AWARENESS AND USE OF SERIAL PUBLICATIONS AMONG UNDERGRADAUTES IN KWARA STATE

BADARU AYOTUNDE

JULY, 2013

ABSTRACT

Despite the vantage position of serials publications amongst the materials acquired in the library most especially academic libraries and in spite of their unique values as dependable allies of academics and other researchers and the increasing cost of their acquisition, serials have not enjoyed a corresponding attention from undergraduates in tertiary institutions. This study therefore was undertaken to find out the level of awareness and use of serial publications among undergraduates in Kwara state and the influence its use has on their academic performance. Attention was directed to information and communication technology and how it can be integrated with serials use in the academic library. A sample population of 224 undergraduates was selected from the 4 universities in the state and a high return rate was attained. The undergraduate students were identified as a group that are aware of the existence of serials but use them less for their academic work even with the existence of free online public access serials on the internet. The study, discovered some loopholes and lapses that are barriers against the effective use of serials which need to be addressed to ensure that users are satisfied. Thus, the recommendations made included implementation of current awareness methods to increase awareness; and the acquisition Online Public Access Catalogue for serials in each university library for better use of serials.

CHAPTER ONE INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background of the Study

Serials have historically and presently focused on the provision of current or up-to-date information in general or specific fields of study, this is one of the reasons why according to Woodward (1999) it constitutes a major part of the collection of academic libraries and also accounts for a large sum of the library expenditure, the academic library inclusive. The

academic library is an integral part of tertiary institutions and accounts for majority of the information material holdings of a tertiary institution, serving all and sundry especially staff and students of a tertiary institution. To further underline the importance of the academic library to a tertiary institution, Kwampong (1970) stated that the academic library is the heart and aorta of any academic institution, he went further to state that the health and effectiveness of any academic institution depends on the state of health of the library in that academic institution. The academic library therefore, cannot claim to be the determining factor for the state of excellence of its parent body i.e. the institution where it is situated, if it cannot provide the immediate needs of individuals in that institution, which it can only do through the provision of information materials. Immediate needs as the name implies refers to current information gaps that individuals have identified during the course of their activities on a specific field of study, therefore, the academic library is obligated to be current in its holdings so as to fill immediate information gaps as they are discovered. If immediate needs are not meet, the academic library is considered to be inert and moribund which results in an inert and moribund academic

institution and automatically low standard of excellence for patrons the academic library serves especially undergraduates. Apart from books, serials form a vital part of the academic librarys collection for meeting the immediate needs of patrons in its community especially undergraduates for the purpose of this study. Academic libraries acquire, process and make serials available to its patrons who are usually undergraduates through continuous subscription. Serial are usually treated separately in libraries i.e. they are acquired, processed and disseminated separately due to rate of subscription and peculiarity of its nature. The unit responsible for serials management is the serials unit, which was described by Oni (2004) as the unit responsible for serials operations. Osborn (1980) defined serials as a printed work that appears regularly, founded with the expectation of unlimited duration, which is not predominantly concerned with events of the day or else it pays attention only to the latest development in a special field. In addition to this, Harold (1987) describes serials as any publication bearing either chronological or numerical designations issued in successive parts, appearing at intervals and as a rule, intended to be continued indefinitely. The definitions above not only describe serials literature but also underlay the major importance of serials: providing current information. This importance is very essential to the relevance of the academic library to its immediate community and the general population. Kinds of serials include journals, newspapers, newsletters, proceedings, transactions of societies and other periodicals like abstracts and indexes. These types of serials vary in content and interval of appearance. Daily Newspapers constitute the highest rate of issues because of its daily

publications, but it doesnt provide information on specific fields of study, it takes a little of everything in one issue. Unlike journals, that will not be published daily but focuses on the specifics in a field of study. Serials are usually in print formats but with the advent of

information technology, serials are not computerized appearing in e-formats.

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A brief look at the origin of serials show that, according to Osborn (1980), serials can be traced back to the period when annals where written on the tombs of Egyptian kings during the first dynasty. This is no surprise as the growth of papyrus started along the Nile River in Egypt, papyrus being a paper-like material was a major landmark in the history of writing and ultimately the beginning of serials. As time evolved, other notable inventions such as the moveable types by Johannes Gutenberg, typewriters, and of course computers have facilitated the development and use of serials up to the 1990s when serials and the internet were compliments of one another. Undergraduate students are an integral part of the university community. They form the receiving members of the university community, while the lecturers and other staff form the giving members of the university community. This makes learning the most important issue for undergraduates. As the receiving group, undergraduates are expected to use information usually based on specific courses of study for assignments, reports, presentations, seminars, and final year projects, this is encouraged and expected of the undergraduate for excellent performance. The academic library located in the university should be open to undergraduates for the use of its serials, as serials are vital information materials providing the latest in a field of study and suiting the needs of the learning group which will always have immediate needs, this is supported by Fayose (1995), when he stated that serials are very useful because they are the most up-to-date materials in the library and that articles in serials are written by experts in the field, making them reliable and precise. Although, even with the enormous benefits of serials to the academic performance of undergraduates, it seems undergraduates do not recognize this, or they ignore the benefits they can derive from the use of serials and some cases the few undergraduates who are interested in the use of serials are denied access, a brief look at some findings show this.
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Salaam (2008) in the study of availability, accessibility and utilization of journals by postgraduate students of the University of Agriculture Nigeria showed that serials are available and accessible to only postgraduate students in the institution, practices like this are huge barriers to the use of serials by undergraduates. In addition to this, Adubika (2007) in his comparative study of serials management in polytechnic libraries, revealed that both libraries efficiently collect core journals, they referred to core journals as the most useful journals in various fields of study. The availability of not just journals but core journals goes to show that relevant information is present in a library, which should be fully utilized by undergraduates. Igbeka and Ola (2010) in their study of the use of newspapers by students of Delta state university in Nigeria revealed that the library actually subscribes to a number of daily newspapers as part of serials collection of the library and that the newspapers are actually used by students. Findings outside Nigeria with reference to Lawoe (1998) in her study of serials use at Kwame Nkrumah University of science and technology revealed that core journals are adequately acquired and use to an extent. These findings go to extent to show that serials are available and actually used by students but only to an extent in universities and polytechnics across Nigeria and outside the country. Apart from the academic library, the internet is also a major channel that provides serials to undergraduates. Although, the academic library in some institutions also provides internet based search and the use of Online Public Access Catalogue, the internet is an independent concept on it own, it is for this purpose that we should take a brief look at the internet independent of the academic library and how it affects undergraduate students use of serials. Undergraduate students before the attainment of any academic achievement must do research at some point to increase their knowledge about their field of study. Studies have shown that journals are the most valued information communication channel for researchers. With the advent of the internet
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in the 1960s and the World Wide Web (www) in the 1990s, every of human knowledge was made available for use just by searching the web; this inevitably includes serials of all kinds as the web pages of various journals, newspapers, magazines and so on can be generated just by one search of the web. The cost of journals subscription on the internet however, is high and most libraries cannot afford to subscribe for all journals needed, just a few. It is in this regard that open access journals was started Oren (2008). Open access journals are scholarly journals that are available online to the readers without financial, legal or technical barriers other that those inseparable from gaining access to the internet itself (Suber, 2006). Open access journals as the name implies are written for impact and free readership not for payment. Open access journals were initiated out of the burning need of authors and writers to share their discoveries with the large population who dont subscribe to payment journals. Undergraduate students can now with the use of open access journals gain access to information and do research for school work and academic achievement. Applebee and Clayton (1996) also found that ease, convenience, and accessibility were major factors influencing the use of open access journals. Although, with the enormous benefits of the advent of the internet to journals, Nigerian academic libraries can only afford to subscribe to vey few low cost journals. Open access journals therefore are sponsored and subsidized by bodies and non-profit making organization especially in this part of the world, such as International Network for the Availability of Scientific Publications (INASP) an initiative of Program me for the Enhancement of Research Information (PERI); African Journals Online (AJOL) initiative; JSTOR and so on Omotayo (2010). Lawoe (1998) in her study of serials use at Kwame Nkrumah University of science and technology revealed that the use of the use of African Journals Online (AJOL), Blackwells, EBSCO and Emerald was part of a PERI project at the university that provided online journals
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which boosted the use of serials at the library, but sponsorship for the project ended in December, 2004 which automatically saw the use of serials diminish. This results of these study goes further to underlay the inaccessibility to serials use by undergraduate students. Serials and undergraduate students are two independent entities that compliment each other. Serials provide current information that fills new information gaps discovered by students and students consult serials for current information. The academic library, the internet and other

