The Usage of Reference Management Software by Postgraduate Students: A Case of Kilimanjaro Christian Medical University College.

Machange, Janeth O. (2023) The Usage of Reference Management Software by Postgraduate Students: A Case of Kilimanjaro Christian Medical University College. Masters thesis, The Open University of Tanzania.

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Abstract

Reference Management Software (RMS) is a tool used to organize citations and references, and arrange citations in different styles for academic writing works. This study aimed to assess the usage of RMS by postgraduate students at Kilimanjaro Christian Medical University College. The specific objectives of this study were to identify the levels of awareness of postgraduate students about RMS; to examine its usage, and asses the challenges faced by postgraduate students when using RMS. The Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology underpinned the study, which utilized a mixed methods approach. The study involved 91 participants selected through simple random and purposive sampling techniques, and data were collected using questionnaires and semi-structured interview guides. Quantitative data were analysed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) and the results presented using tables and figures. Qualitative data were analysed using the content analysis technique. The findings revealed that the respondents were slightly aware of RMS in scholarly writing through their lecturers. The Mendeley was the most commonly used RMS by postgraduate students. However, postgraduate students encountered challenges when using RMS, including limited skills and knowledge and inadequate information and Communication Technology (ICT) infrastructures. The study recommends that universities should provide comprehensive training, workshops, and seminars on Reference Management Software together with online instructional materials at institutional or departmental levels. Librarians should be equipped with the knowledge, and skills on how to use research tools to assist postgraduate students. Also, the University management should increase the number of qualified librarians and ICT personnel. Keywords: Reference Management Software; Postgraduate Students; Citation Management Software; Research tools

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