Assessing the Factors Affecting E-Resources Acceptance among Postgraduate Students of Punjab, Pakistan

Abstract

This study combines the internal components of the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) with variables including awareness, influencers, training modalities, and technology to measure research scholars' acceptance of electronic resources. Data were gathered from postgraduate students at three public universities in South Punjab, Pakistan, using a cross-sectional survey. To analyze the data, structural equation modeling (SmartPLS v4.1.1.2) was employed. The results of our study showed that the adoption of e-resources is significantly influenced by external factors when the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) is considered. All of the study's hypotheses were validated, and the results showed that behavioral intention to utilize e-resources is positively correlated with awareness, training, influencers, and technology, which all significantly impact perceived ease of use. This study will make a substantial contribution to the literature from developing nations and will be beneficial for librarians, developers, policymakers, HEC officials, and university libraries when designing e-resources to increase their acceptance.