institutions that provide serials come in as intermediaries between the source (serials) and the receiver (undergraduate students). Patrons therefore, consult these intermediaries for the access to serials and for the undergraduate students the academic library and the internet are major intermediaries. Serials collection therefore either in print or online form, is worthy of unwavering attention especially in its use and overall management. Undergraduates are under pressure most times to perform excellently through assignments and projects, serials with its ability to meet up with immediate needs may as well be their saving grace.

1.2 Statement of the Problem

Undergraduate students in the university community are mainly concerned with one major pre-occupation: learning. Learning in tertiary institutions therefore, goes beyond class lectures or the traditional lecturer-student interaction in class. Undergraduate students are expected to conduct research for immediate needs such as continuous assignment and assessment test, further reading apart from class notes, presentations and ultimately final year projects which serials are capable of providing information for. However, these undergraduates have unlimited access to serials in the academic libraries and even the internet. Researchers have shown that high price of

subscription to serials both print and online, budget cuts by university management, lack of internet access, inadequate basic search skills, ignorance and so on are the major challenges. These challenges in turn bounce back on the undergraduates in Nigeria and this seems to be affecting academic performance and overall knowledge standard, this as well escalates to affect the educational standard of the entire nation. The role of academic libraries, open access journals and other sources for current serials is to provide undergraduates with immediate information needs. However, there appears to be lack of access to these serials or restriction to their use. It is against this background that this study investigates serials awareness and use among university undergraduates in Kwara State, Nigeria and the extent to which the use of serials has affected the academic performance of undergraduates.

1.3 Objectives of the Study

The general objective of this study is to find out the level of awareness and use of serials and the influence of serials use on the academic performance of university undergraduates. The specific objectives are: i. ii. To determine the level of awareness about serials among university in Kwara state. To determine the frequency of use of serial publications by undergraduates in Kwara state. iii. To determine the rate of accessibility to serials for university undergraduates in Kwara state.

iv.

To identify the constraints faced by university undergraduates in the use of serial publications.

v.

To find out the type of serials used by university undergraduates and its influence on the academic performance of the students.

1.4 Research Questions

The study will seek to answer the following questions: i. What is the level of awareness of serials among university undergraduate students in Kwara state? ii. What is the frequency of use of serials by university undergraduate students in Kwara state? iii. What is the rate of accessibility to serials for university undergraduates in Kwara state? iv. What are the constraints faced by university undergraduates in the use of serials in Kwara state? v. What are the types of serials used by university undergraduates and what is the influence of its use on their academic performance.

1.5 Scope of the Study

This is study will focus on university undergraduates awareness of serials collection available in academic libraries, open access journals and online serials databases. However, awareness of serials doesnt imply use of serials, so this study will go further to determining the use of serials by university undergraduate students in Kwara State.

This study will therefore, focus on serials, undergraduate students and the role of the academic library and the internet in the awareness and use of serials in Kwara State. This study will not be limited to only government owned universities but will include private universities in the region. The universities are: University of Ilorin (Federal), Kwara State University (State), Landmark University (Private), and Al-Hikmah University (Private).

1.6 Significance of the Study

This study is significant because undergraduates in the university are required to conduct research for notes, further reading, assignments and projects which serials can provide current information for. Undergraduate students therefore, need serials for virtually every academic activity they find themselves engaged in, as this increases not only their grades but also their overall knowledge standard. The findings of this study will assist policymakers, stakeholders and university management bodies in Kwara state ascertain the level of impact their policies and directives are making on serials use in universities. This study will also go further to bring to light the willingness of undergraduates to use serials and this will serve as a source of encouragement and challenge to academic library management and organizations sponsoring online serials to step un their efforts at serials provision. This study will also bring to light the type of serials undergraduate students are interested in using for their academic work which will be valuable information for university librarians and management bodies to determine the right serials to acquire and subscribe to and influence how libraries and online databases invest in the provision of serials.

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With all these, it is expected that this study will sensitize undergraduates to the immense benefits they can derive from the use of serials in their academic work and their ultimate overall academic achievement.

1.7 Definition of Terms

Serials: This can be defined as printed, non printed, and electronic materials issued in successive parts at regular or irregular interval and intended to be continued indefinitely. Use: An act that brings something into services for a particular purpose. Awareness: Knowledge or understanding of a particular subject or situation

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CHAPTER TWO REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE

2.1 Introduction

This chapter presents the review of literature related to the study. The literature review is focused on the concept of serials publication, its use, its history, its characteristics and its relationship with undergraduate students in universities in Kwara state. It is general knowledge that serials play an important role in research and academic activities, but unless utilized, information need may not be satisfied. Therefore, the academic library in the university community being a centre for information retrieval and use has the primary aim to serve the academic environment which includes the staffs, students and researchers their educational needs which automatically includes the collection of various fields of study in the institution, the institution in which the library is attached is also known as the parent institution. The academic library can therefore, be seen as the first point of call when it comes to educational needs and research in the university. This is why the academic library has been included in the conceptual framework of the literature review. The Information Seeking Behavior Theory is adapted for the theoretical framework of this study this is due to the enormous relationship it has with the focus of the study. The theory will be explained in detail and its relationship with the focus of the study will be discussed. Empirical literature review on this study will also discuss the various opinions of scholars on the subject of serials awareness and use.

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2.2 Conceptual Framework

2.2.1 Academic Library The library is defined as any organized collection of printed books and periodicals or any other graphic and audio visual materials and the services of the staff as are required to meet the information, research, educational or recreational needs of its user IFLA (1979). The library is also defined by Merriam-Webster Dictionary (1996) is a place in which literary, musical, artistic, or reference materials (as books, manuscripts, recordings, or films) are kept for use by the potential users either far or near. An academic library therefore, is defined as an entity in a postsecondary institution that provides an organized collection of printed or other materials or a combination thereof, a staff trained to provide and interpret such materials as required to meet the informational, cultural, recreational, or educational needs of clientele, an established schedule in which services of the staff are available to clientele and the physical facilities necessary to support such a collection, staff, and schedule (Tabs, 2003). The academic library is a type of library that is attached to a postsecondary institution to provide for the information needs of the parent institution i.e. the institution. For example, an academic library in a university has the university as its parent institution. The academic library having the university as its parent institution is expected to provide for the information needs of every individual in its community; staff and students of the university. This huge task requires the academic to acquire, organize and preserve information materials on a larger scale and also have several departments and units for each collection it posses. It is therefore worthy to note that to note that the library is an integral part of the educational institution, especially at the tertiary level (Popoola, 2006). In fact, Kwampong (1970) described the library as the academic heart and aorta of any academic institution. He said the health,
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intellectual vitality and the effectiveness of any educational institution depends in the main on the state of health and excellence of its library, which is its very lifeblood. An inert and moribund academic library, he further opines will ultimately translate into an inert and moribund institution. The academic library has a serial unit located under the technical services division of the academic library and as the name implies stocks the serials collection of the academic library. Oni (2004) described the unit responsible for serials operation in the library as serials unit. The serials units in academic libraries acquire, organize, store, retrieve and disseminate information contained in journals for researchers; educators, students and other interested persons in their various disciplines, university undergraduate can access these serials for various reasons. Serials literature, according to Woodward (1999), constitutes a major part of all academic libraries collections, and typically accounts for more than half of their expenditure on library materials.

