The Role Of Digital Libraries In Enhancing Open Education In Higher Education: Evidence From King Faisal University

Abstract

The study aimed to investigate the role of digital libraries in advancing open education within higher education settings. It sought to ascertain the current realities of digital libraries' contributions to promoting open education, particularly from the viewpoint of postgraduate students. Additionally, the study aimed to explore the methods employed by digital libraries to foster open education in higher education, as perceived by postgraduate students. Lastly, it aimed to outline the challenges encountered by digital libraries in their efforts to promote open education, as perceived by students participating in the study. Employing the descriptive survey method, the study's sample comprised graduate students from King Faisal University, totaling (362) participants. The findings indicated that digital libraries play a role, albeit to some extent, in advancing open education. Moreover, the study confirmed the approval of digital library methods in promoting open education, while also acknowledging the difficulties faced by digital libraries in this regard.