Patterns of Internet Usage and Their Influence on the Reading Culture of Undergraduate Students at Elizade University, Ondo State

Abstract

Internet usage has become an integral part of undergraduate academic life, providing access to diverse information resources that support learning. This study examined the patterns of internet usage and their influence on the reading culture of undergraduate students at Elizade University, Ilara-Mokin, Ondo State, Nigeria. A descriptive survey design was adopted, with data collected from 330 students using a structured questionnaire and analysed using frequencies, percentages, mean scores, and standard deviation. Findings revealed that students exhibited moderate internet usage, primarily for social networking, educational websites, and academic activities, while their reading culture was moderate, characterised by scheduled routines and a steady reading pace. The study further found that internet usage exerts both positive and negative effects on students’ reading culture. It enhances comprehension, access to academic materials, and class participation, but also reduces planned reading time and increases distraction. The study concludes that internet usage plays a dual role in shaping undergraduate reading habits and recommends
promoting structured academic internet use alongside institutional policies that encourage sustained and focused reading practices.