Doctor of Philosophy Theses and Dissertations

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Development of kiswahili education In Kenya between 1900 - 2000
(Moi University, 2007-08) Namulungu, R.I.S.
The purpose of this study was to gather information on the historical development of Kiswahili education and establish the extent to which this development could be linked to the present challenges experienced in the teaching and learning of Kiswahili. Specifically, this research aimed at collecting information on the changes and innovations in instructional methods and resources, the policies and the curricula that have been in place since 1900 and give suggestions and recommendations for dealing with these challenges. The study was confined to Kenya. Both the historical and analytic methods were used in the collection and analysis of data. It drew heavily from both the primary and secondary sources of information. Snowball, purposive and convenience sampling methods were used in the selection of respondents. Interviews with members of staff in the departments of educational foundations, curriculum and educational communication and technology, and teacher college trainers in Kiswahili education were carried out. External and internal criticisms were used in the analysis of the data collected. In some cases triangulation process was applied in the analyses to avoid uncertainty from conflicting data from different sources of information. Findings from the data obtained revealed that at the inception of the discipline in the country, Kiswahili language was not delineated from Kiswahili education. The duo was seen as one or reference to one was mistakenly used to refer to the other. Consequently, little was done to develop theories and methods specific to Kiswahili education. The trend has continued to date. Similarly no policy was put in place during the colonial period that explicitly spelt out how Kiswahili education was to be implemented in teachers’ colleges. After independence, policy statements made sounded ambivalent and are yet to be clearly spelt out. Still, innovations that have been done in both the production of material and human resources from the colonial period throughout the post-independent era were quite insignificant. Hence, this rendered the whole process of Kiswahili education a vicious circle. Furthermore, it is evident that the curricula and syllabuses that were designed from 1900 up to 2000 hardly considered the emerging issues of the times. From the findings and conclusions, it is recommended that a Policy on Kiswahili education and an instruction model should be developed. Similarly, the content of Kiswahili education should be regularly reviewed to cover emerging issues. Further regular research in the area of Kiswahili education should be conducted and seminars organized to disseminate findings. This should be the responsibility of the higher institutions of learning in conjunction with the Kenya Institute of Education.
Attitudes of secondary school students towards premarital sex: effects on schooling and impact on management of HIV/AIDS scourge in the lager Bungoma district
(2009) Wepukhulu, Rispa
A study was carried out in the rural setup of the larger Bungoma District to determine the attitudes of secondary school students towards pre-marital sex (PMS) and the possible impact on school performance and implications for prevention of HIV/AIDS. The study used sets of questionnaires and interview schedules to collect data from 284 form three students, head-teachers and guidance and counselling teachers from selected secondary schools, At community level, data was collected from parents and community-based religious leaders. Student health and class performance records were collected to identify victims of PMS and assess their performance. Descriptive statistics were used in data analysis and interpretation. Chi square (χ2 ) test was used to test whether there was significant association between attitude or behaviour of the youth and school type, gender and household socio-economic status. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) and t-statistics were performed to determine whether PMS had a significant effect on academic performance of known cases of PMS and to confirm whether PMS was a significant practice among secondary school students, respectively. It was found out that PMS was a common practice among the students though they generally had favourable attitude towards PMS. The practice was consistent with the unfavourable attitude towards PMS as a tool for expression of intimacy and love. Inadequate communication between parents and the students, lack of comprehensive sexuality education curriculum in schools and programmes in churches left peers and the media as the major source of sexuality information. This impacted negatively on the attitudes and sexual behaviour among the youth. High PMS prevalence impacted negatively on the education sector in terms of decreased completion rate and poor class performance. From the results, it was concluded that the high prevalence of PMS among students in secondary schools in the larger Bungoma District is due to the perception of sex as a tool for intimacy and expression of love. It is recommended that a comprehensive curriculum be developed and introduced in schools at an appropriate stage preferably at upper primary level to equip the youth with right information to help them make informed decisions about sexuality later in their school life. Such curriculum will in addition prepare the youth to confidently face the challenges as future parents. It also recommended that teachers be trained to handle sexuality issues among the youth and to strengthen positive peer group counselling programmes
Early intervention of mathematics difficulties and performance of standard three pupils in primary schools in Butere sub-county, Kenya
(2015-01) Wekesa, Wafula Robert
Mathematics skills are not only a basic requirement for every member of the society to productively engage in everyday activities but also a universal language that finds meaning in all cultures and civilizations. Every tribe, culture and social group thinks and communicates ideas through quantities. Mathematics education is to a nation what protein is to a young human organism. It is not only a vital tool for the understanding and application of science and technology but also a great determinant of the kind of courses children take at all levels of learning. However, poor mathematics performance in the national examinations has been of great concern to the educationists and the society at large. Factors such as students‟ negative attitude to mathematics and high pupil teacher ratio due to Free Primary Education have been attributed to this. However, research studies indicate that six to ten percent (6-10%) of primary school age children in the US experience Mathematics Difficulties which make them struggle a lot in their education. In Kenya, about 20% of learners in primary schools experience Learning Difficulties (LD) in mathematics. These learners achieve poorly in mathematics, their self esteem may be lowered, may become truants and drop out of school. In spite of these, studies reviewed only sought to establish the number of learners experiencing LD in Mathematics and Language and possible factors that influenced the early identification of LD. This study was designed to establish if there was early identification and remedial teaching for children with Mathematics Difficulties in lower primary schools in Butere district. The effect of this remedial teaching on children‟s achievement in mathematics was also investigated. The study was done in Butere district Kakamega County. Descriptive survey and Quasi-experimental designs were used in this study. Stratified and purposive sampling was also used to select eighty learners with Mathematics Difficulties and eight standard three teachers of the identified schools. A questionnaire