Study Habit Dimensions: Empirics of University Student Gambling and Social Networking Interference

Abstract

The prevalence rate of gambling and social networking in the university setting interferes with students’ study habit dimensions. Thus, this study seeks to determine the dimensions of study habits exhibited by university students in Ghana, precisely the University of Cape Coast. The study adopted the descriptive survey design with a sample size of 351. The Study Habits Inventory (SHI) was adapted to determine the dimensions of students’ study habits. The inventory recorded a Cronbach’s Alpha coefficient (r) of .97. From the findings, it was evident that most students had satisfactory study habits in all five dimensions (Allotment of time, concentration, consultation, procedure in studying and reading and library use). Hence, it was inferred from the findings that the satisfactory study habits of students were because they did not have a very well-planned and organised study time. To this, it was recommended that, since one’s study habits can be interfered with by gambling and social life activities, the Study Habit Unit, in collaboration with the department academic counsellors, hall counsellors and a recommended “Gaming Research Unit” of the university should intermittently run an open forum where students can test their study habit dimensions and be acquainted so as to seek counsel or improvement where necessary