A comparison of research and publication pattern and output among academic librarians in Kenya and South Africa from 1990 to 2005.
Grace C.Sitienei 40- (graceterer@yahoo.com)
Department of Library and Information Science
University of Zululand
South Africa
1. Introduction and background information
Leedy in Aina (2002:1) defines research “as the manner in which we attempt to solve problems in a systematic effort to push the frontiers of human ignorance or confirm the validity of the solutions to problems others have presumably solved.”
The DEST HERDC Specification for the collection of 2006 data (DEST HERDC, 2006, para.1.3.10) defines research publications as books, book chapters, journal articles and/or conference publications which meet the definition of research and are characterized by:
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Substantial scholarly activity, as evidenced by the discussion of the relevant literature, an awareness of the history and antecedents of the work described, and provided in a format that allows a readers to trace the sources of the work, (e.g. including through citations and footnotes).
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Originality (i.e. not a compilation of existing works)
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Veracity/validity through a peer review validation process or by satisfying the commercial publisher processes.
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Increasing the stock of knowledge.
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Being in a form that enables the dissemination of knowledge.
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Increasing the disseminative opportunities of produced information.
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Enhancing sustainable access to the produced research information.
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Ensuring the provision of training and skills sharing in order that would enhance editing, publishing, production and distribution skills.
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Ensuring the improvement in the quality of publications.
The Royal society of New Zealand (RSNZ, n.d.para.1) website states that research publications
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Maintain scientific self respect
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Complete the scientific process
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Are a clear measure of productivity
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Promote a scientific sense of community
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Preserve knowledge
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Represent a time investment
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