Self-efficacy as correlate of knowledge sharing by information professionals in selected university libraries in South-West, Nigeria

Abstract

This research investigated the relationship between self-efficacy and knowledge sharing among information professionals in selected university libraries in the South-West region of Nigeria. The study aimed to achieve three main objectives. Employing a descriptive survey design rooted in the positivism paradigm, the population consisted of 95 academic librarians from six universities: Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB); University of Ibadan (UI); Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ife; Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA); Federal University, Oye (FUOYE); and University of Lagos (UNILAG).
The study adopted a total enumerative sampling technique, and the data collected were analyzed using descriptive statistics (such as frequency, percentages, mean, and standard deviation) as well as inferential statistics (specifically Pearson Product Moment Correlation, with a significance level set at 0.05). The findings revealed that information professionals in the selected university libraries perceive knowledge sharing as a valuable process that fosters innovation, creativity, problem-solving, and skill enhancement. Various channels were identified through which knowledge is shared, including face-to-face interaction, email, mobile phones, WhatsApp, memos, and Facebook.
Additionally, the study highlighted the significance of self-efficacy in enabling information professionals to effectively perform their duties, acquire knowledge efficiently, and apply what they have learned. Moreover, a positive and significant correlation was found between self-efficacy and knowledge sharing. Based on these results, it is recommended that universities and libraries actively encourage and facilitate knowledge sharing among information professionals by providing appropriate channels and platforms. Furthermore, organizations and managers should prioritize the enhancement of employees` self-efficacy through training and development programs, mentoring, and coaching initiatives.