Utilisation patterns of open access information resources (OAIR) among Polytechnic students in South-west Nigeria
No Thumbnail Available
Date
2026
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Published by Department of Library and Information Science, Faculty of Communication and Information Sciences, University of Ilorin, Nigeria.
Abstract
Abstract
The study investigated the utilisation patterns of Open Access Information Resources (OAIRs)
among polytechnic students in South-West Nigeria. It examined the types of OAIRs accessed, the
purposes of their utilisation, and the frequency of use. The study adopted descriptive survey
research design with the population comprising ND and HND students across 47 polytechnics in
South-West Nigeria. Questionnaire was used as the instrument for data collection for the study
and the study sampled 1,630 National Diploma (ND) and Higher National Diploma (HND)
students across 47 polytechnic institutions using a multistage sampling technique. The data
retrieved from the respondents were analysed using descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation,
and multiple regression tests via SPSS. The findings reveal that students predominantly utilise
databases, research articles, repositories, theses, and e-books, reflecting a preference for peer
reviewed and academically authoritative resources. OAIRs were primarily used for academic
discussions, seminars and workshops, independent study, assignments, and research activities,
indicating that these resources are embedded within formal academic workflows. In terms of
frequency, research articles and e-books were accessed most regularly, whereas audio/video
lectures and repositories were consulted less frequently. The study further highlights that usage
patterns are influenced by factors such as digital literacy, awareness, accessibility, and
institutional support. Based on these findings, the study recommend that Polytechnic libraries
should intensify sensitisation programmes to increase students’ awareness of diverse open access
platforms, particularly repositories and multimedia resources that recorded lower usage
frequency. Regular workshops on digital literacy and effective search strategies should be
organised to improve students’ competence in navigating open access databases, repositories, and
scholarly platforms.
Keywords: Open Access, Information Resources, Open Access Information Resources,
Polytechnic, Utilisation Patterns