Use of information and communication technologies (ICTs) in learning by undergraduate students at the University of Dar es Salaam library in Tanzania

Abstract

This study was carried out in January, 2019 at the University of Dar es Salaam in Tanzania. The low level of application of ICTs in learning processes at some of the academic institutions in Tanzania was a major stimulant for this study. The principal objective was to determine the extent to which ICTs are used for learning by undergraduate students at the University of Dar es Salaam Library. A mixed research approach was employed to collect both qualitative and quantitative data from 96 respondents. Whereas qualitative data was collected through using key informant interviews and Focus Groups Discussions qualitative data and analysed using content analysis, quantitative data was collected using questionnaire with both open and closed ended questions which was administered to respondents in face to face interviews and data collected was analyzed using SPSS version 20. The findings revealed that available ICT facilities for learning include internet, audio devices, networked computers, You Tube (audio/visual materials) and mobile phones. The level of utilization of ICT resources is high for majority of the respondents admitted they use ICT resources in learning a large extent. Also, it was revealed that students’ low level of search skills is a major challenge in using ICTs effectively in learning. Based on the study findings, it is concluded that computers are the major ICT facilities available at UDSM Library. The incompetence of undergraduate students in accessing information constrains effective use and application of ICT in learning. It is recommended that the University of Dar es Salaam Library should continue to train students and teaching staff in information literacy skills, increase bandwidth, and avail students with laptops, printers and data analysis programs. Also, The University of Dar es Salaam should deliberately incorporate ICTs in learning processes to ensure effective use of ICTS.