Abstract
The research evaluated technology ethical practices in the utilization of digital resources by
undergraduates at Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka. Four research questions guided the
study. Survey research design was adopted for the study. The population comprised of 25,000
undergraduates in UNIZIK. A sample of 400 undergraduates was selected using convenience
sampling technique. The observation checklist and questionnaire was used for data collection.
The instrument was validated by 3 experts. The Crombach Alpha reliability method was used
and a reliability coefficient of 0.87 was gotten. Data collected was analyzed using descriptive
statistics of mean scores. The study found that the undergraduates are not aware of the
technology ethics in using digital resources. To a low extent, majority of the undergraduates
do not adhere to technology ethical guidelines when using digital resources. The factors that
influence ethical or unethical behaviors in the use of digital resources were lack of awareness
of technology ethics principles, and pressure to prioritize convenience when using digital
resources, among others. The strategies to promote the ethical use of digital resources were
incorporating technology ethics education into the curriculum to helps students develop a
deeper understanding of ethical principles related to electronic library resource, and
establishing clear policies for the ethical use of digital resources, among others. In
conclusion, the study reveals a concerning lack of awareness and adherence to technology
ethics among the students. The study recommended the need for the university to integrate
digital ethics as part of general education or ICT courses for undergraduates.
Publication Date: 2025-02-13