Assessment of Information needs and Information-Seeking Behavior of Students at the University of Dodoma (UDOM).

Dadu, Maria Petro (2023) Assessment of Information needs and Information-Seeking Behavior of Students at the University of Dodoma (UDOM). Masters thesis, The Open University of Tanzania.

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Abstract

The main objective of this study was to assess information needs and information seeking behavior of students at the University of Dodoma. Specifically, the study sought to: identify types of information resources needed by university students; determine the factors that influence information needs and information seeking behavior of university students and identify the challenges faced by university students when seeking information. The study employed a cross-sectional research design and mixed method approach involving 198 respondents, who were randomly and purposively selected from a study population of 392 respondents. Empirical data for this study were collected using a standardized questionnaire with both close and open-ended questions, and interviews. Key findings revealed that 94(52.8%) of the students used internet sources to accomplish their assignments. Findings further revealed that, although there are various information materials such as printed resources, brochures, television, newspapers, and others, yet students preferred electronic resources more than other sources available. The study further revealed that over 60% of the students indicated available information sources satisfied their information needs. Findings also revealed lack of information searching skills, time, and slow internet speed were among the challenges faced by students when seeking information. The study concludes that through library information literacy training programs for lifelong learning, university students need to be well informed of different information sources pertaining to their subject areas of specialization, in order to enhance their academic/research performance, as well as later in their professional and academic engagement with the community and society at large. The study recommends: acquisition of current library resources and subscription to relevant databases; inclusion of Information Literacy (IL) training to students in the university curricula; and increase library bandwidth in order to improve and enhance internet connectivity and use by students. Keywords: Information needs, information seeking behavior, University of Dodoma, Tanzania.

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