Project – Hostel accommodation and its impact on students’ academic performance in Universities

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background of the Study

Hostel accommodation has long been a subject of interest in educational research, particularly in how it influences students’ academic performance. According to a study by Astin (1993), living on campus, including in hostels, can significantly enhance students’ academic engagement and success. Astin’s theory of involvement suggests that students who live in hostels are more likely to participate in academic and extracurricular activities, which in turn positively impacts their academic performance. This is because hostel environments often provide easier access to academic resources, peer support, and faculty interaction, all of which are crucial for academic success.

Further supporting this notion, a study by Pascarella and Terenzini (2005) found that students who reside in university hostels tend to have higher GPAs compared to their counterparts who live off-campus. The researchers attribute this to the structured environment of hostels, which often include study halls, quiet hours, and academic support services. These facilities help create an atmosphere conducive to studying and learning. Additionally, the proximity to campus resources such as libraries, computer labs, and academic advising centers further supports students’ academic endeavors.

However, not all research points to a uniformly positive impact of hostel accommodation on academic performance. A study by Chickering and Reisser (1993) highlights that the quality of hostel facilities and the social environment can vary significantly, influencing the extent to which they benefit students academically. Poorly maintained hostels or those with a disruptive social environment can negatively impact students’ ability to focus on their studies. Therefore, the impact of hostel accommodation on academic performance is not solely dependent on the fact of living on campus but also on the quality of the living conditions and the social dynamics within the hostel.

Moreover, the social aspect of hostel living can have both positive and negative effects on academic performance. According to Tinto (1993), the sense of community and belonging that often develops in hostel settings can enhance students’ motivation and commitment to their studies. However, excessive socializing and peer pressure can also lead to distractions and reduced study time. Balancing social interactions with academic responsibilities is crucial for students living in hostels to maximize the benefits of their living arrangements.

In addition to the immediate academic benefits, hostel accommodation can also contribute to the development of important life skills that indirectly support academic success. Research by Kuh et al. (2005) suggests that living in a hostel helps students develop time management, self-discipline, and interpersonal skills. These skills are not only essential for academic success but also for personal and professional development. The experience of living independently and managing one’s own affairs can foster a sense of responsibility and maturity that benefits students throughout their academic careers and beyond.

The impact of hostel accommodation on students’ academic performance in universities is multifaceted and influenced by various factors including the quality of the hostel facilities, the social environment, and the individual student’s ability to balance social and academic responsibilities. While hostel living can provide significant academic advantages through increased engagement and access to resources, it also requires students to navigate potential challenges such as distractions and varying living conditions. Future research should continue to explore these dynamics to better understand how to optimize hostel living environments for academic success.

1.2 Statement of the Problem

The issue of hostel accommodation and its impact on students’ academic performance in universities is a multifaceted problem that warrants thorough investigation. Universities worldwide have long grappled with the challenge of providing adequate and conducive living environments for their students. Hostel accommodations, in particular, play a crucial role in shaping the academic experiences and outcomes of university students. However, the quality and availability of these accommodations often vary significantly, leading to disparities in academic performance among students. This problem is further compounded by the increasing student population, which puts additional pressure on existing hostel facilities.

One of the primary concerns is the adequacy of hostel facilities. Overcrowded and poorly maintained hostels can create an environment that is not conducive to studying. Students living in such conditions may face numerous distractions and discomforts, such as noise, lack of privacy, and inadequate study spaces, which can hinder their ability to concentrate on their academic work. Additionally, the physical condition of the hostels, including issues like poor ventilation, insufficient lighting, and inadequate sanitation, can negatively impact students’ health and well-being, further affecting their academic performance.

Another significant aspect of the problem is the social environment within hostels. While hostels can provide a supportive community for students, they can also be a source of stress and distraction. Peer pressure, social conflicts, and the presence of non-academic activities can divert students’ attention away from their studies. Moreover, the lack of proper supervision and guidance in some hostels can lead to indiscipline and unhealthy behaviors, such as substance abuse, which can have detrimental effects on students’ academic achievements.

Financial constraints also play a critical role in this problem. Many students come from low-income families and struggle to afford decent hostel accommodation. As a result, they may be forced to live in substandard conditions or seek alternative housing options that are far from the university, leading to increased travel time and reduced study time. The financial burden of paying for accommodation can also add to students’ stress levels, further impacting their academic performance.

