Interplay of Digital Literacy Skills and Utilization of Electronic Resources among Postgraduate Students of National Open University of Nigeria in North-Western States, Nigeria

Abstract

This study investigates the relationship between digital literacy skills and utilization of electronic
resources among postgraduate students at the National Open University of Nigeria's NorthWestern Study Centres. The study employed a survey research design. The population of the study
comprised 753 postgraduate’s postgraduate students of National Open University of Nigeria in
North-Western States study centres. The sample size of the study is 261 postgraduate’s
postgraduate students of National Open University of Nigeria in North-Western States study
centres. The data was analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics. The findings reveal a
high level of digital literacy among students. The study also found a relatively low extent of
electronic resource utilization. The further found that significant challenges such as internet costs,
power supply issues, and digital literacy gaps. A significant positive correlation was found
between digital literacy and resource utilization, suggesting the need for targeted interventions to
enhance electronic resource usage. The study concludes with recommendations for students and
university management to leverage digital skills to improve electronic resource utilization and
address existing barriers.