1.0 Introduction
1.1 Background of Study
In West Africa, the role of school libraries has been critical yet often under-resourced. Since the establishment of the WAEC in 1952, the council has served as a benchmark for secondary education in English-speaking West African countries, including Nigeria, Ghana, Sierra Leone, Liberia, and The Gambia. As WAEC exams became a crucial determinant of academic and career prospects, the need for supportive educational resources, including libraries, became more evident. Further studies in the early 2000s reinforced these findings. For example, a study by Owoeye and Yara (2011) in Nigeria found that schools with well-equipped libraries recorded better student performance in WAEC exams compared to those without such facilities. This study underscored the importance of library resources in providing students with the necessary materials and environment for effective learning and exam preparation.
The academic landscape of secondary education in West Africa is highly competitive, with students striving to excel in the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) exams, a key determinant of their future educational and professional opportunities. Within this context, the role of school libraries emerges as a crucial factor in supporting students' academic success. School libraries are essential in providing access to a wide array of resources that complement classroom instruction and foster a conducive learning environment. The influence of school libraries on students' academic performance has been documented in various educational studies. According to the American Library Association (2013), effective school library programs are linked to higher student achievement. These libraries are instrumental in promoting literacy, providing access to diverse learning materials, and supporting students' research and study needs. Furthermore, they serve as hubs for information literacy, helping students develop critical thinking and research skills essential for academic success.
In many West African countries, however, school libraries often face challenges such as inadequate funding, lack of resources, and insufficient staffing. Despite these hurdles, the potential impact of well-resourced and effectively managed school libraries cannot be underestimated. For instance, a study by Kachel and Lance (2013) highlights that students who have access to comprehensive library services tend to perform better academically. This is particularly relevant for WAEC exams, where extensive preparation and access to a variety of study materials are crucial.
The role of school libraries in enhancing academic performance has been a subject of considerable interest and research. School libraries provide students with access to a diverse range of informational resources, fostering an environment conducive to learning and academic achievement. Their influence is particularly notable in standardized assessments such as the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) exams, which are pivotal in determining students' future educational and career opportunities. Research indicates that well-resourced school libraries contribute significantly to students' academic success by supporting curriculum needs, encouraging independent learning, and promoting literacy skills. According to Lonsdale (2003), there is a positive correlation between the quality of library services and students' academic performance. Libraries offer not only books but also access to digital resources, study spaces, and expert assistance from librarians, all of which can enhance students' study habits and knowledge acquisition.
Moreover, studies have shown that students who regularly utilize library services tend to perform better academically. Lance and Hofschire (2012) found that students with access to a full-time librarian and a robust library program scored higher on standardized tests compared to their peers without such resources. This underscores the importance of investing in school libraries to bridge educational disparities and support students in achieving their full academic potential. Therefore, in Nigeria where the research was carried out, the activities that was conducted is to know the Influence of School Library Service on Students Academic Performance in WAEC.
1.2 Statement of Problems
Investigation revealed that many school libraries in West Africa lack the necessary financial support to maintain an adequate collection of books, educational materials, and technological resources. This limitation severely restricts students' access to up-to-date and relevant study materials, which are crucial for effective WAEC exam preparation (Krolak, 2005).
Additionally, there the shortage of qualified librarians and support staff and schools often face challenges in recruiting and retaining trained librarians who can provide essential services such as information literacy training, research assistance, and curriculum support. The lack of professional development opportunities for existing library staff further exacerbates this problem, leading to a decline in the quality of library services offered to students (IFLA, 2015).
Furthermore, in the digital age, access to online resources and digital libraries is increasingly important for students' academic success. However, many school libraries in West Africa are not equipped with adequate technology infrastructure, such as computers, internet access, and digital databases. This digital divide prevents students from accessing a wide range of electronic resources and educational tools that could enhance their learning and performance in WAEC exams (Jato et al., 2014). Hence, it is against this backdrop that this study aims to evaluate the Influence of School Library Service on Students Academic Performance in WAEC.
