Prof. Elizaphan Muuro Maina

Associate Professor and Executive Dean, Digital School, Department of Computing & Information Science

Administrative Position
June 2024 to Date: Executive Dean Digital School of Virtual and Open Learning; January 2022 to May 2024: IPTCC Coordinator- ICT Professional Training and Certification Center (IPTCC), Kenyatta University; October 2018 to January 2022: e-learning Coordinator DSVOL , Kenyatta University; 2012 to Oct. 2016: Chairman, Department of Computing and Information Technology; 14th to 28th August 2016: Acting Dean School of Engineering and Technology; 8th to 12th December 2014: Acting Dean School of Engineering and Technology Appointments to University Committees; 14 th September 2023: Committee to Steer the Roll Out of ICT Professional Courses at the Nakuru Campus; 8 th January 2022: Committee on Increasing Number of 100% Online Courses; 8 th September 2021: A Committee to Develop Teaching Practicum tool for Competence Based Curriculum (CBC); 25 th February 2020: Chair Committee for Research, Innovation and Projects in School of Engineering and Technology; 1 st October 2019: A Committee to Guide on the Integration of Blended learning in the Regular Mode of Study; July 2018: A Committee to organize the 2019 Deep Learning INDABA in Kenyatta University; January 2018: A Committee to Develop a Common Learning Management System (LMS); November 2017: A Committee to Investigate Fees Fraud and Emerging Cases of Tampering with Marks; April 2017 : A Committee on School of Engineering and Technology Programmes Accreditation; March 2017: A Committee to develop Bill and Melinda Gates Proposal; January 2017: Committee to plan the hosting of public Health Gateways Open ScienceWorkshop in Kenyatta University; October 2016: A committee to develop a proposal for NRF; September 2016: Committee to develop A collaboration Between London South Bank

Research Interests

Artificial intelligent systems

Academic Qualifications

Trained in May 2023 on Active Learning Methodology: Kenyatta University & Rice360 Faculty Workshop on : Evidence-Based Teaching Strategies to Support Student Learning 6-10 March 2023 Safari Park Hotel along Thika Rd, Nairobi
Trained in teaching of Unified Modeling Language: IEEE workshop on in Kenyatta University, Kenya, 30 th to 31 st August 2106.
Teaching Methodology: Administration of Examination, Marking and Analysis

