The management of court records in magistrate court: a case of Middledrift Magistrate Court, Eastern Cape
- Authors: Mafu, N V
- Date: 2015
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Bibl
- Identifier: vital:11577 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1020172
- Description: This study investigates the role of records management in the functioning of Magistrates courts in the Eastern Cape using Middledrift Magistrate court as a case study. The objectives were to determine types of records created, received and used at MMC, to describe the available infrastructure, security and preservation for the management of court records in MMC and to identify the obstacles encountered in management of court records at MMC. Forty respondents selected randomly and purposively were interviewed. The research findings showed that MMC creates, receives and maintains many court records, MMC is aware of the importance of managing court records from their creation to disposal, there are storages for semi- current and non-current records although there is lack infrastructure for managing court records. The study also revealed that there were occasional misplacement of court records, there was no case file tracking system and the security of records was satisfactory. This study recommends that MCC must have adequate storage space, training for the personnel and security systems to protect court records.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Mafu, N V
- Date: 2015
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Bibl
- Identifier: vital:11577 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1020172
- Description: This study investigates the role of records management in the functioning of Magistrates courts in the Eastern Cape using Middledrift Magistrate court as a case study. The objectives were to determine types of records created, received and used at MMC, to describe the available infrastructure, security and preservation for the management of court records in MMC and to identify the obstacles encountered in management of court records at MMC. Forty respondents selected randomly and purposively were interviewed. The research findings showed that MMC creates, receives and maintains many court records, MMC is aware of the importance of managing court records from their creation to disposal, there are storages for semi- current and non-current records although there is lack infrastructure for managing court records. The study also revealed that there were occasional misplacement of court records, there was no case file tracking system and the security of records was satisfactory. This study recommends that MCC must have adequate storage space, training for the personnel and security systems to protect court records.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
The information-seeking behaviour of economically disadvantaged communities: a case study of the Amsterdam community in the Mpumalanga Province of South Africa
- Authors: Chimezie Obi
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Information behavior , Information resources
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Bibl
- Identifier: vital:11574 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1015358 , Information behavior , Information resources
- Description: This study examined the information – seeking behaviour of members of the economically disadvantaged community of Amsterdam. The study involved both a qualitative and quantitative investigation of the critical factors that affected information – seeking, need, and use in the Amsterdam community. The research design included a study of various information behaviour models with particular emphasis on Wilson’s 1996 general model of information – seeking behaviour. The three factors identified by Wilson for the study of various groups’ information behaviour were personality, work – related or work – role and environmental factors. Information science researchers, in the study of rural communities’ information behaviour, have used these three factors extensively. The data collection was triangulated with the use of survey, observations, and focus group discussions and in – depth interviews. The findings show how the person, in the context of information – seeking and the role-played within a given environment, could determine information needs and use. A person in the context of information – seeking, could be a father, a mother, a group leader, a nurse or a teacher. The main elements are the situation within which a need for information arises, and the person performing a role in an environment situated within the context of information – seeking. Information was found to be a critical commodity for the socio – economic, political, and educational development of any given community. Recommendations were made that could transform the community of Amsterdam, through the provision of sustainable information.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Chimezie Obi
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Information behavior , Information resources
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Bibl
- Identifier: vital:11574 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1015358 , Information behavior , Information resources
- Description: This study examined the information – seeking behaviour of members of the economically disadvantaged community of Amsterdam. The study involved both a qualitative and quantitative investigation of the critical factors that affected information – seeking, need, and use in the Amsterdam community. The research design included a study of various information behaviour models with particular emphasis on Wilson’s 1996 general model of information – seeking behaviour. The three factors identified by Wilson for the study of various groups’ information behaviour were personality, work – related or work – role and environmental factors. Information science researchers, in the study of rural communities’ information behaviour, have used these three factors extensively. The data collection was triangulated with the use of survey, observations, and focus group discussions and in – depth interviews. The findings show how the person, in the context of information – seeking and the role-played within a given environment, could determine information needs and use. A person in the context of information – seeking, could be a father, a mother, a group leader, a nurse or a teacher. The main elements are the situation within which a need for information arises, and the person performing a role in an environment situated within the context of information – seeking. Information was found to be a critical commodity for the socio – economic, political, and educational development of any given community. Recommendations were made that could transform the community of Amsterdam, through the provision of sustainable information.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
