Volume-XI, Issue-II, March 2025 |
Accessibility Of Library Services by Off-Campus Students: A Case of The Co-Operative University of Kenya Jane Anindo Owate, Department of Computing and Information Science, Kenyatta University, Nairobi, Kenya Dr. Ben Namande, Department of Computing and Information Science, Kenyatta University, Nairobi, Kenya |
Received: 12.02.2025 | Accepted: 19.02.2025 | Published Online: 31.03.2025 | Page No: 253-271 | ||||
DOI: 10.29032/ijhsss.vol.11.issue.02W.024 | |||||||
ABSTRACT | ||
Off-campus learning has gained significant momentum globally due to its flexibility, allowing students to access education remotely. However, geographical barriers, inadequate infrastructure, and limited access to academic resources pose challenges to off-campus learners. This study focuses on The Co-operative University of Kenya (CUK), where off-campus students face difficulties in accessing essential library resources. The study aimed to assess the types of library resources and services available to these learners. A descriptive survey research design was used, targeting 99 respondents, including off-campus students, teaching staff, and librarians. Data were collected through structured questionnaires and analyzed using descriptive statistics and regression analysis. Results indicated that 62% of students were satisfied with digital library access, while 17% expressed dissatisfaction due to slow internet speeds and outdated materials. Open Educational Resources (OER) were positively rated by 63% of respondents, with 20% remaining neutral. Cloud-based systems also received a positive evaluation, with 61% expressing satisfaction. Regression analysis showed that digital library access significantly impacted student satisfaction (β = 0.40, p < 0.001), followed by OER (β = 0.25, p = 0.038) and cloud-based systems (β = 0.30, p = 0.001). Mobile learning platforms, however, did not significantly influence satisfaction (p = 0.175). The study implies that while digital resources are available, infrastructure limitations, such as slow internet connectivity, hinder their full utilization. It is recommended that CUK invest in upgrading internet infrastructure and expand training on the use of digital platforms to improve accessibility for off-campus learners. Future research should focus on assessing the long-term impact of improved digital infrastructure and explore how mobile-friendly solutions could enhance learning experiences for remote students. Keywords: Off-campus learners, digital library, Open Educational Resources (OER), cloud-based systems, regression analysis. |