2.2.2 Serials

A serial, as defined by AACR2 (1978), is a publication, in printed form or not, issued in successive parts usually having numerical or chronological designations and intended to be continued indefinitely. This definition points out the fact that serials dont have to be in printed form, this confirms the e-serials concept in our introduction. In addition, the definition uses the word successive which can also be known as consecutive meaning serials come one after the other, and according to the definition in a numerical or chronological order. Also, serials give updated information; this feature forces the serial to continue indefinitely. Agbaje (2002)

reported that anything that belongs to, forms part, or consists of a series qualifies to be called a serial. In addition to this, Osborn (1980) described a serial as a printed work appearing

regularly, founded with the expectation of unlimited duration, which is not predominantly
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concerned with events of the day or else it pays attention only to the latest development in a special field. It is important to point the fact that although serial publications may concern events of each day, this isnt always the case, serial publications may focus on a specified field providing information on that field alone for an unlimited duration. Brown and Smith (1980) stated that a serial is a publication that is numbered, and has every expectation to continuing either regularly or irregularly. Serial publications are numbered; this is because of the successive nature of serials. The definition also reveals that the serials can come regularly or irregularly, will be discussed later). Serials appear at varying intervals depending on the length of time before the release of a new issue. According to Farlex (2012), the major intervals for serials include: semiweekly - a periodical that is published twice each week (or 104 issues per year), weekly - a periodical that is published every week (or 52 issues per year), semimonthly - a periodical that is published twice each month (or 24 issues per year), monthly - a periodical that is published every month (or 12 issues per year), quarterly - a periodical that is published every quarter (or four issues per year), bimonthly - a periodical that is published twice a month or every two months (either 24 or 6 issues per year) and biweekly - a periodical that is published twice a week or every two weeks (either 104 or 26 issues per year). A brief look at the history of serials show that the printing of fascicles; the production of large works in installments to reduce cost, by ancient publishers was one of the earliest marks for serial production, Wikipedia (2012). According to Osborn (1980) writings on the tombs of Egyptian kings from 2750 to 2625 B.C. may be the earliest serial publications in history. In his account, Osborn told of a decree by Julius Caesar ordering that the proceedings of the Roman Senate be printed. The development of inventions year by year promoted production of serial publications. Major ones include the invention of movable tiles by Johannes Gutenberg in the
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15th century; microform technology invented by John Benjamin Dancer in 1839 was also a major development. In recent years, other inventions especially the computer and the internet is a push to the development of serials. Veaner (1985) as cited by Akinbode (2011), machine-driven typesetting development remarkably increased the development of serial publications. Serials literature, according to Adio (2006) is categorized into periodicals and nonperiodicals based on intended frequency of the publications. A periodical is intended to appear regularly and more often than once a year. This includes journals, newspapers and magazines. Non-periodicals are usually dated or numbered, published either regularly or irregularly and not usually paid for in advance of publications. They include annuals, conference proceeding, monographic series etc. Definitions given on the Miguel de Benavides Library website (2008) show that a newsletter is a regularly distributed publication generally about one topic that is of interest to its subscribers. Newsletters are published by clubs, churches, societies, associations, and businesses, especially companies. This provides information of interest to their members, customers or employees. In addition to this, newspapers are written publications containing news, information and advertising, usually printed on low-cost paper called newsprint? It often features articles on political event, crime, business, art/entertainment, society and sports. Most of the papers also feature an editorial page containing columns which express the personal opinion of the writers. Newspapers are often published on a daily or weekly basis. It features weather news and forecasts, a gossip column, a sports section and classified ads. Popular magazines are

publications, generally published on a regular schedule, containing a variety of articles and trade publications are periodicals, magazines or publications printed with the intention of target marketing to a specific industry or type of trade/business. Trade journals typically contain heavy

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advertising content focused on the industry in questions with little if any general audience advertising. Madu and Adeniran (2005) gave characteristics of serials which are: the publisher might change; the content of each issue is different; the publication interval varies. Some are biannual, monthly, quarterly, fortnightly, weekly, daily and annually; no planned end to the sequence; they are current and up-to-date; they are more expensive than books; they are subscribed to. Unlike textbooks, serials are subscribed to, depending on the interval it takes another issue to be published. This gives rise to the financial burden of serials subscription, because unlike textbooks which when bought can last a long period of time; serials have to be acquired at a shorter period of time, as short as daily. Serials now appear in e-formats due to the advent of the internet and computers. Serials types such as journals, newspapers and so on can be accessed online either free or paid for, this further helps to reduce the burden of having to subscribe for certain serials as they can easily be stored and retrieved when needed. Serials are collections having a special place in the academic library of any university, and are catalogued and classified separately from book materials in most libraries. Serial publications represent a most important reference source not only because of their sizes but also because they present other numerous values, which the book medium fails to offer. Perhaps their greatest value lies in the fact that they provide the newest and most nearly up-todate information as explained by Elaturoti, Fagbeja, Kolade and Oniyide (1990), serials constitute an important part of the library collection because the information contained in them is more current than those in published books. Fayose (1995) affirmed that, periodicals are useful because they are the most up-to-date resources in the library and that the articles in periodicals are often written by experts in the field, therefore, they are reliable and the articles are precise and not as cumbersome to read as textbooks. The ability of serials to provide up-to-date
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information is common knowledge. Serials appear in issues i.e. in successive parts; this major characteristic of serials gives it the ability to provide current information that was not present in the last issue. Therefore, researchers will find serials a valuable asset to their research process and ultimately their findings. Journals being a serial with a collection of articles are usually used by researchers this is not only because of the current information provided but the monocharacteristic of it. Researchers will not have to look further than finding journals in their specific field of study and going ahead to subscribe for it.

2.2.3 Serial Publications as Source of Information

The ability of serial publications to provide not just information but current and up-todate information is globally acknowledged. Newspapers, according to Ola and Ojo (2007) newspapers are important because they carry current information and keep readers informed of events and happenings within and outside their immediate environment. In addition to this Cheney, Knapp, Alan and Czapla (2006) articulated the fact that despite the increased production of news on radio and television, the newspaper collection of the library will continue to play a vital role in academics, in defense of this; they insisted that free readership of newspapers should be provided to library users. Aina (1897) stated that newspapers are one tools used by Olanlokun and Salisu (1988) stated that journals are

researchers in education in Nigeria.

providing up-to-date information in a field and it should be read by people who want to be current in their field. In the same vein, Aina (2001) articulated that journals are vital medium for research findings along with the wide publicity it gives the author. Adeoya (2004) in his opinion stated that three major attributes of a journals which are: fountain of knowledge, sources of vital of information and they should be highly intellectual. Open access journals according to Okoye
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and Ejikeme (2010) makes it possible for articles to be accessed online free of charge. Ureighe, Orota, Ekruyota (2006) and Ajuwa (2003) found out a low level of use for open access journals and attributed this to low level of awareness and attitude of researchers. Generally, serial publications constitute one of the most, if not the most important information resources of the information age according to Agbaje (2002). In the African

perspective, Alemna, Chifwepa and Rosenberg (2000) stated that African-published journals are valued most for their research prowess. Abstracts, indexes, magazines, proceedings and reports are also major serial publication that provides current and vital information for research and other reasons. 2.2.4 Serial Management in Academic Libraries

Academic libraries are one of the closest sources for use of serials by university undergraduate students. However, serial management in these academic libraries would be a major determinant for level of use by students. Amaakaven (1995) defined serial management as the formulation of routines and procedures for administering serials collection. A major aspect of serial management is serial processing, according to Adhikari (2000) serial processing in most academic libraries starts with acquisition with involves ordering, checking in, claiming, payment and fund accounting. In addition to this, the bibliographic control of serials goes a long way in the management of serial publications; Szilvassy (1996) outlined the steps in bibliographic control of serials which includes: cataloguing and classification, filing and Catalogue maintenance. However, serial management consists of more than this but the entire cycle a serial goes through in its lifetime.