was administered to class three teachers and a pre and post experimental test was administered to the pupils in the experimental and control groups. The collected data was coded and analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). Descriptive statistics such as frequencies, means and percentages were calculated. The t- test calculated was 4.38 with a p< 0.001 level at an alpha p< 0.05. The p value was less than p< 0.05 meaning the result was quite significant and hence the null hypothesis was accepted. This meant there was a significant difference in mathematics performance of pupils with MD who received remedial teaching from those who did not. It was also established that teachers identified pupils with MD, more boys had MD than girls; learners experienced MD in addition with carrying and subtraction with borrowing. Schools mostly conducted paid tuition and not remedial teaching for pupils with MD. The tuition was conducted in the afternoons and during school holidays. There was no significant difference in mathematics performance of pupils with MD neither in public or private schools nor between boys and girls with MD who received remedial teaching. Therefore, it was recommended that MOEST formulate a policy that supports early identification of pupils with MD and give remedial teaching to mitigate the disability. KICD should develop appropriate curriculum and remedial teaching programme for pupils with MD.
Emerging security trends on secure mobile computing in an automated university environment
(Kibabii University, 2016-11) Ananda, Daniel Otanga
Universities are shifting from partially computerized to fully automated environments and technology is equally shifting from point to point to broadcasting options. These trends are resulting n mobile computing for most university users with systems accumulating enormous amount of public, private as well as confidential data on employee, students and the institution. However, mobile computing systems normally come with security issues and different vulnerabilities that make users hesitate adopting them despite the many benefits they bring. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the security levels of information in mobile computing environments with a view to modeling and developing a tool for assessing the level of their security in universities. This was accomplished through evaluating user’s skills capacity, establishing the emerging security challenges, establishing the security approaches on mobile computing, developing a security model and developing security evaluation tool for universities . The study was undertaken using mixed methods design. Stratified random sampling and purposeful sampling was used to select respondents from eight universities. The research tools that were used included questionnaires, interviews, observation and photocopying. To establish the accuracy, consistency, dependability and predictability of the research instrument, the interview schedule and questionnaire were piloted in the selected universities that were not part of the study. Object oriented programming tools were used to develop a tool for assessing security levels in the mobile computing systems. Both descriptive and inferential statistics and used for analyzing data. Data collected through questionnaire was analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics and used to measure the relationship between depended and independent variables. Data from interview schedule was analyzed using descriptive statistics. The study found out that the users skills capacity in the universities to be fairly moderate. It also established the emerging security challenges in mobile computing to be rising. The study found that the security approaches in mobile computing in the universities to be varying and mostly rely on established security standards. Finally the study developed an evaluation tool (an application or programme) that can be used by universities to establish the level of their mobile system security level. The security evaluation model and a tool for mobile computing developed will be handy in helping university managers in making informed decisions that will guide day to day management of mobile computing. The tool has the ability to help universities to determine the extent to which their use of mobile computing application is safe, hence determine when there is need for enhancement of existing security approaches to mobile computing in universities and mitigate on the future trends in security for the systems. The findings are useful to mobile computing implementers, policy makers and government with regard to the same.
Influence of financial management practice on financial performance of sugar manufacturing companies in Kenya
(2017) Fwamba, Rashid
The objective of this study was to establish the influence of financial management practice on financial performance of manufacturing companies using evidence from Kenya’s sugar industry. The following specific objectives were addressed by this study: to determine the investing practices on the financial performance of sugar manufacturing companies, to assess the influence of capital structure practices on financial performance of sugar manufacturing firms in Kenya, to evaluate the influence of liquidity practices on financial performance of sugar manufacturing companies in Kenya and to determine the influence of Board structure as a moderating factor on the financial performance of sugar manufacturing companies in Kenya. This study was guided by Liquidity Preference model, Modigliani and Miller Capital structure Model and agency theory. Most researches have concentrated mainly on single financial management decision on the financial performance of organizations. On this premise there existed a knowledge gap on the collective strategic financial management practices practiced by sugar industry and financial performance of sugar manufacturing industry, hence the need for this study. This research adopted a descriptive research design in which a census of all the targeted population of 12 manufacturing companies jointly from sugar manufacturing industry were drawn from a list of 800 manufacturing companies in Kenya, whereby a proportionate random sample of 109 employees were interviewed from all the 12 sugar manufacturing companies in Kenya. Questionnaires were administered as the main tool of data collection whereby 102 questionnaires were collected representing a 93.6% response rate. Descriptive statistical methods were applied to describe application of strategic financial management practices in the sampled manufacturing companies which were sugar manufacturing companies. Inferential statistical techniques such as Correlation analysis and regression analysis were applied to test the hypotheses of association and differences. Collected data was processed using the Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) which was the main computer software that was utilized in data analysis. The strategic capital practices’ null hypotheses were rejected implying a significant effect on financial performance. Strategic liquidity practices were significant hence the null hypothesis was rejected. Strategic investing xxvi practices had coefficients of estimate which were significant implying that the null hypothesis was rejected. Board structure was found significant implying board structure as a moderating value has a significant influence on financial performance. It is therefore recommended that it is important for firms to retain their profits so that they can reinvest and gain higher returns on investments and shareholder equity furthermore Organizations need to utilize computers in cash management since they are efficient and effective. This study suggests the need for further research on other economic factors besides financial management practices that influence the financial performance of sugar manufacturing companies and other companies.
