FACTORS AFFECTING STUDYING CLASSIFICATION IN NIGERIA UNIVERSITY (A CASE STUDY OF SA'ADU ZUNGUR UNIVERSITY, BAUCHI)

FACTORS AFFECTING STUDYING CLASSIFICATION IN NIGERIA UNIVERSITY (A CASE STUDY OF SA'ADU ZUNGUR UNIVERSITY, BAUCHI)

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Background of the Study

The study of classification in Library and Information Science (LIS) is integral to the discipline, as it provides the foundation for organizing and retrieving information efficiently. Classification systems, such as the Dewey Decimal Classification (DDC) and the Library of Congress Classification (LCC), are pivotal in maintaining order in libraries and ensuring that users can find the materials they need. However, the effectiveness of studying classification in Nigerian universities, specifically at Sa'adu Zungur University, Bauchi, is influenced by various factors.

 

The importance of LIS education in Nigeria cannot be overstated. As noted by Aina (2018), LIS education equips students with the skills needed to manage and disseminate information in an increasingly digital world. Despite this, several challenges hinder the effective study of classification. One significant factor is the inadequacy of resources, which includes both physical resources like textbooks and technological resources like classification software. According to Akporhonor and Olise (2015), many Nigerian university libraries lack the necessary resources to support comprehensive LIS education.

 

Another critical factor is the curriculum and teaching methods employed. The curriculum must evolve to keep pace with changes in classification systems and information technology. Ogunsola (2019) emphasizes the need for curriculum reform to include more practical training and exposure to modern classification tools. Furthermore, the teaching methods must be engaging and interactive to ensure that students understand and can apply classification principles effectively.

 

Faculty expertise also plays a crucial role. Lecturers with extensive knowledge and experience in classification can significantly enhance students' learning experiences. As Okojie and Izuagbe (2016) point out, the quality of education in LIS programs is directly linked to the qualifications and experience of the faculty members. Therefore, it is essential for universities to invest in continuous professional development for their LIS faculty.

 

Additionally, student motivation and interest in classification are vital. The perception of classification as a complex and less engaging aspect of LIS can deter students from fully engaging with the subject. However, as Nwosu and Udo-Anyanwu (2020) suggest, incorporating real-life applications and emphasizing the relevance of classification in various information settings can enhance student interest and motivation.

 

Furthermore, the support from university administration and government policies also affects the study of classification. Adequate funding and supportive policies can provide the necessary infrastructure and resources for effective LIS education. According to Ifidon and Ahiauzu (2016), the government's role in funding and policy formulation is crucial in addressing the challenges faced by LIS programs in Nigerian universities.

 

In conclusion, the study of classification in LIS at Sa'adu Zungur University, Bauchi, is influenced by various factors, including resource availability, curriculum and teaching methods, faculty expertise, student motivation, and support from the university administration and government. Addressing these factors is essential for improving the quality of LIS education and ensuring that students are well-prepared to manage and disseminate information effectively.

 

1.2 Statement of the Problem

Despite the recognized importance of classification in LIS, students at Sa'adu Zungur University, Bauchi, face numerous challenges that impede their ability to study and master this crucial aspect of their education. These challenges include inadequate resources, outdated curricula, insufficient faculty expertise, and a lack of motivation among students. The lack of resources, both physical and technological, hampers students' ability to access and utilize classification tools effectively. Additionally, the curriculum may not adequately address the evolving needs of the information profession, resulting in a gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application. Faculty members may also lack the necessary qualifications and experience to teach classification effectively, further exacerbating the problem. Moreover, students may perceive classification as a difficult and less engaging subject, leading to low motivation and interest in the subject. These challenges necessitate a comprehensive study to identify the factors affecting the study of classification in LIS and propose solutions to address them.

1.3 Objectives of the Study

1. To assess the availability and adequacy of resources for studying classification in LIS at Sa'adu Zungur University, Bauchi.

2. To evaluate the effectiveness of the current curriculum and teaching methods in teaching classification.

3. To examine the qualifications and experience of faculty members teaching classification in the LIS program.

4. To investigate students' perceptions and motivation towards studying classification.

5. To identify the role of university administration and government policies in supporting the study of classification.

1.4 Research Questions

1. What is the availability and adequacy of resources for studying classification in LIS at Sa'adu Zungur University, Bauchi?

2. How effective are the current curriculum and teaching methods in teaching classification?

3. What are the qualifications and experience of faculty members teaching classification in the LIS program?

4. How do students perceive and what motivates them towards studying classification?

5. What role do university administration and government policies play in supporting the study of classification?

1.5 Research Hypothesis

H1: There is a significant relationship between the availability of resources and the effectiveness of studying classification in LIS at Sa'adu Zungur University, Bauchi.

 

1.6 Significance of the Study

The significance of this study lies in its potential to address the challenges faced by LIS students in studying classification, thereby improving the quality of LIS education at Sa'adu Zungur University, Bauchi. The study will provide practical insights into the availability and adequacy of resources, the effectiveness of the curriculum and teaching methods, the qualifications and experience of faculty members, and students' perceptions and motivation. These insights can inform policy decisions and curriculum reforms that enhance the study of classification.

 

Practically, this study will benefit LIS students by identifying the factors that hinder their ability to study classification effectively and proposing solutions to address these challenges. By improving the study of classification, students will be better equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to organize and retrieve information efficiently, which is essential for their future careers as information professionals.

 

Theoretically, this study will contribute to the body of knowledge on LIS education in Nigeria. It will provide empirical evidence on the factors affecting the study of classification and offer recommendations for improving LIS programs. This will be valuable for researchers, educators, and policymakers who are interested in enhancing LIS education in Nigeria and other developing countries.

 

Moreover, this study will highlight the importance of continuous professional development for faculty members and the need for universities to invest in resources and infrastructure that support effective LIS education. By addressing these issues, universities can improve the quality of their LIS programs and produce graduates who are well-prepared to meet the demands of the information profession.

 

1.7 Scope and Limitations of the Study

This study focuses on the factors affecting the study of classification in LIS at Sa'adu Zungur University, Bauchi. It will involve LIS students and faculty members in the university to gather data on their experiences and perceptions. The study will be limited to Sa'adu Zungur University, Bauchi, and may not be generalizable to other universities in Nigeria. However, the findings will provide valuable insights that can be used to improve LIS education in other institutions.

 

1.8 Operational Definition of Terms

Classification: The process of organizing information into categories and assigning symbols or codes to represent these categories in a library or information system.

Library and Information Science (LIS): An academic discipline that focuses on the principles and practices of managing, organizing, and disseminating information in libraries and other information institutions.

Curriculum: The set of courses and their content offered at a university or college.

Faculty Expertise: The knowledge and experience possessed by faculty members in their respective fields of study.

Student Motivation: The interest and enthusiasm that students have towards studying and learning a particular subject.

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