EDITORIAL COMMENT
Journal of Research and Education for Development in Africa (JOREDEA)
Volume 1, Issue 1, February, 2025
LIST OF ARTICLES
Journal of Research and Education for Development in Africa (JOREDEA)
Volume 1, Issue 1, February, 2025
DEMOCRATIZATION OF EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES IN THE 21ST CENTURY AFRICA: THE TRANSFORMATIVE ROLE OF TECHNOLOGY, KEYNOTE ADDRESS
By
Dr. Ogechi E. Anyanwu
Professor of History & Director of African and African American Studies
Eastern Kentucky University
Email: ogechi.anyanwu@eku.edu
Tel: +8592481394
LEVERAGING AI (CHATGPT) TO ENHANCE EDUCATIONAL OUTCOMES IN NIGERIA: OPPORTUNITIES AND CHALLENGES
Abstract
This paper explores the potential of ChatGPT, an advanced AI language model, to improve educational outcomes in Africa. It examines the opportunities
presented by this technology, such as personalised learning and increased access to educational resources, as well as the challenges, including infrastructure
limitations and ethical considerations, as well as the disparity in access to digital tools and the internet. The study analyses initiatives to integrate technology in
classrooms, promote digital literacy, and provide equitable access to educational resources. It underscores the pivotal role of multi-stakeholder collaboration,
involving governments, educational institutions, and international organisations, in bridging the gap and fostering inclusive learning environments. The paper
concludes with policy recommendations to support sustainable technological integration that benefits all students, regardless of their socio-economic background, emphasizing the urgency of the issue.
Keywords: ChatGPT, Educational Outcome, Nigeria
A Lead Paper Presented
By
Oko-Otu C. N (PhD)
MATERIAL RECOVERY AND OPERATIONAL EFFICIENCY OF POLYMER FIRMS IN RIVERS STATE.
Abstract
The focus of this study was to investigate the relationship between material recovery and operational efficiency in polymer firms in Rivers State. Nigeria. Material
Recovery was used as the independent variable. It was treated as a uni-dimensional variable. While, operational efficiency was used as the dependent variable which
was measured by customer satisfaction and quality control. Two null hypotheses were formulated for the study, meanwhile, the study adopted the survey research
design. The population of the study comprised of 8 polymer manufacturing firms in Port Harcourt as listed by Nigeria Business Directory 2023. The entire population
was studied hence 3 copies of the research instrument was sent to each of the 8 polymer firms. Thus, the total respondents were 24, but only 20 instruments were
returned usable. The hypotheses were tested using the Pearson Moment Correlation Coefficient. The findings revealed that material recovery had a significant and
positive relationship with customer satisfaction (an antecedent of operational efficiency) also, the findings revealed that material recovery had a significant and
positive relationship with quality control (an antecedent of operational efficiency). The study therefore, concludes that material recovery has a positive and strong
relationship with operational efficiency. Hence the study recommends that management of polymer firms should devote more effort to material recovery
strategy for it was found to ensure customer satisfaction and aid in maintaining the quality of the product.
Keywords: Material Recovery, Operational Efficiency, Customer Satisfaction, Quality Control
Owuso, Stephen Monima
Department of Logistics and Supply Chain Management
Rivers State University
stephen.owuso1@ust.edu.ng
DIGITAL DIVIDE AMONG BUSINESS EDUCATION STUDENTS IN TERTIARY INSTITUTIONS IN ANAMBRA STATE: BRIDGING THE GAP THROUGH ICT IN SCHOOL LIBRARIES
Abstract
School libraries are increasingly expected to provide technological devices and instruction on interacting with the digital world appropriately. The survey research
design was adopted to examine digital divide among Business Education students in tertiary institutions in Anambra state, Nigeria: Bridging the gap through ICT in
school libraries. The population comprised of all the 701 year two and year three Degree students of 2022/2023 academic session of Federal College of Education
(Technical) Umunze, Nnamdi Azikiwe University Awka, Nwafor Orizu College of Education Nsugbe and Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University. The sample
of the study is 254 degree business education students. Taro Yamane formular was used to determine the sample size of the study. Thereafter, Stratified Proportionate
Random Sampling Technique was used to select respondents from the various strata. Two research questions guided the study. A 22-item structured questionnaire was
used to collect data from the respondents. Data were analyzed using mean and standard deviation. The findings indicated among others that extent of availability
of ICT resources in school libraries for bridging the digital divide among Business Education students in tertiary institutions in Anambra state was to a low extent. It
was recommended among other things that institutions should invest in ICT infrastructure and resources in school libraries to make available adequate ICT resources in the school libraries.
