MANAGING HOSTEL OVERCROWDING FOR IMPROVED STUDENT ATTITUDINAL BEHAVIOUR

Abstract

Hostel overcrowding is a common issue in educational institutions, particularly in developing countries with a high demand for student accommodation. This study examined the issue of hostel overcrowding and its impact on student attitudinal behaviour among the students of the Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Nigeria. The design for this study was a descriptive survey. The study population comprised all the students resident in the Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife hostels. A total of 330 students comprised the sample drawn from the eight hostels. The research instrument used in this study was the ‘Managing Hostel Overcrowding for Improved Student Attitudinal Behaviour Questionnaire (MHOISABQ)’ questionnaire. Two research questions were raised and answered, and one null hypothesis was formulated and tested.  Findings showed negative effects of overcrowding on student behavior, such as increased stress, aggression, a decline in positive attitudinal behaviours among students and a lack of respect for rules and regulations. Based on the findings, the study proposed several strategies for managing hostel overcrowding, including implementing a strict Room Occupancy Policy, increasing the number of hostel facilities, and providing students with alternative accommodation options. These strategies aim to create a more conducive living environment for students, leading to improved attitudinal behaviour and overall well-being. The study further proposed a framework for hostel management that encompasses infrastructure optimization, policy interventions, and student-centric support mechanisms to mitigate the challenges of overcrowding and foster a more conducive living environment for students.