Awareness and availability of open educational resources in South-West Nigerian university libraries

Abstract

Introduction: This study investigates the level of awareness of open educational resources (OER) among library staff in academic libraries within South-West Nigerian universities. Additionally, it assesses the availability of OER materials within these libraries.

Method: A descriptive survey design utilizing a structured questionnaire in Google Forms was employed to gather information from 737 academic librarians and library officers using a total sampling technique. The questionnaire was distributed via WhatsApp groups affiliated with the Nigeria Library Association and through personal accounts and email addresses. Despite repeated postings, only 135 respondents completed and submitted the form. The collected data was analyzed using descriptive statistics.

Results/Findings: The findings reveal that library personnel in South-West Nigerian universities possess a comprehensive awareness of the fundamental concepts of OER, including its benefits, different forms, distinctions from other electronic information resources, and understanding of UNESCO guidelines. However, the study also identifies shortcomings within library collections, noting that existing OERs do not cover all courses, lack regular updates, and primarily consist of textbooks and course materials.

Conclusion: The study concludes that while there is a high level of awareness of OER among library staff, there are significant gaps in the coverage and updating of OER materials within the libraries.

Recommendations: The library should develop a strategy to enhance the updating of OERs, select materials that cater to all academic programs, expand the collection to include diverse forms of OERs, and integrate OERs more effectively into existing library systems.