A TECHNICAL REPORT ON COMPUTER SKILL ACQUISITION CARRIED OUT IN

THE COMPUTER LABORATORY OF DEPARTMENT OF LIBRARY AND

INFORMATION SCIENCE, AHMADU BELLO UNIVERSITY, ZARIA 2022/2023

BY

MOHAMMED ABDULLAHI

U17LS1033

SUBMITTED TO THE DEPARTMENT OF LIBRARY AND INFORMATION SCIENCE,

AHMADU BELLO UNIVERSITY, ZARIA. IN PARTIAL FULFILLMENT OF THE
REQUIREMENT OF BACHELOR OF LIBRARY AND INFORMATION SCIENCE
(BLIS)

SEPTEMBER, 2023

i
 DECLARATION

I Mohammed Abdullahi hereby declare that; this computer skill acquisition Training report has

been carried by me under the supervision of Dr. Mohammed Habibu Head. Department of

Library and Information Science guided by Mal. Mustapha. The report was based on the

experienced I learned during the practical work experienced in the Department of Library and

Information Science Computer Laboratory, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria.

__________________ ________________
Mohammed Abdullahi Date
U17LS1033

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 CERTIFICATION

This computer skill acquisition training report by Mohammed Abdullahi U17LS1033 has met

the requirements governing the award of the degree of Bachelor of Library and Information

Science. And is therefore, approved for its contribution to Knowledge and filling the gap

between the inadequate skills of employees and labour market.

__________________ ______________
Dr. Mohammed Habibu Date
(Project Supervisor)

__________________ ______________
Dr. Sani M. Ridwan Date
(Project Coordinator)

__________________ ______________
Dr. Mohammed Habibu Date
Head of Department

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 DEDICATION

This computer skills acquisition training report is dedicated to my parent, Leh-numbah clan of

Karimjo Community, Karim Lamido Local Government area Taraba State, for their helps and

support during the course of my four year study, I pray Almighty Allah reward and bless you

with absolute peace and tranquility, long live and prosperity.

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 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

This work was founded and supported by my parent, Leh-Numbah clan of Karimjo Community,

Karim-Lamido Local Government Area, Taraba State. Also supported by the Department of

Library and information Science, Ahmad Bello University, Zaria. for accepting and giving me

the reasonable opportunity to undertake my four year course of study in the department of library

and information science. May Almighty Allah bless them with absolute peace and tranquility.

A special appreciation goes to my HOD, mentor as well as the supervisor in person of Dr.

Mohammed Habibu, who guided and put me on anything about my computer skills acquisition

training and toward the writing of this report through Mal. Mustapha Maibiye in department of

library and information science computer laboratory. May the Almighty Allah bless them with

absolute peace and tranquility, love and prosperity.

My gratitude to our project coordinator Dr. Ridwan and the entire staff of the department of

library an information science, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria for their advices, guidance and

effort, may their lives be longer with absolute peace and tranquility.

In conclusion, a special thanks to my wife in person of Hajiya Amirat (Dasung) who gives me

more much attention during my course of study, may her live be longer with absolute peace and

tranquility.

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 ABSTRACT

This Computer Skills Acquisition Training report gives detailed on how I performed my practical
activities during the course of my computer skills acquisition Training exercise in department of
library and information science computer laboratory, an introduction about computer and
computer skills acquisition training brief historical background of organization (ABU) and
department of library and information science, also the computer laboratory of the department
of library and information science. As well as the experiences I gained during the computer skills
acquisition training and the challenges I encountered and recommendation I tendered.

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 TABLE OF CONTENTS

Title Page i

Declaration ii

Certification iii

Dedication iv

Acknowledgement v

Abstract vi

Table of Contents vii

CHAPTER ONE: INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background of the Study 1

1.2 Concept of Computer 2

1.3 Computer System 3

1.4 Importance of Computers in Library 4

1.5 Use of Computer 5

1.6 Types of Computer 7

1.7 Computer Hardware 11

1.8 Computer software 14

1.9 Computer Skills Acquisition Training 15

1.10 How to Improve Basic Computer Skills 18

References 19

CHAPTER TWO: THE OVERVIEW ABOUT THE PLACE OF COMPUTER SKILL

ACQUISITION TRAINING

2.1 The History of Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria 20

2.2 The Vice Chancellors of Ahmadu Bello University From 1962 – Date 21

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2.3 The Brief History of Department of Library and Information Science, Ahmadu Bello
University, Zaria 22

2.4 The Computer Laboratory Department Of Library And Information Science, Ahmadu
Bello University, Head By Mal. Mustapha Jibrin M. 25

References 27

CHAPTER THREE

3.1 Skill And Experiences Acquired During Computer Skill Acquisition Training Programme
In Computer Laboratory Department Of Library And Information Science 28

3.2 Skill And Experiences Acquired In Micro Soft Word 28

3.3 Skills And Experience Acquired In Microsoft Excel 31

3.4 Skill And Experience Acquired In Microsoft Powerpoint 35

3.5 Skills and Experience Acquired in Online Search and Data Bases 38

References 40

CHAPTER FOUR: CHALLENGES AND RECOMMENDATIONS

4.1 Challenges 41

4.2 Recommendations 41

CHAPTER FIVE

5.1 Summary 43

5.2 Conclusion 43

References 44

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 CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background of the Study

Information technology has changed approached, in which the use of computer replace the then

days with what we called new age that is the information age. The information age is the age

where everyone is capable to any information at anywhere in the world. This bring about the use

of computer.

