Demographic Factors and the Use of Open Access Resources (OARs) by Undergraduates at the University of Ibadan

Abdulrahman Adetola Atanda

doi:10.70112/ajist-2026.16.1.4406

Authors

Abdulrahman Adetola Atanda Department of Library Archival and Information Studies, University of Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.70112/ajist-2026.16.1.4406

Keywords:

Open Access Resources, Demographic Factors, Undergraduates, Universities

Abstract

Open access resources have become essential for enhancing academic experiences and fostering research among undergraduate students. Yet, the role that demographic factors play in explaining the use of these resources in Nigeria is understudied, particularly within Nigerian higher education contexts. This study investigated the relationship between demographic factors (age, level, gender, and academic discipline) and the use of open access resources (OARs) by undergraduates at the University of Ibadan. The study adopted a descriptive survey design, and a sample of 261 students from three faculties was selected using a two-stage sampling technique. Data were collected through questionnaires and analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. SPSS was used to analyze the data collected for the study. Findings revealed that OARs like free electronic books (79.8%), open access journals (65.8%), and image portals (61.1%) were commonly used for assignments, personal reading, and research. The study found that a negligible relationship exists between demographic factors (age, gender, level) and OAR usage. The study concluded that while OARs are widely used by undergraduates, demographic factors do not significantly influence the usage pattern. It recommends promoting underutilized resources, improving internet speed, and enhancing infrastructure to support effective OAR usage among undergraduates.

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