POOR READING HABITS AND ITS INFLUENCE ON ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE OF LIBRARY AND INFORMATION SCIENCE STUDENTS, BENUE STATE UNIVERSITY, MAKURDI

ABSTRACT This study investigated poor reading habits and its influence on academic performance of Library and Information Science students, Benue State University, Makurdi. The study adopted a descriptive survey design with five objectives and corresponding research questions. The study comprised of 1,041 students which 104 were sampled using stratified random sampling technique. Data collected were analysed using the descriptive statistics such as frequency counts, mean and percentages. Finding revealed that high extent of poor reading habits among Library and Information Science students in Benue State University, Makurdi attesting that they find it difficult to concentrate for long periods when reading academic material, often procrastinate when it comes to reading for class assignments, read academic materials only when exams are near, struggle with maintaining a regular reading schedule among others. Another finding revealed the factors contributing to the poor reading habits to include that the workload of other academic activities prevents them from reading sufficiently; lack of motivation to read academic texts regularly, social media and online entertainment take up time meant for reading, they have limited access to a quiet place for studying, the content of academic materials is often too complex among others. Similarly, finding revealed how poor reading habits affect the academic performance of the students as poor reading habits negatively impact their grades, they struggle with understanding lecture content due to insufficient reading, their performance on written assignments is often low because they don’t read thoroughly. Also, finding revealed academic performance of the students at moderate level in terms of grades with majority on C and D grade levels. Finally, the amount of course material is overwhelming, difficulty in accessing the required reading materials, their schedule does not allow them to spend enough time reading, they feel pressure from extracurricular activities that limit their reading time were some of the challenges confronting LIS students while trying to improve reading habits for enhanced academic performance. Based on the findings of the study, it was concluded that, LIS students struggle with concentration, procrastinate on reading assignments and predominantly read only when exams are approaching; they rely heavily on lecture notes rather than engaging thoroughly with recommended readings and supplementary materials among others. The study concluded that students face significant challenges when attempting to improve their reading habits. It was recommended that Library and Information Science students should be encouraged to develop personalized reading schedules, set realistic reading goals and practice time management; Tte university administration and faculty should consider reducing the academic workload where possible and encourage a balanced approach to learning; lecturers should integrate continuous assessment strategies that encourage regular reading and comprehension among others.