CHALLENGES FACING UTILIZATION OF WEB-BASED INFORMATION RESOURCES AMONG CLINICAL STUDENTS IN THE COLLEGE OF HEALTH SCIENCES, REV. FR. MOSES ORSHIO ADASU UNIVERSITY, MAKURDI

Abstract

This study investigated the challenges affecting the utilisation of web-based information resources among clinical students in the College of Health Sciences, Rev. Fr. Moses Orshio Adasu University, Makurdi, as well as strategies for improving their effective use. A descriptive survey design was employed, involving all 166 undergraduate clinical students through total enumeration. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and analysed using mean and standard deviation. Findings revealed multiple challenges, including poor internet connectivity, high data costs, limited access to paid databases, inadequate digital literacy, information overload, and difficulty evaluating credible online sources. The study also identified several strategies for improvement, such as expanding free Wi-Fi access, increasing institutional subscriptions to academic databases, providing digital literacy training, implementing critical thinking workshops, and enhancing institutional support for navigating online resources. The study concludes that addressing these constraints will significantly enhance students' academic productivity, access to credible information, and overall learning outcomes. Recommendations were made to guide policymakers, university management, and librarians in enhancing effective utilisation of web-based information resources.