Periodical literature use by the pre‐final and final undergraduate students in Nigerian universities

Abstract

Purpose

The main objective of this study is to discuss the needs and the information utilization patterns of periodical literature amongst the pre‐final and final year undergraduate students in Nigerian universities. As a result, the study attempts to solve the following problems: What are the information needs of undergraduate students in relation to periodical literature? How do they go about seeking such information needed in periodical literature? How do they make valuable use of the information available to them in such periodical literature? What should the university libraries do to meet the information needs of these students in relation to periodical literature?

Design/methodology/approach

The researcher aimed at studying periodical literature use by the pre‐final and final year undergraduate students in Nigerian universities. It is impossible to sample the entire population hence a cross‐sectional descriptive Survey design was employed as the most suitable because the population under study was fairly large and heterogeneous. A questionnaire was designed to know the attitude, interest and value of the pre‐final and final year undergraduate students. In order to have an accurate assessment, questionnaire was designed and distributed to collect vital information from the undergraduate students. Also, observation and direct oral interviews were also employed to supplement the information provided through the questionnaires collected.

Findings

Findings show that 70 per cent respondents used the library once every week, undergraduate students need and utilize periodical literature materials for their information needs, the general purpose of using periodical literature was mainly for research among others.

Originality/value

Useful in determining the periodical use by students as well as assisting serials librarian in planning.

Citation

Isaac Ajala, O. (2008), "Periodical literature use by the pre‐final and final undergraduate students in Nigerian universities", Library Review, Vol. 57 No. 1, pp. 42-49. https://doi.org/10.1108/00242530810845053