Gender Differences in Library Literacy among Medical Students in College of Medicine, Ambrose Alli University Ekpoma

Abstract

In academics, economics, politics, as well as religious circles, gender gaps and differences have been a topic of discussion. In this regards, this study was undertaken to determine if there are gender differences in the library literacy of medical students of the College of Medicine (CoM), Ambrose Alli University (AAU), Ekpoma, Edo State. This was evaluated by assessing the differences in library access, frequencies in library utilization, reasons for utilization and problems faced when using the library. The study was a descriptive cross sectional survey involving the use of a self-structured/pretested questionnaire. 200 students of CoM, AAU, were randomly sampled for the purpose of data collection and analysis. The result showed that the accessibility of library for the male students was lower than the 78% recorded for females. However, majority (67%) of all the students reported irregular usage of the library. Overall, the reasons for visiting the library were mainly to read their notes (121), do assignment (149), and borrow books (111) and prepare for exams during examinations (137).Conclusively, the findings of this study has shown that gender differences exist in library utilization among medical students of CoM, AAU, Ekpoma, Edo State.

Keywords: Gender difference; Library literacy; Undergraduates; Medical student