Designing the digital repository of past examination papers of the College of Veterinary Medicine,Animal Resources and Bio-Security-Makerere University

Abstract

ABSTRACT. This project focused on designing the digital repository for past examination papers at the College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resource and Bio-Security (COVAB), Makerere University. Objectives of the project were: to find out how past exam papers are currently managed, identify the challenges faced in managing examination past papers, and establish strategies to overcome challenges faced in managing examination past papers. establish requirements for designing a digital repository that provides access to past examination papers. design a digital repository for the past examination papers. A study approach of qualitative research design was adopted to collect data. A population of 6o people was targeted, and it consisted of students and library staff. A sample size of 52 respondents was determined, and a sampling method was purposive. Questionnaire, interview and observation were used in data collection. The study revealed that most students relied on printed copies of past examination papers stored in the library, with limited alternative modes of access. Challenges encountered by respondents include incomplete archives, disorganized storage, limited access hours, and poor quality. Participants expressed strong support for the introduction of a digital repository, emphasizing the potential benefits of remote access, improved organization, and advanced search functionality. Users favored features such as title and keyword searches, course and year filters, and secure login options. the study concluded that designing the digital repository is a good, realistic solution for the past examination papers related challenges at COVAB. The depository, having been designed well, is easy to use and regularly updated, and it can help both students and library staff access important academic materials more easily and protect them for the future. The study recommended that the library staff should encourage library users to adopt the digital repository, provide repository usage guidelines to students, and update and maintain the digital repository regularly. Students should use the digital repository, provide feedback to repository administrators regarding any difficulties, respect the repository guidelines, and avoid misusing content from the repository for unethical practices such as cheating