Student Perspectives on the Ease of Use and Acceptance of Electronic Resources

Abstract

This study aimed to investigate the ease of use and acceptance of electronic resources among 372 students across eight colleges at Kalinga State University’s Main Campus. Grounded in the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), the research explored the influence of perceived ease of use, perceived benefits, and external variables like technological proficiency and resource accessibility on e-resource adoption. Data was collected via surveys and informal interviews using a self-made questionnaire covering perceived ease of use, acceptance levels, and user-encountered problems. The sample size was determined using Slovin’s formula with a 5% margin of error and a 95% confidence level. Data analysis employed weighted mean, normality testing using the Kolmogorov-Smirnov test, and the one-way ANOVA test to find significant differences. Findings revealed that while e-resources are generally perceived as easy to use and acceptable, open-access options are strongly preferred. E-resource acceptance was usually consistent across colleges. Significant barriers include slow internet connection, difficulties in information retrieval, limited access, and computer facilities. The study recommends significant investment in internet infrastructure and computer availability, prioritization of open-access resources, targeted ICT training programs, backup power solutions, and feedback mechanisms for continuous improvement, including targeted support for colleges with lower usage scores.