Use of Online Public Access Catalog by Law Undergraduates: Influence of ICT and Information Literacy Skills

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Department of Library and Information Science, Adeleke University, Ede, Osun State, Nigeria

2 Postgraduate Researcher, Department of Library and Information Science, Adeleke University, Ede, Osun State, Nigeria

Abstract
 
This study investigated ICT skills and information literacy skills as variables predicting OPAC usage among law undergraduates studying in Nigeria. A research design involving a survey was adopted, incorporating a quantitative approach using a sample of 286 law undergraduates derived from a two-stage sampling procedure. A well-structured questionnaire was used to collect the data. Pearson Product-Moment Correlation (PPMC) and multiple linear regression were the inferential statistics used in the analysis of the study’s data. The results of the study demonstrated that of the independent variables, ICT skills were the best predictor of OPAC usage (independent variable). Furthermore, only two indicators of ICT skills —namely, the ability to process information and collaborate —had a significant individual influence on OPAC usage. The study recommends that higher institutions could enhance the ICT skills training of law undergraduates through intentional programs, while incorporating practical activities that will improve information literacy skills.
 
 

Keywords

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Volume 23, Issue 3
Summer 2025
Pages 171-190

  • Receive Date 06 October 2024
  • Revise Date 08 June 2025
  • Accept Date 08 June 2025