Assessment of Knowledge Sharing Patterns among University and Polytechnic Students in Imo State

Faustina Chioma Haco-Obasi; Nneka Chinemerem Agim

doi:10.51983/ajist-2020.10.1.299

Authors

Faustina Chioma Haco-Obasi University Library, Federal University of Technology, Owerri, Nigeria
Nneka Chinemerem Agim University Library, Federal University of Technology, Owerri, Nigeria

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.51983/ajist-2020.10.1.299

Keywords:

Knowledge-sharing, knowledge-sharing patterns, students, university, polytechnic

Abstract

Knowledge sharing is the sharing of information with the sole aim of enlightening the target recipient (s) through meaningful exchanges that would produce needed results. Knowledge sharing has become a daily activity among students as they engage in daily face to face and mediated interactions where they collaborate and share ideas, understanding, information, skills and expertise with peers and instructors. It is against this phenomenon that this study sprouted. The study is a comparative investigation of knowledge-sharing patterns among students at Federal University of Technology, Owerri and Federal Polytechnic Nekede, Owerri. The method of research adopted is descriptive and comprised registered undergraduates of both institutions’ libraries as a stratum. A questionnaire was designed and administered to 600 students, 300 from each institution and 290 and 287 retrieved in a usable state from FUTO and FPNO respectively, representing 96% return rate. The findings show an existence of knowledge sharing practice in both institutions and a similarity in the kind of knowledge usually shared. Pattern of sharing knowledge is different and peculiar to the nature of each institution. Whilst FUTO students share knowledge through group assignments, whatsapp and interactive sessions, FPNO students share through tutorial classes, reading groups and group assignments. The study revealed the hindrances to knowledge sharing in each institution and students’ suggestions of facilitating the practice for improved learning. Though hindrances to knowledge sharing revealed in the study may be considered peculiar to the institutions covered, they albeit represent relevant ideas which management of any institution can manipulate to enhance knowledge sharing in their institutions.

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