ABSTRACTS
The study focused on the assessment of information literacy competencies for effective utilization of electronic information resources by LIS students in the University of Benin, Edo State. The study’s goal was targeted at examining the level of information literacy competencies possessed by LIS students for the effective utilization of electronic information resources (EIRs), identifying the types of electronic information resources used by LIS students, investigating the challenges faced by LIS students in accessing, evaluating, and utilizing electronic information resources and lastly, providing strategies for enhancing information literacy skills to ensure the effective use of electronic information resources by LIS students. The study adopted the use of descriptive survey research design, and the population used for this study was 302 LIS undergraduates of which was later sampled to 91 students because of the largeness of population. Questionnaire titled ”information literacy competencies for effective utilization of electronic information resources by LIS students in the University of Benin.” were drawn and administered, (93) copies were retrieved from the respondents and found worthy of use.
The study findings highlight that LIS students display strong confidence in their ability to assess and utilize electronic information resources effectively, Students predominantly use academic resources such as electronic journals, e-books, and online databases, Students face significant barriers to accessing, evaluating, and using electronic resources. Major challenges include insufficient ICT infrastructure, high subscription costs, limited digital literacy skills, and difficulties in navigating various electronic resources. Key strategies identified for improving information literacy skills include integrating information literacy into the curriculum, conducting regular workshops and training, and creating online tutorials and self-paced modules.
The study concludes that while LIS students generally exhibit strong confidence and competence in utilizing electronic information resources, challenges related to ICT infrastructure, subscription costs, and limited digital literacy still hinder optimal access and effective use. The following recommendations were given in light of this study, Universities should invest in enhancing ICT infrastructure to provide reliable internet access and support for digital resources, Institutions could consider negotiating group subscriptions or consortia partnerships to reduce subscription costs for high-impact journals and databases. Additionally, expanding access to open-access resources could be a cost-effective alternative to costly subscriptions, Embedding information literacy into the LIS curriculum will help students develop strong resource evaluation and utilization skills.
