STUDENTS COMPETENCIES AND USE OF ELECTRONIC INFORMATION RESOURCES IN THE FEDERAL UNIVERSITIES LIBRARIES IN DELTA AND EDO STATES, NIGERIA

Abstract

This study investigates the competencies and utilization patterns of electronic information resources among students in federal university libraries in Delta and Edo States, Nigeria. Guided by three primary objectives, and one hypothesis, the research employs a correlational survey research design with a sample size of 7,300 students from the university libraries. The sample size of 437 students was determined through the Krejcie and Morgan sample table. Data collection is facilitated through a structured questionnaire created by the researcher, and the analysis involves both descriptive and inferential statistics. The findings reveal a notable proficiency among students in Delta and Edo States in utilizing electronic information resources within federal university libraries. The study highlights the extensive use of various electronic resources, including blogs, vlogs, e-magazines, electronic databases, e-books, webpages, CDROMs, electronic journals, internet search engines, and online newspapers. Moreover, the investigation underscores the substantial reliance of federal university libraries in Delta and Edo States on electronic information resources. Based on the findings, recommendations were proposed for sustaining and enhancing students' competencies in utilizing electronic information resources. It is suggested that federal university libraries in Delta and Edo States should regularly organize workshops and training sessions focused on the effective use of electronic resources. Additionally, continuous monitoring of students' proficiency levels in electronic information resource usage is recommended, with specific attention to addressing any identified areas of weakness. These initiatives aim to foster a continual enhancement of students' skills and competence in leveraging electronic information resources within federal university library settings.