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Woodward (1990) outlined a list of objectives for serial management one these is to provide quick and easy access for users and library staff to current and back issues of serials through check-in, shelving and tidying displays and stacks and maintenance of special collections. This objective sets the influence of serial management on the use of serial on a beneficial level; a quick and easy access ensures speedy use of serials. In addition to this, Woodwards objectives also highlights serial management as facilitating up-to-date information about the range, scope and location of materials within the serials collection through cataloguing and classification, and cataloguing maintenance and updating. From this, it can be observed that the general objective of serial management on use of serial is beneficial and can be a positive influence. It is evident that serial management can either make a positive or negative impact on the use of serial publications by students. Mullis and Gascoigne (1990) averred that browsing in an unclassified collection, especially one of some size, leaves much to chance, and failure to classify or subject-index may lead to uneconomic underused of some titles. Serial management

according to Nisonger (1988) is the most important and most challenging function for serial publications. It is therefore important for a well qualified serials librarian to be put in the charge of serial publications.

2.2.5 Information and Communication Technology and Serials Use

Information communication technology has tremendously changed the society from its inception in the 1940s. Various scholars have opined on the concept of ICT and have given various definitions. Ayodele (2000) defined information and communication technology as an

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electronic based technology generally used to retrieve store, process and package information as well as provide access to knowledge. In addition to this, Nwachukwu (2004) information communication technology is defined as the application of computers and other technologies to the acquisition, organization, storage, retrieval and storage of information. It is observed that the types of information communication technology stated by Iwu (2003) are already used in libraries across the globe, although not all may be integrated in one library, different libraries possessing at least one of them. According to Iwu (2003) the types of information communication technology include: Sensory technologies such as mouse, keyboards, scanners, and touch or digital boards, communication technologies such as e-mail, fax, telephones, teleconferencing, display technologies such as computer screen, printers and television, analysis technologies such as micro, mini and mainframe computers and storage technologies such as magnetic tapes, hard disk and cassettes. In an examination of the reasons for the introduction of information communication technology Cockrane (1992) stated the reasons which include: the failure of existing traditional methods to cope with ever increasing volume in the library, to allow for easy integration of various activity in the library and increase in library activities, organization and services. According to Igbeka (2008), Adebisi (2009) and Uwaifo (2010) a major way ICT has influenced the use of library services and inevitably serials services is the use of Online Public Access Catalogue (OPAC). OPAC is a computer form of library catalogue that can be used for the catalogue of serials. OPAC also gives patrons the opportunity to view catalogues of other libraries that are in cooperation with the library. According to Afolabi and Abidoye (2012) in their study of the impact of ICT on library services noted that OPAC is a great relief to patrons in the sense that different patrons can access the same catalogue at the same time using different terminals which is impossible using card catalogue. Also, OPAC allows for the use of additional
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access points for searching for publications such as ISSN numbers with a combination of author and title. Another influence is the access to electronic resources such as open access journals; according to Suber (2006) open access journals are available online to readers without financial, technical or legal barriers. Others are e-books, online newspapers, online magazines etc. Inter library loan services is made easier as serials can be sent through e-mails and courier services within the shortest time Afolabi and Abidoye (2012).

2.3 Theoretical Framework

The theoretical framework of this study will be centered on the Information Seeking Behavior Theory (ISBT). The Information Seeking Behavior Theory has been used

independently and also in relation to other study types. The theory has been used due to its relevance to this study which will be stated after the theory. Information Seeking Behavior Theory Information seeking is undertaken to identify a message that satisfies a perceived need Wright and Guy (1997). It is important to note that on the subject of information seeking behavior several models have developed such as Ellis model 1993, Eisenberg and Berkowitz model 1992, Dervins sense making model 1992 and Kuhlthau model 1992 one of which will be used to further illustrate information seeking behavior theory. Information seeking behavior is the way of acquiring information; different seeker use in different retrieval accesses their usable information (Sengar and Gautam, 2005). Decision to

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seek information is based on a motivation from an experience that requires an individual to get new information or update previous information. According to Wilson and Walsh (1996) individuals must experience a situation rewarding enough and consider themselves confident enough to seek for information on a decision. Therefore, information seeking behavior is based on task because is drives the individual get information (Bystrom, 2000), although other researchers may have opined differently; Kuhlthau (1993) noted that information seeking behavior is based on the stage of research process. According to Heinstrom (2003) to better

understand information seeking behavior the psychological perspective of the user is important, this is in agreement with the Kuhlthau model. The state of mind of the user will determine the level motivation that ultimately determine of information seeking done during an experience. In addition to this, Heinstrom noted that an important psychological mechanism which guides behavior is personality. Personality being a combination of the traits that makes up a person is a vital determinant of how far a user will go for information. Dervins sense making model developed in 1992 is commonly known as a needs-based model. Dervins model can be easily attributed to the everyday lives of students, researchers and patrons in the library. The sense making model describes humans as moving along through time and space until they reach a cognitive gap, where an information need is perceived. Such gaps must be bridged through the acquisition of new information before they can move forward again. According to Dervin, the sense making approach can be implemented in terms of four constituents elements: a situation in time and space, which defines the context in which information problem arises; a gap, which identifies the difference between the contextual situation and the desired situation e.g. uncertainty; an outcome, that is, the consequences of the sense making process, and a bridge, that is, some means of closing the gap between situation and outcome (Dervin, 1983).
23

Information seeking behavior theory is an essential theory in the use of information materials such as serials, because it theoretically explains the occurrences before, during and after information seeking. Kakai, Odongo and Bukenya (2004) in their study of information seeking behavior of undergraduate students in Uganda noted Zondi (1992) studied undergraduate students from University of Zululand in South Africa and came to the conclusion that majority of the students showed low level of competence in the use of the library this is in agreement with a study done by Kamanda (1994) at East African School of Library and Information Science Library in Uganda where he discovered that most of the materials located where done by browsing the shelf or seeking assistance from staff. All these show a low level of information seeking behavior on the academics of an undergraduate. According to Kakai, Odongo and Bukenya (2004) the information seeking behavior of undergraduates is active as a result of the need to complete an assignment, projects and seminars. According to Fister (1992) undergraduates dread the university library and find the process of research intimidating, as these continues undergraduates may not learn basic skills required to improve their information seeking ability. The information seeking behavior of

undergraduates in the university community determines the extent to which the serials at their disposal will be utilized. The theory therefore articulates the level of awareness and use of serials is determined by the information seeking behavior of the undergraduates.

