Use of Electronic Information Resources by Undergraduate Students in the Faculty of Management and Administration at Africa University, Mutare, Zimbabwe
Taphros Madondo
Africa University, Off Nyanga Road, P.O.Box 1320, Mutare, Zimbabwe
Nevermore Sithole *
Jokomo / Yamada Library, Africa University, Off Nyanga Road, P.O.Box 1320, Mutare, Zimbabwe
Collence Takainganhamo Chisita
Harare Polytechnic Library School, Harare, Zimbabwe
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
This study was carried out at Africa University, Mutare, Zimbabwe. It sought to evaluate the usage of Electronic Information Resources by undergraduate students in the Faculty of Management and Administration at Africa University. Data was collected through questionnaires from undergraduate students in the Faculty of Management and Administration at Africa University. The methodology used was a descriptive survey while the sampling technique used was purposive. The observation technique was used to observe the information seeking behaviour of the students and the type of information they frequently consult. The study established that there was a low usage of Electronic Information Resources by undergraduate students in the Faculty of Management and Administration due to socio and technical challenges. From the findings it can be concluded that students lacked adequate hands-on skills required to retrieve information from subscribed electronic information resources hence low usage. Furthermore it can be recommended that the Library should ensure that there is adequate information communication technology infrastructure and practical information retrieval training for students to empower them in effective electronic information utilization.
Keywords: Information literacy, electronic information resources, e-resources, higher education, developing countries, Zimbabwe