bothma, T.J.D. (Theodorus Jan Daniel); Van Deventer, Martie; lpatterton@csir.co.za; Patterton, Louise Hilda
This study, comprising a case study at a selected South African research institute, focused on the creation of a workflow model for data rescue indicating the roles and responsibilities of the research library. Additional outcomes of the study include a series of recommendations addressing the troublesome findings that revealed data at risk to be a prevalent reality at the selected institute, showing the presence of a multitude of factors putting data at risk, disclosing the profusion of data rescue obstacles faced by researchers, and uncovering that data rescue at the institute is rarely implemented. The study consists of four main parts: (i) a literature review, (ii) content analysis of literature resulting in the creation of a data rescue workflow model, (iii) empirical data collection methods , and (iv) the adaptation and revision of the initial data rescue model to present a recommended version of the model. A literature review was conducted and addressed data at risk and data rescue terminology, factors putting data at risk, the nature, diversity and prevalence of data rescue projects, and the rationale for data rescue. The second part of the study entailed the application of content analysis to selected documented data rescue workflows, guidelines and models. Findings of the analysis led to the identification of crucial components of data rescue and brought about the creation of an initial Data Rescue Workflow Model. As a first draft of the model, it was crucial that the model be reviewed by institutional research experts during the next main stage of the study. The section containing the study methodology culminates in the implementation of four different empirical data collection methods. Data collected via a web-based questionnaire distributed to a sample of research group leaders (RGLs), one-on-one virtual interviews with a sample of the aforementioned RGLs, feedback supplied by RGLs after reviewing the initial Data Rescue Workflow Model, and a focus group session held with institutional research library experts resulted in findings producing insight into the institute’s data at risk and the state of data rescue. Feedback supplied by RGLs after examining the initial Data Rescue Workflow Model produced a list of concerns linked to the model and contained suggestions for changes to the model. RGL feedback was at times unrelated to the model or to data and necessitated the implementation of a mini focus group session involving institutional research library experts. The mini focus group session comprised discussions around requirements for a data rescue workflow model. The consolidation of RGL feedback and feedback supplied by research library experts enabled the creation of a recommended Data Rescue Workflow Model, with the model also indicating the various roles and responsibilities of the research library. The contribution of this research lies primarily in the increase in theoretical knowledge regarding data at risk and data rescue, and culminates in the presentation of a recommended Data Rescue Workflow Model. The model not only portrays crucial data rescue activities and outputs, but also indicates the roles and responsibilities of a sector that can enhance and influence the prevalence and execution of data rescue projects. In addition, participation in data rescue and an understanding of the activities and steps portrayed via the model can contribute towards an increase in the skills base of the library and information services sector and enhance collaboration projects with relevant research sectors. It is also anticipated that the study recommendations and exposure to the model may influence the viewing and handling of data by researchers and accompanying research procedures.