Effects of the brittle national information policy framework on information services in Malawi
- Authors: Gausi, Hambani Adamson
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Information science -- Malawi , Information policy -- Malawi , Information services -- Law and legislation -- Malawi , Libraries -- Malawi
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Bibl
- Identifier: vital:11573 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1005989 , Information science -- Malawi , Information policy -- Malawi , Information services -- Law and legislation -- Malawi , Libraries -- Malawi
- Description: The aim of the study was to explore the effects of the absence of an overarching national information policy on information services in Malawi. The objectives of the study were to: find out the effects of the absence of an overarching national information policy on information access in Malawi; establish factors impeding the development of an overarching national information policy in Malawi; find out the extent to which the absence of an overarching policy has affected capacity building in information services in Malawi; and identify the legal and regulatory framework implications of the absence of such a policy in Malawi. The study adopted an exploratory research design. Data were collected using document analysis, observations and in-depth interviews. Eighty-two face-to-face interviews were conducted with policy makers in government, Members of Parliamentary committees on legal and media issues, information scientists, information service providers, academicians, legal experts and information users. Purposive sampling was used to select participants. An interview guide comprising closed and open ended questions was used to interview respondents. Data were analysed using quantitative and qualitative methods. The findings of this study may be used by Government in developing relevant national information policies that would enhance free access and utilisation of information. Furthermore the study is significant in identifying factors that may impede the development of a national information policy. The study revealed that Malawi has a brittle national information policy framework for the provision of information services. Malawi doesn’t have an overarching policy framework for the sector and as a result, there is no policy guidance to drive the development of sectoral policies and supporting legislation. Policy development in Malawi is more reactive to issues than systematic and very slow. Consequently, access to and utilization of information is low; capacity building is low in terms of competencies and infrastructure and; the legal and regulatory framework for information services is weak. The study also revealed that factors impeding the development of an overarching national information policy include: motivation for the development of sectoral information policies; lack of an institutional framework to guide the development of policy; lack of finances and technical capacity; lack of sustained political will; level of economic development; existence of overarching government development plans; international trends; and the diverse nature of the information sector. The general recommendation emanating from the findings of the study is that Malawi needs an overarching national information policy which would articulate and address issues regarding access to information, capacity building in terms of skills and infrastructure, and the legal and regulatory framework. Information is a cross-cutting issue requiring an all-encompassing policy. However, specific recommendations from the findings of this study are that government should expedite the development of policies and enactment of relevant pieces of legislation which are not yet in place to enhance free access and utilisation of information and ICTs; government should speed up the introduction of information literacy in the school curriculum starting from primary school level to university; government should develop a library policy to promote the development of school libraries in both primary and secondary schools, and public libraries in all towns, district assemblies and rural growth centres which should be well resourced including Internet facilities; and government should constantly review and harmonise policies and legislation in the information sector so that they are in line with current trends.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Gausi, Hambani Adamson
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Information science -- Malawi , Information policy -- Malawi , Information services -- Law and legislation -- Malawi , Libraries -- Malawi
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Bibl
- Identifier: vital:11573 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1005989 , Information science -- Malawi , Information policy -- Malawi , Information services -- Law and legislation -- Malawi , Libraries -- Malawi
- Description: The aim of the study was to explore the effects of the absence of an overarching national information policy on information services in Malawi. The objectives of the study were to: find out the effects of the absence of an overarching national information policy on information access in Malawi; establish factors impeding the development of an overarching national information policy in Malawi; find out the extent to which the absence of an overarching policy has affected capacity building in information services in Malawi; and identify the legal and regulatory framework implications of the absence of such a policy in Malawi. The study adopted an exploratory research design. Data were collected using document analysis, observations and in-depth interviews. Eighty-two face-to-face interviews were conducted with policy makers in government, Members of Parliamentary committees on legal and media issues, information scientists, information service providers, academicians, legal experts and information users. Purposive sampling was used to select participants. An interview guide comprising closed and open ended questions was used to interview respondents. Data were analysed using quantitative and qualitative