Using electronic information resources centers by faculty members at University Education: competencies, needs and challenges

ABSTRACT

This study aimed at investigating the factual situation of electronic information resources centers to faculty members at university education. Competencies that faculty members should possess regarding this issue were determined. Also their needs for (scientific research skills and teaching) were assessed. In addition, problems that hinder their use of electronic resources centers were identified. Data obtained were analyzed statistically using SPSS in measuring reliability of instruments. Participants of the study were (655) faculty members at Saudi Universities (412 males & 243 females). Results indicated that there were significant differences between male and female at (α ≤ 0.05) level. Results also revealed significant differences between members of different ranks at (α ≤ 0.05) level, and between academic areas of specializations at (α ≤ 0.05) level. Significant differences were also found between faculty members in terms of years of experience in using electronic information resources centers at (α ≤ 0.05) level. This study recommends that most Saudi Universities are in need of establishing electronic information resources centers and offering training courses to provide technical support in a way to solve some of faculty members' problems.