Use of electronic resources by research scholars of Kurukshetra University

Abstract

PurposeThis paper focuses on the use of e‐resources by research scholars of Kurukshetra University, Kurukshetra (India). The main aim is to determine the use of e‐resources, users' skills in handling e‐resources, and the purpose of their use. Further, the paper aims to highlight the problems faced by research scholars in accessing e‐resources, their opinions on feature of e‐resources, and their views on usefulness of e‐resources compared to that of conventional sources.Design/methodology/approachThe survey was conducted through a structured questionnaire circulated among 60 research scholars (PhD and MPhil) taken from different departments of Kurukshetra University and the response rate was 83 per cent. A stratified accidental random sample method was used for selection of respondents and interacting with them. These respondents were among those available in the university library during the survey period (18‐28 December 2008). The responses received from the research scholars to 14 questions are presented in the form of tables and figures and analyzed by using a simple method of calculation.FindingsThe paper concludes that electronic resources have become an integral part of the information needs of research scholars at Kurukshetra University. Further, it finds that e‐resources can be good substitutes for conventional resources, if the access is fast, and more computer terminals are installed to provide fast access to e‐resources. Google is the most widely used search engine for locating information electronically.Practical implicationsThe paper restricts the study exclusively to use of e‐resources by the research scholars of Kurukshetra University.Originality/valueFew attempts have been made to study the use of e‐resources by research scholars and their impact in India. The paper highlights the use of e‐resources in research at Kurukshetra University with some constructive suggestions for improvement of electronic resources and services.