methods. The findings of this study may be used by Government in developing relevant national information policies that would enhance free access and utilisation of information. Furthermore the study is significant in identifying factors that may impede the development of a national information policy. The study revealed that Malawi has a brittle national information policy framework for the provision of information services. Malawi doesn’t have an overarching policy framework for the sector and as a result, there is no policy guidance to drive the development of sectoral policies and supporting legislation. Policy development in Malawi is more reactive to issues than systematic and very slow. Consequently, access to and utilization of information is low; capacity building is low in terms of competencies and infrastructure and; the legal and regulatory framework for information services is weak. The study also revealed that factors impeding the development of an overarching national information policy include: motivation for the development of sectoral information policies; lack of an institutional framework to guide the development of policy; lack of finances and technical capacity; lack of sustained political will; level of economic development; existence of overarching government development plans; international trends; and the diverse nature of the information sector. The general recommendation emanating from the findings of the study is that Malawi needs an overarching national information policy which would articulate and address issues regarding access to information, capacity building in terms of skills and infrastructure, and the legal and regulatory framework. Information is a cross-cutting issue requiring an all-encompassing policy. However, specific recommendations from the findings of this study are that government should expedite the development of policies and enactment of relevant pieces of legislation which are not yet in place to enhance free access and utilisation of information and ICTs; government should speed up the introduction of information literacy in the school curriculum starting from primary school level to university; government should develop a library policy to promote the development of school libraries in both primary and secondary schools, and public libraries in all towns, district assemblies and rural growth centres which should be well resourced including Internet facilities; and government should constantly review and harmonise policies and legislation in the information sector so that they are in line with current trends.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Information seeking behaviour of postgraduate students: a study of Rhodes University and the University of Fort Hare
- Authors: Monyela, Madireng Jane
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Information behavior -- Education (Higher) , Information retrieval , Information literacy -- Education (Higher)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Bibl
- Identifier: vital:11575 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1015440 , Information behavior -- Education (Higher) , Information retrieval , Information literacy -- Education (Higher)
- Description: Information is documented as data value in planning, decision making and evaluation of any programme, therefore any informed decision would be based on the kind of information that the decision maker has. Information seeking behaviour can be described as an individual’s manner of gathering and sourcing information for personal use, knowledge update and development. In the light of this Information, this study examined the information seeking behaviour of postgraduate students at the University of Fort Hare and Rhodes University. The study went further to understand the impact the introduction of new technology has on postgraduate students’ information seeking behaviour. The study was limited to postgraduate students in the faculties of Humanities, Social Sciences and Education at the University of Fort Hare and Rhodes University. These disciplines were selected because of Whitemire (2002:637)’s opinion that students studying humanities, social sciences and education carry out more information seeking activities than students studying hard sciences such as Mathematics and other Natural Sciences. The aim of the study was to establish how postgraduate students seek and gather information for academic use. The objectives of the study were as follows: to find out information sources that postgraduate students value the most and determine where they find such resources; to identify the activities postgraduate students engage in when seeking for information; to establish the factors which influence postgraduate students information seeking behaviour and to determine methods that postgraduate students use to obtain relevant information. Both quantitative and qualitative research methodologies were employed in a survey. The main research instrument was a questionnaire supported by focus groups and face to face interviews. The results showed that postgraduate students utilised different sources of information when seeking information for academic use. Internet usage however was established as the information source that postgraduate students valued and relied on most. Few respondents indicated that they still visited the library and browsed the shelves and found information that met their needs in books. Reports on consulting librarians for help were low. Although the study was not on information seeking behaviour and age, the researcher noticed that mature students did not make use of information technologies effectively and also called themselves “Born Before Technology” generation. The study also established that postgraduate student’s preferred or conveniently accessed Internet and other electronic sources of information in the libraries, even though the two Universities have postgraduate computer laboratories and students could also access electronic sources of information at their residences through wireless connection. The researcher also noted that postgraduate students relied more on lecturers and supervisors for the choice of information sources, rather than independently searching to find the most appropriate documents to use. Postgraduate students used keywords to obtain relevant information when searching electronic sources. The respondents strongly agreed that they felt frustrated, confused, disappointed and demotivated if they did not find relevant information for their searches. This validates Kuhlthau (1991)’s Information Seeking Process model (ISP) as it not only focuses on the information seeking process, but also on emotions, thoughts and expressions of the user when searching information. The study recommends the following: optional computer literacy programmes for postgraduate students, extended library orientation for postgraduate students, mentorship programmes, extended information literacy programmes, appointment of research and subject librarians as well as more faculty librarians and improvement in library marketing.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Monyela, Madireng Jane