Badamasi (2019) stated that: computer plays an important role in business environment as every

organization adopts it in some form or the other to perform the tasks in effective manner the use

of computer have opened up new opportunities for library. All these are contributing towards

new and effective ways of information selections, ordering, processing, storing, retrieval,

searching, sharing and information use electronically.

The use of computer has affected the library services in the following ways:

i. Library automation

ii. Stores large amount of data and information

iii. Improves productivities

iv. Sharing of data and information

v. Security

vi. Marketing etc.

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1.2 Concept of Computer

Badamasi (2019) defined computer as an electronic machine, device for performing, calculations

and controlling operation that can be expressed either in logical or numerical term.

Base on this, a computer is an electronic device that performs diverse operations with the

help of instructions to process the information in order to achieve the desired result.

It covers area like: education, industries, government, medicine scientific research,

library operation etc.

The Computer has the Characteristic

i. Speed

ii. Storage

iii. Accuracy

iv. Versatility

v. Automation

vi. Diligence

vii. Reliability

1. Speed:- Computer are capable of carrying out the tasks with enormous speed. i.e what

may take days for manual calculation, computer can take it in 9 few hour.

2. Storage: - Computer can store enormous quantity of information, which is expressed in

term of kilobytes or megabytes or biga bytes. It is achieved through main memory or

primary storage and through axillary storage or secondary storage.

3. Accuracy:- The accuracy of computer is consistently his in fact, the quality of the

computers makes than indispensable in various field such as scientific research space

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 research, weather prediction and many other Areas where precision of a high order is

required.

4. Versatility:- Computers are versatile in terms of performing any task, provided they are

given the appropriate logical step. e.g selection of information resource, cataloging and

classification, providing reference services etc.

5. Automation:- The computer is automatic in its operation when a programming logic is

initiated the computer the computer performs repeated operations without human

intervention until programs completed.

6. Diligence: Computers are machine and that do not get tired or loosed concentration, like

human beings

7. Reliability: It gives very accurate results with predetermined value. It correct and modify

the parameters automatically, giving suitable signals.

1.3 Computer System

Badamasi (2019) Combined computer system in the following components:

i. Hardware

ii. Software

iii. Human ware

iv. Firmware

v. Bridgeware

1. Hardware: Consist of the physical component of the computer, such as electrical, electronic

and mechanical unit are known as the hardware of the computer. Eg the impute units output

units and CPU are called Hardware. That is the equipment involved in the function of a

computer.

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2. Software:- The set of instructions, which control the sequence of operation. It has two

types:

a. System software

b. Application software

3. Human ware:- The man-machine interface is called a human ware the people who work

with the computer are collectively called the human ware or live ware.

4. Firmware: The Computer programs permanently store in ROM or PROM called firware.

These programs are provided by hardware manufacture along with the computers. eg

booting etc.

5. Bridge ware: This are computer programs used to translate instruction and information

written for one type of computer into a format that another type of computer can understand

1.4 Importance of Computers in Library

Computer plays an importance role in library environment as every organization adopt it in some

form or the other to perform the task in effective manner. Thank to the developments that made

computers smaller, cheaper and easier to use, the consummated library has become common

place.

The emergence of microcomputers and CD-ROM technologies has greatly enhanced computer

application in all library functions. Most especially some basic general knowledge about

computeried to appreciate fully the extensive role of technology. In the computer revolution, the

internet has emerged as the most important entity not truly for information transfer but also as a

business tool. It is also applies to library system operations, making it possible for libraries to

have a web-based online public access catalog. Mary L.Kao (2001).

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From the above introduction, Badamasi (2019) gives the following as the important of computer:

i. Library Automation: Computer have helped automation of many library activities,

such as online public access cataloging (OPAC)

ii. Library stones a large amount of data and information in a computers for needs of

their user.

iii. Computer is use to improves productivity in library work. Such as clinical and

managerial staff

iv. Competitiveness: Computer offer a reliable and cost-effective means of providing

services electronically

v. Sharing of data and information: Due to networking of computers, where a number of

computers have recently been apply to then automation of library task and procedure,

share of data and information, use of email and internet has changed the ways of

library operation.

vi. Security: The use of computers helps in providing security to data and important

computer programs, almost every library organization has some security programs to

avoid the illegal access of the library information by unauthorized persons.

vii. Marketing: library engaged in e-service, this can take help of their respective websites

to create broad awareness of their products creating new avenues of promotion of

their product, through online schibition etc.

1.5 Use of Computer

Computer plays a role in every field of life. They are used in homes, business, educational

institutions, research organization, medical field, government offices, entertainment etc. base on

this, Arnab Chakrabort (2020) stated; the following are some uses of computer:

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- Home: Computers are used at homes for several purposes like online bill payment access,

playing games, internet access, etc, they provide communication through electronic mail.

They help to assist work from home facility for corporate employees. Computers help the

students community to assist online educational support.

- Medical field: Computers are used in hospitals to maintain a database of patient’s history,

diagnosis, x-rays, live monitoring of patients etc.

- Entertainment: Computers helps to watch moves online play games online, act as a virtual

entertainer in playing game, listening to music etc.

- Industry: Computers are used to perform several tasks in industries like managing inventory,

designing purpose, creating virtual sample products, interior designing, vedioe conferencing,

etc

- Education: Computers are used in education sector through online classes, online

examinations, referring e-books, online tutoring, etc, it also help in increased use of audio-

visual aids in the education field.

