Information literacy skills and knowledge sharing practices among Federal College of Forestry students in Ibadan, Oyo-State, Nigeria

Abstract

The study investigated information literacy skills and knowledge-sharing practices among the Federal College of Forestry students in Ibadan, Oyo-state, Nigeria. Survey research was conducted to determine the influence of Information Literacy Skills (ILS) as a predictor of Knowledge Sharing Practices (KSP) among Federal College of Forestry Students in Ibadan, Oyo-State. The study sought to find the types, tools, purposes and challenges of sharing knowledge among Federal College of Forestry students Ibadan. The study adopted a quantitative method and deployed a questionnaire-based survey research design. Its population consists of 361 respondents from the Federal College of Forestry Students. The sample size was drawn using a random sampling technique. Data were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics. The findings showed that the common types of knowledge shared are class notes/handouts, previous examination papers and entertainment such as music, video games, movies, Fashion, and sports. The tools mostly used were face-to-face, social media and mobile phones and the least tools used were Laptops. The purposes of sharing knowledge are to solve study-related problems, clarify or discuss the examination-related matter and discuss requirements of class projects, term papers, or assignments. Challenges to sharing knowledge among federal forestry college students include time constraints, Fear of providing wrong information and poor mobile and internet networks. The findings showed that the respondents had a high level of information literacy skills. The results also showed that information literacy skills have a significant positive relationship with the knowledge-sharing practices of Federal Forestry College students. Information literacy skills were found to have a significant positive relationship with knowledge-sharing practices, underscoring their importance in fostering a collaborative academic environment. To further enhance the positive impact of information literacy on knowledge sharing, the college should integrate comprehensive information literacy training into its curriculum. This will ensure that all students are equipped with the necessary skills to share knowledge effectively.