E-information usage among engineering academics in India with special reference to Rajasthan State

摘要

The main objective of this paper is to analyse and evaluate the use of e-resources by the engineering academics of Rajasthan state. It aims to consider the various factors of e-resources usage such as purposes, impact, importance, problems, acceptance, and satisfaction with e-resources. Design/methodology/approach: A survey method of research was applied to ascertain the present status of use of e-resources. The survey was conducted with the help of a structured questionnaire followed by interview as and where it was felt necessary. Two formats of questionnaire were prepared; first, a printed format and second, an electronic format using Google Docs spreadsheet. The data so collected were analysed and interpreted with the help of MS Excel. Findings: The study finds many aspects of e-resources use among engineering academics of Rajasthan. It reveals that academic staff were using many types of e-resources. They were also using the latest sources of information like e-groups, virtual conferences. Using the e-resources, their academic/professional competency also improved. The teaching methodology also involved the e-resources uses and the students' ability was also affected in a positive manner by this methodology. Some problems were also explored in using e-resources. The majority of users were quite satisfied with using e-resources. Originality/value: The study was an attempt to evaluate the use of e-resources by academic staff of engineering colleges of Rajasthan. Results from the study are encouraging and it is hoped that the findings will provide meaning and a useful platform for further research as well as usability among engineering academics will also be improved.