- Government: In the government Sectors, computers are used in data processing, maintaining

a database of citizens and supporting paperless environment. The country defense

organization have greatly benefitted from computers in their use for missile development,

satellites, rocket launches, etc.

- Banking:- Computer are used store details of customer and conduct transactions, such as

withdrawal and deposit of money through ATMs. Bank have reduced manual errors and

expenses to a great extent through extensive use of computers.

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- Business:- Computer are totally integrated into business. The main objective of business is

transaction processing, which involves transactions with suppliers, employees or customers.

Computer can make these transactions easy and accurate.

- Training:- Many organization use computer-based training to train their employees, to save

money and improve performance video conferencing through computers allows saving of

time and travelling cost by being able to connect people in various locations.

- Arts: Computer are extensively use in dance, photography, arts and culture. The fluid

movement of dance can be shown live via animation. Photos can be digitized using

computers etc.

- Science and engineering: Computers with high performance are use to stimulate dynamic

process in science and engineering super computers have numerous application in area of

research and development (RD). Topographic images can be created through computers.

Scientist use computer to plot and analyses data to have a better understanding of

earthquakes etc.

- News: Computer can helps you link with different websites through which you can read the

latest or old news while online.

- Weather analysis: The computer models used to predict climate change are far more

sophisticated than the one that forecast the weather, such as: rainfall, ocean currents, melting

of sea ice etc.

1.6 Types of Computer

According to B. Badamasi (2019) said; computer can be classified into different types; such as

signal, by purpose and by size.

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i. Computer type by signal are on the following

- Analogous system

- Digital system

- Hybrid system

ii. Analogous system: This is a counting device that is based on continuous measurement. The

next value of measurement is depend on the previous value of measurement. E.g.

speedometer, panel of a car, a wall clock, a tape measure, etc.

iii. Digital system: This is another type of counting device that represents a numerical quantity

by a number of discrete signals. The number can be approximated to the nearest decimal

point, thus providing accuracy and high speed. E.g digital wristwatch, calculator, cellular

phone, etc.

iv. Hybrid system: This is the combination of analogue and digital systems for a specific

function. E.g. some transistor radios, filling station fuel disperser, play back video machine

etc.

v. Computer type by purpose

In this type of computers they are in two classes, using the mode of classification.

- General purpose computer

- Special purpose computer

vi. General purpose computer: is a machine that is programme for solve any problem

expressed in logical and arithmetic terms. The first general purpose automatic computing

machine is called analytical engine was truly partly built. The first fully operational

general purpose computer is the electro- mechanical computer that uses binary digits; this

was probably the Z3, built in Germany by Konrad Zuse in 1941 B. Badamasi (2019).

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vii. Special purpose computer: This type of computer is specially designed for a simple

operator, e.g. digital calculator, digital phone box, cellular phone, filling station fuel

dispenser, stop watch, electronic organizer, etc.

1. Computer type by size

Different size of digital computers are available. The choice of the type of computer depends on

the volume of data to be handled, speed of execution required, storage capacity, cost, types of

output device to be connected, etc. B. Badamasi (2019) stated that; in general, the following are

the computer by size:

- Super computers

- Mainframe computers

- Mini computers

- Micro computers / personal computer (PC)

1. Super computers: These are most powerful and expensive computer. they are used in

application requiring extensive computing, such as metrology, meteorology, computational

fluid dynamics, material analysis, etc the can carry out billions of instructions per second. It

is just a few of these computing giants that are produced each year because only few

organization need or can afford them. The calculation need in some scientific research and

development organization cannot be managed without super computers. Badamasi (2019).

2. Super computer had the following feature

i. They have a much higher speed than mainframe computers.

ii. They are designed for computer scientific application

iii. Each address location holds 64 bit of information to maximized the speed of

computer.

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 iv. They have five times faster than largest mainframe computers.

v. They have computing capability of about 50.000 or more of personal computers.

vi. They are more expensive than mainframe computers

vii. They are very big in size.

3. Mainframe computers: They are more powerful than mini-computers. They are in various

size and capacity.

They following are the features of mainframe computers.

- They have large memory and higher storage capacity.

- Very high speed cache storage sections to process application faster

- They have 64 bit processor

- They allows more users than mini computers

- Very expensive

- More user can access at the same time

4. Mini computers: They are general purposed computers that are responsible to serve many

users.

The following are features of mini computers

- Large storage capacity

- They have 32 to 64 bit processor

- They can support large number of peripheral devices

- Very high in speed

- Supported

- Supported more user at the same time

- Very expensive than PC

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5. Micro or personal computers (PC): These include desktop system, laptop systems, note book

and palmtop computer etc.

The accept simple user

The feature are as follow:

- Accept simple user

- Very cheap than mini computers.

- They don’t have more storage like microcomputer etc

1.7 Computer Hardware

Introduction

A computer system consist of hardware, the physical unit (part) of the computer that are capable

of computing and manufacturing information and print it that is a computer hardware.

We can compare computer hardware with human body and human intelligence, respectively. All

human physical actions such as walking and eating are based on the thoughts and feelings, which

is raised by the brain. If the brain does not raise thoughts and feelings, we do not perform any

physical activity. Similarly, the actions and functioning of every hardware equipment is driven

by software.

