E-Resource Utilization Among Kuwait University Faculty: an Analytical Study

Abstract

This study explores the electronic resources usage patterns, awareness levels, and challenges associated with e-resources among 1,128 academic respondents across various designations and experience levels in Kuwait Universities. The results reveal a high level of engagement, with 42% accessing e-resources daily and 99.20% utilizing them for research purposes. Assistant Professors formed the majority of respondents, and most had 7 to10 years of teaching experience. While platforms like DOAJ, Google Scholar, and Shodhganga showed high awareness, others such as BASE Search and Highwire were less known. Despite the advantages of time efficiency, space saving, and accessibility, users faced significant barriers including poor network connectivity, power fluctuations, and information overload. Satisfaction levels were notably high, with 89.10% of respondents expressing strong approval. The study underscores the need for improved infrastructure, targeted training, and broader awareness to enhance the effective use of e-resources in academia.