Assessment of students’ reading culture in a Nigerian university: Waxing or waning?

Abstract

This study assessed the trend of the reading culture of the students of the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), Nigeria. The respondents’ level of study, preferred language skill, frequency and duration of reading, and types of materials read were examined. Using a descriptive survey design, data was collected from 509 students in the first and last years of study across eight colleges by means of a questionnaire. The findings revealed that the most preferred language activity was reading with a high percentage engaging in it daily. Most students only read to pass examinations as they hardly engaged in any reading outside school books. A relationship between the students’ level and their reading culture was established. Amongst other recommendations, students were encouraged to read magazines, novels, and other recreational materials in order to improve their reading habits.