Component of Computer Hardware

According to information.com (2022) stated that; the most important component of the computer

hardware is the mother board that holds all the important components, such as; CPU, memory

and various connector for impute/output device.

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1 The input devices consist or the following

- Keyboard

- Mouse

- Microphone

- Moderm

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- Joystick

- USB Devices, etc.

2. The output devices consist of the following;

- Computer monitor

- Modem

- Projector

- Printer

- Computer speaker etc

6. The storage devices consist of the following; in this unit its divided into two part;

- Primary/main/internal memory eg RAM, ROM

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 - Secondary/Auxiliary memory eg hard disk, floppy, memory stick, etc it processed data

for feature use.

7. CPU; The central processing units consist of two basic unit

- Control unit; it control and synchronized the information sent into it and actuates other

unit at a high speed

- Arithmetic and logical unit (ALU) it carries out the various calculations and comparisons

(logical operational) specified by the programmer

1.8 Computer software

The term software refers to the set of electronic programs instruction or data a computer

processor reads in order to perform a task or operation. It can be categorized according to what it

is designed to accomplish. Christine Curley (2022).

Type of computer system software

1. System software (operating system)

2. Application software

System software

This includes the programs that are dedicated to managing the computer itself, such as the

operating, file management utilities and disk operating system (DOS). The system software is an

inbuilt system from manufacture. It can manage both the hardware and the application software

of the computer system.

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Application software

These are productivity programs or end-user programs that enable user to complete tasks, such

as; creating document, spreadsheet, databases and publication, doing online research, sending

email, designing graphics, running business, and even playing games. It is specially to the task it

is designed for and can be as simple as calculator application or as complex as a word processing

application. The following are some simple of application software;

1. Word-processing e.g

- Microsoft ward

- Publisher

- Microsoft excel

- Microsoft power point etc.

2. Web Browser:- Is use for locate, retrieve and display found on the internet. By clinking a

hyperlink or URL

3. Mobile apps eg:- Appliers APPs, Music, it can be downloaded from sources eg apple’s

app store, Google play, amazon etc

1.9 Computer Skills Acquisition Training

As a students of library and information science department for you to graduate, you need to

have a computer skills acquisition training so that its important to have a solid foundation of

basic computer skills. Such as; word processing component of Microsoft office, basic search and

advance search skill, computers maintenance, computers hardware connectivity, etc.

understanding the various types of computers skills will help you to better understand what skill

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maybe required for your field when you have been employed as staff of any organization after

graduation.

In this report, it try to defined some various types of basic computer skills, how improve them

and how to include them on your services to your organization or to your library users.

Basic Computer Skills

Indeed additional Team (2021) Defined Basic computer skills as the ability to perform

fundamental tasks on a computer, which include understanding certain software, applications,

programs, tools and more.

The discussed computer skill in to software and hardware also the computer skill always in a

library, you need to know how to type, understanding social media and having general web

skills, productivity software, operating system, presentation software, digital marketing, database

management, communication tools, accounting software, etc.

Understanding such computer skills, you would improve your services and made your

organization to the higher standard in term of services delivery for example;

1. Productivity software: Helps librarian to create information in various formats, such as

documents, graphs, worksheet and presentations. It’s also helps librarians jobs easier in

consideration of the following productivity software.

- Word processing software

- Spreadsheet software

- Presentation software

- Email management

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- Data entry digital car lender

- Video conferencing

- Social media management

- Instant message, etc.

2. Operating systems: This is a system that help a computer run its basic function. This is an

important skill for library students to understand since computers need an operating

system to work. e.g windows, etc.

3. Presentation software: Refers to programs used to create slide shows made up of audio,

test, photos and video. For library students to have a general knowledge of presentation

software is very important for them to play a variety of roles.

4. Digital marketing: This system helps to the advertising of a library products or service

using digital means. Such as:

- Email marketing

- Digital advertising

- Search engine optimization

- Digital media

- Social media marketing, etc.

5. Database management: This is an electronic collection of data that is accessed on a

computer. Libraries use database to store a variety of information, such as payroll

accounting, general information, etc. there is needs for library students need to know the

variety of skills such as spreadsheet, data analytic.

6. Communication tools: It’s important for libraries to have continuous communication and

collaboration with one another to increase their productivities and make them more

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 efficient overall. Therefore library students’ needs to understand the variety of computer

communication tools to face their feature challenges when they are in their working

place. e.g

- Instant message.

- Video conferencing

- Email management application, etc.

Accounting software: This is a software that helps you prepared the pay roll of staff in an

organization (library). It helps library students understanding how various accounting software

works. Its help workers excel at their job. `

1.10 How to Improve Basic Computer Skills

For you to improve your computer skills, the following should be considered. Indeed editorial

team (2022)

i. Take classes: one great way for a library students to improve their computer skills, is

to take classes in the area they wish to improve. Such as; micro office, data base

management, etc.

ii. Understand how computer work in general. Because learning the fundamentals of

computer can give you basic knowledge to build upon.

iii. Get practice it yours interviewing for a job where you will need to use specific email

management system, take the time to learn how to use it beforehand

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References

Badamasi (2019). Fundamentals of Computer System and Network. Ahmadu Bello University
Press Limited, Zaria, Kaduna State, Nigeria.

Indeed Editorial Team (2021). Career Guide: Basic Computer Skills. Retrieved from
http://www.careerguide.org.

