Use of smartphones for academic activities among library and information science undergraduate students in federal universities in the northwestern states of Nigeria

Abstract

This study examined the use of smartphones for academic activities among Library and Information Science (LIS) undergraduate students in federal universities in the Northwestern States of Nigeria. A quantitative technique was adopted, using a cross-sectional survey research design. A total of 2,113 LIS undergraduates in federal universities in the northwestern states of Nigeria formed the population, out of which 634 (30%) were selected using a proportionate stratified sample technique. A structured questionnaire was distributed to this sample. The findings indicated that LIS undergraduate students in federal universities in the northwestern states of Nigeria used smartphones heavily and predominantly for making calls, accessing general information, and sending text messages. Concerning the type of academic activities LIS undergraduate students in federal universities in the northwestern states of Nigeria use smartphones for, the study revealed that the students heavily used smartphones for uploading learning materials, sending text messages about class assignments, and doing assignments. This study highlights the high frequency of smartphone use among Nigerian Library and Information Science undergraduates for academic and non-academic activities. The study concluded that Library and Information Science undergraduate students in federal universities in Nigeria use smartphones for academic activities. Meanwhile, smartphones have become indispensable tools for accessing information, conducting research, and communicating. The study recommended that emphasis should be geared toward integrating smartphones into the education curriculum and collaborating with policymakers, educators, and stakeholders to maximize the benefits of smartphones among LIS students.