The problem is not limited to the physical and social aspects of hostel accommodation but also extends to the administrative and policy level. Inadequate planning and management of hostel facilities by university authorities can exacerbate the issue. For instance, the lack of clear policies on room allocation, maintenance, and student support services can lead to inefficiencies and inequalities in the provision of hostel accommodation. Additionally, the absence of regular assessments and feedback mechanisms can prevent the identification and resolution of problems faced by students in hostels.

The problem of hostel accommodation and its impact on students’ academic performance in universities is a complex issue that requires a comprehensive approach. Addressing this problem necessitates not only improving the physical infrastructure of hostels but also fostering a positive social environment, providing financial support to needy students, and implementing effective administrative policies. By tackling these challenges, universities can create a more conducive living environment that supports students’ academic success and overall well-being.

 

1.3 Objectives Of The Study

The main aim of this study is to examine hostel accommodation and its impact on students’ academic performance in universities. Specifically but not limited to, other objectives of the study are:

1. To investigate the relationship between the quality of hostel accommodation and students’ academic performance.
2. To analyze the influence of hostel facilities and amenities on students’ satisfaction and academic success.
3. To examine the role of social interactions in hostel settings on students’ academic motivation and performance.
4. To explore the impact of hostel location and accessibility on students’ study habits and academic outcomes.

1.4 Research Questions

The following research questions will be answered in this study:

1. What is the relationship between the quality of hostel accommodation and students’ academic performance?
2. How do hostel facilities and amenities influence students’ satisfaction and academic success?
3. What is the role of social interactions in hostel settings on students’ academic motivation and performance?
4. How does hostel location and accessibility impact students’ study habits and academic outcomes?

 

1.5. Research Hypothesis

The hypothetical statement of the study is buttressed below:

Ho: The quality of hostel accommodation has no effect on students’ academic performance.

H1: The quality of hostel accommodation has effect on students’ academic performance.

 

1.5 Significance Of The Study

The study, which aims to determine whether there is a correlation between appropriate hostel housing and improved academic performance, will undoubtedly be relevant to the student and their parents for decision-making purposes. Since shelter is one of the most important human needs, everyone is in dire need of one, especially if they are new to an area. Before choosing a university to attend or send their children to, therefore, parents and their children would consider the likelihood of obtaining housing on or near campus.

The entire workforce of the universities will find this study useful and pertinent for planning purposes. The dean of students affairs, the senate, and other planning executives within the confines of the university would like to know the proportion of total students accommodated, the revenue stream lost due to inadequate provision of hostel accommodation, and the capacity limitations caused by inadequate facilities such as hostel accommodation.

The research will also be relevant and useful to the government in the areas of policy formulation and implementation pertaining to the development of university infrastructure by the federal government.

The research will be relevant to future researchers in this field, as well as to the general public and society as a whole, as it will contribute to the improvement of educational standards.

 

1.6 SCOPE OF THE STUDY

This study is generally focused on hostel accommodation and its impact on students’ academic performance in universities. Precisely, this study is focused on determining the extent students use hostel accommodations in universities, determining whether sex and age have a role in the distribution of university hostels in Nigerian federal universities, determining whether hostel accommodation impacts on academic performance and determining whether there are special preference to faculties and course of study in the allocation of hostels in the Nigerian federal universities.

Selected staff and students of University of Calabar, Cross River State will serve as enrolled participants for the survey of this study.

1.7 LIMITATIONS OF THE STUDY

This study is generally limited to hostel accommodation and its impact on students academic performance in universities. Precisely, this study is limited to determining the extent students use hostel accommodations in universities, determining whether sex and age have a role in the distribution of university hostels in Nigerian federal universities, determining whether hostel accommodation impacts on academic performance and determining whether there are special preference to faculties and course of study in the allocation of hostels in the Nigerian federal universities.

Selected staff and students of University of Calabar, Cross River State will serve as enrolled participants for the survey of this study, thus the sample size was limited because only a few respondents were chosen to answer the research instrument, therefore the results cannot be generalized to other secondary schools outside the state.

1.8 DEFINITION OF TERMS

Hostel: A hostel is a form of low-cost, short-term shared sociable lodging where guests can rent a bed, usually a bunk bed in a dormitory, with shared use of a lounge and sometimes a kitchen. Rooms can be mixed or single-sex and have private or shared bathrooms.

Academic performance: Academic achievement or academic performance is the extent to which a student, teacher or institution has attained their short or long-term educational goals. Completion of educational benchmarks such as secondary school diplomas and bachelor’s degrees represent academic achievement.

Universities: A university is an institution of higher education and research which awards academic degrees in several academic disciplines. Universities typically offer both undergraduate and postgraduate programs.

Project – Hostel accommodation and its impact on students’ academic performance in Universities