Factors Influencing the use of Academic social media in Enhancing Research Activities of Library and Information Science Educators in Nigerian Universities

Abstract

The study investigated factors influencing the use of Academic social media (ASM) in enhancing research activities of Library and Information Science Educators (LISE) in Nigerian universities. Descriptive survey research design was used and the target population consists of 348 LISE in 37 University- based Library Schools in Nigeria. A sample size of 258 LISE was drawn from the population using Multistage sampling technique. Structured questionnaire with five =point Likert scale was designed in line with the research questions. A total of 258 copies of the questionnaire were administered on respondents (online) through their respective emails. Response rate showed that 190 copies of the questionnaire were retrieved. Percentage, frequency counts, and mean score were used in the analysis of data. Results showed that Google Scholar was the most utilized ASM and recommendations from colleagues was the most social influence factor that has influenced ASM use by LISE. In the findings of the study, it was revealed that respondents have not received adequate trainings on ASM use. The study concluded that the low level of training on ASM use was because LISE have not utilized ASM platforms to search and participate in various training programmes opportunities available over the globe. The study recommended that the management of university-based library schools in Nigeria should encourage LISE to patronize ASM platforms in enhancing their research activities.