Keywords: Business Education, Digital Divide, ICT, Tertiary Institution, School Library.
Uju Vivian Amah
chisomnuela@gmail.com
Commerce and Cooperative Edu. Dept.
Nwafor Nnaemeka Basil
Accounting Edu. Dept.
School of Business Education, F. C. E. (T), Umunze.
GENDER INEQUALITY IN THE USE OF ICT TOOLS AMONG BUSINESS EDUCATION STUDENTS IN COLLEGES OF EDUCATION IN ANAMBRA STATE.
Abstract
This study examined gender inequality in the use of ICT among Business Education students in Colleges of Education in Anambra State. Three research
questions guided the study. A descriptive survey research design was used. The population for the study was 612. This comprised of 420 (300 female and 120
male) Business Education Students (FCET), 192 (111 female and 81 male) Business Education students (NOCEN), The sample size for the study was 242 and
was determined using Taro Yamane Formular. Proportionate stratified sampling technique was then used to get: 166 (119 female and 47 male) NCE Business
Education students (FCET), 76 (44 female and 32 male) NCE Business Education students (NOCEN) who were randomly selected from the two groups. The
instrument used was questionnaire titled, assessment of gender inequality in the use of ICT among Business Education students in colleges of education in
Anambra State (AGIUICTBESCoE). The instrument was validated by three research experts. The Cronbach Alpha reliability test was used to determine the
reliability of the instrument and a reliability coefficient of 0.79 was obtained. The data collected from the questionnaire were analyzed using mean and standard
deviation at 0.05level of significance. The finding of the study revealed that there is gender difference in the use of ICT among Business Education students in
colleges of education in Anambra State. Based on the findings, it was recommended that female students should be highly motivated in the use of ICTs in schools by way of giving awards and scholarships to female students in colleges of education.
Keywords: Gender, Gender Inequality, ICT, Business Education, College of Education.
Dr Nwankwo, Philip, A.
Commerce & Co-operative Education Department
Ndubuisi, S. I.
Accounting Education Department
All authors from School of Business Education,
F.C.E. (T), Umunze
THE IMPACT OF MOBILE MONEY SERVICES ON FINANCIAL INCLUSION IN ANAMBRA STATE
Abstract
This survey research design study was adopted to examine impact of mobile money on financial inclusion in Anambra state, Nigeria. The population was made up of
mobile phone users in Anambra state and so no sampling frame was available. The sample of the study was 666 participants. To select this 666 respondents, Multi-stage
sampling procedure was adopted. Two research questions guided the study. A 14 item structured questionnaire was used to collect data from the respondents. Data
were analyzed using mean and standard deviation. The findings indicated that bank led services impact on financial inclusion in the state by improving access to savings
account and credit facilities, among others. It was recommended that bank-led service providers should prioritize financial literacy programmes to enhance users’
understanding of mobile financial services, among others.
Keywords: Impact, Mobile, Money, Mobile Money, Financial inclusion.
Dr Umeifekwem, Chinyere M.
Dr Unegbu, Paul I.
Dept. of Commerce and Cooperative Education,
School of Business Education,
F. C. E. (T), Umunze.
THE ROLE OF MOBILE TECHNOLOGY IN ENHANCING BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION PROGRAMMES IN FEDERAL POLYTECHNIC, OKO, ANAMBRA STATE, NIGERIA.