The Fourth Industrial Revolution : developing innovation capabilities through smart technology adoption
(University of Pretoria, 2022) Steyn, Adriana Aletta (Riana); sean.kruger@tuks.co.za; Kruger, Sean
The Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) is quickly changing the world we work in, affecting not only what we do, but how we do it. One of several resulting problems is that actors across academia, business and government often struggle to leverage the technologies brought on by this paradigm, negatively affecting their ability to innovate and strategize. One way to address this is to ensure effective adoption of smart technologies pertaining to the 4IR, as technology remains a critical pillar in the innovation landscape. This is not to say that information systems research on technology adoption is poor, quite the opposite, as this is one of the most mature branches in the field. Despite this, the pervasive nature of this paradigm has triggered arguments as to what is the most viable model or framework to leverage resulting smart technologies. Furthermore, the existing literature has not produced as much on developing regions when compared to its western orientated counterparts. The aim of this thesis is to address this gap by furthering the current understanding of the 4IR paradigm and smart technology adoption to develop innovation capabilities within various contexts, specifically within the developing region of South Africa. This study provides its findings through five sequential parts in article format. The parts encompass a usage case of technology adoption in the region (Part 1), insights into supportive mechanisms to do so (Part 2), a tangible artefact to support technology adoption by leaders (Part 3) and global trends on technology adoption models within the 4IR (Part 4). From these investigations, the primary contribution is formulated, the conceptual Smart Technology Adoption Model (STAM) that is grounded on global trends pertaining to 4IR technology adoption (Part 5). However, as noted, there is a need for further investigations within developing regions. Consequently, the model was empirically tested to ensure its validity within a South African context. A key finding is that the tested STAM model aligns strongly to the original TAM model in terms of simplicity and subsequent ease of understanding, with contextual additions including smart technology aspects, perceived risk, technological capabilities and relative advantage being identified as fundamental in smart technology uptake in the region. The thesis is based on action research to provide several considerations and practical insights towards the enablement of innovation, by adopting smart technologies across sectors to create new forms of value. Each investigation addresses a different aspect of the research questions posed while maintaining coherent contributions within the thesis. The reason to leverage this knowledge is to strengthen innovation capabilities of individuals and organisations alike through technological advancements, such as those brought on by the 4IR. This in turn, can support decisions by leadership who can now better understand the possibilities and relate it to return on investment, protecting financial performance and drive needed economic development. Moreover, the findings presented offers a starting point to leveraging symbiotic collaboration points of individuals in varying contexts through technology adoption, albeit in academic or business environments, to rapidly advance innovation capabilities to navigate this paradigm towards a future ready workforce.
An investigation into the requirements of a big data stewardship training / instruction programme / curriculum
(University of Pretoria, 2019-11) Van Deventer, Martie; Bothma, T.J.D. (Theodorus Jan Daniel); kyla.yelverton@up.ac.za; Yelverton, Kyla Monique
Big data and their stewardship have become essential for environments such as the academia, as well as the corporate environment. With the ever-growing field of big data, it is becoming more and more important to be able to manage the data appropriately to achieve successful outcomes. This leads to the need for big data stewardship, which will assist with the appropriate curation of the big data at hand. In order to ensure successful big data stewardship, the big data steward will need to fulfil specific roles and responsibilities, as well as have the necessary skills to fulfil those roles and responsibilities. Although different skills are necessary for different environments and situations, a general set of skills can be identified that are appropriate in different environments. In order to adapt the skills needed for a big data steward, it was important to look at academic institutions to identify which programmes or courses these institutions are offering for the development of big data stewardship. These programmes indicate which skills are being addressed, as well as which skills are not being addressed but should be addressed. The academic literature was also consulted to identify which roles and responsibilities big data stewards are expected to fulfil, as well as which skills the steward may need. A thorough mapping analysis was done to identify the skills, roles and responsibilities needed for big data stewardship. This mapping assisted with the development of a recommended big data stewardship curriculum. Accordingly, this research study aims to create a training benchmark so that big data stewardship can grow both in South Africa, and beyond.