Improvement of the Delone and Mclean’s information system success models to focus on mobile instant messaging in public universities in Kenya
(KIBU, 2017-11) Ratemo, Makiya Cyprian
Mobile Instant Messaging (MIM) encompasses a range of mobile-based internet facilities that enable exchange of real-time messages while utilizing present information of users. The value of MIM has been recognized globally, instigating an upsurge in its use across all segments of society. Use of MIM has however not been embraced in universities. Research reveals that a comprehensive success model is the solution to achieve success in the adoption, use and implementation of MIM systems in institutions. Currently, a model that focuses on MIM does not exist. This study aimed to improve the DeLone and McLean’s Information Success Models to focus on Mobile Instant Messaging in public universities in Kenya. The study specifically sought to examine the status in regard to measuring success of Mobile Instant Messaging in the context of existing Information System success models, to determine factors for measuring the success of Mobile Instant Messaging systems and to develop an improved Information System success model to focus on Mobile Instant Messaging Systems. Mixed method research design was employed and both quantitative and qualitative strategies were applied. Stratified random sampling method was used to get 655 respondents drawn from 4 cadres of respondents in Kenya public universities as follows; 93 Information and Communication Technology (ICT) administrative staff, 96 ICT technical staff, 98 academic staff and 368 university students. Data was collected through the use of questionnaires and interviews. Validity was ensured through data triangulation, peer debriefing and peer review. Reliability was ascertained through a reliability test that generated a Cronbach’s Alpha value of 0.827. Ethics was taken into account and all relevant clearances sought as required. Thematic analysis method was used to analyze qualitative responses whereas frequency tables, cross tabulations, exploratory factor analysis and squared multiple correlation weights were used in the analysis of quantitative responses. Findings revealed a high rate of use of mobile technology in the organizations under study, underscoring the potential of MIM systems and the need for a suitable MIM system success model. MIM penetration rate for academic staff stood at 63%, students at 60%, ICT administrative and ICT technical staff at 34%. Further, the study identifies 30 success factors and exploratory factor analysis was performed to generate 6 constructs namely; task, social, infrastructural, spatial, temporal and presence. Weighs of the constructs were worked out and a new model constructed and validated for acceptance. The new model is critical for success in the adoption, implementation and use of MIM systems in institutions. This study generated new knowledge in regard to MIM systems, which is important to academia and other relevant stakeholders. The findings stand to help institutions under study to tap into the benefits of the successful adoption, implementation and use of MIM.
Secure savings and credit cooperatives’ mobile banking service provision through user perceived cyber-security mitigation
(Kibabii University, 2017-11) Wechuli, Alice Nambiro
The rapid development of mobile technology has resulted in the domination of mobile devices as the main channel through which people conduct most of their day-to-day communication, business and leisure activities. Several financial institutions are incorporating mobile banking and financial services as a key component of their growth strategy. However, the increasing capabilities that mobile technology offers have brought about a large number of security challenges to mobile banking. The study explored Cyber-Security Compromises to confidentiality, integrity and availability in order to ensure user perceived secure Savings and Credit Cooperative Mobile Banking Service Provision in Kenya. In order to achieve this, the cyber-security challenges experienced in SACCOs in Kenya were determined and the approaches being used to minimize their impact to mobile banking service provision by SACCOs were evaluated. In addition, it modelled a user perceived secure mobile banking service provision framework and developed an application for establishing the level of user perceived secure mobile banking in mobile banking systems in SACCOS. Mixed method research design was adopted whereby survey research design was used to collect both qualitative and quantitative data that was used to inform the second phase of the study that took on experimental format. The experimental design was used in the development of the user perceived secure mobile banking service provision tool. Stratified and purposive sampling were employed to select the SACCOS in Kisumu and Kakamega Counties. Since SACCOs in the whole republic operate under the same regulations, SACCOs from the counties selected are considered to be representative of SACCO operations within Kenya. Questionnaires, interviews and Rapid Application Development tools were used in the study. Questionnaires and interviews were used for data collection. Rapid Application Development (RAD) technique was used to develop an application for assessing the level of user perceived secure mobile banking service provision. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyse the collected data to determine the cyber-security challenges experienced as well as evaluating the measures employed by SACCOs to ensure secure mobile banking service delivery. Thematic analysis provide confirmatory and additional information on trends on cyber-security to enable modeling of a cyber-security framework for user perceived secure SACCO mobile banking as well as a tool for establishing the level of user perceived secure mobile banking services provided by the mobile banking system. Triangulation of data and collection methods was;used to enhance the validity and reliability of the study. The study found out that cyber security challenges negatively affect secure mobile banking service delivery. The study also developed a used perceived secure mob le banking service provision framework. Finally, the study developed a user perceive secure mobile baking service delivery tool for assessing the level of user perceived secure mobile baking in mobile banking systems in SACCOs. The findings will benefit the SACCOs and its mobile banking service customers, financial institutions, Kenya government at large, ICT regulatory bodies and telecommunication companies in managing cybercrime for effective mobile banking services.