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Information behavior -- Education (Higher) , Information retrieval , Information literacy -- Education (Higher)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Bibl
- Identifier: vital:11575 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1015440 , Information behavior -- Education (Higher) , Information retrieval , Information literacy -- Education (Higher)
- Description: Information is documented as data value in planning, decision making and evaluation of any programme, therefore any informed decision would be based on the kind of information that the decision maker has. Information seeking behaviour can be described as an individual’s manner of gathering and sourcing information for personal use, knowledge update and development. In the light of this Information, this study examined the information seeking behaviour of postgraduate students at the University of Fort Hare and Rhodes University. The study went further to understand the impact the introduction of new technology has on postgraduate students’ information seeking behaviour. The study was limited to postgraduate students in the faculties of Humanities, Social Sciences and Education at the University of Fort Hare and Rhodes University. These disciplines were selected because of Whitemire (2002:637)’s opinion that students studying humanities, social sciences and education carry out more information seeking activities than students studying hard sciences such as Mathematics and other Natural Sciences. The aim of the study was to establish how postgraduate students seek and gather information for academic use. The objectives of the study were as follows: to find out information sources that postgraduate students value the most and determine where they find such resources; to identify the activities postgraduate students engage in when seeking for information; to establish the factors which influence postgraduate students information seeking behaviour and to determine methods that postgraduate students use to obtain relevant information. Both quantitative and qualitative research methodologies were employed in a survey. The main research instrument was a questionnaire supported by focus groups and face to face interviews. The results showed that postgraduate students utilised different sources of information when seeking information for academic use. Internet usage however was established as the information source that postgraduate students valued and relied on most. Few respondents indicated that they still visited the library and browsed the shelves and found information that met their needs in books. Reports on consulting librarians for help were low. Although the study was not on information seeking behaviour and age, the researcher noticed that mature students did not make use of information technologies effectively and also called themselves “Born Before Technology” generation. The study also established that postgraduate student’s preferred or conveniently accessed Internet and other electronic sources of information in the libraries, even though the two Universities have postgraduate computer laboratories and students could also access electronic sources of information at their residences through wireless connection. The researcher also noted that postgraduate students relied more on lecturers and supervisors for the choice of information sources, rather than independently searching to find the most appropriate documents to use. Postgraduate students used keywords to obtain relevant information when searching electronic sources. The respondents strongly agreed that they felt frustrated, confused, disappointed and demotivated if they did not find relevant information for their searches. This validates Kuhlthau (1991)’s Information Seeking Process model (ISP) as it not only focuses on the information seeking process, but also on emotions, thoughts and expressions of the user when searching information. The study recommends the following: optional computer literacy programmes for postgraduate students, extended library orientation for postgraduate students, mentorship programmes, extended information literacy programmes, appointment of research and subject librarians as well as more faculty librarians and improvement in library marketing.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
The use of Internet-based information sources by postgraduate students: a survey of three universities in the Eastern Cape, South Africa
- Authors: Mbasera, Sarlomie Farisai
- Date: 2012
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Bibl
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/976 , vital:26514
- Description: The study investigated the use of Internet-based information sources by postgraduate students at three universities in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa. The main aim of the study was to determine the factors that affect the use of Internet-based information sources by postgraduate students. The study sought to fulfil the following objectives: to determine factors which affect the use of Internet-based information sources by postgraduate students at the three universities in the Eastern Cape, South Africa; to establish the Internet-based information sources available among universities in Eastern Cape; to identify the pattern of postgraduate students’ use of Internet-based information sources; to find out the level of postgraduate satisfaction with Internet-based information sources available for their information needs, and to suggest ways of stimulating the use of Internet-based information sources by postgraduate students at universities in the Eastern Cape, South Africa. A review of the literature revealed a growing reliance on electronic resources by higher education institutions worldwide to suffice the information needs of academic researchers and that usage of these is influenced by various factors. The factors identified in the reviewed literature