Information seeking behaviour of visually impaired students: The case of University of Dar es salaam

Abstract

This study examines the information-seeking behaviour of visually impaired students (VIS) at the University of Dar es Salaam (UDSM). The study was guided by the following specific objectives: determining information needs of VIS at UDSM; examining whether information sources used by visually impaired students meet their academic-related information needs and to find out challenges faced by VIS when seeking information. The study employed a qualitative research approach. Census sampling technique was used to obtain twenty-five VIS to participate in the study. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews, observations and documentary reviews. Data were analysed using the thematic data analysis method. With regards to information needs of VIS the study found out that information on how to cope with modern technology in learning and how to move independently are the most dominant categories of information needed by VIS at UDSM. In case information sources available meet VIS academic-related needs, results shows that VIS depends much on students’ group discussions. Information sources like books, e-resources and journals are less supportive for visually impaired students at UDSM to the extent that most of them. The following were the challenges faced by VIS when seeking information: time constraint, lack of modern and up to date facilities and less supportive infrastructures which impede their mobility. From the findings, it is concluded that visually impaired students’ information-seeking behaviours vary from one student to another due to differences in their sight disabilities. The study recommended the following: Special Education Unit at SOED must have enough computers with advanced technology for VIS to access information easily. There should be adequate resources such as the materials and facilities, the unit must repack information sources to a format conducive to VIS; Lecturers have to give proper attention to offer them proper attention in lecturing process.