Web information-seeking behaviour of undergraduate students in a private university in Malawi

Abstract

This study aimed to investigate students’ web information-seeking behaviour at Malawi Adventist University (MAU). A mixed methods approach was employed and underpinned by Wilson’s (1996) Model of Information Behaviour. The sample size of the study was 166 level four undergraduate students at MAU. A questionnaire and an interview guide were used to collect data. The results of the study revealed that undergraduate students have web information needs for academic information 91(77%) and major web information sources were scholarly journals, scholarly databases, and Google cholar 51(43%). Students mostly use simple search strategies such as keywords in searching for information 51(43%). The major challenge experienced by students was information overload 53(45%). The study has demonstrated that Web information is important for students at MAU for academic, personal, and health purposes. Therefore, the library at MAU should conduct tailor-made information literacy training sessions targeting undergraduate students to raise awareness of the existence of Web information  ources and improve access and use.