Study Habits of Postgraduate Students in Selected Nigerian Universities

Stella E. Igun
Head, Readers Services Division

Oghenevwogaga Benson Adogbeji
Systems Analyst/Network Administrator

Delta State University Library
Abraka, Nigeria

Introduction

Reading is an attempt to absorb the thought of the author and know what the author is conveying (Leedy 1956). Studying is the interpretation of reading materials. Study habits and skills are particularly important for postgraduate students, whose needs include time management, notetaking, Internet skill, the elimination of distractions, and assigning a high priority to study. Fielden (2004) states that good study habits help the student in critical reflection in skills outcomes such as selecting, analyzing, critiquing, and synthesizing. Nneji (2002) states that study habits are learning tendencies that enable students work privately. Azikiwe (1998) describes study habits as the way and manner a student plans his or her private reading outside lecture hours in order to master a particular subject or topic. Study habits help students master their areas of specialization.

The objective of this study is to examine the study habits of postgraduate students in selected Nigerian universities, looking at duration, place of study, materials used for study, and their main motivators. This study will help to establish whether postgraduates are on par with their peers in other countries in the acquisition of intellectual skills.

Literature Review

Study habits may be taken for granted, particularly in developing countries. In Africa, there is widespread reading in all scholarly fields, but less is being achieved in writing and publication. Efficient study habits can strengthen writing. Professors in the developing countries, such as those in Nigerian universities, should attempt to "equip graduates with