Enhancing digital text collections with detailed metadata to improve retrieval
(University of Pretoria, 2020) Bothma, T.J.D. (Theodorus Jan Daniel); liezl.ball@up.ac.za; Ball, Liezl
Digital text collections are increasingly important, as they enable researchers to explore new ways of interacting with texts through the use of technology. Various tools have been developed to facilitate exploring and searching in text collections at a fairly low level of granularity. Ideally, it should be possible to filter the results at a greater level of granularity to retrieve only specific instances in which the researcher is interested. The aim of this study was to investigate to what extent detailed metadata could be used to enhance texts in order to improve retrieval. To do this, the researcher had to identify metadata that could be useful to filter according to and find ways in which these metadata can be applied to or encoded in texts. The researcher also had to evaluate existing tools to determine to what extent current tools support retrieval on a fine-grained level. After identifying useful metadata and reviewing existing tools, the researcher could suggest a metadata framework that could be used to encode texts on a detailed level. Metadata in five different categories were used, namely morphological, syntactic, semantic, functional and bibliographic. A further contribution in this metadata framework was the addition of in-text bibliographic metadata, to use where sections in a text have different properties than those in the main text. The suggested framework had to be tested to determine if retrieval was indeed improved. In order to do so, a selection of texts was encoded with the suggested framework and a prototype was developed to test the retrieval. The prototype receives the encoded texts and stores the information in a database. A graphical user interface was developed to enable searching in the database in an easy and intuitive manner. The prototype demonstrates that it is possible to search for words or phrases with specific properties when detailed metadata are applied to texts. The fine-grained metadata from five different categories enable retrieval on a greater level of granularity and specificity. It is therefore recommended that detailed metadata are used to encode texts in order to improve retrieval in digital text collections. Keywords: metadata, digital humanities, digital text collections, retrieval, encoding
The role academic libraries could play in developing research data management services : a case of Makerere University Library
(University of Pretoria, 2017-11-08) Van Deventer, Martie; Piennar, Heila; josephssebulime1@gmail.com; Ssebulime, Joseph
Research data management (RDM) focuses on the organization and description of data, from its entry to the research cycle through to the dissemination and archiving of valuable results. RDM entails storage, security, preservation, compliance, quality, sharing and jurisdiction. In the academic world, RDM can support the research process by searching for relevant data, storing data, describing data and advising researchers on good RDM practice. This study focused on developing RDM services. The aim of the study was to establish the role Makerere University Library could play in developing RDM Services. A number of questions were formulated to guide the researcher in finding answers to the research questions. A literature review, based on the research sub-questions, was carried out. The review covered the concept of RDM, academic libraries and their RDM practices, various RDM services in academic libraries, RDM services that require sustainability and how current researchers, in general, manage their data. The research undertaken took a qualitative approach with a case study design. This was due to the need to gather in-depth and comprehensive views and experiences regarding RDM at Makerere University. A purposive sampling technique was used to identify researchers who are actively involved in managing research data at Makerere University. Data were collected using semi structured interviews, from eight participants; one from each college. The participants were selected because of their knowledge about RDM and semi-structured interviews were preferred due to their flexibility. An interview schedule was used as the data collection instrument. Data was transcribed into Microsoft Word for easy analysis. Findings that addressed the research question and sub-questions were presented and interpreted in chapter four and conclusions as well as recommendations were discussed in detail in chapter five of this research report. In summary it is possible to say that although researchers, from across the entire university, generate big volumes of research data it appears that researchers themselves manage, control and store their data making use of different removable devices. This is risky. So there is a need to develop RDM skills for all stakeholders. It does appear though that the researchers at Makerere University would be willing the support of RDM services if these are developed by the library.
Propaganda as used in the official South African Defence Force magazine - Paratus, 1970-1988
(University of Pretoria, 2019) Le Roux, Elizabeth Henriette; Cassells, Laetitia; anneke.nel@up.ac.za; Nel, Anneke
Wartime lends itself to a particular form of communication. This type of communication is often regarded as propaganda, which is used to promote or alternatively dissuade pro-war fervour. This theory is no different during the Border War of South Africa (1966-1989). During the years that the war waged, the public’s sentiment towards the war had changed instigated by the continuing political unrest found both in South Africa and on its borders. The South African Defence Force (SADF) attempted to use its official magazine Paratus to disseminate pro-war communication in order to subdue the objectors and sway public opinion. Thus, this study aimed to understand how the magazine was used as a propaganda medium in terms of its editorial philosophy. Furthermore, attention was given to the main propaganda devices used in magazines as well as in Paratus itself, while changes in the editorial philosophy of the magazine during wartime formed the background of the study. By making use of the single case and longitudinal study, continuous data from a core single source, from 1970-1988, was investigated to gather data including the cover, advertisements, letters, articles and design features that will form the subject of rigorous content analysis in order to obtain rich and holistic information. An amagalmation of the propaganda devices identified by Lasswell (1927), the Institute of Propaganda Analysis – the IPA (1937) and the Propaganda Model (1988) was used as set criteria to base this propaganda study on. The study is rooted in a comprehensive literature review in order to contextualise the findings and avoid bias from the researcher. Ultimately, the study revealed that pro-war and Afrikaner nationalism and Calvinism ideals were supported and furthered through the means of mass communication approaches, specifically that of strategic communication, agenda-setting theory and framing, as well as propaganda devices, most notably the glittering generalities and transfer propaganda devices, while the ideology of anti-Communism alongside the rhetoric of “total onslaught” also formed part of the narrative of the magazine.
