Electronic information resources availability utilization and performance of Post Graduation students in two selected Colleges at Makerere University.

Abstract

This study examined the relationship between the electronic information resources and performance of post graduate students of selected colleges of Makerere University. Specifically, the study objectives were to establish the relationship between; (a) availability of electronic information resources (b) accessibility to electronic information resources and (c) computer skills of post graduate students and the performance of post graduate students in the College of Education and external Studies and College of Business and Management Science of Makerere University. Using a quantitative co-relational survey, the study involved 280 post graduate students and qualitatively, 5 library staff who manage the computer laboratory in the library. It was found out that there was a significant positive relationship between; 1) the availability of electronic information resources, 2) accessibility to electronic information resources, 3) Computer skills of post graduate students and the performance of post graduates in the College of Education and external Studies and College of Business and Management Science of Makerere University. From the findings, it was concluded that; the availability of electronic information resources, access to electronic information resources and computer skills by post graduate students are highly related to the performance of post graduate students at Makerere University. The following recommendations were made to Makerere University management: 1) The University should avail more infrastructures for electronic information resources like computers, e-journals, online public catalogues, necessary software, databases, and electricity among others to the students. 2) More awareness should be given to the post graduate students about the availability, accessibility and use of the electronic information resources. 3) Training in ICT skills should be given to the post graduates so as to enhance easy usage of electronic information resources.