Biometric properties and network technologies as determinants for a secure electronic voting architecture
(Kibabii University, 2017-11) Rotich, Erick Kiptanui
Analysis of student characteristics and school predictors on academic achievement in Kenya certificate of secondary education examination in Busia county, Kenya
(2017-12) Echaune, Manasi
Students’ academic achievement in secondary school examination is critical in preparing students for further education and the world of work. This is the very reason unsatisfactory academic achievement in Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) examination that has been witnessed in Busia County over the last three years should be a cause worry to the stakeholders in education. This study analyzed the student characteristics and school predictors on academic achievement in KCSE examination in Busia County. The specific objectives of the study were; to establish whether student characteristics influence students’ academic achievement in KCSE in Busia County, to determine the effect of school characteristics on academic achievement in KCSE examination in Busia County, to investigate the effect of teacher inputs on academic achievement in KCSE examination in Busia County and to examine the effect of non-teacher school inputs on academic achievement in KCSE examination in Busia County. The study employed the production function theory. A descriptive survey design was employed. The study targeted 152 principals, 2360 teachers and 7550 students. A sample of 100 secondary schools and 1091 respondents was used. The respondents comprised of 100 principals, 236 teachers and 755 students. The study employed simple random sampling to select teachers and students. Purposive sampling was used to select principals while stratified random sampling was used to select schools. Self administered questionnaires and document analysis guide were used to collect data. Questionnaires were piloted in fifteen secondary schools within Busia County and the schools used to pilot the instruments were not included in the actual study. Test re-test technique was used to ascertain reliability of the questionnaires. The test re-tests of the questionnaires used to collect data yielded reliability coefficients of 0.810 and 0.873 for the student and teacher questionnaire respectively. Experts in the Department of Educational Planning and Management were requested to ascertain both the face and content validity of the instruments. Data was analyzed using STATA version 14. Descriptive statistics including percentages, frequencies, means, and standard deviations were used in the preliminary analysis of data. Inferential statistics including t-tests, ANOVA, correlation and regression were used to test the study hypotheses. Hierarchical linear modeling was used to test the relationship between academic achievement in KCSE examination, school predictors and students characteristics. The findings of the study were presented in tables and figures. The study revealed that school predictors accounted for the largest variation in academic achievement in KCSE examination (56.86 percent) compared to student characteristics which accounted for 43.13 percent of the variation in academic achievement in the same examination. School characteristic and teacher inputs had no statistically significant effects on academic achievement in KCSE examination. Non teacher school inputs particularly adequacy of physical facilities and textbooks had statistically significant effects on academic achievement in KCSE examination. The study concluded that variation in students academic achievement in KCSE had more to do with school predictors than students’ characteristics. National government, County government, educational planners, principals and School Boards of Management will find the findings of the study useful in planning for education and improvement of academic achievement in KCSE examination. The study recommended that the focus should be on the school predictors such as physical facilities and text books which accounted for a larger variation in academic achievement in KCSE examination.
Smart metrics design for indexing ICT integration improvement in Kenyan universities
(Kibabii University, 2018-11) Abila, James Onyango
The sustainability of upgrading ICT capacity in organizations depends on how continuous improvement in ICT integration is autonomously governed. This thesis demonstrates the application of smart metrics and indexes design towards autonomous governing of ICT integration. The smart (Self-monitoring and reporting technologies) metrics design utilizes Control objective for information and Related Technologies version% (COBIT 5) framework and agile software development life cycle (SDLC) approach of software engineering. Continuous and rapid change in ICTs necessitates viewing ICT integration indexing as software engineering activity. Smart metrics design is viewed as a governance structure that enables engineering and monitoring of ICT integration in organizations through indexing. The study demonstrates that smart metrics design based on agile SDLC, can be used to enhance governing of ICT integration through autonomous indexing of; the current level of ICT integration, existing ICT integration metrics use and indexing future suitability of existing ICT integration metrics. This study was based month University ICT teaching Professionals (UITTPs). The purpose of the study was to; establish current ICT integration index levels, examine existing metrics use, evaluate future suitability of existing metrics using COBIT5 framework and agile software approach to design smart metrics for indexing ICT integration. The smart metric design process adopted the first four phases of COBIT5 implementation continuous improvement life cycle model from which the four objectives of this study was based; to establish the current ICT integration Index levels of UITTPs, to examine the extent in use of the existing ICT integration metrics, to evaluate the future suitability of the existing ICT integration metrics and to design smart metrics for indexing ICT integration improvement. The study adopted cross-sectional descriptive survey research design. Data on ICT integration metrics were collected from six purposively sampled Kenyan universities’ in which UITTPs, quality assurance officers, human resource officers, and heads of ICT and computer/IT departments of the respective universities were interviewed. The findings were quantitatively analyzed and further subjected to Kendall’s correlation of concordance analysis in which concordance significance levels were tested using chi-square test at 90% significant levels. The major findings wee that, currently UITTPs integrate ICT at level III (courseware integration and the existing integration metrics were largely not used except for their less frequent use in indexing ICT support conditions, implying that the UITTPs are not aware of their integration weaknesses or strength. However, most UITTPs satisfactorily felt that existing ICT integration metrics had future suitability for indexing improvement of ICT integration. Human factors metrics such as attitude toward ICT integration was perceived as the most suitable future metric compared to technological factors metrics. Based on these findings the smart metrics was designed for indexing ICT integration improvement and was validated to be appropriate therefore can be implemented and used to index ICT integration of UITTPS. The smart metric design will be useful in decision making on the nature of ICT integration upgrade skills required for the UITTPs. The smart metrics design is dynamic and therefore can be adopted in indexing ICT capacity training needs for personnel in various organizations other than universities.