Refereed Journal Articles

  1. Developed open learning modules for SIT 111/012: Introduction to Database,
  2. SIT 202: Database Management Systems,
  3. SIT 302: Information System Security,
  4. SIT 408: Decision Support systems and
  5. SIT 411: Distributed Systems
  6. Gikera, J. Mwaura, E. Muuro and S. Mambo, "K-hyperparameter tuning in highdimensional space clustering: solving smooth elbow challenges using an ensemble based technique of a self-adapting autoencoder and internal validation indexes," Journal on Artificial Intelligence, vol. 5, pp. 75–112, 2023. https://doi.org/10.32604/jai.2023.043229 https://www.techscience.com/jai/v5n1/54406/pdf
  7. Gikera, R. K., Mwaura, J., Maina, E., & Mambo, S. Trends and Advances on The K-Hyperparameter Tuning Techniques in High-Dimensional Space Clustering. Indonesian Journal of Artificial Intelligence and Data Mining , 6 (2), 154-178. https://ejournal.uin - suska.ac.id/index.php/IJAIDM/article/view/22718
  8. Ochukut, S. A., Oboko, R. O., Miriti, E., & Maina, E. (2023). Research Trends in Adaptive Online Learning: Systematic Literature Review (2011–2020). Technology, Knowledge and Learning , 28 (2), 431-448. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10758 - 022 - 09615 - 9
  9. Ofori, F., Matheka, A., & Maina, E. (2023). Critical literature review on current state-of-the art in predicting students’performance using machine learning algorithm in blended learning environment. African Journal of Emerging Issues , 5 (12), 23-38. https://ajoeijournals.org/sys/index.php/ajoei/article/download/465/565
  10. Araka, E., Oboko, R., Maina, E., & Gitonga, R. (2022). Using educational data mining techniques to identify profiles in self-regulated learning: an empirical evaluation. The International Review of Research in Open and Distributed Learning , 23 (1), 131-162. https://www.irrodl.org/index.php/irrodl/article/download/5401/5655
  11. Thuku, J. K., Ondig, S. R., & Muuro, E. M. (2022). Use of Cloud Computing in Tutorial Group Discussions as a Method of Teaching and its Influence in Learning: A Case of Kenyatta University. International Journal of Social Sciences & Educational Studies , 9 (2). Doi: 10.23918/ijsses.v9i2p154 https://ijsses.tiu.edu.iq/wp - content/uploads/2022/08/Use - of - Cloud - Computing - in - Tutorial Group - Discussions - as - A - Method - of - Teaching - and - Its - Influence - in - Learning - A - Case - of Kenyatta - pdf
  12. Kamunya, S. M., Oboko, R. O., Maina, E. M., & Miriti, E. K. (2022). A Systematic Review of Gamification Within E-Learning. Research Anthology on Developments in Gamification and Game-Based Learning , 123-140. http://erepository.uonbi.ac.ke/bitstream/handle/11295/155563/Robert%20Obwocha%20Obo ko.pdf?sequence=3
  13. Oyuga Anne, D., & Maina, E. (2021). Reinforcement Learning Approach for Adaptive eLearning Based on Multiple Learner Characteristics. Open Journal for Information Technology , 4 (2), 1. http://centerprode.com/ojit/ojit0402/coas.ojit.0402.03055o.pdf
  14. Kivuva, F. N., Maina, E., & Gitonga, R. (2021). Multi-Agent Adaptive e-Learning System Based on Learning Styles. Open Journal for Information Technology , 4 (1), 1. http://centerprode.com/ojit/ojit0401/coas.ojit.0401.01001k.pdf
  15. Araka, , Maina , E., Gitonga, R., Oboko, R., & Kihoro, J. (2021). University Students' Perception on the Usefulness of Learning Management System Features in Promoting SelfRegulated Learning in Online Learning. International Journal of Education and Development using Information and Communication Technology , 17 (1), 45-64. https://search.proquest.com/openview/bd5d6dfcbf895091fa1b7c4989b26753/1?cbl=28521& pq - origsite=gscholar
  16. Araka, , Maina, E., Gitonga, R., & Oboko, R. (2020). Research trends in measurement and intervention tools for self-regulated learning for e-learning environments—systematic review (2008–2018). Research and Practice in Technology Enhanced Learning , 15 (1), 1-21. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s41039 - 020 - 00129 - 5
  17. Ofori, F., Maina, E., & Gitonga, R. (2020). Using Machine Learning Algorithms to Predict Students' Performance and Improve Learning Outcome: A Literature Based Review. Journal of Information and Technology , 4 (1), 33-55.
  18. Anne , D. O. ., Chepkemoi, A. ., & Maina, E. . (2021). Automatic Student Affective State Detection from Plain Text. International Journal of Formal Sciences: Current and Future Research Trends, 10(01), 41–60. Retrieved from https://ijfscfrtjournal.isrra.org/index.php/Formal_Sciences_Journal/article/view/554
  19. Kamunya, S., Oboko, R., & Maina , E. (2019). A Systematic Mapping of Adaptive Gamification in E-learning. Open Journal for Information Technology , 2019, 2(2), 53-68. https://centerprode.com/ojit/ojit0202/ojit - 0202.pdf#page=37
  20. Kanyaru, P., & Maina, E. (2019). Enhancing Exploratory Learning Using Computer Simulation in an E-learning Environment: A Literature Review. Open Journal for Information Technology, 2019, 2(2), 53-68. https://centerprode.com/ojit/ojit0202/coas.ojit.0202.02035k.pdf
  21. Maina, E., Mavengere, N., Manzira, F., Kihoro, J., & Ruohonen, M. (2017, July). Learners’ Experiences in a Multicultural Remote Collaborative Learning Environment: A Case of ICT4D Course. WCCE 2017, IFIP AICT 515, Springer International Publishing AG. pp. 125–133, 2017. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-74310-3_15
  22. Njenga, S. T., Oboko, R. O., Omwenga, E. I., & Maina, E. M . (2017). Use of Intelligent Agents in Collaborative M-Learning: Case of Facilitating Group Learner Interactions. http://www.mecs - org/ijmecs/ijmecs - v9 - n10/IJMECS - V9 - N1 0 - 3.pdf
  23. Maina, E. M., Oboko, R. O., & Waiganjo, P. W. (2017). Using Machine Learning Techniques to Support Group Formation in an Online Collaborative Learning Environment. International Journal of Intelligent Systems & Applications , 9 (3). http://www.mecs - press.net/ijisa/ijisa - v9 - n3/IJISA - V9 - N3 - 4.pdf
  24. Muuro, M. E ., Oboko, R., & Wagacha W. P., (2016). Evaluation of Intelligent Grouping Based on Learners’ Collaboration Competence Level in Online Collaborative Learning Environment. The International Review of Research in Open and Distributed Learning, 17 (2). http://www.irrodl.org/index.php/irrodl/article/view/2066/3621
  25. Muuro, M. E ., Wagacha, W. P., Kihoro, J., & Oboko, R. (2014). Students’ perceived challenges in an online collaborative learning environment: A case of higher learning institutions in Nairobi, Kenya. The International Review of Research in Open and Distributed Learning , 15 (6). http://www.irrodl.org/index.php/irrodl/article/view/1768