Information behaviour of doctors in Malawi : an evidence-based medicine perspective
(University of Pretoria, 2018) Fourie, Ina; dchiweza@medcol.mw; Chiweza, Diston
Evidence-based medicine (EBM) is important in the medical field and especially in developing countries like Malawi where it might promote efficient health services. An understanding of the information behaviour practices of doctors is important for the development of an EBM approach in training, education, and healthcare services, and for EBM practices in developing countries. This includes how doctors define their information needs in clinical settings, their information seeking preferences, self-rating of their information search skills, the nature of their information sources, their information use and how these relate to EBM. Doctors in Malawi are required to keep up with global standards of medical practice and EBM practices that demand active use of clinical evidence and information, and good access to information resources and information tools. They, however, face many local challenges such as; poor doctor to patient ratio (i.e. 1:60 against a desired 1:25), big disease burdens, heavy workloads, inadequate finances and poor access to information resources. Such challenges threaten the adoption of EBM practices. The study was conducted in Malawi as a developing country suffering from great economic challenges that bear negatively on the health services and infrastructure. The design of the study was influenced by the socio-cognitive paradigm of information behaviour and Wilson‟s 1996 model of information behaviour. A targeted sample of 200 doctors was identified from 400 doctors clustered within the Lilongwe, Blantyre, Zomba, Thyolo and Chiradzulu districts in Malawi. A mixed methods design was applied in which both quantitative and qualitative data was collected. Out of 200 doctors, 20 doctors were selected as key informants for the qualitative in-depth interviews. Data collection was done between September and October of 2015, and the response rate from the quantitative survey was 86.5%. SPSS was used to generate descriptive statistics from the quantitative data while thematic analysis was applied to the qualitative data from the in depth interviews. The study found that 73% of the doctors indicated that EBM was an operating policy in their establishments, which influenced their definition of information needs. The most popular information needs related to disease diagnosis, treatment, and general patient care. However, 80% of the doctors reported heavy workloads where many saw an average of 37 patients per day. This limited the amount of time at their disposal for information seeking/searching. Other barriers to information seeking/searching were lack of access to the Internet, lack of access to credible medical information sources and lack of training in information literacy skills and EBM. However, cellular phones played a critical role in accessing information from human sources and for enabling doctors with Internet search skills to access open source clinical evidence. The results demonstrate that it is one thing for medical doctors to have knowledge and a positive attitude towards EBM and yet another thing to apply it in resource poor countries such as Malawi. The results also show that there were both sociological and psychological factors at play in the information behaviour of medical doctors in Malawi. This confirms the socio-cognitive paradigm and Wilson‟s 1996 model as the best framework for understanding the information behaviour of the doctor in Malawi. Some of the activating mechanisms and intervening variables of information behaviour of medical doctors in Malawi are unique hence the study‟s adaptation of Wilson‟s 1996 model to a model more appropriate of information behaviour for doctors in a developing country. Based on the model, a number of changes to the policies and practices of the Malawian health and medical services are recommended to support and encourage effective EBM in the country.