Kao, L. Mary (2001). Introduction to Technical Services for Library Technicians. Haworth
Information Press, Inc., 10 Alice Street, Binghemton NY 13903-1580.

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 CHAPTER TWO

THE OVERVIEW ABOUT THE PLACE OF COMPUTER SKILL ACQUISITION

TRAINING

2.1 THE HISTORY OF AHMADU BELLO UNIVERSITY, ZARIA

Ahmadu Bello University as a parent institution of the place of my Computer Skills Acquisition

Training (CSAT) and is the Federal Government research university located in Zaria, Kaduna

State. Ahmadu Bello University was found October 4 th 1962, as the University of Northern

Nigeria. The University operates three main campuses: Samaru and Kongo in Zaria, and School

of Basic Studies in Funtua. The Samaru campus houses the administration offices, science,

social-science, arts and alnguages, education, environmental design, engineering, medical

science, agricultural science and research facilities.

Kongo campus hosts the facilities of law and administration, the facility of Administration

consist of Accounting, Business Administration, Local Government and Development Studies

and Public Administration Department. And the university is responsible for a variety of other

institution and programs at other location.

The Ahmadu Bello University is named after the Sardauna of Sokoto, Alhaji Sir Ahmadu Bello,

first premier of Northern Nigeria.

The University runs a wide variety of undergraduate and postgraduate programs and offer

associate degrees, vocational and remedial programs. The University has a large medical

programs with its own teaching hospital, one of the largest teaching hospital in Nigeria and

Africa.

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The University also has a large library that helps the university in the responsibilities of

providing access to information of all types in a wide variety of format, to ensure the overall

management of information both electronic and non-electronic resources and service to the entire

university.

2.2 THE VICE CHANCELLORS OF AHMADU BELLO UNIVERSITY FROM 1962 –

DATE

As Ahmadu Bello University Zaria officially set in motion the process to recruit its 15 th vice

chancellors, below are the lists of all Ahmadu Bello University Vice chancellors from inception

to date:

1. Prof. Norman Stanley Alexander, Physisist (1962-1966)

2. Prof. Ishaya Audu, Medical Doctor (1966-1975)
3. Prof. Iya Abubakar Mathematician (1975-1978)
4. Prof. Oladipo Akikugbe Medical Doctor (1978-1979)
5. Prof. Ango Abdullahi, Agric Scientist (1979-1986)
6. Prof. Adamu N. Muhammad, Entomologist (1986-1991)
7. Prof. Daniel Saror, Veterinarian (1991-1995)
8. Maj. Gen. Mamman Kontogora, Military (1995-1998)
9. Prof. Abdullahi Mahadi, Historian (1999-2004)
10. Prof. Shehu Usman Abdullahi, Veterinarian (2004-2009)
11. Prof. Jarlath Udoudo Umoh, Vet (2009-2009 end)
12. Prof. Aliyu Mohammed, Linguist (2009-2010)
13. Prof. Abdullahi Mustapha, Pharm (2010-2015)
14. Prof. Ibrahim Garba, Geologist (2015-2020)
15. Prof. Kabir Bala (2020-Date)

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2.3 THE BRIEF HISTORY OF DEPARTMENT OF LIBRARY AND INFORMATION

SCIENCE, AHMADU BELLO UNIVERSITY, ZARIA

From the information retrieved on libraryscience.abu.edu.ng (25/3/2022), shows that, department

of Library and Information Science was found in 1968. It is the second library school in Nigeria

and the first to offer the Bachelor of Library science (BLIS) is a single honour degree program in

library science. Over 200 PG and 300 UG students enroll each year. Since its inception the

Department has introduced special courses to train our students become 21 st century professional

librarians. It also introduced specialized PG programmes to provide man power for National,

Research and Academic libraries in the century. Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Library and

information science was introduced in 2004 and the first PhD degree was awarded in 2006.

MISSION

To prepare information leaders and expert and research the problems and opportunities of

information.

To design solutions to information challenges and make information work strive across

discipline

VISION

They envision a world where more effective use of information helps everyone discover, learn,

innovative solve problems, have fun and make it better place.

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PHILOSOPHY

They are dedicated to their vision and mission. Their inclusive community fosters an

environment that further their goals and enables them to take on active roles in both local and

global conversions. They are on open, ethical, highly engaged, and collaborative community

base on trust, transparency, and mutual respect. They also believe in the importance of quality of

life, embracing diversity, making a difference and having fun.

LOCATION

Department of Library and Information Science, Ahmadu Bello University, is located in the

faculty of education, Samaru main campus, Zaria-Nigeria. the Department is headed by Dr.

Habib Mohammed.

ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF

- Shamsiyya Musa Jibril Higher Library Officer

- Muhammad Ibrahim Maikudi Principal Library Officer

- Abdullahi Sahaha Bamalli Principal Library Officer

- Yakusa Samuel Principal Ex. Officer 1 (Admin)

- M. Mustapha Jibrin M. Principal Library Officer

- Salihu Mohammed

- Andrew Sabo Audu

- Mercy Eberechi Azaka Mercy Chief Conf. Sec.

- Ibrahim Ahmad Office Assistance

- Danladi Garba

- Abubakar Mohammed Assistance House keeper etc.

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ACADEMIC STAFF

- Mal. Abba Hamza

- Aliyu Abdulkarim Bube

- Sabitu Shafiu

- Dr. Abdulrrahman Jibril

- Dr. Murtala Sani Ridwan

- Mal. Dauda Idris A.