Book Chapters

  1. Araka, E., Oboko, R., Maina, E., & Gitonga, R. K. (2021). A Conceptual Educational Data Mining Model for Supporting Self-Regulated Learning in Online Learning Environments. In Handbook of Research on Equity in Computer Science in P-16 Education (pp. 278-292). IGI Global. https://www.igi - global.com/chapter/a - conceptual - educational - data - mining - model - for supporting - self - regulated - learning - in - online - learning - environments/265698
  2. Kamunya, S. M., Oboko, R. O., Maina, E. M., & Miriti, E. K. (2021). A Systematic Review of Gamification Within E-Learning. Handbook of Research on Equity in Computer Science in P-16 Education , 201-218. https://www.igi - global.com/chapter/a - systematic - review - of - gamification - within - e learning/265694
  3. Thuku, J. K., Maina, E. M., Ondigi, S. R., & Ayot, H. O. (2017). Enhancing Learner-Centered Instruction through Tutorial Management Using Cloud Computing. In J. Keengwe, & P. Bull (Eds.), Handbook of Research on Transformative Digital Content and Learning Technologies (pp. 137-153). Hershey, PA: IGI Global. doi:10.4018/978-1-5225-2000-9.ch008 https://www.igi - global.com/chapter/enhancing - learner - centered - instruction - through - tutorial management - using - cloud - computing/174049?camid=4v1&camid=4v1
  4. Gitonga, R. K., & Maina, E. (2017). Students' Experiences in Using Chat Rooms as Virtual Classrooms. In J. Keengwe, & G. Onchwari (Eds.), Handbook of Research on Learner-Centered Pedagogy in Teacher Education and Professional Development (pp. 242-256). Hershey, PA: IGI Global. doi:10.4018/978-1-5225-0892-2.ch013 http://www.igi - global.com/chapter/students - experiences - in - using - chat - rooms - as - virtual classrooms/163496
  5. Maina, E. M ., Wagacha, P. W., & Oboko, R. (2016). Enhancing Active Learning Pedagogy through Online Collaborative Learning. In J. Keengwe, & G. Onchwari (Eds.) Handbook of Research on Active Learning and the Flipped Classroom Model in the Digital Age (pp. 232- 254). Hershey, PA: Information Science doi:10.4018/978-1-4666-9680-8.ch012 http://www.igi - global.com/chapter/enhancing - active - learning - pedagogy - through - online collaborative - learning/141006