ICT proficiency of LIS professionals : a case Study of Tangaza University College librarians in Kenya
(University of Pretoria, 2017) Underwood, Peter G.; agavastanislaus1759@gmail.com; Agava, Stanislaus
Information and Communication Technologies have greatly impacted the general operations of a library. Technological revolution in the library has also had a pronounced impact on librarianship as a profession. This transformation calls for ICT competent librarians who can handle ICT related duties in the library today. This study sought to find out the ICT proficiency of LIS professionals working in Tangaza University College Library, Kenya. The qualitative research design was adopted in the study. The case study method was used to carry out the research. A census sampling technique was done. Data was collected using a structured interview. The study found out that TUC librarians have very high ICT competence in basic ICT and some web technologies. However, they lack ICT competence in the use of technical ICT skills. Furthermore, ICT courses are offered during LIS science training, however, TUC librarians lack advanced ICT practical opportunities. There is also a gap between the ICT courses covered during the time of study and LIS job requirements in the job market. Lack of funding, time, practical lessons, personal interest, training opportunities and ICT obsolescence were mentioned as challenges librarians encounter in their pursuit to acquire ICT skills. Based on the findings, the researcher recommended that regular ICT related training programmes be conducted for librarians and be offered in form of workshops, seminars and conferences. There is need for academic curriculum in LIS schools to have more practical ICT related programmes. Library staff should be encouraged to develop a personal interest in pursuing ICT skills. And librarians should also make use of ICT trainings that are freely available online in order to develop themselves and remain relevant.
Self-Assessment of information retrieval skills in using electronic information resources: A case study of Maseno university students
(University of Pretoria, 2017) Fourie, Ina; raketch@gmail.com; Obat, Rosemary Akech
Due to the rapid growth of World Wide Web and increased use of ICT, academic libraries worldwide have positioned themselves to be on par with the technological changes by providing services to their clients’ changing needs. One of the services that has globally been embraced by the academic libraries is the provision of electronic information resources. The acquisition of the electronic information resources has either been done collectively through consortia or individually by the institutions. The optimal use of these resources is greatly dependant on the retrieval skills of individuals. This study investigated the information retrieval skills of Maseno University students using the electronic information resources. In general, the study focussed on their own self-assessment on how they rate their skills. The objectives of the study were to: determine key findings relevant to the study from the subject literature, find out how the students at Maseno University use electronic information resources available through the library, determine how students at Maseno University self-rate their ICT skills relevant to information retrieval, determine how students at Maseno University self-rate their information retrieval skills, and to review their ability of self-rating, Through a descriptive quantitative case study research approach, the study used a self-administered electronic questionnaire as the instrument for data collection. The participants were 275 students (90% undergraduates and 10% postgraduate). The study established that the majority of the students showed that both their information retrieval skills and their ability to self-rate their skills was good. The study further revealed that the majority of the students had good ICT skills. From this study, several factors emerged that could help in improving the students’ information retrieval skills, namely: regular practice, training, self-learning, self-efficacy and positive attitude. Recommendations were made for theory and practice and for further research.
