Knowledge Organization Skills for Effective Information Retrieval Among Undergraduate Students in Rev. Fr. Moses Orshio Adasu University, Makurdi Benue State-Nigeria

Abstract

This study examined knowledge organization skills for effective information retrieval among undergraduate students of Rev. Fr. Moses Orshio Adasu University, Makurdi, Nigeria. The objectives were to identify the types of knowledge resources available, assess the extent of retrieval when resources are organized, and determine the key skills required for effective use. A descriptive survey design was employed with a sample of 373 undergraduates drawn from a population of 5,821 registered library users. Data were collected using a checklist and questionnaire, and analysed with mean, standard deviation, percentages, and chi-square at a 0.05 significance level. Findings revealed that a wide range of resources including textbooks, journals, newspapers, conference proceedings, and e-resources are available in the university library. Results further showed that systematic organization of resources significantly enhances students’ ability to retrieve accurate, relevant, and timely information for coursework and research. Essential skills identified for effective knowledge _organization include cataloguing, classification, information technology, shelf management, and information literacy. Chi-square analysis confirmed that knowledge organization skills have a significant influence on effective information retrieval. The study concludes that strengthening librarians’ professional competencies in knowledge organization is critical to improving access and supporting undergraduate academic success.