Knowledge, Attitudes And Practices Of University Students On Web 2.0 Tools: Implications For Academic Libraries In Zimbabwe

Abstract

Web 2.0 technologies have provided both opportunities and challenges for academic libraries. These socio-technological innovations have enabled interactivity and gathering of knowledge through experience and practice on a global scale. The concept of collaborative work, social networking and the ease in the usage of these applications has brought a significant change in the internet usage by university students. Many academic libraries are beginning to leverage the power of these services to provide better and more relevant services to their patrons. The use of web 2.0 tools in academic libraries and has begun to take shape recently in Zimbabwe. However, studies reveal that utilisation these tools is still low in Zimbabwean academic libraries. Understanding knowledge, attitudes and practices of university students on web 2.0 tools paves the way for the efficient and effective use of these tools in Zimbabwean libraries. This study aimed at determining the knowledge, attitudes and practices of university students on web 2.0 tools. The survey method was used to gather data. A self administered questionnaire was used to gather data from 280 undergraduate students who were conveniently selected to participate in the study. The findings reveal that most students have excellent knowledge of specific web 2.0 tools such as Instant Messaging and Social networking. Most tools were used mainly for communication purposes. A small percentage of respondents indicated that they use the tools for educational purposes. Students displayed lack of knowledge and use on mashups, social bookmarks, and relatively simple syndication (RSS) feeds. The fact that most of these tools are already being widely used by students entail that academic libraries can utilise these technologies in developing user services. However, the issues of awareness, access, , confidentiality, and accuracy of these tools need to be addressed to ensure their successful implementation and use.