format that encourages self-directed learning.
Functionally, ICT has streamlined information
dissemination, enhancing users' operational
efficiency. The scope of ICT encompasses more
than just devices; it includes electronic technologies
used for storing and accessing information, [11].
The primary goal of ICT in the classroom is to
improve teaching and learning by providing tools to
optimize instructional approaches and support for
communication and cooperation, whether in person
or online, [12].
According to, [13], [14], ICT can be defined as
a comprehensive term that covers all
communication technologies, including the internet,
wireless networks, cell phones, satellite
communication, and digital television, facilitating
access to information. ICT plays a pivotal role in
enhancing the learning experience for students in the
21st century, [15]. ICT plays a pivotal role in
enhancing the learning experience for students in the
21st century, [15]. ICT integration into education
systems globally, as highlighted by, [16],
emphasizes its significance for effective knowledge
transfer. In today's digital era, diverse technological
devices like computers, tablets, laptops, and mobile
phones are employed for instructional delivery.
These tools not only extend learning beyond the
classroom but also promote learner autonomy.
Furthermore, ICT applications facilitate seamless
information exchange between learners and
instructors, fostering interactivity and collaboration,
[17]. The study, [18], examines the impact of social
media on students' academic performance in today's
digitally globalized era. They highlight the dual
nature of integrating social media into education,
noting potential distractions and misinformation.
The study emphasizes the need to address privacy
concerns regarding student data security. Despite
challenges, social media fosters engagement,
collaboration, and access to educational resources.
The paper suggests balanced usage, digital literacy
training, and ongoing monitoring for optimal
benefits in education.
The influence of ICT on distance learning has
revolutionized traditional methods of information
retrieval, particularly through printed library
materials. While print resources were once the
primary format for meeting library users' needs,
electronic or digital resources (e-resources) now
take precedence, catering to researchers and
information seekers, [19], [20]. This shift, noted by,
[21], has prompted investments in electronic
infrastructure and connectivity, transforming the
academic environment and necessitating innovative
approaches to enhance higher education quality. The
International Federation of Library Associations and
Institutions defines e-resources as materials
accessible via computer devices, whether a PC,
mainframe, or handheld mobile device. These are
electronic representations of information accessible
through electronic systems and computer networks,
[22], [23], [24], [25].
E-resources can be accessed either online or
locally, encompassing e-journals, e-books, databases
(including full-text, aggregated, indexing, and
abstracting), reference materials (such as
bibliographies, dictionaries, directories, and
encyclopedias), numeric and statistical databases, e-
images, e-audiovisual resources, and Online Public
Access Catalogues (OPACs), among others. These
electronic resources, which include texts, audio,
visuals, graphics, and animations, are accessible
through digital technologies, greatly expanding
access to information beyond the confines of
traditional print collections in libraries, [26]. They
are becoming essential components of library
resources in academic institutions and are
anticipated to be extensively used by university
students across various academic disciplines, [27],
[28].
Embracing this approach would diversify the
resources accessible to students, available anytime
and anywhere. However, for the electronic learning
system to effectively enhance learning quality and
student performance, it requires thorough planning
and clear instruction, [29]. The significance of e-
resources in open and distance education (ODE) has
been recognized in Nigeria for some time. Studies
have identified various factors affecting e-resource
utilization, including information literacy, limited
resources, fields of interest, skills, awareness, and
time commitments, [30], [31], [32], [33], [34], [35].
The study, [36], found that students lacked
motivation to use e-resources, as they did not
perceive them as an effective means of relaxation.
She also pointed out various challenges faced by
students, including a shortage of computers in the
units, technical issues, and insufficient orientation
toward using e-resources. As a result, postgraduate
students did not fully utilize e-resources due to
factors like limited publicity, inadequate training,
access restrictions like passwords and usernames,
and limitations such as unreliable internet
connections, [37].
The study, [38], investigated the use of
electronic resources by postgraduate students at the
University of Cape Coast. Their objectives were to
assess students' awareness of electronic resources,
frequency of usage, computer literacy, and
identification of usage problems. Findings showed
WSEAS TRANSACTIONS on COMPUTERS
DOI: 10.37394/23205.2023.22.34
Mariam A. Shomoye, Najeem O. Adelakun, Kehinde L. Adebisi