Gender differences in students’ utilization of electronic information resources in Ramat Library, University of Maiduguri, Nigeria

Abstract

The study determined gender differences among students in the utilization of electronic information resources in Ramat Library, University of Maiduguri. One objective,with corresponding hypotheses guided the study. The survey research method was used. The population for the study comprised 13,995 (thirteen thousand, nine hundred ninety five) nondegree, undergraduate, and postgraduate students that registered the use Ramat Library, University of Maiduguri. A sample of 170 registered respondents was selected using stratified sampling technique. Data was analysed using descriptive statistics of percentage and frequency counts as well as inferential statistics of chi-square. Hypothesis was tested at 0.05 levels significance. Results showed significant difference in students’ accessibility and utilization while no significant difference in challenges of electronic information resources according to gender. Based on the findings and within the limitation of this study, it was concluded that gender was not a barrier in the utilization of electronic information resources in Ramat Library, University of Maiduguri. This study, thus recommended among others that registered students should utilize and access electronic information resources available in the Ramat Library for the purpose of enhancing learning outcome.

Keywords: gender, e-resources, Ramat library, access, Nigeria