Library-Led Scholarly Communication Training and Research Visibility at PAC University, Kenya
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.70619/vol6iss2pp1-12-935Keywords:
Scholarly communication, academic libraries, research visibility, library-led training, scholarly publishing, research support, KenyaAbstract
Academic libraries are increasingly expected to help researchers communicate, disseminate, and increase the visibility of scholarly work. Ideally, library-led scholarly communication training should equip researchers with skills in academic writing, referencing, publishing, copyright, open access, researcher profiling, and research impact. However, evidence on its contribution to research visibility in Kenyan private universities remains limited. This study determined the role of library-led scholarly communication training in facilitating research visibility at Pan African Christian University (PAC), Kenya. The study drew on Scholarly Communication Theory and Diffusion of Innovations Theory. A convergent mixed-methods design was employed. The target population comprised 200 participants, with a sample of 132 selected using stratified and purposive sampling. Data were collected using questionnaires, interviews, and focus group discussions. Experts assessed validity, and pilot testing and Cronbach’s alpha assessed reliability. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics and Pearson correlation, while qualitative data were analysed thematically. Findings showed positive perceptions of library-led scholarly communication training. Participants rated training availability highly (M = 3.91, SD = 0.85), and they rated its perceived contribution to publication visibility highest (M = 4.06, SD = 0.84). Participation (M = 3.49, SD = 1.07) and training frequency (M = 3.46, SD = 1.12) were comparatively lower. A strong, positive, and statistically significant relationship existed between scholarly communication training and research visibility (r = .682, p < .001, n = 35). The study concluded that library-led scholarly communication training contributes to research visibility, although limited participation and training frequency constrain its potential. The library and research management structures should institutionalize continuous, practical, researcher-centered training. The study demonstrates how library-led scholarly communication training can serve as a strategic mechanism for strengthening research visibility in Kenyan private universities.
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