Study Spaces and Environments: Recognizing the Needs of Students in Africa

Abstract

This study looks at the satisfaction of tertiary students with their institution’s library services with the aim of identifying study and learning related impediments and challenges faced by students from poor backgrounds.  A study of this type is important because educators need to understand that information technology adoption and implementation must first address learning needs and situations facing emerging communities.  The purpose of the study was to ascertain the reasons for visiting the library, frequency of visits, reasons that may have prevented visits, and to determine satisfaction and experience of users.  This was purely quantitative study, based on a survey of students. Satisfaction levels were measured across 20 indicators adapted from similar studies and sought information on the rate of library usage, the main reason for the most recent library visit and reasons that had ever prevented them from visiting the library. Post survey, three focus group sessions were conducted to discuss issues relating to home study environments and the preliminary findings of the survey.  Based on the item groupings, five service dimensions were identified. These were student services/facilities, staff, collection, study spaces, and availability (access). The study found that there was some disconnect between student needs and library services available. A large number of students (47%) indicated that they prefer to conduct their study in the library, despite indicating a high level of dissatisfaction with some aspects of the services, because home environments are not conducive to study and learning.  The implementation of many of the virtual characteristics of university libraries should be based on a clear understanding of the local information needs, searching behaviours as well as being cognizant of how and why libraries are accessed.

Keywords: Library, satisfaction, low socio-economic, student needs, internet, study spaces, e-resources, higher education, Africa.