Advances in the Usage of Search Engine Technology by University Students in Nigeria

Abstract

Search engines are supposed to be about enthusiasm, optimism, hope, and enrichment, yet doing so might lead to despair and disillusionment. While utilizing search engines to find resources, a student may have felt one or both of these emotions. One might argue that user happiness is primarily determined by the user’s search tactics. However, the quality of the search engines utilized for information retrieval also has a role. There are several search engines available nowadays for finding resources. However, the purpose of this study is to investigate on the advancements of search engine technology in university libraries and its impacts on student’s academic performance. The authors used semi structured interview questionnaires to collect the data from university students and data collected were analyzed with the statistical package for social scientists (SPSS). The authors reported that search engine technology is an important information technology tool that affects both the library users and the staff of the library in every aspect. The study also found that results of searches are presented in an easily understandable format, with several customization options such as refining and sorting. It is clear that the concept of Search engines in Libraries is an emerging trend and it is also utilized by students for performing activities such as assignments, final year projects, research works and for the general improvement of their academic performance. It can be noted therefore that the use of search engines plays an important role in a student’s academic performance. This research will be beneficial to the library because library users make use of the library to search for materials to get relevant information to satisfy their various search queries. Also, this study will assist with teaching the students the most proficient method to adequately utilize the Internet for their interest and the significance of the Internet to scholarly works. Keywords: Search Engine: Libraries: University: Students: Nigeria