Pattern of electronic databases utilization by undergraduates in the study centres of National Open University of Nigeria

Abstract

This study investigated the pattern of electronic database utilization by undergraduates in study centres of National Open University of Nigerian (NOUN) on the following research objectives: find out if they utilize Electronic Database, the purpose of use and identify the challenges they faced in accessing and using Electronic Databases. It adopted quantitative methodology using survey research design. The population of the study was 16,902 undergraduates of National Open University of Nigeria of the north central study centres. Stratified sampling techniques were used. A sample size 390 was selected using the Taro Yamane Formula. A questionnaire was used as the research instrument. The data collected was analysed using descriptive statistics of frequency and percentage. The findings revealed majority use African Journals Online (AJOL), AGORA, HINARI, Science Direct, EBSCOHOST and Taylor and France. Majority use electronic databases for class assignments, research, obtain course related information /study materials, for seminar/oral class presentation and to update knowledge/keep abreast of latest development. The challenges faced by majority of them are slow internet service, shortage of power supply, lack of access to full text of citation and abstracts, lack of time for searching and lack of information literacy skills. The study recommends, among others, constant subscription of electronic databases and use of an alternative power supply.