- Dr. Mohammed Habib

- Mal. Badamasi Bukhari

- Dr. Umar Babagida Dangani

- Dr. ALiyu Abdulkadir Abdulkadir

- Dr. Muhammed Musa Hayatu

- Prof. Yusuf Abu

- Prof. Abdullahi Ibrahim Musa

- Prof. Abubakar Tijjani

- Prof. Umar Ibrahim

- Prof. Zakari Mohammed

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2.4 THE COMPUTER LABORATORY DEPARTMENT OF LIBRARY AND

INFORMATION SCIENCE, AHMADU BELLO UNIVERSITY, HEAD BY MAL.

MUSTAPHA JIBRIN M.

The computer laboratory is engaged in the training of staff, training of students both

undergraduate and postgraduate, also helps to provide information needs of the undergraduate

students of the department of library and information science, and its equipped with desktop

computers and internet connectivity so as to enable the students have access to the library

database open access database, such as; academic search engine, bio-one, directory of open

access (DOAJ), online educational resources information centre, as well as closed research in

agriculture (AGORA, HINARY, JSTOR, TEEAL etc).

The computer laboratory also helps students and staffs of the department to expose internet and

find answer to their assignments, presentations, project, and other information needs.

THE SERVICES OF COMPUTER LABORATORY

The laboratory renders the following service to the students and staff of the library and

information science department;

- Guide the students how to assess and use the various database in the institutional

repository.

- Ensure that, the students have access to relevance, reputable and globally acceptable

information

- Teach students how to connected computers over the network and how to share files

among one another.

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- Printing service provision for students

- Convert soft copy to hardcopy

- Students self-development programmes etc.

26
References

About Us/Department of Library and Information Science, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria.
retrieved on 3rd May, 2023 from https://www.abu.edu.ng

Ahmadu Bello University (2014). Ahmadu Bello University Library Complex Policy. Zaria:
Ahmadu Bello University Press Limited.

27
 CHAPTER THREE

3.1 SKILL AND EXPERIENCES ACQUIRED DURING COMPUTER SKILL

ACQUISITION TRAINING PROGRAMME IN COMPUTER LABORATORY

DEPARTMENT OF LIBRARY AND INFORMATION SCIENCE

In consideration of the lecture given to us by Mal. Mustapha Jibrin M. during my skill

acquisition training, I was enable to learn a lot right from the concept of computers, computer

system, importance of computer in the library, uses of computers, types of computers, computers

hard and software and how to improve basic computer skill. Base on the above, I am one of the

group members who participated in the training and by the course of our training in each package

of the computer software package I was able to learned and acquired the following computer

skill and experiences;

3.2 SKILL AND EXPERIENCES ACQUIRED IN MICRO SOFT WORD

Microsoft word is the processing component of the Microsoft office suite. It is used primarily to

enter, edit, format, save, retrieve and print documents.

Based on the above concept, the following are things that I learned in Microsoft word package

- Understand the concept of Microsoft word

- Identify the various benefits of using Microsoft word

- Identify the main parts of the Microsoft word window

- How to copy, cut and paste text

- Work with the bottom on the toolbar

- How to type, edit and format text

- Work with pictures

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 - Work with language tools, (spell check)

- Open, save, save as, and print Microsoft word file

- Minimize, restore, maximize and close buttons.

I have learned:

Steps to find Microsoft word

- One the start button, select all programmes

- Click on Microsoft office, on the Microsoft office,

- Select Microsoft word to open the programs

- Type

Short cut

- On the desktop window,

- Double click Ms word icon to open programs

- Type

- To save the information you type in MS word,

- Ctrl + S

From the above Ms word step, the following are short for you to work with Ms word;

- To open a document; Press Ctrl + O

- To cerate a new document; Press Ctrl + N

- To save the current document Press Ctrl + S

- To open save as window; Press F12

I have learned how to move around in a document e.g. move the insertion point: arrow

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 - Move one word at a time: Ctrl + left / Right arrow

- Move one paragraph at a time: Ctrl + Up/Down arrow

- Move to the beginning of the current line: Home

- Move to the beginning of the document; Ctrl + Home

- Move to end of the current line; End

- Move to end of the document: Ctrl + End

I have learned how to editing document in MS Word for example

- For you to cut the current selection Press Ctrl + X

- For you to copy the current selection; Press Ctrl + C

- For you to paste the contents of the clipboard Press Ctrl + V

- Make it Bold: Press Ctrl + B

- Italic; Ctrl + I

- Underline words only; Ctrl + Shift + W

- Centre: Ctrl + E

- Make the font smaller: Ctrl + [

- Make the font bigger; Ctrl + ]

I have learned how to selecting a text as follow:

- To select everything in the document press; Ctrl + A

- To select text one character at a time: Shift + Arrow

- To select text one word at the time; Ctrl + Shift + Arrow etc

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3.3 SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE ACQUIRED IN MICROSOFT EXCEL

Microsoft excel is an electronic spreadsheet. You can use it to organize your data into rows and

columns. You can also use it to perform mathematical calculation quickly.