2.4 Empirical Literature Review

Serial publications are better utilized when used by various students for different purposes. Access to and use of serial publications is the major crux of the matter; the advantages and benefits of serial publications would be empty without students actually using these serials. Speaking of utilization, Nwalo (2003), found out that the library objectives would be better
24

accomplished if documents and information materials are better utilized. Nearly all the disciplines of study make use of serials particularly the scholarly journal, as a primary means of communicating new research results, new theories, and new critical approaches (Farrington, 1997). An exchange of information between the library and patrons would better help the library measure their success. It is not unusual to witness a scenario where library patrons are unable to access serials which the library is known to have subscribed as found out by Adubika (2007). Serial

publications due to lack of attention from writers and the generally suffer great collection development breakdown leading to frustration for students. In addition to this, Edoka and Anunobi (2008), concluded in their study of serial processing in southern Nigerian universities that language is a barriers to access and use of serials as most serials written in English are not translated which is agreement with the views of Mullis (1992). It also reveals poor serial services in the libraries involved in the study. Also, Igbeka and Ola (2010) studied the use of newspapers by students of Delta state university at Anwai campus and came up with the conclusion that there is a positive response to the use of newspapers by students due to reasons such as job advertisements, scholarship advertisements and academic news. Information technology is also a major tool contributing to access and use of serial publications. Ivwighreghweta and Onoriode (2012) in their study of the awareness and use of open journals by Library and information Science students at the University of Ibadan concluded that students use of open access journals is still far from expected. They also concluded that students are willing to use these journals but arent because they are not aware of their existence, this coupled with lack of internet access in this part of the world and unavailability of seminars, conferences and workshops. Finally, recommendations given by Edoka and Anunobi (2008) suggest that a consortium should be formed to implement policies that alleviate problems related
25

to processing of serials. Other recommendations given by Ivwighreghweta and Onoriode (2012) suggest that seminars and workshops on proper use of internet search engines would help students in the use open access journals. Concerning the impact of serials use on the learning of university undergraduates, undergraduate students will benefit immensely from information resources, specifically serial publications for research and assignments, in support of this Kakai, Odongo and Bukenya (2004) in their study of the information seeking behavior of Ugandan undergraduates found out that most times students actively and purposefully seek information for completion of course assignments, preparation for class discussion, seminars, and writing final year research papers; all these activities form the academic performance of students. However, Fister (1992:168) concluded that undergraduate students are smart people but find the university library a threatening place and find the process of research intimidating; they end up using trial and error means that doesnt satisfy their needs. Serial publication has its greatest value in the provision of newest and most nearly up-todate information apart from this serial publications announce scientific discoveries and serves as avenue for publications of research-in-progress Adubika (2007). All these benefits are

mentioned to highlight the influence of serial publications use on students academic performance. Final year papers, assignments and project written by undergraduate students will note recent discoveries and ideas which will lead to the development of new ideas. Undergraduate students are therefore urged to get rid of library anxiety as mentioned by Mellon (1986) and laziness for the development of healthy information seeking behavior and ultimately an increased use of serial publications.

26

Various scholars have opined on the challenges facing serials in the past.

These

challenges are usually observed in their study of different aspects of serials services while some are based on observations during visit to libraries. In a broader sense, Olugbile (2005) reported that first generation universities used to subscribe to no fewer that 5,000 journals annually but not they struggle to subscribe to less than 500 annually this is due to lack of funds. Adubika (2007) in his study of serial management in polytechnic libraries concluded and agreed with Nisonger (1988) that cost of acquiring serials is a major problem confronting the use of serials in most university libraries, this is in agreement with Kyrillidou (2003) in her two decade statistical analysis of serials global trends where she stated that the unit cost of serials has increased by 215% by 2003. In addition to this, Nisonger (1988) also found out that decreasing library budgets which are in agreement with Cowley (1990), emergence of new electronic formats and an increased emphasis on access rather than ownership. Due to the nature of serials, usually the cost of subscription and maintenance is the challenge; a sizeable amount of budget is therefore required for effective use of serials. In further observations Adubika (2007), stated that despite the unique value of serials it has not received corresponding attention from library managers and writer leading to frustration on the part of the patrons and a continuous decrease in its use. Another dimension to the challenge facing serials use in Nigeria is the rapid rate of serials mortality. Journals are discontinued immediately the first publication is made and another journal is started having the same problem. According to Jegede (1992), stated that it is even difficult to know which journals are dead or alive because of the fast rate of appearance. In addition to this, Alemna (2005) found out that that the high mortality rate of Library and Information Science journals is not new to anyone. Lawal (1982) concluded that 25% of university libraries have had to cancel subscriptions due to financial constraints. Mason (2007) reported that the challenges facing serials in Nigeria are majorly: explosion in academic research,
27

budgetary cutbacks, lack of storage space, increase in the price of academic publication, cost of binding and exchange rate. In the case of electronic journals, poor internet facilities and

unavailability of electronic equipments are major challenges to the use of electronic serials. Despite the numerous advantageous influences of ICT on serials services the issue of cost cannot be swept under the rug. The cost of purchasing and maintenance of the electronic devices that provide these services is a major challenge to libraries. Adidoye, Aderele and Adelokun (2010) stressed that most library users and librarians could not afford the cost of a personal computer. Ivwighreghweta and Onoriode (2012) in their study of the awareness and use of open journals by Library and information Science students at the University of Ibadan concluded that students use of open access journals is still far from expected. They also concluded that students are willing to use these journals but arent because they are not aware of their existence, this coupled with lack of internet access in this part of the world and unavailability of seminars, conferences and workshops. This is a reflection of the fact that despite the numerous potential benefits that can be derived from the use of ICT in library services most users and even libraries are negligent and ignorant sometimes due to challenges. The challenges facing the serials in Nigerian universities will definitely tell on the students in these universities. Inaccessibility to serials will ultimately lead to a decrease in the use of serials by undergraduate students.

2.5 Appraisal of Literature Review

The literature review has identified the academic library, serials and its ability as an information source and serials management in academic library in a conceptual framework which integrates all these independent entities and creates relationship between them. However, for each topic reviewed ranging from awareness to challenges, the impact on undergraduates has been the target. The theoretical framework of the review focuses on the information seeking
28

behavior theory and analyzed a few models in relation to the theory. All these are capped with the empirical review that highlights the opinions of different scholars under various topics. Undergraduate students will still use serials in any format for research and learning in their various academic institutions, despite any challenge faced. With other studies focusing on other aspects of serials use, this literature review expects to fill a unique gap as regards the awareness and use of serials by university undergraduates in Kwara state, Nigeria

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CHAPTER THREE RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

3.1 Research Methodology

The chapter describes the methodology adopted in carrying out the study which includes the research design, population of the study, sampling technique and sample size, research instrument, validity and reliability of the instrument, method of data analysis and data collection procedure.

3.2 Research Design

The study will adopt the survey research design. This method is used in a situation where a group of people or items are studied by collecting and analyzing data from a few people being a representative of the entire group. The social survey design has been found to be the most appropriate for the study which focused on the awareness and use of serial publication among university undergraduates in Kwara state, because a considerable sample that is representation of the target population will be used to draw out research findings.

