Perceived ease of access and use of open access resources by library and information science postgraduate students in south-west Nigeria

Abstract

This study examined Perceived Ease of Access (PEOA) and Use of Open Access Resources (OAR) by Library and Information Science (LIS) postgraduate students in universities in Southwest, Nigeria. The study adopted a quantitative research method and correlational research design to answer two research questions and one hypothesis. The population consisted of 227 postgraduate students from five universities: Adeleke University (AU) - 22, Babcock University (BU)-35, Lead City University (LCU)-30, Tai Solarin University (TASUED)-30 and University of Ibadan (UI)-110. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire administered through the total enumeration technique. The collected data were analysed using both descriptive and inferential statistical methods. The findings revealed that the largest respondents were: UI (49%), females (50.7%), age group 26-30 (39.4%), and single (55.9%). OARs were used mostly for research work ( =3.60); group/individual practical purposes ( =3.34) personal tutorials ( =3.26) and examination preparation ( =3.24). Respondents perceive OARs as easily accessible ( >2.50). There was a significant influence between PEOA and the use of OARs at TASUED (r=.458, P<0.05) and UI (r=.409, P<0.05). The study concludes that enhancing ease of access is important for supporting sustained utilization of open access resources among LIS postgraduate students. The study recommended conduction periodic user-satisfaction assessments,
strengthening of students' OAR competencies and enhancement of access facilities.