Information Needs and Seeking Behaviour of Visually Impaired Students at Owo High School

Abstract

This study investigated information needs and seeking behaviour of visually impaired students at Owo High School. A descriptive survey design was adopted for the study, and the total population of visually impaired students for the 2022/2023 academic session was 40. The entire population was sampled. Out of the 40 copies of the questionnaire administered, 36 were retrieved and used for the study. The data collected from the respondents were analysed using frequency counts and simple percentages. The results revealed that the visually impaired students primarily sought information on how to acquire more knowledge in their studies and career development. The main purpose of their information-seeking behaviour was to solve practical problems and enhance their career opportunities. Braille was the preferred type of information resource. The challenges encountered included limited availability of documents in Braille or audio format, a lack of computers with screen reader software, and difficulty in accessing information from the internet. The study recommended providing alternative formats for information resources and training on the use of available resources to support visually impaired students' information needs.