3.2 Population of the Study

The population consists of all university undergraduates located in Kwara state. The universities include 1 federal university i.e. University of Ilorin, 1 state university i.e. Kwara state University and 2 private universities i.e. Al-Hikmah University and Landmark University (JAMB UME/DE Brochure, 2013/2014) It is from this population that the sample will be selected.
30

3.3. Sampling Technique and Sample Size

3.3.1 Sampling of Faculties and Departments

For University of Ilorin, Al-Hikmah University, and Kwara State University, two departments have been purposively selected from major faculties in each university because of their availability in each university i.e. Faculty of Science, Faculty of Business and Social Sciences, Faculty of Education and Faculty of Arts. For Landmark University, the faculty of Science and Business and Social Sciences will be used for the research, being a new entrant it doesnt posses all the faculties. TABLE 1: Faculty and Departments University FACULTIES University of Ilorin Kwara State University Al-Hikmah University Science

DEPARTMENTS Mathematics/Statistics Biochemistry

Business and Business Administration/Financial Social Sciences Management Economics Education Science Education Agric Education Arts/Humanities English History and International Relation

31

Science Land Mark University

Biochemistry Industrial Mathematics

Business and Business Administration Social Sciences Economics

3.3.2 Sampling of Undergraduates

A total of eight (8) undergraduates will be selected at random from each of the two departments selected in each faculty, resulting in a total of 64 undergraduates in each university except for Landmark University with a total of 32 undergraduates, through the simple random sampling technique. All together, a total of 224 undergraduates will form the sample size for the study. TABLE II: Population of the Study UNIVERSITIES FACULTIES University Ilorin Kwara University Al-Hikmah University of Science State

DEPARTMENTS Mathematics/Statistics Biochemistry

SAMPLE SIZE 8 8 8

Business and Business Social Sciences Administration/Financial Management Economics Education Science Education Agric Education Arts/Humanities English History and International
32

8 8 8 8 8

Relation

TOTAL 192 from all 3 universities Science Biochemistry Industrial Mathematics Business and Business Administration Social Sciences Economics Land Mark University TOTAL

64x3=192

8 8 8 8 32

OVERALL TOTAL 192+32

224

3.4 Research Instrument

Data for this study will be collected through the use of questionnaires. The questionnaires will be used for all undergraduates in every department. The questionnaire: Serials Awareness and Use Questionnaire (SAUQ) consist of two types of questions which include structured or closed-ended questions that may be answered by choosing among a number of fixed alternatives and unstructured or open-ended questions, which require the respondents to formulate and record answers in their own words. The questionnaire is hereby described: The questionnaire consists of two parts: part A and B as follows: Part A: Demographic information of the respondents
33

Part B:

Questions

Under part B we have: Section I: Section II: Level of awareness about Serials Frequency of use and usage

Section III: Level of Accessibility Section IV: Barriers to the use of Serials Section V: Perceived influence of serials usage on academic performance

3.5 Validity and Reliability of the Instrument

Evaluating the instrument before it is actually pre-tested is important. An expert who is familiar with the topic of the instrument can help in assessing the face validity of the instrument, such as whether they are easy to understand, ask what they are supposed to be asking and so on (Onyango, 2002). In due course, the questionnaire was given to the research supervisor and a lecturer at the department of Library and Information Science, University of Ilorin for their criticism to establish face validity. Thereafter, the questionnaire was corrected and the reliability was tested using Guttmans Split Half technique, producing a result of 0.76 and is considered adequate for the study.

3.6

Data Collection Procedure

34

The researcher will engage in the distribution and return of copies of the questionnaire. Necessary training and supervision will be given to respondents so as to attain the highest response rate from respondents.

3.7

Method of Data Analysis

The data collected for this study will be analyzed using descriptive statistical methods

such as frequency and percentages. The Statistical Package called SPSS will be used to analyze the data collected for this study.

35

CHAPTER FOUR DATA ANALYSIS AND RESULTS

4.1 Introduction

This chapter presents the results of the data analysis carried out for this study. The results are presented in correspondence with the objectives of the study and covers all variable included in the questionnaire. The results are presented as follows: Table III: Demographic Information of Respondents Frequency Variable
Gender Male Female Total Age 16-20 21-25 26-30 31-35 Total Institution University of Ilorin Kwara State University Al-Hikmah University Landmark University Total Level 100 200 300 400 Total 105 119 224

Percent
46.9 53.1 100

74 125 21 4 224

33.0 55.8 9.4 1.8 100

72 60 62 30 224

32.1 26.8 27.7 13.4 100

40 61 85 38 224 36

17.9 27.2 37.9 17.0 100

Faculty Sciences Business and Social Sciences Education Humanities Total

73 60 48 43 224

32.6 26.8 21.4 19.2 100

The analysis of the demographic information collected from the respondents show that 105 respondents were males i.e. (46.9%) and 119 were females i.e. (53.1%), this shows that in totality the female respondents are more than the male respondents by 6.2%. Another

demographic variable, age, shows that respondents between the ages of 21-25 have the highest frequency of 125 (55.8%) taking more that half of the population, respondents between the ages of 16-20 are 74 in number (33%) other ages follow respectively, it is also important to note that the ages show a huge gap between the age groups with majority of the respondents being young adults. University of Ilorin posses the highest frequency of respondents (72) because of its high number of faculties and departments and high number of respondents unlike Landmark University with just 30 respondents due to its lack of certain faculties and reduced number of respondents. Kwara State University and Al-Hikmah University share a difference of just 2 respondents with 0.9 percentage difference. The faculty of science posses the highest value of 73(32.6%) and humanities with the lowest value of 43(19.2%).

37

Table IV: Level of Awareness about the Existence of Serials

Variables Awareness Yes No Total Frequency Percent

210 14 224

93.8 6.2 100

VA Journals Frequency Percentage Magazines Frequency Percentage Annual Reports Frequency Percentage Newsletters Frequency Percentage Newspapers Frequency Percentage Electronic Form Frequency Percentage 120 53.6

A 66 29.5

NA 38 17.0

Total 224 100

101 45.1

87 38.8

36 16.1

224 100

53 23.7

82 36.6

89 39.7

224 100

93 41.5

83 37.1

48 21.4

224 100

136 60.7

59 26.3

29 12.9

224 100

64 28.6

85 37.9

75 33.5

224 100

Table II shows a huge chunk of the population being aware of the existence of serials in their various universities; this is a positive start to the research and will definitely help provide better answers to forthcoming questions. The questionnaire therefore, went further to pick a number of major serials that can be found in a typical university library with newspapers having the highest frequency of 136(60.7%) of the respondents showing they are very aware of its existence, due to the fact that it focuses on general issues that every respondent is interested in,
38

thereby confirming the Ojo (2003) who stated that newspapers keep readers informed of current happenings and events, this is followed by journals with 120(53.6%) and magazines with 101(45.1%) respondents. Therefore it is evident that the serials mentioned above are the majorly present in these universities and that newspaper being a daily publication providing daily news and information will attract more prominence among other serials. It is however discouraging to note that electronic publications posses only 28.6% of the respondents with as much as 33.5% of the population not aware of its existence, this is an indication of the level of technological advancement in these universities. However, newsletters had 41.5% and annual reports being the lowest has 23.7%. Table V: Frequency of Use of Serials
Variables Journals Frequency Percentage Proceedings Frequency Percentage Annual Reports Frequency Percentage Magazines Frequency Percentage Newspaper Frequency Percentage VF F O R Total

51 22.8

51 22.8

59 26.3

63 28.1

224 100

18 8.0

42 18.8

66 29.5

98 43.8

224 100

22 9.8

37 16.5

72 32.1

93 41.5

224 100

62 27.7

61 27.2

46 20.5

55 24.6

224 100

88 39.3

68 30.4

23 10.3

45 20.1

224 100

Electronic Form Frequency Percentage

51 22.8

45 20.1

52 23.2

76 33.9

224 100

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The table above shows that newspapers posses the highest frequency of use with 88(39.3%) using it very frequently, this can be reflected in the fact that newspapers provide information of current events and stories and that respondents will definitely follow up these events daily to analyze issues and be informed of new developments newspaper also posses a 68(30.4%) frequent use, this is a clear reflection of the high awareness of newspapers in the previous table, to support this, Igbeka and Ola (2010) in their study of the use of newspapers by students of Delta state university in Nigeria revealed that the library actually subscribes to a number of daily newspapers as part of serials collection of the library and that the newspapers are actually used by students. It is however discouraging that newspaper use is below the 50% average, indicating low use of newspapers among students in these universities.

