Toward A Hybrid Use of Printed Textbook and Electronic Resources: An Inquiry of Publishing Studies Undergraduate Students’ Educational Resource Use at KNUST, Ghana

Undergraduate use of printed and electronic resources

Abstract

The use of electronic resources and printed textbooks by undergraduate students in Ghanaian higher education institutions started at the beginning of the 20th Century. Yet, there is inadequate in-depth exploration of the user patterns and preferences for printed textbooks and e-resources. This study aimed to explore undergraduate students’ user patterns and preferences for e-resources and printed textbooks. The study engaged 300 undergraduate students from Year One to Year Four in KNUST’s Department of Publishing Studies. It employed a descriptive design and a quantitative research approach. An expert-validated customised survey instrument was administered and analysed using the statistical software Jamovi (version 2.4.11) and Microsoft Excel (version 2019). The research indicated that male students had slightly higher average scores in the use of e-resources and textbooks compared to female students. It recommends the adoption of hybrid library collections that combine electronic and print materials to cater to students’ academic needs and varied preferences. The growing acknowledgment of the advantages of electronic resources—such as their accessibility, interactivity, and support for different learning styles reflects a notable change in students’ preferences as they navigate their academic journeys. This approach will accommodate various learning styles and enhance access to materials, potentially boosting students’ engagement and success. Therefore, investing in digital infrastructure and providing training on these online resources for all students is essential.