Students’ use of digital learning resources: diversity, motivations and challenges
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Date
2019-10-03
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Emerald Insight
Abstract
Purpose – With the advent of ICTs, a large percentage of university students are shifting their interest and focus on digital learning resources from print ones. This study aims to examine the diversity, motivations and challenges students face in using these learning resources at Trefoil Kisanji University (TEKU) in Tanzania.
Design/methodology/approach – The researchers used elements of both quantitative and qualitative research approaches in a complementary fashion. The study draws upon cross-section survey data collected from students (n = 90) alongside follow-up key informants semi-structured interviews with library and academic staff (n = 10).
Findings – The study’s findings signify that internet resources are significantly deployed by students than other resources such as CD-ROM, e-books, journals, slides and audio clips. The findings further inform that the wide range of these resources and 24/7 convenient access are important motivating factors for their usage. On the other hand, the cost of internet services, limited searching competencies and limited subscribed databases inhibit effective and efficient usage of these by students at TEKU.
Originality/value – The present study clearly discloses students’ motivations for accessing and using digital learning resources.
Description
Keywords
Digital learning resources, Digital information resources, Online resources, Electronic resources, Diversity, Motivations
Citation
Swiga Alphonce & Kalefa Mwantimwa (2019) Students’ use of digital learning resources: diversity, motivations and challenges. Information and Learning Sciences, 120(11/12), 758-772