The Role of Digital Libraries in Enhancing Learning of Geography Subject in Secondary Schools - Morogoro Municipality, Tanzania
Sophia M. Aseri *
Jordan University College, A Constituent of St. Augustine University of Tanzania, P. O. Box 1878, Morogoro, Tanzania.
Kassimu A. Nihuka
Jordan University College, A Constituent of St. Augustine University of Tanzania, P. O. Box 1878, Morogoro, Tanzania.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
This study examines the place of digital libraries in facilitating Geography learning among secondary school students in Morogoro Municipality, Tanzania. It addresses a gap in comprehension regarding the impact of digital libraries on subject-specific education in developing nations. By focusing on Geography instruction in Tanzanian schools, it provides data on how digital platforms can enhance understanding, engage students, and encourage self-directed learning. Utilizing a convergent mixed-methods design, data were collected from 219 respondents (students and teachers) from three public secondary schools through questionnaires and interviews. Results show that digital libraries enhance students' understanding, engagement, and performance in Geography through provision of accessible, interactive, and curriculum-aligned resources. But their utility is lacking due to issues of poor connectivity, limited digital literacy, and compatibility with the national syllabus. For improved educational worth of digital libraries, the study recommends improvement of infrastructure, capacity development of teachers, and localization of the content.
Keywords: Digital libraries, learning geography, secondary schools, students' understanding, engagement and performance