Guidelines for the Library to effectively support eResearch Activities at the Obafemi Awolowo University, Nigeria

Abstract

eResearch, a term used in the international academic community since the early 2000s facilitates scholarly collaborative and interactive research by providing access to shared data, institutional repositories, research tools and services through the internet. eResearch initiatives are globally allowing researchers to collaborate using ICT. This paper will report on a study which sought to establish eResearch activities in Obafemi Awolowo University, Nigeria, identify the challenges faced by researchers in carrying out eResearch in their various work environments and propose a guideline for effective library support of such projects.16 participants were interviewed for this empirical study. These participants were drawn from 6 Departments cutting across four of the 13 University Faculties. The researcher used purposive and snowballing sample techniques. Interviews were transcribed and responses of all the respondents analysed based on the research questions. Eight collaborative eResearch projects were identified during the course of this study. The participants indicated that these projects took place within the University Community but across country boundaries. It is worth noting that the researchers that participated in this study engage in quality collaborations both within Africa and also beyond. Most of the researchers gained their skills and practices through personal development while on the job, therefore, there is a need to advocate the inclusion of eResearch methodology in postgraduate programmes. It is of concern that the researchers have not been able to appreciate the roles that the library can play in supporting their online research activities. To change this view, the library must proactively survey the various online research projects going on in the University and provide the necessary support. Thus, this paper will share some of the insights gained and recommend a number of initiatives a library could put in place to embed within eResearch projects – all in the interest of more effective research.