Impact of institutional repository practices on lecturers' publications output and online visibility in universities in South-East, Nigeria (2010 – 2023)

Abstract

This research examined the impact of institutional repository policies and practices on lecturers' publications output and online visibility in Universities in the Southern region of Nigeria. Based on 5-point research objectives, both ex-post facto and exploratory survey research designs were adopted to investigate a sample of 1,122 respondents, whilst using purposive and simple random sampling techniques in selecting the respondents. A combination of questionnaire, interview and checklist were used to collect data. Findings reveal that Thesis and Dissertations were the main information resources found in the repositories, but also extends to few hard copies and e-versions of textbooks and journals. Production of abstracts, compulsory submission of thesis and dissertations by students, Postgraduate schools' certification of thesis and dissertations and test for plagiarism were some of the practices adopted for the institutional repositories. Policy framework covered such areas like depositions, practices, administration, retention, linkages and use. Findings also reveal that research output of lecturers and their online visibility because of use of IR were low. The research concludes that while IR has become huge asset for research output and online visibility of the lecturers, efforts should be geared towards ensuring rapid and sustainable development within the universities. It recommends amongst others the adoption of IR as criteria for degree program accreditation, ranking, and dedication of grants to the universities for IR establishment.