The impact of school libraries on learning and academic achievement
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Date
2012
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
University of Namibia
Abstract
Suclies have shown a strong link between school libraries and academic performance.
However for a school library to effectively have an impact on academic achievement, it must
fulfill a number of requirements such as, a conducive physical infrastructure, which is well
furnished,ยท be well equipped in terms of computers (with internet facilities) and photocopiers;
a strong collection with relevant and up to date materials: and qualified skilled staff to run
the library. The school must also effectively integrate the library activities into the school
curriculum with a strong programme to enhance information literacy skills amongst learners.
This paper is based on a study entitled: "The impact of school libraries on learning and
academic achievement: a case study of Caprivi, Omusati, Omaheke, Karas and Khomas
regions in Namibia" which was conducted by the University of Namibia's Department of
Information and Communication Studies from July 2009 to February 2010. The study
employed a qualitative and quantitative research design using a triangulation of data
collection methods including surveys, interviews, focus group discussions, and observation.
The study's main research question was, ''Do well run school libraries make a difference to
academic performance in Namibia?" Although the study showed the existence of libraries in
all the schools; more than 80% of these were not adequately resourced in terms of reading
materials, equipment, staffing and hence the impact on academic petformance was
negligible.
Description
Keywords
Libraries, Learning, Academic achievement, Performance, Computers, Namibian
Citation
Nengomasha, C. T. and others. 2012. The impact of school libraries on learning and academic achievement: A Namibian case study. International Journal of Information Processing and Communication 1(1):120-138.