The Level Of Anxiety Search For Information On The Library And Information Science Students Of The University Of North Sumatra In 2013 In Completing The Thesis
The Level of Anxiety in Searching for Information on Library and Information Science Students at the University of North Sumatra in 2013 in Completing Their Thesis
Introduction
The process of completing a thesis is a significant milestone in a student's academic journey. However, it can also be a source of anxiety, particularly when it comes to searching for information. Library and Information Science students at the University of North Sumatra in 2013 were no exception. This study aims to analyze the level of anxiety experienced by these students in searching for information when completing their thesis. By using the anxiety scale of information search or information seeking anxiety scale (ISAS), this research tries to uncover the feelings of anxiety experienced by students in facing various sources of information needed.
Methodology
This study employed a descriptive method with a quantitative approach to provide a clear picture of the level of student anxiety. The research population consisted of all students of the Library and Information Science University of North Sumatra in the class of 2013, totaling 104 people. By applying the total sampling technique, the entire population was used as respondents, thus producing 104 analyzed data.
Results
The results of the data analysis show that the majority of students, namely 63.75%, are at the level of no anxiety when searching for information through computers and the internet. This indicates that students feel more comfortable and not worried when using digital media as a source of information. Meanwhile, the lowest level of anxiety is detected at the level of Severe Anxiety, which only reaches 1.8% when students have to find information in the library.
Information Search Anxiety Analysis
Anxiety in searching for information can be understood in the context of how students interact with existing information sources. Ease of access to information through the internet makes students better prepared and confident. However, uncertainty when having to find conventional information in the library can cause anxiety. This can be caused by various factors, such as lack of experience in using library collections, ignorance of available resources, or even pressure to achieve satisfying results.
This anxiety can be a barrier in the student learning process, especially when preparing a thesis that is often the most tense final assignment for students. Therefore, it is essential for educational institutions to provide guidance and training in the search for information both in the library and online. Through the training, students are expected to be more confident in using all existing sources of information.
The Role of Educational Institutions
Educational institutions play a crucial role in reducing anxiety in information search. By providing guidance and training, students can develop the necessary skills to navigate various sources of information. This can include training on how to use digital media, how to access library collections, and how to evaluate the credibility of sources.
In addition, educational institutions can also create a supportive learning environment that fosters a sense of community and reduces anxiety. By creating a supportive atmosphere, students are expected to be more focused on their research process and reduce unnecessary anxiety.
Conclusion
Overall, this research shows that although there are challenges in the search for information in the library, the mastery of digital media provides fresh air for library science students and information at the University of North Sumatra. Reducing anxiety in information search is an important step in helping students complete their thesis more effectively and efficiently.
Recommendations
Based on the findings of this study, the following recommendations are made:
- Educational institutions should provide guidance and training in the search for information both in the library and online.
- Students should be encouraged to develop their skills in using digital media and accessing library collections.
- Educational institutions should create a supportive learning environment that fosters a sense of community and reduces anxiety.
- Students should be aware of the various sources of information available to them and learn how to evaluate the credibility of sources.
By implementing these recommendations, educational institutions can help reduce anxiety in information search and support students in completing their thesis more effectively and efficiently.
Limitations of the Study
This study has several limitations. Firstly, the study only focused on Library and Information Science students at the University of North Sumatra in 2013. Future studies can explore the level of anxiety in information search among students from other disciplines and institutions. Secondly, the study only used the anxiety scale of information search or information seeking anxiety scale (ISAS) to measure anxiety. Future studies can use other measures of anxiety to validate the findings of this study.
Future Research Directions
Future research can explore the following directions:
- Investigating the level of anxiety in information search among students from other disciplines and institutions.
- Developing and validating other measures of anxiety in information search.
- Exploring the impact of anxiety in information search on student learning outcomes.
- Investigating the effectiveness of different interventions in reducing anxiety in information search.
By exploring these research directions, future studies can provide a more comprehensive understanding of anxiety in information search and inform the development of effective interventions to support students in completing their thesis.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Anxiety in Information Search
Q: What is anxiety in information search?
A: Anxiety in information search refers to the feelings of apprehension, worry, or fear that students experience when searching for information, particularly when using digital media or accessing library collections.
Q: Why is anxiety in information search a problem?
A: Anxiety in information search can be a barrier to student learning, particularly when preparing a thesis. It can lead to decreased motivation, reduced productivity, and increased stress levels.
Q: What are the causes of anxiety in information search?
A: The causes of anxiety in information search can include lack of experience in using digital media or library collections, ignorance of available resources, pressure to achieve satisfying results, and uncertainty about how to evaluate the credibility of sources.
Q: How can educational institutions reduce anxiety in information search?
A: Educational institutions can reduce anxiety in information search by providing guidance and training in the search for information, creating a supportive learning environment, and encouraging students to develop their skills in using digital media and accessing library collections.
Q: What are some effective strategies for reducing anxiety in information search?
A: Some effective strategies for reducing anxiety in information search include:
- Providing clear instructions and guidance on how to use digital media and access library collections
- Encouraging students to ask for help when needed
- Creating a supportive learning environment that fosters a sense of community and reduces anxiety
- Encouraging students to develop their skills in evaluating the credibility of sources
Q: Can anxiety in information search be prevented?
A: While anxiety in information search cannot be completely prevented, it can be minimized by providing students with the necessary skills and support to navigate the search process.
Q: How can students reduce their anxiety in information search?
A: Students can reduce their anxiety in information search by:
- Seeking help when needed
- Developing their skills in using digital media and accessing library collections
- Creating a plan for searching for information
- Breaking down the search process into smaller, manageable tasks
Q: What are some common myths about anxiety in information search?
A: Some common myths about anxiety in information search include:
- That anxiety in information search is a normal part of the learning process
- That students are not capable of managing their anxiety in information search
- That anxiety in information search is a sign of weakness or lack of ability
Q: How can educators and librarians support students with anxiety in information search?
A: Educators and librarians can support students with anxiety in information search by:
- Providing clear instructions and guidance on how to use digital media and access library collections
- Encouraging students to ask for help when needed
- Creating a supportive learning environment that fosters a sense of community and reduces anxiety
- Encouraging students to develop their skills in evaluating the credibility of sources
Q: What are some resources available to support students with anxiety in information search?
A: Some resources available to support students with anxiety in information search include:
- Online tutorials and guides on how to use digital media and access library collections
- One-on-one support from librarians and educators
- Support groups for students with anxiety in information search
- Online resources and tools for evaluating the credibility of sources.