Grid computing adoptability model for collaborative research in universities
(Kibabii University, 2018-11) Kiget, Nicholas Kipkurui
Grid Computing is a paradigm in distributed computing that is appropriate for collaborative research in universities. It is a technology which provides a platform on which computing resources from heterogeneous systems are brought together as needed by the users. Grid Computing, therefore, provides a computing platform on which collaborating researchers requiring huge computing resources can work. Though grid as computing technology portends great benefits to universities, especially to the developing countries, it has challenges in its adoption. A number of universities are in the process of adopting this technology however appropriate model to make the process easily achievable is lacking. This study focused on developing a grid computing adoption model for collaborative research in Universities. The study had five objectives; first, was to find out how universities that participated n UNESCO-HP brain gain in HP catalyst initiatives engaged in collaborative research; secondly, was to determine the extent of grid adoption in the selected universities thirdly evaluate critical success factors for adoptability of grid computing for collaborative research; fourthly was to develop grid adoptability model for collaborative research in universities in developing countries; and fifthly was to develop a tool that could be used to assess level of adoption of grid computing in the universities. The study based on post-positivist philosophy adopted mixed methodology and survey design. The target population of this study was the universities in developing countries. East Africa was used as a cluster zone and four Universities that participated in UNESCO-HP Brain Gain and HP Catalyst initiatives wee purposely selected as a sample. The universities choses were Masinde Muliro Univrsity of Science and Technology and the University of Nairobi in Kenya, Makerere University and Mbarara University of Science and Technology in Uganda. The instruments used were structured questionnaires and interview guides which were administered to respondents in the selected universities. Cronbach’s alpha test was carried out to ensure the reliability of the research instrument and the model was validated by the experts. Both descriptive statistics such as frequencies, means, modes and standard deviations and inferential statistics particularly correlation and regression analysis were used for both quantitative and qualitative data. While the findings showed that grid computing had not been fully adopted in the universities, six critical factors affecting its adoptability were established; perceived benefits,, perceived need, availability of collaborative research, availability of computational resources, policies and staff training on collaborative research and grid computing. Another factor found to positively impact on grid computing adoption was the level of education of the researchers. As an output of the study, an adoptability model was developed. In addition, the model was used to develop an innovative tool that could be used to show the level of adoption of grid technology in universities.
Improvement of the Delone and Mclean’s information system success models to focus on mobile instant messaging in public universities in Kenya
(KIBU, 2018-11) Ratemo, Makiya Cyprian
Mobile Instant Messaging (MIM) encompasses a range of mobile-based internet facilities that enable exchange of real-time messages while utilizing present information of users. The value of MIM has been recognized globally, instigating an upsurge in its use across all segments of society. Use of MIM has however not been embraced in universities. Research reveals that a comprehensive success model is the solution to achieve success in the adoption, use and implementation of MIM systems in institutions. Currently, a model that focuses on MIM does not exist. This study aimed to improve the DeLone and McLean’s Information Success Models to focus on Mobile Instant Messaging in public universities in Kenya. The study specifically sought to examine the status in regard to measuring success of Mobile Instant Messaging in the context of existing Information System success models, to determine factors for measuring the success of Mobile Instant Messaging systems and to develop an improved Information System success model to focus on Mobile Instant Messaging Systems. Mixed method research design was employed and both quantitative and qualitative strategies were applied. Stratified random sampling method was used to get 655 respondents drawn from 4 cadres of respondents in Kenya public universities as follows; 93 Information and Communication Technology (ICT) administrative staff, 96 ICT technical staff, 98 academic staff and 368 university students. Data was collected through the use of questionnaires and interviews. Validity was ensured through data triangulation, peer debriefing and peer review. Reliability was ascertained through a reliability test that generated a Cronbach’s Alpha value of 0.827. Ethics was taken into account and all relevant clearances sought as required. Thematic analysis method was used to analyze qualitative responses whereas frequency tables, cross tabulations, exploratory factor analysis and squared multiple correlation weights were used in the analysis of quantitative responses. Findings revealed a high rate of use of mobile technology in the organizations under study, underscoring the potential of MIM systems and the need for a suitable MIM system success model. MIM penetration rate for academic staff stood at 63%, students at 60%, ICT administrative and ICT technical staff at 34%. Further, the study identifies 30 success factors and exploratory factor analysis was performed to generate 6 constructs namely; task, social, infrastructural, spatial, temporal and presence. Weighs of the constructs were worked out and a new model constructed and validated for acceptance. The new model is critical for success in the adoption, implementation and use of MIM systems in institutions. This study generated new knowledge in regard to MIM systems, which is important to academia and other relevant stakeholders. The findings stand to help institutions under study to tap into the benefits of the successful adoption, implementation and use of MIM.
