The Use of e-databases and e-journals by Research Scholars in Pakistani Universities: An Evaluative Study

Abstract

This research was conducted to achieve three objectives; 1) to investigate the usage and
acceptability of e-databases and e-journals among the research scholars in selected
universities of Pakistan, 2) to indicate the preferred information resource being used by
researchers, and 3) to explore barriers faced by them when consulting these resources
for research endeavors. Out of a total population of 4282, a sample of 1031 respondents
from four major disciplines were used for the study. The research tool used in the
collection of data was a closed ended questionnaire. Key findings of the study revealed
that most of the respondents accessed e-databases and e-Journals “2-3 times” a week,
and have widely accepted the “importance” of these resources in research activities. In
addition, the respondents usually preferred to use electronic databases, e-books and ejournals
(open access) over printed collection. Though, restrictions on e-resources, slow
internet connection, students’ awareness and training were the major obstacles in using
e-resources effectively.