Impact of ICT Skills on the Use of E-Resources by Information Professionals: A Review of Related Literature

Introduction Today libraries are shifting their role from the custodian of traditional information resources to the provider of service-oriented digital information resources. Widespread use of computers, increased reliance on computer networks, rapid growth of the Internet and explosion in the quality and quantity of information compelled libraries to adopt new means and methods for the storage, retrieval and dissemination of information. The modernization of libraries and information centers enabled information transfer and access, there by establishes a network of libraries and information centres. This initiative helped in resource development, resource sharing and their utilization at various levels. Information professionals subscribe to e-journals, CD-ROM databases, online databases, web-based resources, and a variety of other electronic resources. They participate in library consortia and build digital libraries. However, these libraries have been hampered by many constraints to embark on successful application of information and communication technology (ICT) for their operations, resources, and services (Williams & Channaveeraiah, 2008). In this age of globalization, the importance of ICT to people generally and information professionals in particular cannot be overemphasized. This is true because ICTs facilitate quick and easy access to a wide range of information/information resources world wide. In fact, it is now difficult to imagine a world without information technology. The provision and use of ICT is part and parcel of the entire system, to both the students, information professionals and the institutions. It is one thing to recognize the importance of ICTs and another to know if they are effectively used by professionals, students and academics. If ICTs are put to effective use, the essence of acquiring them is to a large extent justified vice-versa. Lowe and McAuley (2002) defined information and communication technology literacy as “ the skills and abilities that will enable the use of computers and related information technologies to meet personal, educational and labour market goals”. Ebijuwa (2005) defined ICT as tools used for collection, processing, storage, transmission, and dissemination of information. With advances in ICT, electronic information resources such as electronic books, electronic journals, CD-ROM databases, OPAC, Online databases and the Internet have launched the world into an information age. No institution or organization can still rely on only traditional printed information resource to perform effectively and efficiently. To librarians, ICT is a significant development that provides tools for managing the avalanche of information generated by modern society. Literature Review Borrego, et al. (2007) observe that there have been many studies of users of electronic resources in the professional literature in the last few years. In a recent exhaustive review of the literature on the subject, Tenopir (2003) analyzed the results of over 200 studies of the use of electronic resources in libraries published between 1995 and 2003. The main conclusion of this review is that electronic resources have been rapidly adopted in academic spheres, though the behaviour varies according to the discipline. ICT Skills for Information Professionals In recent years, work for the information professional has become characterized by fast-paced change and new skills requirements. This transformation has been brought about by the constant emergence of relevant new technologies (Ashcroft, 2004). Information professionals are increasingly required to adapt their skills and practice in order to gain an awareness of technological advances. As a result, the profession itself exists in a state of flux alongside these emerging technologies, with traditional roles being increasingly subsumed by new skills and working environments and, therefore, job descriptions (Ashcroft, 2004). Information professionals are now expected to be aware of and capable of using and demonstrating emerging ICTs (Nwakanma, 2003). There is a need for additional training to augment the traditional skills knowledge base with a competency in ICT use. Information professionals must be flexible and adapt traditional skills to incorporate the requirements of technological advances (Biddiscombe, 2001; Sharp, 2001). Given the current situation, whereby ICTs are being continuously updated or introduced, and traditional formats are being replaced or supplemented by digital formats (such as ejournals and ebooks), it seems likely that there will continue to be a need for regular training for information professionals. There is also an increased focus on communication skills, with more players involved in the electronic information environment. Information professionals are being called upon to work closely with ICT users and providers (including IT staff) and to work in collaboration with others in the profession (Wittwer, 2001). Some groups of library user lack necessary IT skills to obtain quality information (Stubbings and McNab, 2001) and, therefore, information professionals will be called upon to act as both educators and intermediaries (Sharp, 2001). Given these circumstances, information professionals are required to have increased teaching and communication skills. It is vital for those in management positions to recognize the imperative of continuing professional development (CPD) and ensure that staff are proactive in maintaining up-to-date levels of expertise. The significance of CPD in this climate has been acknowledged by both the United Kingdom’s Chartered Institute of Library and Information Professionals (CILIP) and the United States’ American Library Association (ALA)

Influence of newspapers in the development of student’s reading culture in two Nigerian University Libraries

