End‐user training on the utilization of electronic information sources in fisheries sciences institutions in South India
| Pages | 741-754 |
| Date | 05 October 2010 |
| Published date | 05 October 2010 |
| DOI | https://doi.org/10.1108/02640471011082013 |
| Author | H.R. Sujatha,H. Shivananda Murthy |
| Subject Matter | Information & knowledge management,Library & information science |
End-user training on the utilization
of electronic information sources
in fisheries sciences institutions
in South India
H.R. Sujatha
SVS College, Mangalore University, Bantwal, India, and
H. Shivananda Murthy
Karnataka Veterinary, Animal and Fisheries Sciences University, Bidar, India
Abstract
Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to investigate the use of electronic information sources (EIS)
and the need for end-user training in the Fisheries Sciences institutions of South India.
Design/methodology/approach – This paper was conducted using a questionnaire-based survey
method along with the observations and informal interviews among the users of the seven Fisheries
Sciences institutions of South India. The response rate received was 79 per cent. The sample respondents
chosen for the study consists of 183 teachers/scientists, 71 research scholars and 81 postgraduate
students. The data collected were tabulated and analyzed by using SPSS statistical software.
The analysis of data covers the computer literacy level, use of different electronic sources, and frequency
of its use, and the areas of training needed by the users of Fisheries Sciences institutions.
Findings – It is observed that the respondent’s perceived ability to use the computer is quite high
and that there is significant use of EIS mainly for research purposes. Though the majority felt that
their level of computer literacy was average or above average, they expressed a need for training in the
use of the EIS. The respondents preferred workshops, hands-on training, on-screen presentations and
the need-based support to self-help guides/hand-outs and training by central/state government.
Originality/value – The findings of the paper have provided useful insights for the library
management to take appropriate steps and plan strategies in a systematic manner so as to enable the
users to achieve a higher skill which in turn would facilitate the better provision and utilization of the
EIS. The paper can also be of use for other subject areas.
Keywords Electronic media,Special libraries, India, Informationretrieval
Paper type Research paper
Introduction
The technological advancements such as the computers, Internet, CD-ROMs, online
databases and other networked information sources have opened new horizons for
information creation, duplication, storage, access and presentation. The pace at which
information sources are being produced and converted into electronic form is amazing.
Digitization of information is resulting in access to an unbelievable volume of
information. A few remarkable examples of the electronic conversion are the availability
of American heritage collection of the Library of Congress and the Vatican Library
collections through the internet.
Libraries spend a large part of their budget on electronic information systems and
products: on the OPAC, on CD-ROM networks, on CD-ROM products and networking
The current issue and full text archive of this journal is available at
www.emeraldinsight.com/0264-0473.htm
Training on
utilization
of EIS
741
Received 21 June 2009
Revised 25 August 2009
Accepted 22 September
2009
The Electronic Library
Vol. 28 No. 5, 2010
pp. 741-754
qEmerald Group Publishing Limited
0264-0473
DOI 10.1108/02640471011082013
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