Electronic Resource Usage in Academic and Research Institutions in Tanzania

Abstract

This article is based on a rapid assessment of conditions under which electronic resources are used in 10 academic institutions in Tanzania. Its primary focus is on the use of electronic resources available through the Programme for the Enhancement of Research Information (PERI). Data was collected using face-to-face interviews and questionnaires. Major findings are: availability of basic technical and human resources for electronic resources access and use; limited access to PCs for student use; variations among institutions in accessing electronic resources. Other findings include: problems in marketing electronic resources; inadequacy in enduser training; limited levels of use of PERI resources. Identified challenges of using electronic resources were: slow Internet connectivity; limited access to PCs; poor search skills to effectively use electronic resources and power cuts. Based on the findings the study makes policy recommendations on training in the use and marketing of electronic resources for specific user groups and resources.