Dissecting Methodological Choices of Library and Information Science Postgraduate Students in Tanzania and South Africa 2012–2022.

This article examines the research methodology trends among postgraduate students in Library and Information Science (LIS) at the University of Dar es Salaam (UDSM) in Tanzania and the University of South Africa (UNISA). Analyzing 338 theses and dissertations from 2012 to 2022 using a bibliometric design, the study found that South African students predominantly employed qualitative approaches with clearer articulation of research paradigms, while Tanzanian students favored mixed methods research but often lacked a full understanding of its philosophical foundations. Common research designs included case studies and surveys, with non-probability sampling techniques such as purposive sampling widely used in both contexts, though probability sampling was more frequent in South Africa. The study highlights gaps in methodological knowledge, particularly in Tanzania, and recommends enhanced, collaborative training for students and supervisors to improve research rigor and alignment of paradigms, designs, and data analysis techniques in LIS postgraduate education across the region.