This study investigates influence of newspaper towards the development of students’ reading culture in two Nigerian libraries. Descriptive survey design was adopted for this study and the population consisted of students who read newspaper in the serials section of the library. Simple random sampling technique was employed to select a sample size of 200 and questionnaire was the major instrument used for data collection. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics consisting of tables of frequency and percentage. The findings revealed that newspaper were available in both university libraries, majority of the respondents 61(73.5%) and 75(75.0%) from UI and TASUED indicated that guardian and punch newspaper were available in their libraries. Most of the respondents 35(42.2%) from UI and 55(55.0%) from TASUED read newspaper on daily basis, while 33(39.8%) and 24(24.0%) read newspaper occasionally. Lack of personnel in attending to library users, inadequate access to and use of newspapers were some of the challenges encountered by the students. Recommendations were therefore put forward.Keywords: Library, Newspaper, Reading Culture, University

E-resources usage among Polytechnic students in Southwest Nigeria: evidence from Federal Polytechnic, Ede and The Polytechnic, Ibadan Nigeria

This study examined e-resources usage among polytechnic students in Southwest Nigeria. Descriptive research design was adopted for this study and the population consisted of polytechnic students from The Polytechnic, Ibadan and Federal Polytechnic, Ede. They were 9671 students from both polytechnics. A multi-stage sampling technique was employed with a sample fraction of 5% was drawn from the total number of students in each faculty amounting to 381.  A structured questionnaire was the major instrument used for data collection and the questionnaire were pre-tested using Cronbach-alpha to determine the reliability co-efficient. Data obtained was analyzed using SPSS. The study found that the students from both polytechnics are aware of the e-resources and that the e-resources were mainly used for research, class assignment and to update knowledge. Problem such as epileptic power supply, poor internet connection and so on were identified. The study concluded that polytechnic students could benefit immensely from the enormous usage of e-resources particularly for teaching, learning and research. Based on the findings, recommendations were made

A Survey of Reading and Internet Use Habits among Undergraduate Students in Selected University Libraries in Nigeria

This study investigates the reading and internet use habits among undergraduate students in university libraries; using Obafemi Awolowo University and University of Ibadan as case study. Survey design was adopted and the population consisted of undergraduate students of the U.I and OAU. The multistage random sampling technique was used to select a sample size of 214 and questionnaire was the major instrument for data collection. Frequency distribution percentage and cross tabulation method were used in analyzing the data. The findings revealed that respondents from both university libraries 50(25.4%) and 55 (27.9%) read text. It was also indicated that the respondents read for academic purposes and research purposes and used the Internet for examination purposes and project work. The result also stated that most of the respondents in OAU read newspapers 60(30.3%) while 38(19.2%) of respondents read story book in U.I. Majority 80(40.6%) read for three hours in a day in U.I and 30(15.2%) in OAU. It was noted that all the respondents in both university libraries were of the opinion that some of the problems affecting their reading habit include: lack of awareness of information, lack of good illumination, sitting arrangement and inadequate information resources. There is need to continually educate students on the proper balance that they should maintain between utilitarian and other purposes of reading and between reading and internet use activities for academic related purpose. The problem of inadequate computing and internet access facilities in university libraries should also be tackled so as to facilitate effective reading and internet use by students. Keywords: Reading, Internet use habit, undergraduate student

Information Literacy Skills Influence on the Utilisation of Electronic Information Resources among Nigerian students: polytechnic experience

This study investigates information literacy skills influence on EIR utilisation among two polytechnics students in South-west Nigeria. The descriptive research design was employed for this study and the population consisted of polytechnic students from The Polytechnic, Ibadan and Federal Polytechnic, Ede. There were 7610 students from both polytechnics. Simple random technique was employed with a sample fraction of 5% was drawn amounting to 381. The questionnaire was the main instrument used for data gathering and the questionnaire was pre-tested using Cronbach-alpha to determine the reliability co-efficient. Data collected was analyzed using SPSS and PPMC. It was found in the study that the students from both polytechnics possessed moderate information literacy skills level and that a positive significant relationship exists between information literacy skills and the use of EIR among the students from both institutions. The study therefore concluded that the information literacy skills possessed by the students influences the EIR usage which in turn enhance their academic performance. Recommendations were made based on the findings

Factors hindering knowledge sharing practices among librarians: a study of UTAUT

The study investigated the factors hindering knowledge sharing practices among librarians in Nigerian federal university libraries. Methods: The study was based on post-positivism research paradigm with survey research design. The UTAUT was employed as the theoretical lens underpinning the study. All the librarians from the six federal university libraries in Southwest constituted the study population. The questionnaire and semi-structured interview were adopted for data gathering. SPSS was used to analyse the questionnaire, while the semi-structured interview was analysed through thematic content analysis. Results: The study found that majority of the respondents 80(78%) disagreed that they will not share knowledge owning to poor communication and interpersonal skills. The respondents interviewed also confirmed that trust, collaboration, reward/incentives, lack of time and fund, space and so on were identified as some factors inhibiting knowledge sharing practices among the respondents. Conclusion: The study concluded that of all the identified factors responsible for knowledge sharing practices among librarians, organisational factor received the highest ranked