Base on the above explanation, I was able to learned a lot in Microsoft Excel. The following are

things that I learned;

Enter text and numbers in a spreadsheet. E.g. by create a students termly result as follow;

JSS one Term Result GSS Karim Lamido

S/ Name Eng. Maths. Geo. Bio. Total Ave

1 Adamu Isa 30 55 70 40 195 49

2 Idi Musa 40 64 66 50 220 55

3 Larai Abdul 50 59 59 75 243 61

4 Faith Isaac 60 49 49 39 197 49.2

5 Lami Ali 70 53 80 49 252 63

6 Joel Suce 86 61 75 48 270 67.5

7 Sherif Moh’d 73 70 61 39 243 61

8 Abdul Moh’d 55 70 39 50 214 53.5

Formula

Total: =sum(B1:E1).

Average: =average(B1:E1).

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A also learned how to enter excel formulas example =sum(c4:f4) press enter you would see

results or you can copy the formula and apply it to others columns by press Ctrl + C, print your

cursor and drop in other columns you would see results

Base on the above, for you to start your work, you need to click on the following tobegin your

job;

- Click on Ms start button

- Point the mouse on all programs

- Click on Ms office

- Click on Ms Excel to open

- The Microsoft Excel window appear and your screen looks similar to the picture below:

32
I learned how to entering excel formulas and formatting data by entering numbers and

mathematical formulas into cells.

Whether you enter a number or formulas, you can reference the cell when you perform

mathematical calculation such as; addition, substation, multiplication or division. When entering

a mathematical formula, precede the formula with an equal (=) sign. Use the following indication

the type of calculation you wish to perform:

+ Addition

- Subtraction

* Multiplication

/ Division

^ Exponential

I learned how to align cell entries

33
When you type text into a cell, by default your entry aligns with the left side of the cell. When

you type numbers into cell, by default your entry aligns with the right side of the cell. You can

change the cell alignment. You can center, left – align, or right-align any cell entry, e.g. to enter

cells A1 to D1

- Select cells A1 to D1

- Choose the home tab

- Click the enter button in the alignment group. Excel center each cells content.

I learned how to copy, cut and paste base on the following

- Select cells D9 to D12

- Choose the home tab

- Click the cut bottom

- Move to cell G1

- Click the paste button. Excel moves the content of cell D9 to D12 to cells G1 to G4

I have learned how to; creating excel functions, filling cell, and printing. By using functions and

makes many useful calculations, such as; filling an average, the highest number, the lower

number and a count of the number of items in a list. Example; the sum function also adds

argument value

- Open Ms Excel

- Type 12 in cell B

- Press enter

- Type 27 in cell B2

- Press enter

34
 - Type 24 in cell B3

- Press enter

- Type =sum(B1:B3) in cell A4

- Press enter, the sum of cells B1 to B3, which is 63, will appears. Etc

I also learned how to calculate average. Example

- Move to cell A6

- Type average. Press the right arrow key to move to cell B6

- Type =average(B1:B3)

- Press enter. The average of cell B1 to B3, which is 21, will appear.

I have learned how to find the lowest number base on the following:

- Move to cell A7

- Type min. press the right arrow key to move to cell B7

- Type = min(B1:B3).

- Press enter. The lowest number in the series, which is 12 will appear

3.4 SKILL AND EXPERIENCE ACQUIRED IN MICROSOFT POWERPOINT

Microsoft power point is the word processing component of the microsoft office suit. A slide

show can help you teach a lesson or presentation, illustration an event in history, easily display

statistical information, or be used for training in corporations or library. A slide show can be a

valuable tool for teaching and learning.

35
The power point presentations are useful no matter what the topic and help communicate ideas to

an audience. From the above explanation, the following are experience that I acquired in

Microsoft PowerPoint;

Step one: Launch the PowerPoint program

When you launch the PowerPoint program on the start button, select all program, point on Ms

office, click on Ms PowerPoint to open the program or on the desktop double click on Microsoft

Power Point to open it. Choose what kind of document you want to create, choose to create a

blank presentation, if it does not ask you this, a blank presentations will automatically launch.

Step Two: Choosing a Design

The next thing you want to do is decide what design you want for the presentation. To do this, go

to the design, tab at the top of the page. Scroll through all the option and decide which one looks

36
best for the presentation you want. To get a preview of what the design will look like before

applying it to the presentation, however, the design you want to preview, the design will

automatically continued. Throughout the rest of your presentation, once you have move them

one slide, you can add a different design for just one slide. To do it, select slide you want to

change, the design on by clicking on it. It will pop-up as the big slide in the screen. Then you can

right-click the design you want for the slide and select apply to selected the slide. It will appear

on that slide, but will not change the design of the other slide.

Step Three: Create title page

To create title page, click the first box that says ‘click to old title’ and add the title of your

presentation. Click the button box to add your name, or any other subtitle that you choose. Once

you have your text in the boxes, you can change their font size, color, etc. with the toolbar

options at the top. You can change the size of the textbox. To move the text boxes, select the

box, and move your arrow over the border of the box. A four-arrow icon will appear and clicking

with this icon will allow you to move the text boxes where never you choose.

Step Four: Add more slides

If you want to add more slides, there are few way you can add more slides. Notice that there is a

separate area to left of the screen where your first slide is located. The first way to add a slide is

to right-click the area under where your first slide is located and select ‘New Slide’. A new slide

will appear. The second way to add another slide it to click ‘New slide’ in the toolbar above the

slides. This button is divided into two part, the top will insert a new slide with a default layout.

You can also click the bottom half of this bottom, which will allow you to choose what type of

layout you want.

37
Step Five: Add picture, music, video, chart, graphs etc

For you to add picture, music, video etc click on the insert, tab at the top of the window, you will

see bottom of all the option of what you can insert into your slide click the designated box and

insert have on the slide etc.

