Perceived Effect of Facebook on the Reading Habits of University Students in South-South Nigeria

Abstract

This research examined the perceived effect of Facebook on the reading habits of University students in South-south Nigeria. The study  became necessary following evidences of the declining reading habits of students in Nigeria. Thus, this study investigated the effect of  Facebook usage on voluntary reading habits, academic reading habits and recreational reading habits of students in universities in Edo  and Delta states, South-south Nigeria. The population of this study is 28,100 consisting of all the final year students in government owned  universities in Edo and Delta states, South-South Nigeria. The sample comprised of 563 final year students proportionately  selected from three government owned universities in Edo and Delta states, Nigeria. The questionnaire was the main research instrument of the study. The instrument was checked for reliability using Cronbach Alpha Coefficient formula and a reliability coefficient  of 0.73 was yielded. Copies of questionnaire were distributed with the aid of a research assistant. The data obtained from the study were  analyzed using descriptive statistics and inferential statistics. Results showed that Facebook moderately affects voluntary, academic and  recreational reading habits of university student. The study concluded that the influence of Facebook on reading habits can be  moderated. Therefore, workable recommendations were made.