40

Table VI: Purpose for Use of Serials

Variable Journals Frequency Percentage Proceedings Frequency Percentage Annual Reports Frequency Percentage Magazines Frequency Percentage Newspapers Frequency Percentage Electronic Form Frequency Percentage Research Assignment Writing Self Enjoyment Total

99 44.2

61 27.2

37 16.5

27 12.1

224 100

43 19.2

103 46.0

46 20.5

32 14.3

224 100

68 30.4

65 29.0

51 22.8

40 17.9

224 100

36 16.1

47 21.0

35 15.6

106 47.3

224 100

43 19.2

58 25.9

30 13.4

93 41.5

224 100

47 21.0

68 30.4

37 16.5

72 32.1

224 100

Interestingly, journals and electronic form of serials posses the same number and percentage of very frequent use of 51(22.8%) use among respondents, this goes to show that more that half of the respondents use serials online through other means to retrieve information but are not aware of its existence in their university libraries for various reasons. Magazines are also

indicated to have a high value of very frequent use with 62(27.7%) of the respondents, this explains the tendency for magazines to focus on entertainment news and contain lots of pictures that makes it more attractive than any of other serial. Annual reports and proceedings come with

41

respondents 93 and 98 of the respondents using them rarely and a close number using them often. Journals posses a highest value and frequency for research amongst all other serials with a value of 99(44.2%) and also a considerable value of 61(27.2%) for assignment purposes. This result supports the fact that journals are majorly used for research as they provide vital information on particular field of study; this is correspondence with Aina (2001) who stated that journals are vital medium for research findings and Olanlokun and Salisu (1988) who stated that journals provide current information to individuals who want to be up-to-date in their chosen field. Annual reports also posses a high value of 68(30.4%) and 65(29.0%) for research and assignment respectively, this is due to the fact that annual reports provide information about companies and organization in terms of board of directors, financials, prospects and shareholder information which students will need for practical examples during their research process. Proceedings possess the highest value of 103(46.0%) for assignment, proceedings contain information about important meetings and events and the conclusions reached, this gives students first hand information of major happenings and how conclusions were reached. Magazines have a high value of 106(47.3%) for self enjoyment with the lowest value for research of 36(16.1%), this is an evidence of the entertaining nature of magazines which majorly focus on gossip, celebrities and interesting news that are usually very pleasing to the reader and enjoys good readership because the population consists mainly of students, magazines however, doesnt really posses vital information for research, this explains its low value for research and assignment use. In like manner, newspapers also posses a high value of 93(45.1%) for self enjoyment and a lower value for research and writing of 43(19.2%) and 30(13.4%) respectively.

42

This supports the fact that newspapers only provide general information about happenings that most readers follow for interest, newspapers also contain stories, cartoons, articles and write-ups that allow readers participate and give their opinions. Electronic form serials posses 72(32.1%) and 68(30.4%) for self enjoyment and assignment respectively, this shows that individuals get a little bit more of entertainment than vital information for school work i.e. there is always a tendency for students to open new tabs for checking social networking sites, chat with friends, download movies and music and so on. Table VII: Level of Accessibility to Serials
Variable Journals Frequency Percentage Proceedings Frequency Percentage Annual Reports Frequency Percentage Magazines Frequency Percentage VA A I VI Total

71 31.7

96 42.9

33 14.7

24 10.7

224 100

10 4.5

61 27.2

71 31.7

82 36.6

224 100

36 16.1

64 28.6

55 24.6

69 30.8

224 100

64 28.6

82 36.6

46 20.5

32 14.3

224 100

Newspapers Frequency Percentage

118 52.7

64 28.6

26 11.6

16 7.1

224 100

Electronic Form Frequency Percentage

57 25.4

63 28.1

40 17.9

64 28.6

224 100

43

Newspapers posses the highest value for very accessible 118(52.7%) and the lowest value of very inaccessible 16(7.1%), this suggest that there is virtually no restriction to the use of newspapers at the university libraries and that all individuals irrespective of their level or field can use newspapers freely. This is followed by journals which posses 71(31.7%) for very accessible and 24(10.7%) for very inaccessible, this figures are encouraging as it goes to show that students have access to journals for research undue restrictions and sanctions, this helps to further increase the quality of research among students. Electronic form of serials posses a considerable value of 64(28.6%) for very inaccessible this further explains the lower value electronic forms has possessed in previous aspects of use and awareness. This goes to show that electronic form of serials are either not available at all, of very inefficient in provide vital information to respondents. Annual reports and proceedings posses the lowest value of accessibility in the libraries, indicating that they are really lacking on the shelves or very old and not current. Table VIII: Barriers to Use of Serials
Variable Non-availability Frequency Percent Yes No Total

81 36.2

143 63.8

224 100

Inaccessible Frequency Percent Lack or borrowing facility Frequency Percent Inconvenient opening/closing hours Frequency Percent Poor attitude of staff

78 34.8

146 65.2

224 100

100 44.6

124 55.4

224 100

105 46.9

119 53.1

224 100

44

Frequency Percent Inadequate Infrastructure Frequency Percent Defaced/Mutilated Frequency Percent

117 52.2

107 47.8

224 100

112 50.0

112 50.0

224 100

59 26.3

165 73.7

224 100

Results from the opinion of respondents about the barriers they face during the use of serials show that majority i.e. 117(52.2%) opined that the poor attitude of staff is a major problem. Inadequate infrastructure posses a fifty-fifty value, this goes to show that infrastructure in the libraries are moderate and average. Non-availability of serials in the library posses a high value of 143(63.8%) for No which is very encouraging as it indicates the presence of vital serials that satisfies the patrons this is articulated by Adubika (2007) who stated the availability of not just journals but core journals goes to show that relevant information is present in a library, which should be fully utilized by undergraduates. Results also show that even as relevant serials are made available, they considerably accessible with high value of 146(65.2%) respondents noting that inaccessibility are not a barrier. Defaced or mutilated serials as a barrier has the highest no value of 165(73.7%), this goes to show effective maintenance culture and enforcement of library laws. The increased accessibility however can be owned to fact that the serials are not usually borrowed out as this shown with 100(44.6%) respondents that see borrowing as a barrier.

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Table IX: Influence on Academic Performance

Variable Journals Frequency Percent Proceedings Frequency Percent Annual Reports Frequency Percent Magazines Frequency Percent Newspapers Frequency Percent Electronic Form Frequency Percent VH H NS L VL Total

74 33.0

67 29.9

53 23.7

9 4.0

21 9.4

224 100

18 8.0

57 25.4

88 39.3

16 7.1

45 20.1

224 100

36 16.1

42 18.8

87 38.8

18 8.0

41 18.3

224 100

51 22.8

73 32.6

61 27.2

17 7.6

22 9.8

224 100

67 29.9

72 32.1

44 19.6

24 10.7

17 7.6

224 100

42 18.8

67 29.9

70 31.2

3 1.3

42 18.8

224 100

Journals posses the highest level of influence on academic performance with 74(33.3%) of respondents indicating this, this is as expected as journals provide vital information on new development and ideas in a particular field of study leading to generation of healthy academic arguments and quality research and can also help with student assignment and class presentation. This is followed by newspapers with 67(29.9%), newspapers though not focusing on a particular field of study, has the capability to give users information that will better their academic performance with practical examples and write-ups that can be applied to academics. A reasonable amount of 61(27.2%) are not sure if magazines influence them academically of not but in more are of the opinion that magazines affect influence their academic
46

performance. Annual reports have the highest percentage of respondents claiming not to be sure if it affects their academic performance. It is however alarming that a great number of the respondents are not sure if electronic serials influence their academic performance, this shoes inadequate use of serials in electronic form such as open access journals and ezines and online newspapers.

