Finding and Using Scientific Information, Kenya

Organisers:
Parliamentary Office of Science and Technology (POST)
International Network for the Availability of Scientific Publications (INASP) 

Date: 3-7 August 2009

This five day workshop was aimed at parliamentary staff from Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda - specifically, the ICT, Library and Research departments. One staff member from each department was invited to attend. Participants from Uganda were supported to attend by the POST Africa programme. The workshop was facilitated by Prof Peter Underwood along with a co-facilitator from each country (Faith Akiteng, Uganda; Dr Evans Wema, Tanzania and Dr Sophia Kaane, Kenya). The workshop was held at the Multimedia University of Kenya Hotel and Conference Centre.

We aimed that by the end of the course participants would be able to:

  • Recognise problems as information problems
  • Identify the language associated with a problem- specifically identify appropriate online search terms 
  • Feel more confident handling science/research information
  • Know of at least three reliable sources of information on science topics
  • Critically evaluate sources of information for quality, credibility, relevance and bias
  • Have enhanced skills in how to make use of science information to inform parliamentarians
  • Have enhanced skills in small group training methods

Feedback from participants indicated that they had gained new skills in finding information on science topics which they could use in their day-to-day work of informing Members of Parliament. In addition, each of the three country groups came up with an implementation plan to pass on training in finding and using scientific and technical information within their own parliament. It is hoped that the co-facilitators will maintain links with the parliamentary staff and will assist in the implementation of training activities.

Presentations and resources from the event can be found on the parliamentary information literacy workshop page.

Document Finding and Using Scientific Information workshop report (140kb)

Document The POST Africa programme (110kb)