AVAILABILITY AND UTILIZATION OF LIBRARY ELECTRONIC INFORMATION RESOURCES FOR RESEARCH PRODUCTIVITY BY POSTGRADUATE STUDENTS OF CHEMISTRY DEPARTMENT IN UNIVERSITIES IN BENUE STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

The study investigated the availability and utilization of library electronic information resources on research productivity by postgraduate students of Chemistry in Universities in Benue State. Two specific objectives with corresponding research questions guided the study. The study adopted a descriptive survey research design. The population of the study consists of 1282 postgraduate students of Chemistry in two universities in Benue State 2015/2020 academic session. The sample size consisted of 305 postgraduate students. The instrument for data collection is a self-developed questionnaire titled, Availability and Utilization of Electronic Information Resources for Research Productivity by Postgraduate Students of Chemistry Department Questionnaire (AUEIRRPPSCDQ). Data collected was analyzed using frequency counts, percentages, to answer research questions. The reliability of the questionnaire was established using Cronbach Alpha method and reliability coefficients of 0.77. Findings revealed that journals, newspapers, magazines, and bulletins among others were types of library electronic information resources available in university libraries for research productivity of postgraduate students of Chemistry department in universities in Benue State. The study also revealed that postgraduate students in the Chemistry department utilize the available electronic information resources in the library for research productivity to a high extent. Further, problems associated with utilization of library electronic information resources for research productivity include: lack of materials relevant for work, inadequate staff in e-library section, inadequate infrastructure, poor internet connectivity, lack of awareness on availability of e-resources. The study concluded that while there is high extent of utilization and areas for improvement, particularly in promoting the use of certain electronic resources and addressing challenges faced by students. Recommendations were made that adequate staffing in e-library section is crucial, trained personnel to assist students in addressing their information needs. Universities should subscribe to wider range of databases, e-journals, and e-books. This will provide students access to more extensive pool of academic materials.