An Appraisal of the Use of Search Engines by Students of Auchi Polytechnic Edo State Nigeria

Abstract

This study evaluated Auchi Polytechnic students’ use of search engines. To guide this investigation, three objectives were established. The descriptive survey method was used in the study, and a questionnaire was used to collect data. The study’s population consisted of all National Diploma (ND2) and Higher National Diploma (HND2) students at Auchi Polytechnic in Auchi. The library was employed as a target location, and only students who visited the library throughout the study period were used in the study. Three thousand two hundred and seventy-eight (3278) ND2 and HND2 students registered with the polytechnic library during the 2019/ 2021/2022 academic session comprised the study’s population. The study’s sample size was considerable, with a representative sample of one hundred and twenty-five (125) students discovered in the library during the study time. According to the report, the majority of pupils used search engines to a Very High Extent. According to the study, Auchi polytechnic students used search engines for research, exam preparation, current information, and assignment. The study advised that since a majority of the students pointed out that Information overload is one of key issues they faced in using the search engines. Teaching on advanced search choices (Boolean Operators) should be promoted.