The use of open access educational resources and achievement in research methods courses among postgraduate students in selected universities in Southwestern Nigeria

Abstract

This study examined the use of open access educational resources as factors influencing academic achievement in research methods courses among library and information science (LIS) postgraduate students in universities in Southwestern Nigeria. Open access resources, encompassing institutional repositories, e-books, and journals, play a critical role in supporting academic endeavors. Understanding these factors is essential for improving academic outcomes in research methods courses. Despite the availability of open access resources, many students are unaware of how to effectively utilize these materials to enhance their learning and research capabilities and to exacerbate the situation, leading to low achievement and lack of confidence in tackling research-related tasks. The study employed a survey research design of the correlation type. The population consisted of 141 LIS postgraduate students. Data were collected using a validated questionnaire and an achievement test in research methods. Descriptive statistics such as frequency counts, percentages, means, and standard deviations were used to analyse research questions 1 to 5. The findings revealed a moderate level of academic achievement. Open access resources were moderately used, with institutional repositories and open access journals being the most frequently utilized. The study concluded that use of open access resources has impact on academic achievement. Recommendations open access resources enhancing academic achievement among LIS postgraduate students.