Exploring Innovative Evaluation Strategies for Safety Education in Schools

This study explores innovative evaluation strategies for assessing the effectiveness of safety education programs in schools. Traditional methods of evaluation often rely on pre- and post-assessments or student surveys, which may fail to capture the broader impact of safety education on behavior, awareness, and long-term retention. This study examines alternate approaches to evaluation, including observational evaluations, peer assessments, digital portfolios, and real-time data-gathering technologies, such as mobile applications and gamified platforms.  A descriptive design research methodology was used, using a mixed-methods approach that integrated qualitative data from interviews with educators and students with quantitative analysis derived from longitudinal surveys and behavioural monitoring. The results highlight the benefits of interactive and adaptive evaluation tools, which allow for continuous feedback and more personalised assessment of student engagement and learning outcomes. The research underscores the need to assess both information retention and the subsequent behavioural changes and mental reactions to safety instruction. The findings suggest that innovative, technology-enhanced evaluation strategies give an opportunity for extensive impact of safety programs, supporting the development of more effective and tailored educational interventions. The study contributes to the growing field of safety education by offering new perspectives on how to evaluate student learning in ways that foster deeper understanding and long-term safety awareness

The Use of Social Media by Undergraduates in South-West Nigeria: A Comparative Study

This study investigated the use of social media by undergraduates in South-West Nigeria using Bowen and Olabisi Onabanjo universities as a case study. A descriptive research design method was employed for this study, while the population consisted of undergraduate students from thirteen faculties at OOU and seven faculties at BU who are offering undergraduate programs with total population of 15, 291. A multi stage sampling method was adopted to select 10% of 3465, giving a sample size of 348. A questionnaire was the major instrument used for data gathering and the data obtained was analyzed through SPSS. The study found that the undergraduates are aware of the social media tools as majority from both institutions frequently use Facebook, WhatsApp, on daily basis and Blog, YouTube, Flickr were used on weekly basis. Also, constraints such as cyber-bullying, lack of privacy, time wasting, addiction, being distracted were some of the highlighted problems encountered by both institutions in the use of social media tools for educational activities. Conclusion and recommendations were made based on the findings

Childhood trauma, peer pressure, parenting styles and gender on adolescent substance abuse in Ibadan: a structural equation modelling approach

The effective intervention strategies depend on the correlations and structural pathways linking these factors to adolescent substance abuse. The correlations and structural pathways linking childhood trauma, peer pressure, parenting styles, and gender to substance abuse among adolescents form the basis of this study. The study employed a survey research technique. A total of 242 secondary school students in Ibadan, Oyo State Nigeria were chosen through a multistage sampling technique. The questionnaire was the instrument, adopted for data collection, while the collected data were analysed using a correlational design and the Structural Equation Modelling approach. The study adheres to ethical consideration. Among the variables of interest, childhood trauma (r = .593, p < .01) and peer pressure (r = .548, p < .01) showed positive correlations with substance abuse, whereas parenting styles had a negative correlation (r = -.472, p < .01). Accordingly, the SEM results indicated that childhood trauma significantly contributed to peer pressure at β = 0.52, p < .001, and substance abuse at β = 0.42, p <.001, partially through the mediation of peer pressure. The model indices also proved good adequacy: χ²/df = 2.34, CFI = 0.96, and RMSEA = 0.048. Childhood trauma and peer pressure increases the likelihood of substance abuse, however, supportive parenting reduces the risks. Gender differences in current adolescent substance use call for different interventions

Influence of Job Motivation on Effective Job Performance of Library Personnel in Universities

This study investigated the influence of job motivation on job performance of library personnel in university libraries in Oyo State, Nigeria. Descriptive survey research design type was used for the study. The population of the study consisted of 164 library personnel in university libraries in Oyo State. An adapted questionnaire was used as the instrument for data collection. The data collected were analyzed using both descriptive and inferential statistics. PPMC were used for hypotheses testing at a 0.05 level of significance. The findings of the study revealed that the level of job performance of library personnel among university libraries in Oyo State was high ( =2.85) and that the level of job motivation (promotion, compensation, conducive work environment) of library personnel among the sampled universities was also high ( =2.77). More so, the findings of the hypothesis disclosed that there is a significant and positive relationship between job motivation (p= 0.029 < 0.05) and job performance of library personnel among universities in Oyo State. It was recommended that library leadership should make provision for motivational ingredients that can serve as an encouragement for the library personnel to enhance the level of their job performance