as affecting the use of Internet-based information sources among students include: academic discipline affiliation, age, level of study, gender, information and communications technology (ICT) literacy, institutional support, relevance of available information resources, accessibility, marketing and publicity of information sources available, and training. The researcher employed a survey research methodology to achieve the study objectives, through data collection on three fronts. Firstly to investigate the factors hat affect the use of Internet-based information sources from the perspectives of postgraduate students, self-administered questionnaires were distributed to a sample of 200 study participants obtained using quota sampling of the population of students from the three universities. A response rate of 66.5% was achieved. Secondly, data on the organisational factors influencing the use of Internet-based information sources were obtained by conducting semi-structured interviews with selected librarians at the three universities. Lastly, documentary analysis was also used to corroborate data obtained from the survey with postgraduate study participants, as well as from interviews with selected librarians. The findings include that the use of Internet-based information sources is increasingly becoming important for postgraduate students at the selected universities in the Eastern Cape, South Africa. Postgraduate students believe that Internet-based information sources are useful in their academic work. There was moderate use of subscription e-databases and e-journals. Level of study and age were found to affect the use of Internet-based information sources, with older, Masters and PhD students utilising e-databases and e-journals more frequently. Postgraduate students predominantly use search engines to gain access to Internet-based information sources, while Online Public Access Catalogues (OPACs) and library websites were unpopular gateways to Internet-based information sources. Universities in the Eastern Cape were found to be supportive of the use of Internet-based information sources with budgets of libraries and future plans tipped in favour of electronic resource provision. From the findings of the study the key recommendations suggested for improving the use of Internet-based information sources by postgraduate students in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa, include that Information literacy training programmes at the three universities may be tailor-made to cater for the information needs of postgraduate students at varying levels and academic disciplines of study. It was also recommended that the universities incorporate the use of federated searching and searchable journals management software on their library websites, in order to increase the visibility of Internet-based information sources among postgraduate students.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Mbasera, Sarlomie Farisai
- Date: 2012
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Bibl
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/976 , vital:26514
- Description: The study investigated the use of Internet-based information sources by postgraduate students at three universities in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa. The main aim of the study was to determine the factors that affect the use of Internet-based information sources by postgraduate students. The study sought to fulfil the following objectives: to determine factors which affect the use of Internet-based information sources by postgraduate students at the three universities in the Eastern Cape, South Africa; to establish the Internet-based information sources available among universities in Eastern Cape; to identify the pattern of postgraduate students’ use of Internet-based information sources; to find out the level of postgraduate satisfaction with Internet-based information sources available for their information needs, and to suggest ways of stimulating the use of Internet-based information sources by postgraduate students at universities in the Eastern Cape, South Africa. A review of the literature revealed a growing reliance on electronic resources by higher education institutions worldwide to suffice the information needs of academic researchers and that usage of these is influenced by various factors. The factors identified in the reviewed literature as affecting the use of Internet-based information sources among students include: academic discipline affiliation, age, level of study, gender, information and communications technology (ICT) literacy, institutional support, relevance of available information resources, accessibility, marketing and publicity of information sources available, and training. The researcher employed a survey research methodology to achieve the study objectives, through data collection on three fronts. Firstly to investigate the factors hat affect the use of Internet-based information sources from the perspectives of postgraduate students, self-administered questionnaires were distributed to a sample of 200 study participants obtained using quota sampling of the population of students from the three universities. A response rate of 66.5% was achieved. Secondly, data on the organisational factors influencing the use of Internet-based information sources were obtained by conducting semi-structured interviews with selected librarians at the three universities. Lastly, documentary analysis was also used to corroborate data obtained from the survey with postgraduate study participants, as well as from interviews with selected librarians. The findings include that the use of Internet-based information sources is increasingly becoming important for postgraduate students at the selected universities in the Eastern Cape, South Africa. Postgraduate students believe that Internet-based information sources are useful in their academic work. There was moderate use of subscription e-databases and e-journals. Level of study and age were found to affect the use of Internet-based information sources, with older, Masters and PhD students utilising e-databases and e-journals more frequently. Postgraduate students predominantly use search engines to gain access to Internet-based information sources, while Online Public Access Catalogues (OPACs) and library websites were unpopular gateways to Internet-based information sources. Universities in the Eastern Cape were found to be supportive of the use of Internet-based information sources with budgets of libraries and future plans tipped in favour of electronic resource provision. From the findings of the study the key recommendations suggested for improving the use of Internet-based information sources by postgraduate students in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa, include that Information literacy training programmes at the three universities may be tailor-made to cater for the information needs of postgraduate students at varying levels and academic disciplines of study. It was also recommended that the universities incorporate the use of federated searching and searchable journals management software on their library websites, in order to increase the visibility of Internet-based information sources among postgraduate students.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Investigation into the state of digital records management in the provincial government of Eastern Cape: a case study of the office of the premier
