Assessing the Perceived Impact of Institutional Repositories among Faculty and Students: Evidence from Nigeria Maritime University ‎

Abstract

Institutional Repositories (IRs) are increasingly recognised as important tools for enhancing the visibility, accessibility, and long-term preservation of scholarly outputs in higher education institutions. This study assessed the perceived impact of the institutional repository among faculty and students at Nigeria Maritime University. A descriptive survey research design was adopted for the study. The population comprised academic staff and students from the Faculties of Engineering and Environmental Management. A total of 150 questionnaires were administered, out of which 104 were returned and found valid for analysis. Data collected were analysed using descriptive statistics such as frequencies, percentages, and mean scores. Findings of the study revealed that respondents generally perceived the institutional repository as highly beneficial in improving access to scholarly materials, enhancing visibility of academic work, supporting teaching and learning, promoting open access, and preserving academic outputs. It was also found that the repository is effective in facilitating knowledge sharing and academic resource organisation. However, the study identified limited institutional support and concerns about copyright as the major challenges affecting its effectiveness, while user-related issues such as lack of awareness, inadequate training, technical difficulties, and navigation problems were not considered significant. Furthermore, strategies such as increased awareness campaigns, regular training programmes, integration of the repository into academic activities, improved technical support, clear institutional policies, and active library involvement were strongly recommended to enhance its impact. The study concludes that while the institutional repository at Nigeria Maritime University is positively perceived and effectively utilised, its full potential can only be achieved through stronger institutional support and improved policy implementation.