Abstract
Greater technology in learning has transcended traditional geographical and infrastructural boundaries, allowing access to learning resources from anywhere,
anytime. The survey research design was adopted to examine role of mobile technology in enhancing Business Administration programmes in Federal
Polytechnic, Oko, Anambra state, Nigeria. The population of the study comprised all the 65 staff of the department. The entire population of the study was used due to
the relatively manageable size; hence, the study adopted census technique. Three research questions guided the study. A 28-item structured questionnaire was used to
collect data from the respondents. Data were analyzed using mean and standard deviation. The finding revealed among other things that the current state of mobile
technology integration in Business Administration programmes at Federal Polytechnic, Oko, is relatively low. It was recommended among other things that
Business Administration educators should be encouraged to integrate mobile technology in Business Administration programmes since the current level of integration is low.
Keywords: Role, Technology, Mobile Technology, Enhance, Business Administration
Uzor, Uzoma
Vancouver Island University – Nanaimo, British Columbia, Canada.
PERCEIVED IMPACT OF DIGITAL EXCLUSION ON CONSUMERS’ INTENTION TO PURCHASE ONLINE IN ANAMBRA STATE.
Abstract
The survey research design study was adopted to examine impact of digital exclusion on consumers’ intention to purchase online in Anambra state. Two
research questions were raised to guide the study. The population is all the consumers that purchase online in Anambra State. The sample size is 384
determined using the sample size calculator software formula. A researchers’ self developed questionnaire containing 22-items was used to collect data from the
respondents. The instrument was validated by three experts from the Faculty of Education, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka. The instrument was pilot tested
using 20 consumers that purchase online in Delta state who were not part of the study population. This was done to ensure the reliability of the instrument and the
data collected was analyzed using Cronbachs’ Alpha which yielded an overall reliability coefficient of 0.73. Data were analyzed using mean and standard
deviation. The findings indicated that accessibility factors as well as affordability factors impacted on consumers' decisions to purchase online. Based on the
findings, it was recommended among others that e-commerce platforms should invest in user-friendly website interfaces and mobile applications optimized for
low-bandwidth connections.
Keywords: Digital, Exclusion, Digital Exclusion, Consumer, Online Purchase.
Moore, Nwaamaka
Dr. Anyaeneh, Vivian, K.
Commerce & Co-operative Education Department,
School of Business Education,
F.C.E. (T), Umunze
EMERGING DIGITAL TECHNOLOGIES IN LANGUAGE EDUCATION FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT IN AFRICA.
Abstract
African countries can enhance their educational systems and equip citizens with the skills to thrive in a rapidly changing global landscape by incorporating innovative digital technologies into language education programs. This study explores emerging digital technologies in language education for sustainable development in Africa. The place of emerging technologies in language education in Africa for sustainable development is crucial. This study, also, examines how advancements in technology have the potential to revolutionize language education by providing more efficient and effective ways of learning. It discusses the benefits of incorporating technology in language education such as increased access to resources and improved collaboration among students. Finally, it highlights the challenges that may arise in implementing technology in language education in Africa and provides recommendations for overcoming them. The study concludes that the integration of emerging technologies in language education has the potential to contribute to sustainable development in Africa by equipping students with the skills needed to thrive in a globalized world and empowering citizens to succeed in the 21st century.
Keywords: digital technology, language education and sustainable development.
Hope Ifunanya Ogar,
07036815050(ifyhopy@yahoo.com)
Onwudinjo, Nneka Anastasia,
Maikarfi, Naomi
Department of English, School of Languages
Federal College of Education (T), Umunze, Anambra State.
