Influence of gender differences on the use of electronic information resources by undergraduates of university of Ilesa, Osun state, Nigeria

Abstract

The study examined the influence of gender differences on the use of electronic information resources (EIRs) by undergraduates of the University of Ilesa, Osun State, Nigeria. The main objective was to determine whether gender differences significantly influence the frequency, perceived effectiveness, and overall utilisation of EIRs among undergraduates. The study employed a descriptive cross sectional survey design, targeting all 4,163 registered library users in the 2025/2026 academic session. A sample of 200 undergraduates was determined using Cochran's (1977) formula, and data were collected through a structured questionnaire (Cronbach's alpha = 0.81). The data were analysed using descriptive statistics, Chi square tests, and independent samples t tests. The findings showed that undergraduates have a high rate of EIR usage with a grand mean of 3.59 (SD = 0.60). The Chi square test showed no significant association between gender and frequency of EIR usage (χ 2 (3, N = 197) = 1.599, p = .660). Independent samples t tests showed no significant difference in perceived effectiveness (t(195) = −0.410, p = .682) or overall EIR utilisation (t(195) = −0.434, p = .664). These results indicate that gender does not play a major role in the accessibility, utilisation, and perceived value of electronic information resources by undergraduates. The study recommends sustaining digital literacy training, enhancing ICT infrastructure, and promoting equal access to maintain equitable EIR engagement.