4.2 Discussion of Findings

The findings derived from the careful analysis are hereby discussed with reference to each objective the study aims to achieve. 4.2.1 The Level of Awareness about Serials among Undergraduates in Kwara state

From the analysis of respondent opinion, it is found out that majority of the population are aware of the existence of serials especially the dominant ones such as newspapers, magazines and journals. With journals, magazines and newspapers having a high frequency and percent rate, there is a clear indication that students know about major serials, other serials such as annual reports, proceedings and newsletters are also averagely known by students. This findings serve as an encouraging start to the research although it is however discouraging that the number of respondents aware of electronic form of serials dropped critically as compared to journals and newspapers. This is a clear indication that serials in electronic form have not been fully

embraced and utilized.

47

4.2.2 Frequency of Use of Serials

The findings of the study revealed that respondents in addition to being aware of the existence of serials actually use these serials. This is evident in the fact that 88(39.3%) use newspapers which is the highest value, this is expected as newspapers are serials that provide consistent information about general issues that individual can follow up. Journals also posses an average value of usage among respondents, although a large number of respondents use journals rarely. Annual reports and proceedings posses the lowest value of usage, this is

expected as these serials also posses a low awareness value. From this, it can be said that undergraduates use serials to an extent in Kwara state and tend to use not very frequently due to certain reasons but just frequently and often. 4.2.3 Purpose for Use of Serials

Serials can be used for various purposes; these purposes vary based on the preference of every individual and the function of each serial. The findings of the study revealed that most serials are used for expected purposes with majority of respondents using journals for research purposes and assignment and magazines majorly used self enjoyment because of its nature and propensity for containing articles with entertainment and celebrity news with photos. Newspapers in like manner is used mainly by the respondents for self enjoyment, this indicates that respondents read articles, cartoons, entertainment news and articles on general opinion.

4.2.4 Level of Accessibility to Serials

48

The findings of the study revealed that newspapers posses the highest level of accessibility among all serials. Newspapers acquired by university libraries consist of dailies that are purchased in some quantity that students use for while and leave for another, this explains the high level of accessibility it posses, unlike journals that posses information that requires careful examination and more time of use. The findings of the study also revealed that electronic form of serials are not accessible enough, with a high value of students indicating that electronic form of serials are very inaccessible. 4.2.5 Barriers to the Use of Serials

Barriers to the use of serials vary based on the conditions that are present, inadequate infrastructure is a major challenge as observed from the findings. The poor attitude of staff is also a major challenge with a high value indicating it is. This can involve unfriendliness, lack of understanding and impatience among staff members. Although, it is also important to take into consideration the general misunderstanding that exists between staff and students. 4.2.6 Influence on Academic Performance

Serials such as journals have huge impact on the academic performance of students by improving their research quality and assignment content and thereby producing better grades and improving overall knowledge base of youths in the state. Electronic form of serials as expected from its consistent low values posses a high value of respondents that arent sure if serials affect their academic performance.

49

50

CHAPTER FIVE SUMMARY, CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS

5.1 Summary

The chapter one of the study contains the background of the study which introduced the concept of serials and the fact that they are information sources that provide vital information and at the same time keep users updated periodically. In addition to this, the background also brief outlined the history of serials and also the role of the academic library in the provision of serials to undergraduates. The problem statement of the study highlighted the fact that The chapter undergraduates need serials for learning but this is hinder by certain barriers. The objectives of the study include broad and specific ones that are in line with the project topic. also includes the scope and significance of the study in addition to definition of some terms. The review of related literature combines the opinion of various scholars in the field of library and information science concerning serials. The conceptual framework of the review is segmented into topics that consider serials from various angles; this is followed by an empirical review that outlines the various findings about serial use in the past. The review concludes with a theoretical framework and an appraisal. The study adopted the use of social survey research design and a simple random sampling technique for the population. A questionnaire which was tested for reliability and validity was used as a research instrument for the study and was administered on the sample. The research used descriptive analysis for the representation of data. The study in the chapter four contains the overall analysis of data retrieved from respondents; this is represented in a tabular form with frequency and percentage values. A discussion of findings from each table shows that undergraduates in the state actually use serials but are fairly aware of the electronic form of this information resource. This chapter also itemizes each objective for further discussion of the study findings.

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5.2 Conclusion

In the light of the findings from this study, it can be concluded that a large percentage of the population although very aware of serials like newspapers, journals and magazines do not use these serials adequately, this is evident in the fact that newspapers even with the highest value of use isnt up to the 50% average, this indicates the fact that students still inadequately use serials although they are aware of its existence. This inevitably affects the influence these serials have on the academic performance of the students as a large number of the students are not sure of the level of influence serials have on their academic performance. Major serials such as newspapers and journals are perceived to be very accessible unlike proceedings and annual reports which respondents responded to be inaccessible or are not sure. Electronic form of serials are evidently not adequately used in all four universities from which the sample is drawn with a large percentage of the respondents using it for self enjoyment purposes such as chat and social news. Electronic form of serials especially Open Access Journals are great tools for research and academic purposes, but respondents are evidently not exploiting the opportunities derived from using e-serials. Poor attitude of staff and inadequate infrastructure are major challenges pointed out by respondents as barriers to their use of serials, this is indication that library staff that are expected to attract patrons and ensure effective use of library resources are instead barriers to their adequate use of serials through demonstration of poor attitude. Serials are vital information sources that contain updated and important information to users especially undergraduates who are expected to be current in their various course of study, but this will not be evident if they are unused or misused. It is therefore the responsibility of library

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staff, university authorities, government, information professionals, researchers,, students and other persons to paly their part to ensure provision, organization and utilization of serials.

5.3 Recommendations

We can deduce from the study that students from the universities in Kwara state are aware of the existence of major serials and use them. However, the university library can make its collections more useful if the lapses identified from the study can be addressed through the following recommendations which are made based on the findings from the study. a. Online Public Access Catalogue (OPAC) for serials OPAC provides the opportunity for all serials to be brought together in one digital location for easy retrieval through the use of search terms such as title and ISSN. The integration of OPAC into serials services will improve the use of serials and provide long lasting preservation with access to larger databases through subscription and interlibrary cooperation. The use of OPAC will also expose students to the use of electronic serials such as e-journals and newspapers. b. Current Awareness Services It is recommended that serials librarian in the university libraries undertake CAS activities that create awareness of the existence of newly acquired serials. These activities include display of serials titles at vantage points that will catch the attention of readers. c. User Education It is observed from the study that persistent user orientation is required to tackle the problem of serials underuse. This can be done systematically by attracting newly admitted students to the library with orientation classes that will help their use of serials as they continue with their
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studies. Educational activities like this will help students imbibe the culture of using serials for their academic work and reduce ignorance. It is further recommended that a compulsory library orientation be adopted in all four universities for every newly admitted student. d. Collection Development University libraries, and indeed all libraries, should consider the acquisition, organization, and preservation of newspaper, journals, magazines and others including making it available electronically. In addition, publishers should take note of students' information needs in order to enhance their publications.

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