Factors influencing reading habits on perceived academic performance of students in Federal College of Forestry, Jos

Abstract

This study investigated the factors influencing reading habits on perceived academic performance of students in Federal College of Forestry Jos, Plateau State. The study used descriptive survey design. Stratified random sampling technique was adopted in selecting fifty-seven (57) students from five departments of the college as sample size for the study. Data were gathered using a researcher designed instrument tagged “Factors Influencing Reading Habits on Perceived Academic Performance of Students’ in Federal College of Forestry Jos, Plateau State (FIRHPAPSFCFJP)”. Data obtained from the field were presented using frequency tables and simple percentages. The findings of this study showed respondents mainly read for assignment and course work, examination, self-development, and improvement in spoken and written English. The type of materials mostly read, include newspapers/magazines, novels, and textbooks. While inadequate information in the library, lack of interesting reading materials, peer pressure and social media e.g., Facebook, Whatsapp, Twitter, are factors of personality that militate against students reading habit. Based on these findings, the researchers recommended that students should be motivated and encouraged by their lecturers to read different information resources and academic libraries should endeavour to provide adequate information materials.