The use of electronic journal articles by academics at Mzuzu University, Malawi

Abstract

Purpose The purpose of this study was to investigate academics’ use of scholarly electronic journal articles at Mzuzu University and assess the factors influencing their behaviour.

Methodology A questionnaire was sent out to all academics which was followed up with interviews with Deans of Faculties in order get more insight in the use of electronic journals by academics. Then, follow up questions were deployed using electronic mail for clarification of some of the answers.

Findings The most significant findings from this study showed that most academics had a general knowledge of the electronic journals and this did not vary with education. There was no significant difference between gender and searching skills. However, there were some major barriers to access. These included: teaching responsibilities; a lack of ICT and telecommunications, unreliable power supply, and access to journals was restricted to the campus.

Research Limitations During the period of data collection, most of the academics were on holiday as the university was not in session. It was also difficult to monitor data collection due to cost of travelling to Malawi. This limited the number of responses. In addition, face to face interviews would have added depth to the study through observation of behaviour and extensive probing. However, this was not possible due to the cost of returning to Malawi.

Impact This study will influence management decisions within the library at Mzuzu University with regard to the provision of support. It will also provide guidance for other institutions experiencing a similar context.

Originality Although similar research initiatives have been carried out, this study is different in that it focuses on the information behaviour of academics at Mzuzu University.