Predicting mobile social software learnability based on analysis of program complexity and memorability
(Kibabii University, 2018-11) Masese, Nelson Bogomba
With the evolution of the mobile platform and the rapid adoption of mobile devices such as cell phones and other handheld devices, social networks which began as web-based applications have migrated into the mobile platform. The technological innovation depends on user interface design to enhance the technical complexity of products that match the end user requirements. Existing metrics concentrate on user friendliness, reliability, efficiency and security of the mobile social software. Despite achieving some level of acceptability they have a deficit since the user is not subjected to contribute in the mobile social software analysis and development. There is therefore a need to include learnability attributes so as to have software’s that are as learnable as possible. Secondly there is need to study learnability indicators as well as metrics models that can be used to measure these indicators thereby enabling users to indicate predict learnability of software. The purpose of the study was to develop a model for predicting the learnability of mobile social software/. The specific objectives of the study included establishment of the level of awareness of mobile social systems, exploring the extent of utilization of mobile social systems, determining factors affecting learnability of mobile social software applications, designing and implementing a metrics model that can be used for evaluating the learnability of mobile social systems. The research adapted mixed method research design. Data was obtained using questionnaires, interviews and experiments. The target population was mobile social software users in Nakuru County. A sample size of 361 was used, and a response rate of 96% was achieved. Stratified sampling was used to aid in data collection. Data analysis was done using inferential statistics that include chi-square tests, correlation analysis, regression, Anova and descriptive statistics which encompassed standard deviation. Ethical issues rising from the research such as informed and voluntary consent, no harm to participants, beneficence and reciprocity, confidentiality of information and data integrity were taken into account;. A learnability model metrics was developed to guide the evaluation of the learnability of mobile social software. The model is assigned to provide software learnability insights that are vital in assisting software designers, software developers and open-source owners to improve their software products in a way that best supports learnability. The model was uploaded to the website address, www.mssl.co.ke. for testing purposes. From the results, there was consensus that the mode was valid. The significance of the study lied on its ability to provide insights that will identify aspects of software learnability especially to software developers and open-source owners. This study is of the view that there is need to conduct more case studies to further ascertain the validity of the model and to study other social software’s that are not included in this study.
Modelling hardware technologies and socio-technological features as indicators of mobile phone usage patterns
(KIBU, 2018-11) Ronoh, Richard Kipkemoi
Today’s youth are growing up in an environment of constant connectivity, instant information and dynamic technological advancements. Advances in technology and the competitive market driven demand has led to addition of new services and features on mobile phones. To the majority of mobile phone users, these innovations of mobile phone features are rarely used. Consequently, many of the mobile phone features are never used even though they significantly contribute to power consumption, cost of the mobile phone and memory space. This study sought to investigate mobile phone features and their usage patterns among university students in Kenya. The study was carried out by investigation of the behavioral characteristics that influence the usage of mobile phones, the mobile phone features that influence mobile phone selection and usage, and the relationship between the usage of mobile phone features and the motivational needs among university students. The study was guided by the Usage and Gratification Theory (UGT), the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) and the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT). Mixed research design was used to carry out this study whereby survey design was used to gather data and experimental design was used in the development modeling of mobile phone features and their usage patterns. Data collection tools included interview schedule and a questionnaire for survey while the incremental development tool was used in the simulation of Mobile Phone Usage Assessment Tool development (MPUAT). The study found that technological development, uncertainty avoidance and individualism as well as collectivism were the behavioural dimensional characteristics that influenced university students’ usage of mobile phones. The study further established that mobile phone selection amongst university students was influenced by its appearance, number of technological features, accessibility and connectivity. In addition, if found out that though the number of features of a mobile phone did influence the selection the usage of the very features was not of much essence. It was also established that the university students’’ motivational needs were based on information gathering, relationship, entertainment and organization. Based on the findings of the study a Mobile Phone Feature Usage Model (MPFUM) was developed. MPFUM is handy in aiding university students to determine and express their mobile phone usage needs in nontechnical terms. The model would also guide marketers and manufacturers/designers to easily convert the expressed user needs into the features required hence meeting better the needs of the users without wastage. This is critical in conserving power and better memory utilization hence giving users better service. The findings alongside contribution to the academia world will be handy in enabling policy makers to make informed decision on matters regarding mobile phone features and services.