The roles of social media in disseminating HIV/AIDS information to young people aged 18-24 in Harare Zimbabwe
(University of Pretoria, 2018) Dick, Archie L.; u15402755@tuks.co.za; Chikonzo, Agnes Chitsidzo
HIV infection is a serious problem among young persons aged 15-24 years in Zimbabwe. According to a United Nations statement, the reduction of HIV and AIDS in this age group is important for monitoring the epidemic among the general population. Because the legal age of majority in Zimbabwe is eighteen years, this study investigated the roles of social media to improve the dissemination of HIV/AIDS information to young people aged 18-24 in Harare. The main aim was to establish a model that encapsulates the special roles for social media to improve the dissemination of HIV/AIDS information to this target group. To collect relevant data, questionnaires and interviews with young people and HIV/AIDS organisations in Harare complemented an extensive literature review of the extant models for disseminating HIV/AIDS. The review revealed that there are several models for disseminating HIV/AIDS information via social media platforms. However, they lack the special requirements for an African city like Harare, and for this age group. Drawing on the strengths of these models and the unique data set generated by the research instruments, the study proposes a model fitting the special circumstances and challenges of 18-24 year old people in Harare. The Harare HIV/AIDS Information Dissemination Programme for Young People model (HAIDYP) will for the first time unite all Zimbabwean organisations involved in disseminating HIV/AIDS information to focus on a specially targeted group. This model is especially sensitive to the indigenous languages of Ndebele, Shona, and Venda languages and advocates links with international, regional, and national organisations. HAIDYP’s special counselling role elaborates on the formal and informal teaching dimensions of existing models, and it has the potential of extending the benefits of social media to improve the dissemination of HIV/AIDS in other cities in Zimbabwe.
Using binaural audio for inducing intersensory illusions to create illusory tactile feedback in virtual reality
(University of Pretoria, 2018) De Beer, J.W. (Koos); Bothma, T.J.D. (Theodorus Jan Daniel); isak.bosman@up.ac.za; Bosman, Isak de Villiers
Virtual reality has the potential to simulate a variety of real-world scenarios for training- and entertainment-purposes, as it has the ability to induce a sense of “presence”: the illusion that the user is physically transported to another location and is really “there”. VR and VR-technologies have seen a recent market resurgence due to the arrival of affordable, mass-market VR-display systems, such as the Oculus Rift, HTC Vive, PlayStation VR, Samsung GearVR, and Google Cardboard. However, the use of tactile feedback to convey information about the virtual environment is often lacking in VR applications. This study addresses this lack by proposing the use of binaural audio in VR to induce illusory tactile feedback. This is done by examining the literature on intersensory illusions as well as the relationship between audio and tactile feedback to inform the design of a software prototype that is able to induce the desired feedback. This prototype is used to test the viability of such an approach to induce illusory tactile feedback and to investigate the nature of this feedback. The software prototype is used to collect data from users regarding their experiences of this type of feedback and its underlying causes. Data collection is done through observation, questionnaires, interviews, and focus groups and the results indicate that the use of binaural audio in VR can be used to effectively induce an illusory sense of tactile feedback in the absence of real-world feedback. This study contributes insights regarding the nature of illusory sensations in VR, focusing on touch-sensations. This study also provides consolidated definitions of immersion and presence as well as a consolidated list of aspects of immersion, both of which are used to detail the relationship between immersion, presence, and illusory tactile feedback. Findings provide insight into the relationship between the design of audio in VR and its ability to alter perception in the tactile modality. Findings also provide insight into aspects of VR, such as presence and believability, and their relationship to perception across various sensory modalities.