1.3 Aim and Objectives of Study
The aim of the study is to investigate the Influence of School Library Service on Students Academic Performance in WAEC. In achieving this aim, the following specific objectives were laid out as follows:
- To evaluate the types and adequacy of resources available in school libraries, including books, reference materials, and digital resources;
- To assess the qualifications and effectiveness of librarians in assisting students with information literacy, research skills, and exam preparation;
- To examine the extent to which school libraries incorporate digital resources and technology, and how these resources impact students’ learning and exam performance; and
- To analyze the relationship between the frequency and manner of library use by students and their performance in WAEC exams.
- To propose actionable recommendations for improving school library services to better support students' academic performance, particularly in preparation for WAEC exams.
1.4 Research Questions
The study came up with research questions so as to be able to ascertain the above stated objectives. The specific research questions for the study are stated below as follows:
- What are the types and adequacy of resources available in school libraries, including books, reference materials, and digital resources?
- What is the qualifications and effectiveness of librarians in assisting students with information literacy, research skills, and exam preparation?
- What is the relationship between the frequency and manner of library use by students and their performance in WAEC exams?
- What is the extent to which school libraries incorporate digital resources and technology, and how these resources impact students’ learning and exam performance?
1.5 Research Hypothesis
In order to pursue the objective of this study, the following generalized statements have been designed to guide and aids in obtaining the result for the experiment to be conducted. For this work, the null hypothesis will be represented with H0 while the alternative hypothesis will be represented with hypothesis H1.
Hypothesis One
- H0: There is a significant negative relationship between the availability of library resources and students’ academic performance in WAEC exams
- H1: There is a significant positive relationship between the availability of library resources and students’ academic performance in WAEC exams
Hypothesis Two
- H0: Challenges such as inadequate funding, insufficient staffing, and poor infrastructure negatively affect the effectiveness of school library services and, consequently, students’ academic performance in WAEC exams
- H1: Challenges such as inadequate funding, insufficient staffing, and poor infrastructure positively affect the effectiveness of school library services and, consequently, students’ academic performance in WAEC exams
1.6 Significance of Study
The result of this research study will inform policy decisions and educational practices aimed at improving school library services. Also, school libraries can mitigate educational disparities by providing equal access to educational resources for all students, regardless of their background or socioeconomic status. This research study can emphasize the importance of equitable access to quality library services in promoting educational equity.
Furthermore, studying the influence of school library services on students' academic performance in WAEC exams is significant for its potential to inform educational policies, enhance resource allocation, promote educational equity, empower students, and foster lifelong learning habits.
1.7 Scope of Study
The scope of the research is focused on the Influence of School Library Service on Students Academic Performance in WAEC using some selected secondary schools in Lagos State, Nigeria as a case study.
1.8 Limitations of the Study
During the course of this study, many things militated against its completion, some of which are:
- Time Constraint: The time frame given to accomplish this project was very short due to school academic calendar and it was carried out under pressure which made the researcher not to implement some necessary features.
- Financial Constraint: Insufficient fund tends to impede the efficiency of the researcher in sourcing for the relevant materials, literature or information and in the process of data collection (internet, questionnaire and interview).
1.9 Definition of Terms
School Library Services:
It refers to the range of resources, facilities, and educational support provided by a school library to enhance students' learning experiences and academic achievements. These services may include access to books, periodicals, digital resources, study spaces, and guidance from qualified librarians.
Academic Performance:
The extent to which students demonstrate mastery of educational content and achieve desired learning outcomes as assessed through various measures, including standardized exams like the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) exams.
West African Examinations Council (WAEC) Exams:
Standardized assessments administered by the West African Examinations Council across English-speaking West African countries, which serve as a benchmark for students' academic achievements and determine their eligibility for further education and career opportunities.
Information Literacy:
It is the ability to identify, evaluate, and effectively use information from various sources to solve problems, make decisions, and engage critically with content. Information literacy skills are essential for academic success and lifelong learning.
Digital Resources:
It refers to electronic materials and resources accessible via computers, tablets, or other digital devices, including e-books, online databases, and educational software.
Educational Equity:
It is the principle of providing all students, regardless of background or circumstances, with equal access to high-quality educational resources, opportunities, and support to achieve academic success.
