AWARENESS AND USE OF E-JOURNALS AMONG SOCIAL SCIENCE PhD SCHOLARS OF KASHMIR UNIVERSITY

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to determine the level of awareness regarding e-journals among social science PhD scholars of Kashmir University. The paper also aims to highlight the challenges faced by research scholars in the usage of e-journals. The present study was conducted using a Google questionnaire that was circulated among PhD scholars of Kashmir University. A total sample of 80 scholars was randomly chosen from the faculty of social sciences. Only 63 scholars responded to the survey and therefore the response rate recorded was 78.75%. A well-structured questionnaire was administered among research scholars to collect the primary information about the level of awareness, use of e-journals, challenges as well as other associated factors, keeping in view the objectives of the study. The findings clearly reveal that all PhD scholars (100%) at Kashmir University are aware of e-journals. Most of them (42.85%) have learned about e-journals from their fellow scholars. Laptops and mobile phones are the prime access points for e-journals. The majority of them (58.73%) use e-journals two to three times a week mainly for the purpose of research. Google is the most widely used search engine for locating information electronically. Keyword is the most popular search strategy for searching e-journals among research scholars. E-journals are preferred by the majority of scholars (85.71%) compared to print journals. However, it is found that slow internet, restricted access to e-journals, and lack of skills are the main challenges that would deter scholars from efficiently using e journals. Additionally, a lack of knowledge about advanced searching techniques further prevents proper and full usage of e-journals. The study suggests that orientation sessions should be organized from time to time. Apart from this, faster internet facilities and access to more e-journals should be sought.