- Authors: Munetsi, Ndakasharwa
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Records -- Management , Information resources management -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Electronic records -- Management , Electronic records -- Law and legislation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Bibl
- Identifier: vital:11571 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/496 , Records -- Management , Information resources management -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Electronic records -- Management , Electronic records -- Law and legislation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: The study sought to investigate the viability of digital records management in the Office of the Premier (OTP) in the Eastern Cape Province. The objectives of the study were to establish the current status of digital records management in the OTP, determine the compliance with the legal framework, identify the requisite infrastructure for digital records management (DRM), describe the security and preservation measures for DRM, and the challenges of managing digital records. Purposive sampling was used to select 40 participants. A questionnaire was used to collect data. The study revealed that the OTP has taken a number of initiatives aimed at establishing records management practices. However, the study found that the OTP is faced with a number of challenges in trying to use the Electronic Document and Records Management System (EDRMS). The majority of the employees did not have any qualification in records management. This lack of skills and competencies affects the implementation of the new system. The findings of the study showed that most of the employees were resisting using the new system because they were not comfortable with it. The study recommends that the department should encourage its staff to get training to be knowledgeable in the use of EDRMS which generates records; the staff should work closer with the consultancy in order to gain skills and knowledge to facilitate the change process, and the security and preservation of digital records should be enhanced.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
- Authors: Munetsi, Ndakasharwa
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Records -- Management , Information resources management -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Electronic records -- Management , Electronic records -- Law and legislation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Bibl
- Identifier: vital:11571 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/496 , Records -- Management , Information resources management -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Electronic records -- Management , Electronic records -- Law and legislation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: The study sought to investigate the viability of digital records management in the Office of the Premier (OTP) in the Eastern Cape Province. The objectives of the study were to establish the current status of digital records management in the OTP, determine the compliance with the legal framework, identify the requisite infrastructure for digital records management (DRM), describe the security and preservation measures for DRM, and the challenges of managing digital records. Purposive sampling was used to select 40 participants. A questionnaire was used to collect data. The study revealed that the OTP has taken a number of initiatives aimed at establishing records management practices. However, the study found that the OTP is faced with a number of challenges in trying to use the Electronic Document and Records Management System (EDRMS). The majority of the employees did not have any qualification in records management. This lack of skills and competencies affects the implementation of the new system. The findings of the study showed that most of the employees were resisting using the new system because they were not comfortable with it. The study recommends that the department should encourage its staff to get training to be knowledgeable in the use of EDRMS which generates records; the staff should work closer with the consultancy in order to gain skills and knowledge to facilitate the change process, and the security and preservation of digital records should be enhanced.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
User satisfaction in academic libraries: a case study at Walter Sisulu University, Ibika Campus
- Authors: Cingo, Sindiswa
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: User satisfaction -- Academic libraries
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Bibl
- Identifier: vital:18419 , http://hdl.handle.net/11260/d1006642
