Abstract
The study explored the utilization of Online Electronic Resources (OER) for effective scholarly
research among lecturers in Taraba State University, Jalingo. A descriptive survey design was
used for the study. A sample of 500 lecturers was drawn from the university through the
stratified random sampling technique. Data collection was carried out with the aid of a structured
questionnaire, and data collected were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistical
methods. The findings revealed that 87.5% of the lecturers were moderately to highly aware of
OER. However, only 25% utilized OER daily, indicating limited integration into their regular
research practices. The study also identified a strong positive correlation (r = 0.72, p < 0.001)
between OER usage and research efficiency, with usage frequency being the most critical
predictor. Key challenges for lecturers included: unreliable internet access 65%, insufficient
digital skills 45%, and limited institutional support 40%. The study also showed how OER might
serve as a game-changer in improving research output and efficiency, especially for settings with
limited resources. The study recommended that the university should increase internet
infrastructure, hold capacity-building programs, and develop institutional policies to influence
the adoption and effective use of OER. These will help to create an enabling research
environment that fully exploits the benefits of OER for increased academic productivity and
innovation.
Keywords: Online Electronic Resources (OER), Scholarly Research, University, Utilization.
Publication Date: 2025-02-13