The use of a Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) to embed library information services in a Blended Learning Environment (BLE) : a University of Pretoria Engineering study
(University of Pretoria, 2018) Van Deventer, Martie; lesego.makhafola@up.ac.za; Makhafola, Lesego
The main objective of libraries in higher education institutions is to enable access to information that will meet the teaching, learning and research needs of the institutions’ communities (Department of Arts and Culture, 2015:18). Technology makes it easier to accomplish this by allowing librarians to embed products and services directly into the teaching, learning and research environments used by the communities. Course Management Systems such as Blackboard, are used by higher learning institutions to provide blended learning experiences. Many face-to-face lectures rely on an online module, and students appear to be more comfortable using the various online tools than ever before. For librarians, the online component of such a hybrid learning model is an opportunity to extend the traditional face-to-face library training and information literacy sessions into the Virtual Learning Environment (VLE). Virtually embedded librarians enable students’ access to library information online (Hoffman & Ramin, 2010:298) and libraries that have shifted towards embedding in online courses reach users at their point of need (Paganelli and Paganelli, 2017:55). If these statements are true, the question remains whether the end user is satisfied with the services rendered online or not. Many surveys have been conducted to assess users’ satisfaction with library resources and the quality of library services (Zhang, 2015:273). Some studies investigated library use patterns of different user groups but few studies focus on the needs of Engineering students (Zhang, 2015:273) and if these needs are being addressed by embedded library services and products. The objective of this research was to establish the role that Engineering students expect an Information Specialist to play in a VLE, to identify the products and services the Engineering students expect the Information Specialist to provide, and to what extent. This was done using a case study research design. As was expected, this research confirmed that the Engineering students recognise the importance of librarians embedding in their online modules. It is anticipated that librarians who embed online will be able to meet the needs of the students and build strong relationships with the students. If that does become the case, it is feasible to expect that the students’ use of library resources will increase. The next phase would be to build and launch a pilot project. Recommendations made for embedding in a VLE were (1) to consult with the faculty, library staff, and the instructional designer before the librarian attempts to launch embedded activities; (2) to identify the top in-demand products and services that can be embedded for each course as a matter of urgency; (3) to pilot the program with a few students and library staff and obtain feedback before the initiative is made publicly available to all students; and (4) to align the expectations or activities of the program with those of the course.
Building an Institutional Repository at the University of Health and Allied Sciences in Ghana
(University of Pretoria, 2017) Van Deventer, Martie; Pienaar, Heila; fredhayibor@gmail.com; Hayibor, Fred Kwaku
Institutional repositories (IRs) have become an important element in scholarly communication reform. IRs are seen, by higher education institutions, as an adequate response to the serials crisis and a major academic leap for the open access (OA) movement globally. IRs have become key indicators in world university rankings, and many higher education institutions are adopting IRs for that purpose. However, establishing an IR is a major information technology (IT) project undertaking for any university and requires due diligence for evidence-informed decision regarding implementation. The University of Health and Allied Sciences (UHAS) library has mooted the establishment of an IR for the university. This study was undertaken to assess the feasibility of doing so by investigating the presence or otherwise of the known critical success factors for IR implementation and the unique case for success at UHAS. The study approach was qualitative, a case-study design was followed and semi-structured interviews were used to collect the opinions of purposively sampled participants. Data were thematically analysed using QSI International’s NVIVO 11 software package and the results were summarised as a scorecard expressed in percentages for quick understanding. Nine (9) themes emerged from the data, six (6) of which perfectly aligned with the critical success factors (CSFs) generally reported in the literature. These factors included executive support, user acceptance and support, IR policy, IR marketing and promotion, resources and organizational culture. Three (3) of the emergent CSFs (themes) that were unique to UHAS included stakeholder perceptions of IR, researcher motivation and the library as an agent of change. Other findings include that stakeholders have a preference for mediated archiving over self-archiving. An institutional OA mandate needs to be established before researchers would archive their outputs. The library has low visibility in the institution and there are, in general, low levels of policy awareness and compliance among the key stakeholders of an IR at UHAS. Specific recommendations have been made to address identified challenges so that IR implementation success could be ensured. In conclusion, the study found that there was absolute support for the IR initiative by both senior management (decision makers) and faculty researchers (content providers). However, the study also established that the current infrastructural resource base of UHAS cannot yet support the implementation of an IR.
Continuing professional development (CPD) opportunities in Information and Communication Technology (ICT) for academic librarians at the Durban University of Technology
(University of Pretoria, 2017) Underwood, Peter G.; anushiem@dut.ac.za; Moonasar, Anushie
Librarians have to ensure that they are kept abreast of the changes in their discipline and are continuously trained to handle new technologies and systems. The changes in the ICT and the impact on the LIS sector should be the catalyst for emphasising the need for training and skills for librarians. Librarians have a role to fulfil by empowering their users in how to search and retrieve relevant information. Continuing professional development (CPD) was introduced as a means to ensure that professionals continuously update their knowledge and skills. The purpose of this study was to highlight the importance of CPD for the academic librarians based at the Durban University of Technology Library. This study employed a qualitative approach in its research design. Questionnaires were utilised to extract information from twenty-five academic librarians. A follow-up interview session was conducted with five respondents. The overall study indicated that although the librarians were aware of the importance of CPD and the impact of ICT on the library, not all of them kept abreast of CPD activities within their field. It is recommended that LIASA and relevant stakeholders need to unite to rollout CPD activities within their disciplines and ensure that librarians are participating in CPD activities and are keeping abreast of changes within the sector.