- Description: User satisfaction and library use are multidimensional concepts. The scope of every library as a service institution is to provide satisfaction to its users and to strive continuously for their betterment. The aim of this study is, therefore, to determine the satisfaction of users with library services at the circulation desk at Walter Sisulu University (WSU), Ibika Campus. The specific objectives of the study are as follows: To determine the levels of satisfaction of users, especially at the circulation desk; to determine the reasons for any dissatisfaction expressed by the users; to determine the use of databases by the users, and to determine how the Ibika Campus library is rated in general. In this study, a survey was used to determine the levels of satisfaction of users with library services. Questionnaires were distributed to hundred and twenty users, and ninety users responded to these. From the findings, it was clear that most of the respondents were in general satisfied with the library services at WSU, Ibika Campus. Dissatisfaction was expressed by approximately twenty percent of the respondents, because of various reasons which include library opening hours, noise level, temperature, photocopying facilities, the accuracy of the searches, including the use of OPAC. There were also some suggestions from the respondents that entail more staffing, training, expansion of the library building, twenty-four hour reading room facilities and more cubicles for senior students and staff. The expansion of the library building may reduce the noise level because there will be more space, and that will limit group discussions inside the library. Group discussions will be done outside the library in the suggested twenty-four hours reading room. In one of the recommendations, it is suggested that library management should provide ongoing training for all library staff. This will result in enhancement of services. The training will assist the circulation staff to possess excellent interpersonal skills together with a strong service orientation. Lastly, further research needs to be done on library satisfaction in terms of the problems that have been identified, for example, extension of the library building.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
- Authors: Cingo, Sindiswa
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: User satisfaction -- Academic libraries
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Bibl
- Identifier: vital:18419 , http://hdl.handle.net/11260/d1006642
- Description: User satisfaction and library use are multidimensional concepts. The scope of every library as a service institution is to provide satisfaction to its users and to strive continuously for their betterment. The aim of this study is, therefore, to determine the satisfaction of users with library services at the circulation desk at Walter Sisulu University (WSU), Ibika Campus. The specific objectives of the study are as follows: To determine the levels of satisfaction of users, especially at the circulation desk; to determine the reasons for any dissatisfaction expressed by the users; to determine the use of databases by the users, and to determine how the Ibika Campus library is rated in general. In this study, a survey was used to determine the levels of satisfaction of users with library services. Questionnaires were distributed to hundred and twenty users, and ninety users responded to these. From the findings, it was clear that most of the respondents were in general satisfied with the library services at WSU, Ibika Campus. Dissatisfaction was expressed by approximately twenty percent of the respondents, because of various reasons which include library opening hours, noise level, temperature, photocopying facilities, the accuracy of the searches, including the use of OPAC. There were also some suggestions from the respondents that entail more staffing, training, expansion of the library building, twenty-four hour reading room facilities and more cubicles for senior students and staff. The expansion of the library building may reduce the noise level because there will be more space, and that will limit group discussions inside the library. Group discussions will be done outside the library in the suggested twenty-four hours reading room. In one of the recommendations, it is suggested that library management should provide ongoing training for all library staff. This will result in enhancement of services. The training will assist the circulation staff to possess excellent interpersonal skills together with a strong service orientation. Lastly, further research needs to be done on library satisfaction in terms of the problems that have been identified, for example, extension of the library building.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
Knowledge production in a think tank: a case study of the Africa Institute of South Africa (AISA)
- Authors: Muzondo, Shingirirai
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Knowledge management -- South Africa , Knowledge representation (Information theory) , Knowledge, Sociology of , Corporate culture -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Bibl
- Identifier: vital:11569 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/252 , Knowledge management -- South Africa , Knowledge representation (Information theory) , Knowledge, Sociology of , Corporate culture -- South Africa
- Description: The study sought to investigate the system of knowledge production at AISA and assess the challenges of producing knowledge at the institution. The objectives of the study were to: identify AISA‟s main achievements in knowledge production; determine AISA‟s challenges in producing knowledge; find out how AISA‟s organizational culture impacts on internal knowledge production; and suggest ways of improving knowledge production at AISA. A case study was used as a research method and purposive sampling used to select 50 cases out of a study population of 70. Questionnaires were prepared and distributed to AISA employees and where possible face-to-face interviews were conducted. Both quantitative and qualitative methods were used to analyze the data which were collected. Findings of the study may be used by governments across sub-Saharan Africa to produce relevant knowledge for formulating and implementing economic, social and technological policies. It is also important in identifying challenges that may hinder the successful production of knowledge. The study revealed that AISA has a well defined system of knowledge production and has had many achievements that have contributed to its relevance as a think tank today. The study found out that AISA has faced different challenges with the main one being organizational culture. From the findings, the researcher recommended that AISA should establish itself as a knowledge-based organization. It should also create a knowledge friendly culture as a framework for addressing the issue of organizational culture.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2009
- Authors: Muzondo, Shingirirai
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Knowledge management -- South Africa , Knowledge representation (Information theory) , Knowledge, Sociology of , Corporate culture -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Bibl
- Identifier: vital:11569 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/252 , Knowledge management -- South Africa , Knowledge representation (Information theory) , Knowledge, Sociology of , Corporate culture -- South Africa
