Enhancing Professional Growth: E-Learning Effects on The Development of Medical Librarians of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
Abstract
This study aimed to analyze the effect of electronic learning on the continuous professional development of medical librarians in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The research population included librarians employed in medical and dental institutions across the KP region, comprising 15 public-sector and 17 private-sector institutions. In total, 106 professionals participated, including 32 Librarians, 38 Assistant Librarians, and 36 Library Assistants. A stratified proportionate random sampling technique was utilized to ensure fair representation across all groups. A structured questionnaire, developed based on relevant literature and validated by experts, was designed using a five-point Likert scale. Adopting a quantitative research approach through a survey method, 84 questionnaires were distributed among the sample selected, with 74 returned. After data screening, 71 fully completed responses were analyzed using IBM SPSS version 30, resulting in an 84.5% response rate. The findings highlighted medical librarians' perceptions of electronic learning resources. Respondents strongly agreed with statements such as ‘E-learning has encouraged me to explore and recommend additional materials to users’ (M = 4.30, SD = 0.991) and ‘E-learning enhances my ability to support library services’ (M = 4.30, SD = 1.126), indicating positive attitudes toward digital learning tools. Regarding the role of e-learning in continuous professional development, the highest mean score was recorded for the statement ‘I feel confident applying skills learned through e-learning in my workplace’ (M = 4.35, SD = 1.084), reflecting strong confidence in the practical benefits of e-learning. However, respondents also expressed concerns about technological challenges, as shown by the high mean score for the statement ‘Technical difficulties (e.g., internet connectivity and platform usability) hinder my participation in e-learning’ (M = 4.28, SD = 0.929). Based on these insights, the study recommends that institutions prioritize improving internet access and resolving technical barriers to ensure uninterrupted engagement with e-learning platforms. Additionally, libraries should offer training programs to enhance librarians' ability to navigate and effectively utilize digital learning resources.
Keywords: Continuous Professional Development; Medical Librarians; E-Learning.
