EVALUATION OF PERCEPTION AND UTILIZATION OF ELECTRONIC DATABASES BY UNDERGRADUATE STUDENTS IN UNIVERSITY LIBRARIES IN AKWA IBOM, STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

The study investigated the perception and utilization of electronic databases by undergraduate students in university libraries in Akwa-Ibom State, Nigeria. It adopted a descriptive survey design with a study population of 1,116 registered undergraduates-users of Akwa Ibom State University (AKSU) Library and Ritman University Library, out of which 224 undergraduate students were sampled using the proportionate stratified sampling technique. Data was collected using a combined instrument of observation checklist, structured questionnaire and unstructured interview. 224 copies of the questionnaire were distributed, and out of which, 186 (83%) were retrieved with valid information. Analysis of data was done using chart, frequency count, simple percentage, mean scores and standard deviations, with a criterion mean of 2.50. The study revealed that HINARI, EBSCOHOST, JSTOR, Science Direct, AGORA, AJOL, OARE, ARDI, and GOALI were available in the university libraries studied. It further reported a positive perception of the students toward electronic databases; while revealing that electronic databases are utilized by the students in carrying out their research project, performing assignments/term-papers, preparing for examinations, seminar papers, etc. Lack of adequate awareness of available electronic databases, erratic power supply, poor search and retrieval skills, poor Internet connectivity, etc., were among the factors affecting their perception and utilization. It was however, recommended, among other measures, that the management of universities should provide adequate funds for university libraries to subscribe to more relevant and useful electronic databases across various academic disciplines, while university libraries should enhance their user education and information literacy programmes to sensitize the students on available electronic databases and how to effectively utilize them in meeting their information, educational and research  needs.