SOME LINEAR CODES, GRAPHS AND DESIGNS FROM MATHIEU GROUPS M24 AND M23
(Kibabii University, 2019-05-01) Marani, Vincent
In this thesis, we have used four steps to determine G-invariant codes from primitive permutation representations of Mathieu groups M24 and M23 . We constructed all G-invariant codes from primitive representations of degree 24, 276, 759, and 1288 from the simple group M24. We found one self dual [24, 12, 8] code, three irreducible codes; [276,11,128], [759,11,352] and [1288,11,648]. There were several decomposable, self orthogonal and projective linear binary codes. There were two strongly regular graphs from a representation of degree 276 and 759. These graphs are known. We determined designs from some binary codes using codewords of minimum weight. All the designs constructed were primitive. We constructed symmetric 1-designs from the primitive permutation representations of degree 24, 276, 759, 1771, 2024 and 3795 deﬁned by the action of a group G on a set Ω = G/Gα. In most cases the full automorphism group of the design was M24 while in some cases the full automorphism group of the design was either S24 or S276. We also constructed all G-invariant codes from primitive representations of degree 23, 253, and 253 from the simple group M23. There was no self dual linear code. There were four irreducible codes [23,11,8], [253,11,112],[253,44] and [253,11,112] . There were several decomposable, self orthogonal and projective linear binary codes. There was no strongly regular graph from the three representations. We determined designs from some binary codes using codewords of minimum weight. All the designs constructed were primitive. We constructed symmetric 1-designs from the primitive permutation representations of degree 23, 253 and 253 deﬁned by the action of a group G on a set Ω = G/Gα. In most cases the full automorphism group of the design was M23 while in some cases the full automorphism group of the design was either S23, S253 or S506
Network performance metrics for transition from IPv4 TO IPv6 Networks
(KIBU, 2019-11) Barasa, Samuel Wafula
The internet platform has been facilitated by a huge number of interconnected network nodes hence the dire need for extra pool of addresses, quality of services, routing efficiency, performance and optimization. These developments have contributed to the implementation of IPv6 to replace and improve the depleted IPv4 address pool. Although IPv6 promises enhancements to IPv4 standards, it’s evident it is maturing albeit slowly despite its implementation on major networks and operating systems. However, IPv6 transition presents performance degradation challenges to the Internet Protocol at implementation. These include bandwidth, throughput, latency and jitter performance with regard to the data, video, and voice traffic. Several solutions have been proposed, including dual-stacking, tunneling, and translation transition strategies that are not yet mature. The study purpose to enhance performance for transition from IPv4 to IPv6 networks to solve the performance degradation problems caused by the premature transition strategies and expedite IPv6 deployment. This study was achieved by establishing the performance degradation associated with transition mechanisms in transiting from IPv4 to IPv6 networks, analyzing how the mapping of configuration attributes to transition mechanisms affect performance degradation from IPv4 to IPv6 networks, and developing a model for smooth transition from IPv4 to IPv6 networks. This was accomplished by experimental design. The target population was on ISPs networks operating in Kenya. Purposive sampling was used to select service providers running on both IPv4 and IPv6 networks. Data collection combined interviews and content analysis. Internal consistency reliability estimation was administered to network experts on one occasion to estimate reliability. Feel for data (descriptive) and goodness of data (inferential) analysis was employed by the study. There were three primary components designed to enhance performance in form of traffic recognition and prioritization application for making decisions in the IPv6 deployments: the IPv6 transition app, the IPv6 transition controller, and the type of service (ToS) database. This study is an enabler for ultra-high performance networks providing for more efficient interconnection between bandwidth intensive Web and information service providers and customers. This will improve government operations for streamlining services for more citizens, improve quality and delivery of services countrywide, increase economic activity and jobs for urban and rural areas and foster high speed universal Internet access.
Online hotel branding based on the dialogic principles of internet communication.
(KIBU, 2019-11) Owoche, Patrick Oduor
The internet is a powerful branding tool for many businesses as it offers numerous ways to promote a business online. Branding is one of the business activities that can be done online. Online branding is even more crucial for service providers like hotels that do not have tangible products. Though many hotels are investing in technology to promote scale and efficiency, the human and personal touch is given little attention. For businesses to rip maximum benefits from brand equity, there is need for them to employ branding strategy that facilitates long term relationship building with their consumers. This study investigated the application of dialogic principles of internet communication in hotel online branding strategies. Specifically, it investigated online branding strategies employed by hotels in Kenya. The study was guided by the dialogic principles of internet communication, and collected data from websites of three star and above hotel in Kenya. The study used media content analysis to collect quantitative data from 64 hotel websites. Fuzzy analytic hierarchy process was used to develop a hotel website evaluation model. The model development process was complemented with focus group discussion that involved hotel online branding stakeholders. The study revealed that the implementation of dialogic principles of internet communication in hotel websites and social media as branding platforms are slightly below average at 49% and 49% respectively. The outcome of this study would assist hotel marketers in identifying new ways of differentiating their hotel brands to gain competitive edge and develop strong relationships with their consumers. The results would also assist hotel managers and webmasters in the development of hotel website that might contribute to hotel brand awareness, leading to the desired hotel brand image and augmented brand equity.
