Background of the Study
Institutional repositories function as centralized digital archives that preserve, manage, and disseminate scholarly work. At the Federal College of Education in Abeokuta, these repositories are vital tools for enhancing knowledge sharing among researchers. They allow for the open and systematic sharing of research outputs such as journal articles, theses, and conference papers (Olabisi, 2023). Such repositories play an integral role in breaking down access barriers, thereby fostering a more collaborative academic environment. By providing unrestricted online access, institutional repositories enable researchers to share findings broadly, increasing the visibility and impact of their work. Moreover, these repositories support academic transparency and encourage inter-institutional collaborations by making scholarly content easily searchable and retrievable. However, despite these advantages, several challenges in repository management, such as technical glitches, lack of comprehensive metadata standards, and inconsistent submission rates, can impede effective knowledge sharing (Ibrahim & Lawal, 2024). This study examines how institutional repositories affect knowledge-sharing practices among researchers, shedding light on the critical factors that enable or hinder optimal utilization of these digital archives. It also explores how improvements in repository functionalities might lead to better research outcomes and academic collaboration in the college.
Statement of the Problem
Notwithstanding the strategic importance of institutional repositories in facilitating knowledge sharing, researchers at the Federal College of Education encounter significant challenges that limit the efficacy of these systems. Technical issues, poor metadata management, and a lack of awareness about repository benefits contribute to suboptimal usage. Consequently, valuable research outputs are not adequately disseminated, reducing their potential impact. The underlying issues in repository management require a thorough evaluation to determine necessary improvements and ensure that knowledge sharing is efficient and widely accessible (Abdulrahman, 2023).
Objectives of the Study
To assess the current state of institutional repositories in facilitating knowledge sharing.
To identify barriers that hinder effective repository use among researchers.
To propose strategies for enhancing knowledge sharing through improved repository management.
Research Questions
How effective are institutional repositories in promoting knowledge sharing among researchers?
What barriers affect the optimal use of these repositories?
What strategies can be implemented to overcome these barriers?
Significance of the Study
This study is significant as it provides a comprehensive evaluation of how institutional repositories facilitate knowledge sharing among researchers. The insights gained will help improve repository management and digital infrastructure, thereby enhancing research dissemination and academic collaboration at the Federal College of Education (Awolowo, 2023).
Scope and Limitations of the Study
The study is limited to researchers at the Federal College of Education, Abeokuta, and focuses solely on the use of institutional repositories for knowledge sharing. It does not include analysis of other digital platforms or institutions.
Definitions of Terms
Institutional Repository: An online archive designed to collect, preserve, and disseminate academic outputs.
Knowledge Sharing: The process of distributing and exchanging research information among the academic community.
Researchers: Academics engaged in systematic inquiry and scholarly activities.
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