Conference Papers

  1. Cheserem, E., Maina, E., Kihoro, J., & Mwaura, J. (2022, August). A Conceptual Framework for Automatic Generation of Examinations Using Machine Learning Algorithms in Learning Management Systems. In IFIP World Conference on Computers in Education (pp. 441-450). Cham: Springer Nature Switzerland. https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978 - 3 - 031 - 43393 - 1_41
  2. Kamunya, S., Mirirti, E., Oboko, R., & Maina, E. (2020, May). An Adaptive Gamification Model for E-Learning. In 2020 IST-Africa Conference (IST-Africa) (pp. 1-10). IEEE. https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/abstract/document/9144043
  3. Kamunya, S., Maina, E ., & Oboko, R. (2019, May). A Gamification Model For E-Learning Platforms. In 2019 IST-Africa Week Conference (IST-Africa) (pp. 1-9). IEEE. https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/abstract/document/8764879
  4. ARAKA, E ., MAINA, E., GITONGA, R., & OBOKO, R. (2019, May). A conceptual model for measuring and supporting self-regulated learning using educational data mining on learning management systems. In 2019 IST-Africa Week Conference (IST-Africa) (pp. 1-11).IEEE. https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/abstract/document/8764852
  5. Maina, E. M ., Oboko, R. O., & Waiganjo, P. W. (2017, September). Extending moodle grouping functionality using artificial intelligent techniques. In AFRICON, 2017 IEEE (pp.55-58). IEEE. http://ieeexplore.ieee.org/abstract/document/8095455/
  6. Njenga, S. T., Oboko, R. O., Omwenga, E. I., & Muuro, E. M . (2017, September). Regulating group cognitive conflicts using intelligent agents in collaborative M-learning. In AFRICON, 2017 IEEE (pp. 38-43). IEEE. http://ieeexplore.ieee.org/abstract/document/8095452/
  7. Maina, E. M., & Kihoro, J. M. (2017, May). Learner experience of e-learning mode in institutions of higher learning: A case of Kenyan Universities. In IST-Africa Week Conference (IST-Africa), 2017 (pp. 1-9). IEEE. http://ieeexplore.ieee.org/abstract/document/8102397/
  8. Oboko, R. O., Maina, E. M ., Waiganjo, P. W., Omwenga, E. I., & Wario, R. D. (2016, May). Designing adaptive learning support through machine learning techniques. In ISTAfrica Week Conference, 2016 (pp. 1-9). IEEE. http://ieeexplore.ieee.org/abstract/document/7530676/
  9. Gitonga, R., Muuro, M ., & Onyango, G. (2016, May). Technology integration in the classroom: A case of students experiences in using Edmodo to support learning in a blended classroom in a Kenyan University. In IST-Africa Week Conference, 2016 (pp. 1-8). IEEE. http://ieeexplore.ieee.org/abstract/document/7530591/
  10. Maina, E. M ., Njoroge, R. W., Waiganjo, P. W., & Gitonga, R. (2015, May). Use of tablets in blended learning: A case study of an Institution of Higher Learning in Kenya. In ISTAfrica Conference, 2015 (pp. 1-8). IEEE. http://ieeexplore.ieee.org/xpls/abs_all.jsp?arnumber=7190593&tag=1
  11. Gitonga, R., Muuro , M., & Nzuki, D. (2014, May). Student’s experiences of using Wiki spaces to support collaborative learning in a blended classroom: A case of Kenyatta and KCA universities in Kenya. In IST-Africa Conference Proceedings, 2014 (pp. 1-10). IEEE. http://ieeexplore.ieee.org/xpls/abs_all.jsp?arnumber=6880606
  12. Maina E. Muuro , Manderick, B. and P.W. Wagacha, (2005) On Support Vector and Relevance Vector Machines , Proceedings of the 17 th Belgium-Netherlands Conference on Artificial Intelligence (Pg 297-304), BNAIC.
  13. Kamau, G., Boore, C., Maina, E., & Njenga, S. (2018, May). Blockchain Technology: Is this the Solution to EMR Interoperability and Security Issues in Developing Countries?. In 2018 IST-Africa Week Conference (IST-Africa) . IEEE.
