Status of Electronic Theses and Dissertations (ETDs) in Academic Libraries in Zimbabwe

Abstract

Globally, electronic thesis and dissertations (ETDs) are deposited within the institutional and national repository portals and related databases. The purpose was to increase visibility of research output, and preserve and manage knowledge sharing among scholars. The growth of ETDs throughout the world has transformed the scholarly communication landscape and Zimbabwe is no exception in this revolution. ETDs are important data sets for research and socio-economic development, such that, their creation, coordination and management in academic institution should not be undermined. The article explores how ETDs have transformed scholarly research through knowledge sharing. The article highlighted the experiences of academic institutions in creating and developing ETD's in Zimbabwe. The study makes recommendations to enhance ETD's culture in academic libraries in Zimbabwe.