3.5 Skills and Experience Acquired in Online Search and Data Bases

- Online search:- It involved interactively searching for, and retrieving requested

information via a computer from data bases that are online. Today, searches through web

search engine constitute the majority of online search (Aawkins, Donald, 1980). Example

of search engine are: Google, Google scholar etc.

- Data Bases:- These are organized collection of structured information, or data, typically

store electronically in a computer system. It is usually controlled by a Data Bases

management system (DBMS). It can be subscript or open access.

The example of data bases are as follows:

a. AGORA: Access to Global Online Research in Agriculture. (www.aginter-network.org).

b. HINARI: Health Internetwork Access to Research initiative (www.who.int/hinari).

c. OARE: Online Access to Research in the Environment (www.oaresciences.org).

d. OCLC: Online Computer Library centre

e. SCIENCE DIRECT etc

The following are things, that I learned in online search and data bases:

i. I have been able to learned: how to do online search, example: Boolean, parenthesis,
truncation and wildcard etc. using; Not, or AND, estarisk, question mark to retrieved
information.
ii. How to locate information in Ahmadu Bello University Repository.

38
iii. How to access various data bases example; AGORA, HINARI etc.
iv. How to sent single file and how to compress many files.
v. How to connect with others using video conferencing e.g. zoom meeting etc.
vi. How to connect cable from power to computer devices etc.

39
References

Maibiye, M. (2023). Words Processing Lecture Note. Computer Laboratory, Department of

Library and Information Science, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria.

Vincent, E. Unegbu et al., (2001). Use of Library and Information Resources: Library Use
Education.

40
 CHAPTER FOUR

CHALLENGES AND RECOMMENDATIONS

4.1 CHALLENGES

A lot of challenges were faced in library and information science department compute

laboratory, during our computer skills acquisition training. The following are some of the

challenges;

1. I found out that, the computer laboratory were made for the students of library and

information science department, but not all of the students know that. And they preferred

using their phone to retrieved their information than the departmental computer

laboratory.

2. I discover that, some equipment for accessing information or practical are not working,

such as; some computer system etc.

3. The library and information department computer laboratory had problems of wireless

fidelity network, and that serve as a barrier to have access to online resources and other

academics activities.

4. There are not enough computers in the computer laboratory in the department of library

and information science, that can covers the entire numbers of student.

5. Electricity is one of the things that helps in carryout the practical activities in the

computer laboratory, but during our practical activities, we faced a lot of electricity

challenges, that is inadequate of electric power

4.2 RECOMMENDATIONS

1. Department of library and information science should engaged their students both 100

level to 400 level on the computer training skills, so that it would helps them understand

41
 the basic skills of computer (Ms Word, Ms PowerPoint, Ms Excel etc). understanding

such skills may be required in their pace of works when they have been employed as a

staff of any organization after graduation.

2. Department of Library and Information science should provide a copies of students

prospectus (handbook) for their students, and such prospectus should contain information

that lay more emphasis about the use of departmental library, computer laboratory and

they are free to use all the equipments available in the library and computers laboratory.

3. Department of library and information science should fixed all the equipments that are

not functioning in a computer laboratory and make them available for their students to

used.

4. Department of Library and Information Science should provide solution to the problems

of wireless fidelity network, such will helps their staffs and students have access to the

information available in the net.

5. Department of Library and Information science should provide a standby generator for

power supply in computer laboratory. So that to stay away from electric challenges.

42
 CHAPTER FIVE

5.1 SUMMARY

The computer skills acquisition training is a training programmes designed to exposed and

prepared us to real solid foundation of basic computer skills, such as; understanding the concept

of computer, the importance and uses of computers, as well as; understanding the word

processing components of Microsoft office suite, maintenance, computer hardware connectivity

etc. knowing the various types of basic computer skills will helps to better understand what skills

may be required for your field, when you have been employed as a staff of any organization after

graduation.

5.2 CONCLUSION

My computer skills acquisition training in department of Library and Information science,

computer laboratory Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, has expose me to verities of new

knowledge and experience in the practical aspects of computer, and know how to manipulate a

computer system, how computers system relate to the field of library and information science.

Base on my judgment, the exposures, skills and experience that have been given to me by Mal.

Mustapha Jibrin are necessary practical backgrounds I need to prepared myself before stepping

into the real work situation of modern librarianship, so I am eager to put the skills into practice to

helping the field and societies.

43
References

About Us/Department of Library and Information Science, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria.
retrieved on 3rd May, 2023 from https://www.abu.edu.ng

Ahmadu Bello University (2014). Ahmadu Bello University Library Complex Policy. Zaria:
Ahmadu Bello University Press Limited.

Badamasi (2019). Fundamentals of Computer System and Network. Ahmadu Bello University
Press Limited, Zaria, Kaduna State, Nigeria.

Indeed Editorial Team (2021). Career Guide: Basic Computer Skills. Retrieved from
http://www.careerguide.org.

Kao, L. Mary (2001). Introduction to Technical Services for Library Technicians. Haworth
Information Press, Inc., 10 Alice Street, Binghemton NY 13903-1580.

Maibiye, M. (2023). Words Processing Lecture Note. Computer Laboratory, Department of

Library and Information Science, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria.

Vincent, E. Unegbu et al., (2001). Use of Library and Information Resources: Library Use
Education.

44