Perceptions of value : the case of the Stellenbosch University Institutional Repository
(University of Pretoria, 2017) Van Deventer, Martie; mseyf@sun.ac.za; Seyffert-Wirth, Maria Cornelia
Stellenbosch University in South Africa has an established institutional repository, managed by the Library and Information Service, as well as an institutional policy on the self‐archiving of research output, curated by the Library and Information Service. The main objectives of this study were to examine to what extent Stellenbosch University researchers are aware of the institutional repository and the university’s self‐archiving policy, what their attitude towards the institutional repository and self‐archiving is and how they use the institutional repository and perceive the benefits of selfarchiving. The purpose was to determine whether these initiatives are meaningful to researchers. The research was conducted using a qualitative approach and a case study design. The main data collection tool was an online questionnaire with both closed and open‐ended questions. The target population was Stellenbosch University researchers. Purposive sampling was used when only identified National Research Foundation C‐rated and Y‐rated researchers were given access to the online questionnaire. The sample represented established researchers or promising young researchers. Results demonstrated that the selected group of Stellenbosch University researchers have a high level of awareness of the institutional repository and recognise the value and benefits thereof. Results have also shown that these researchers have a positive attitude towards self‐archiving and realise the benefits thereof. The researchers do, however, still experience barriers with regards to complying with the policy. Recommendations from the analysis of results include ways to further raise awareness of the self‐archiving policy and remove barriers to self‐archiving experienced by Stellenbosch University researchers.
Factors that influence effective knowledge sharing between experts and novices in a South African financial services organisation
(University of Pretoria, 2018) Schutte, Marietjie; jade.adegboye@yahoo.com; Adegboye, Omojadesola A.
In the knowledge economy, organisations rely on knowledge to improve and stay competitive in the industry. Knowledge exists both explicitly and tacitly and the challenge lies in transferring the tacit knowledge from expert employees to less experienced or newly employed employees before they leave the organisation. This study is based on qualitative research, which seeks to determine how knowledge is shared between novices or newly employed employees and experts in a financial services organisation. This study aims to find out how employees share knowledge currently, which includes the tools and methods that they use. In addition, this study aims to discover more effective knowledge sharing tools, methods and activities that can be used to share and transfer knowledge between experts and novices in the organisation. The main research question is: How could the knowledge transfer between experienced employees and new hires be improved at a financial services organisation? The research question is answered through the distribution of questionnaires to respondents and interviews conducted. The data collection was conducted based on an exploratory research design and descriptive research method. The data analysis followed an inductive approach. Quantitative analysis using tabulations and graphs and qualitative analysis by means of themes were used to analyse the data collected from the questionnaires and interviews. The responses that were gathered from the questionnaire and interviews reveal that most employees are not aware of knowledge sharing or knowledge management (KM) strategies. Furthermore, the knowledge sharing tools are not managed effectively. The results of the study reveal that knowledge sharing as a culture is not driven organisation-wide and knowledge is shared based on the preference and discretion of the employees or teams. There are silos of cultures in the organisation and there is no shared vision or KM or sharing strategy that is guiding employees’ behaviour. Based on the study, an organisation-wide KM and knowledge sharing strategy is essential. In addition, organisations should enable employees to share by providing more capacity dedicated to knowledge sharing and transfer.

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