Codes, designs and graphs obtained from some projective symplectic group
(KIBU, 2019-11) Kananu, Rukaria Lydiah
After the classiﬁcation of ﬁnite simple groups, there is still much work to be done to give a clear geometric identiﬁcation of the ﬁnite simple groups. There are also many problems in enumerating and characterizing a structure which either has a particular group acting on it or which has some degree of symmetry from a group action. It has been shown that there exists interplay between ﬁnite simple groups and codes. In this thesis we construct and enumerate binary linear codes for the projective symplectic group S8(2) from the permutation representations of degree 120, 136, 255, 2295, 5355, 5440 and 11475. We ﬁnd that the support of codewords of a given weight in a code hold a combinatorial design, or represent points of a projective space PG(2m−1,q), or represent the rows of the adjacency matrix of a graph or equivalently are the incidence vectors of the blocks of a design. Through coding theory, the interplay between the combinatorial objects is enhanced and the internal structures of the group characterized.
Modelling cloud computing environment towards accessible information communication technology integration in primary schools
(KIBU, 2019-11) Etene, Yonah
Cloud Computing technology has developed with the proliferation of the Internet, broadband access networks and high-speed processors. This has led to the development of software defined networks and storage, to respond promptly to the requirements of users and applications. Information and communication technologies when employing cloud computing can open up new opportunities that can improve delivery of education. In financing the acquisition of ICT technologies for integration in education in Kenya, there is need for proper planning to realize accessibility of ICT Integration in education. The purpose of the study was to model the use of cloud computing so as to make ICT integration in primary school education accessible. These was achieved by assessing the ICT technologies being used for integration, analyzing the human capacity for managing ICT integration, developing a cloud computing environment model towards accessible integration of ICT and a cloud computing accessibility evaluation tool to assess the level of accessibility of ICT integration in primary schools. The study was guided by the design science research design. The design was used in the study to do a background research in order to collect data on the ICT technologies being used in schools and the ICT human capacity for managing the technologies. It was then used to develop a model. The target population was (425) Primary schools. The sample frame included 100 schools which had ICT equipment. Purposive sampling technique was used to select the schools where a sample size of (30) was obtained. A head teacher (1) and two (2) teachers from each school were used in the study corresponding to (90) respondents. The primary data was collected using questionnaires and guided interviews. To stablish content and face validity the study involved a team of three (3) experts while reliability was obtained through a pilot study. Data was analyzed using both descriptive and inferential statistics. The study found out that, hardware devices dominant in schools were mostly laptops, tablets and projectors. The learning management system was found to be the most important system required for accessible ICT integration in education. It was also found that technical skills were highly required, followed by basic hardware skills and green Computing skills. Training in ICT is thus required to develop a competent human capacity for successful accessible ICT integration in education. The study also established that Internet connection in schools was very key in the integration process yet many schools were not connected. The findings of the study provides an Integrated Cloud Computing Environment Model that can used to realize accessible ICT Integration in education. This will guide the government and education stakeholders in planning for ICT integration of in primary schools. The model was used to develop a Cloud Computing Accessibility Evaluation Tool that can be used by the MOE to assess ICT integration accessibility level in primary schools.
Organizational attributes that support reliable Emergency Medical Services response during Mass Casualty Incidents in Nairobi County, Kenya
(International Journal of Scientific and Research Publications, 2021-11-29) Baru, Evelyn; Omuterema, Stanley; Nabiswa, Janet
When disaster strikes resulting in mass casualties, the number of victims rapidly exceeds locally available intervention resources thereby necessitating exceptional response arrangements. When these tragic and traumatizing large-scale events occur, the public expects the local disaster response entities to be on hand to provide much needed assistance. Whereas the ultimate goal of any emergency medical response is to obtain the best possible intervention for the greatest number of casualties, research indicates that the efficacy of the emergency medical services (EMS) organization’s response to past major incidents in Nairobi County, Kenya, has been inefficient. The aim of this study was to address this gap by examining the organizational attributes of EMS organizations that influence reliable disaster response to Mass Casualty Incidents (MCIs) in Nairobi County Kenya. The specific objective of the study was to examine EMS personnel’s perceptions of organizational strategies that support reliable disaster response during MCIs in Nairobi County, Kenya. The study was guided by the high reliability theory as an approach for enhancing reliable emergency medical response performance in dynamic high-risk settings such as mass casualty disaster events. Non-probability convenience sampling approach was used to draw a target study population of 71, out of which a sample size of 54 study respondents comprising certified emergency medical technicians in fulltime employment by EMS agencies in Nairobi County was used. The study used the sequential explanatory quantitative method design. The data for the study was obtained through questionnaires and document analysis. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics: frequency tables and diagrams were used to present quantitative data. The questionnaire measure of internal consistency yielded a reliability of Cronbach alpha α = .82. The study findings reveal that the EMS personnel in Nairobi County perceive that the EMS agencies’ organizational strategies manifest HRO-like attributes to support reliable disaster response during MCIs. The study findings provide a mindfulness theoretical approach that EMS organizations can adapt to maintain reliable disaster response performance when dealing with the unexpected especially during response to MCIs. The study recommends that to support reliable disaster response performance especially during MCIs, EMS agencies should consider harnessing the existing organizational strategies using mindfulness strategies supported by disaster response policies in Nairobi County, Kenya.

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