- Description: The study sought to investigate the system of knowledge production at AISA and assess the challenges of producing knowledge at the institution. The objectives of the study were to: identify AISA‟s main achievements in knowledge production; determine AISA‟s challenges in producing knowledge; find out how AISA‟s organizational culture impacts on internal knowledge production; and suggest ways of improving knowledge production at AISA. A case study was used as a research method and purposive sampling used to select 50 cases out of a study population of 70. Questionnaires were prepared and distributed to AISA employees and where possible face-to-face interviews were conducted. Both quantitative and qualitative methods were used to analyze the data which were collected. Findings of the study may be used by governments across sub-Saharan Africa to produce relevant knowledge for formulating and implementing economic, social and technological policies. It is also important in identifying challenges that may hinder the successful production of knowledge. The study revealed that AISA has a well defined system of knowledge production and has had many achievements that have contributed to its relevance as a think tank today. The study found out that AISA has faced different challenges with the main one being organizational culture. From the findings, the researcher recommended that AISA should establish itself as a knowledge-based organization. It should also create a knowledge friendly culture as a framework for addressing the issue of organizational culture.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2009
The effect of literacy on access to and utilization of agricultural information for household food security at Chirau communal lands in Zimbabwe
- Authors: Gundu, Moira
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Community information services -- Zimbabwe , Agriculture -- Information services , Women farmers -- Zimbabwe , Literacy -- Zimbabwe , Commons -- Zimbabwe , Food supply -- Zimbabwe , Communication in agriculture -- Zimbabwe
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Bibl
- Identifier: vital:11570 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/251 , Community information services -- Zimbabwe , Agriculture -- Information services , Women farmers -- Zimbabwe , Literacy -- Zimbabwe , Commons -- Zimbabwe , Food supply -- Zimbabwe , Communication in agriculture -- Zimbabwe
- Description: The research sought to examine the effect of literacy on access to, and utilization of agricultural information for household food security at Chirau Communal lands in Zimbabwe. The study was influenced by the diffusion of innovations approach based on interviews, observation and document study. Selected female farmers from Chirau communal lands were respondents to the self administered interviews and focus group discussions. Representatives from, Agriculture Extension and the Ministry of Agriculture were key informants. Systematic Random sampling was used to select 100 female respondents from the age of 18 to above 80 from wards 1 to 10 of Chirau Rural District in Zimbabwe. Data was analyzed into themes and coded for statistical analysis using the SPSS. The country is faced with food insecurity and the main findings of this study support the view that women play an active role in food production but their potential is limited by inadequate levels of literacy that affect the way they access and utilize resources for sustainable agriculture and household food security among other factors. This may be generalized to the situation of female farmers in Zimbabwe. Improved literacy competencies among the female farmers in Zimbabwe lends itself as one of the interventions that may assist in improving access to information and its effective utilization.. This calls decision-makers to boost literacy for women, develop available agricultural information resources and harness effort towards making them accessible. While interventions may be multi-sectored, the role of government is stressed in this report.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2009
- Authors: Gundu, Moira
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Community information services -- Zimbabwe , Agriculture -- Information services , Women farmers -- Zimbabwe , Literacy -- Zimbabwe , Commons -- Zimbabwe , Food supply -- Zimbabwe , Communication in agriculture -- Zimbabwe
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Bibl
- Identifier: vital:11570 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/251 , Community information services -- Zimbabwe , Agriculture -- Information services , Women farmers -- Zimbabwe , Literacy -- Zimbabwe , Commons -- Zimbabwe , Food supply -- Zimbabwe , Communication in agriculture -- Zimbabwe
- Description: The research sought to examine the effect of literacy on access to, and utilization of agricultural information for household food security at Chirau Communal lands in Zimbabwe. The study was influenced by the diffusion of innovations approach based on interviews, observation and document study. Selected female farmers from Chirau communal lands were respondents to the self administered interviews and focus group discussions. Representatives from, Agriculture Extension and the Ministry of Agriculture were key informants. Systematic Random sampling was used to select 100 female respondents from the age of 18 to above 80 from wards 1 to 10 of Chirau Rural District in Zimbabwe. Data was analyzed into themes and coded for statistical analysis using the SPSS. The country is faced with food insecurity and the main findings of this study support the view that women play an active role in food production but their potential is limited by inadequate levels of literacy that affect the way they access and utilize resources for sustainable agriculture and household food security among other factors. This may be generalized to the situation of female farmers in Zimbabwe. Improved literacy competencies among the female farmers in Zimbabwe lends itself as one of the interventions that may assist in improving access to information and its effective utilization.. This calls decision-makers to boost literacy for women, develop available agricultural information resources and harness effort towards making them accessible. While interventions may be multi-sectored, the role of government is stressed in this report.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2009
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