Awareness, attitude and ethical concerns among faculty members in Nigerian universities on open educational resources (OERs)

Abstract

ABSTRACT Based on a descriptive research design, this study examined the variables of the levels of awareness, attitude and ethical concern in relation to faculty members in Nigerian universities and Open Educational Resources (OER). Against the backdrop of the five hypotheses raised and tested, findings indicated significant status-induced differences in how faculty members perceived OER and their ethical concern towards it. The analysis further showed that the benefits of OER (β = 0545) contributed more to the prediction of ethical concern. Moreover, academics’ awareness, attitude, and willingness contributed significantly to the emergence of OER initiatives. The study highlighted further academic staff benefits of OER in Nigerian universities. Consequently, it is recommended that universities and libraries need to fully embrace OER initiatives focusing on policy development, even as libraries undertake more aggressive awareness and advocacy programmes on OER among faculty members.