  14. Njenga, S., Oboko, R., Omwenga, E., & Maina, E. (2018, May). Facilitating Group Learner Participation using Intelligent Agents in Collaborative M-Learning. In 2018 IST-Africa Week Conference (IST-Africa) . IEEE.
  15. Cheserem, E., Maina, E., Kihoro, J., & Mwaura, J. (2022, August). A Conceptual Framework for Automatic Generation of Examinations Using Machine Learning Algorithms in Learning Management Systems. In IFIP World Conference on Computers in Springer Nature Switzerland: Virtually done
  16. Maina, E. M., Oboko, R. O., & Waiganjo, P. W. (2017, September). Extending Moodle grouping functionality using artificial intelligent techniques. IEEE AFRICON 2017 Conference , 18 - 20 September 2017 , Cape Town, South Africa.
  17. Njenga, S. T., Oboko, R. O., Omwenga, E. I., & Muuro, E. M . (2017, September).Regulating group cognitive conflicts using intelligent agents in collaborative M-learning. IEEE AFRICON 2017 Conference , 18 - 20 September 2017 , Cape Town, South Africa.
  18. Maina, E. M., John Kihoro. (2017, May). Learner Experience of E-learning Mode in Institutions of Higher Learning: A Case of Kenyan Universities. IST-Africa Conference, 31 st May -3 rd June 2017 , Windhoek, Namibia
  19. John Kihoro, Maina (2016). Transforming Examinations processing and Management at Universities: An ICT Solution. 1st Biennial Conference on the State of Higher Education In Kenya. 22 nd – 25 th August 2016, Kenyatta University, Nairobi, Kenya
  20. Oboko, E. Maina and P. Wagacha, E. Omwenga (2016). Designing Adaptive Learning Support through Machine Learning Techniques. IST-Africa Conference, 11 th -13 th May 2016, Durban, South Africa
  21. Muuro , R. Oboko and P. Wagacha, (2015). Intelligent Support in Group Formation in an Online Collaborative Learning Environment. Pan African Conference on Science,Computing and Telecommunications (PACT), Kampala, Uganda 2015
  22. Maina, E. M., Njoroge, R. W., Waiganjo, P. W., & Gitonga, R. (2015, May). Use of tablets in blended learning: A case study of an Institution of Higher Learning in Kenya. IST-Africa Conference, 5 th -9 th May 2015 , Lilongwe, Malawi.
  23. Gitonga, R., Muuro , M., & Nzuki, D. (2015, May). Student’s Experiences in Using Chat Rooms as Virtual Classrooms: A Case of Kenyatta University Distant Learning Students. IST-Africa Conference, 5 th -9 th May 2015 , Lilongwe, Malawi.
  24. Muuro, P. Wagacha and R.Oboko (2014) Intelligent Grouping Based on Collaboration Competence Level (IGCCL). 2014 International eLearning Innovations Conference & Expo: 29-31 July 2014, Safari Park Nairobi, Kenya
  25. Gitonga, R., Muuro , M., & Nzuki, D. (2014, May). Student’s experiences of using Wiki spaces to support collaborative learning in a blended classroom: A case of Kenyatta and KCA Universities in Kenya. IST-Africa Conference, 6 th -10 th May 2014, Mauritius
  26. Muuro , P. Wagacha and R.Oboko (2013) Students’ Perceived Challenges in an Online Collaborative Learning Environment: A Case of higher learning institutions in Nairobi,Kenya. 2013 1st International Conference of the AVU, 20-22 November, Intercontinental Hotel; Nairobi, Kenya
  27. Muuro , P. Wagacha and R.Oboko (2013) Intelligent Grouping Based on Collaboration Competence Level (IGCCL). 2013 International eLearning Innovations Conference & Expo: 29- 30 July 2013, Safari Park Nairobi, Kenya

Professional Affiliations

  • Member to IEEE: Membership Number 93730111
  • Member to WG-3.4: Professional and Vocational Education in ICT representing kenya
  • IEEE Member
  • WG-3.4: Professional and Vocational Education in ICT representing kenya