Techno-Stress and Africentric Coping Strategies : an Exploratory Study among Academic Library Employees in Ghana

Abstract

Building on current literature, the present study was primarily undertaken to explore techno-stress experiences among academic library employees at the University of Ghana. The study also sought to identify the Africentric coping strategies adopted. Other specific objectives pursued included; the determination of the relationship between techno-stress and other variables such as age, gender, educational qualification and work experience. In all, one hundred employees responded to a set of questionnaire. Data analytic methods included thematic analysis using Microsoft Excel and key findings were identified. Findings of the study showed that academic library employees experience techno-stress and are more likely to adopt appropriate Africentric coping strategies. Further findings reveals the existence of a linkage between techno-stress, level of education and work experience whereas there was no evidence of techno-stress relating to gender and age. Recommendations included; educating employees on techno-stress to be able to recognize its significant symptoms, the implementation of regular training sessions for employees to update their technological skills, and the need to reschedule the time patterns with which employees work and also the relevance of thriving organisations to employ highly qualified staff among others.