Preserving Cultural Heritage in Kogi State: the Impact of Digital Archive
CHAPTER ONE
Objective of the study
The primary objective of this study is to investigate the efficacy of digital archiving initiatives in preserving cultural heritage in Kogi State, Nigeria. Specifically, the study aims to:
- Assess the current state of cultural heritage preservation efforts in Kogi State.
- Evaluate the impact of digital archiving technologies and practices on the preservation and dissemination of Kogi State’s cultural heritage.
- Identify the challenges and barriers hindering the effective implementation of digital archiving initiatives for cultural heritage preservation in Kogi State.
CHAPTER TWO
REVIEWED OF THE RELATED LITERATURE
Concepts in digital preservation
Digital information is fundamentally reshaping the production, dissemination, use and re-use of information and knowledge in society. In order to play a prominent role within this knowledge society, cultural heritage institutions are investing in digital preservation methods, systems and technologies (Ross and Hedstrom, 2005). Digital preservation should be understood as a set of management processes and activities that ensures permanent access to digital information, including scientific and cultural heritages. Digital preservation assures access to cultural heritage, but this accessibility is challenged by rapid technological and organizational advances. Owing to these dynamics (e.g. technological obsolescence), digital preservation should be seen as an ongoing activity (Lavoie and Dempsey, 2004).
CHAPTER THREE
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
INTRODUCTION
In this chapter, we described the research procedure for this study. A research methodology is a research process adopted or employed to systematically and scientifically present the results of a study to the research audience viz. a vis, the study beneficiaries.
RESEARCH DESIGN
Research designs are perceived to be an overall strategy adopted by the researcher whereby different components of the study are integrated in a logical manner to effectively address a research problem. In this study, the researcher employed the survey research design. This is due to the nature of the study whereby the opinion and views of people are sampled. According to Singleton & Straits, (2009), Survey research can use quantitative research strategies (e.g., using questionnaires with numerically rated items), qualitative research strategies (e.g., using open-ended questions), or both strategies (i.e., mixed methods). As it is often used to describe and explore human behaviour, surveys are therefore frequently used in social and psychological research.
CHAPTER FOUR
DATA PRESENTATION AND ANALYSIS
INTRODUCTION
This chapter presents the analysis of data derived through the questionnaire and key informant interview administered on the respondents in the study area. The analysis and interpretation were derived from the findings of the study. The data analysis depicts the simple frequency and percentage of the respondents as well as interpretation of the information gathered. A total of eighty (80) questionnaires were administered to respondents of which only seventy-seven (77) were returned and validated. This was due to irregular, incomplete and inappropriate responses to some questionnaire. For this study a total of 77 was validated for the analysis.
CHAPTER FIVE
SUMMARY, CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION
5.1 Introduction
It is important to ascertain that the objective of this study was to ascertain Preserving cultural heritage in kogi state: the impact of digital archive. In the preceding chapter, the relevant data collected for this study were presented, critically analyzed and appropriate interpretation given. In this chapter, certain recommendations made which in the opinion of the researcher will be of benefits in addressing Preserving cultural heritage in kogi state: the impact of digital archive.
Summary
This study was on Preserving cultural heritage in kogi state: the impact of digital archive. Three objectives were raised which included: Assess the current state of cultural heritage preservation efforts in Kogi State, evaluate the impact of digital archiving technologies and practices on the preservation and dissemination of Kogi State’s cultural heritage and identify the challenges and barriers hindering the effective implementation of digital archiving initiatives for cultural heritage preservation in Kogi State. A total of 77 responses were received and validated from the enrolled participants where all respondents were drawn from selected residents kogi state. Hypothesis was tested using Chi-Square statistical tool (SPSS).
Conclusion
In conclusion, the study on preserving cultural heritage in Kogi State through the impact of digital archives underscores the significance of digital archiving initiatives in safeguarding and promoting the region’s rich cultural diversity. Through a comprehensive examination of cultural heritage assets, technological infrastructure, and the impact of digital archiving efforts digital archiving initiatives play a crucial role in documenting and preserving Kogi State’s diverse cultural heritage, including oral traditions, linguistic diversity, historical artifacts, architectural landmarks, and traditional crafts. By digitizing cultural materials and making them accessible online, these initiatives ensure the long-term preservation and dissemination of cultural resources for current and future generations.
Recommendation
- Government agencies and stakeholders should prioritize investment in internet connectivity, digitization equipment, digital storage systems, and metadata standards to strengthen the technological infrastructure supporting digital archiving efforts in Kogi State. This will improve the accessibility, reliability, and sustainability of digital archives, ensuring the long-term preservation of cultural heritage materials.
- Capacity-building programs should be implemented to enhance digital literacy, archival skills, and preservation techniques among cultural heritage practitioners, librarians, archivists, and community members in Kogi State. Training workshops, seminars, and educational resources can empower stakeholders to effectively contribute to digital archiving initiatives and ensure the quality of digitized cultural materials.
- Meaningful engagement with local communities is essential for the success of digital archiving projects in Kogi State. Government agencies, cultural institutions, and researchers should actively involve community members, indigenous knowledge holders, and cultural practitioners in all stages of digital archiving initiatives, from planning and implementation to decision-making and evaluation.
References
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