A FRAMEWORK FOR ENHANCING MAINTAINABILITY OF CONTENT MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS IN KENYAN UNIVERSITIES' LEARNING MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS

Abstract

The maintainability of Content Management Systems within Learning Management Systems is of great importance in universities. However, the lack of a maintainability framework frequently results in issues such as security breaches, outdated materials, system failures, and constrained scalability. This research offers a framework to enhance the maintainability of Content Management Systems within Learning Management Systems in Kenyan universities. In Learning Management Systems, the Content Management Systems is essential for managing and distributing instructional content. The objectives of this research were to: determine the extent to which Content Management Systems are used in Kenyan Universities’ Learning Management Systems; identify maintainability challenges of Content Management Systems in Learning Management Systems; determine factors that define Content Management Systems maintainability in Learning Management Systems; and develop a framework to enhance Content Management Systems maintainability in Kenyan Universities’ Learning Management Systems. The theories that formed the foundation of this investigation were Cognitive Load Theory and Software Evaluation Theory. The research adopted a descriptive research design, utilizing purposive sampling and census techniques to select the sample. The population of interest included users responsible for Learning Management Systems maintenance in two Kenyan universities, encompassing software/web developers, ICT managers, and other ICT technical staff. Data collection instruments included interviews and questionnaires, allowing for both qualitative and quantitative analysis. Quantitative data was analyzed using descriptive statistics, multiple regression and inferential statistics, with results presented in tables. Thematic analysis was conducted for qualitative data using ATLAS.ti9 tool and presented through themes. Based on the study's findings, the research recommended usability assessments, educator training, best practices sharing, customization guidelines, security audits, and financial planning for Content Management Systems maintenance. The result is a more efficient, flexible, error- and fault-tolerant system with improved quality of service for faculty and students. The framework was validated via surveys with ICT experts and evaluators, receiving a 100% approval rating, indicating its expected effectiveness in improving Content Management Systems maintainability. The framework provides Learning Management System administrators with recommendations for enhancing Content Management Systems maintainability, enabling them to make informed decisions regarding resource allocation, training, and policy implementation. The findings will benefit academia and researchers by addressing maintainability challenges and ensuring a more user-friendly and reliable Content Management Systems for content creation and delivery. For educational technology experts and researchers, this study will contribute to the body of knowledge in educational technology, specifically in the area of maintainability.