ETHICAL CONSIDERATIONS IN PROMOTING GENDER EQUITY: EMPOWERING AFRICAN GIRLS THROUGH DIGITAL EDUCATION IN SOUTHEAST NIGERIA
Abstract
Gender equity remains a significant challenge in Africa, where socio-cultural, economic, and educational barriers impede the progress of girls. This paper explores the
ethical considerations in promoting gender equity through digital education in Southeast Nigeria, focusing on empowering girls through the use of digital platforms. A sample of 600 girls in some selected secondary schools across five states in Southeast Nigeria: Abuia, Anambra, Ebonyi, Enugu, and Imo, were drawn. Three research questions that severed as the study’s compass were examined using quantitative and qualitative data from ongoing digital education initiatives in the region, the study analyzes the access, engagement, and outcomes for girls participating in these programs. Ethical challenges such as the digital divide, privacy, cultural norms, and inclusivity are examined. Statistical analyses are presented to highlight the effectiveness and gaps in digital education for girls. The findings underscore the need for ethical frameworks to address existing challenges and promote equitable education for girls in Southeast Nigeria.
Keywords: Ethical, Gender Equity, Digital Education
Uzondu Chikodiri Scholastica
and
Nwankwo Ekene Ezinwa
BRIDGING THE EFFECTS OF DIGITAL DIVIDE ON REPRESENTATION OF ROADSIDE ARTIST ENTREPRENEURS IN ANAMBRA, NIGERIA.
Abstract
This study explored the effects of digital divide on the representation of roadside artist entrepreneurs in the Anambra South geopolitical zone,
Nigeria. A descriptive survey research design was adopted, involving 70 participants purposefully selected from seven local government areas. Data
were collected using a structured questionnaire titled “Bridging the effects of digital divide on representation of roadside artist entrepreneurs
(BEDDRAER)” which was validated by experts from Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Anambra. A pilot test conducted in Idemili North,
Anambra yielded reliability coefficients of 0.89, 0.85, 0.88 and 0.82 for the four research questions items, making the instrument reliable for the study.
The questionnaire was administered directly, achieving a 93% response rate. Descriptive statistics and t-tests were utilized for data analysis. The findings
revealed that the majority of the roadside artist entrepreneurs lack access to essential digital tools such as graphic design software, e-commerce
platforms, and online learning tools. While some artists use social media and online payment platforms, these are predominately used for social
interactions rather than business purposes. Key barriers identified include inadequate infrastructure, financial constraints, limited government support,
and a lack of mentorship. The digital divide significantly affects the artists' visibility, market reach, and ability to command competitive prices thereby
confining their sales to local markets. Regression analysis indicated that improving digital access would enhance the representation and sales of
roadside artist entrepreneurs. The study recommends, among other things, the implementation of targeted policies to support marginalized artists in leveraging digital platforms for business growth and representation.
Keywords: Digital divide, Representation, Roadside Artist, Entrepreneurs
Anozie, N. E.
School of Fine and Applied Art
Federal College of Education (Tech), Umunze
Dr. Ike, Ijeoma Chidinma
Corresponding author
Ike.ijeomachidinma@yahoo.com
School of Business Education
Federal College of Education (Tech), Umunze
ROLE OF MOBILE TECHNOLOGY IN ENHANCING BUSINESS EDUCATION PROGRAMME IN COLLEGES OF EDUCATION IN ANAMBRA, STATE
Abstract
The study investigated the role of mobile technology in enhancing Business Education programme in colleges of education in Anambra State. A descriptive
survey design was adopted. The population of the study comprised all the 84 business educators, consisting: 66 from Federal College of Education (Technical),
Umunze, and 18 from Nwafor Orizu College of Education, Nsugbe. A structured questionnaire titled “ Role of Mobile Technology in Enhancing Business Education
Programme” (RMTEBEP) was used to gather data regarding three research questions posed by the study. The instrument was validated by three experts in
business education and measurement and evaluation from Federal College of Education, Technical Asaba, Delta, Nigeria. A pilot test was conducted using 20
Business educators from Federal College of Education, Technical, Asaba, Delta. Cronbach Alpha was used for the analysis yielding a reliability coefficient of 0.83,
0.88, and 0.79, indicating the instrument’s reliability. A face to face method of questionnaire administration was employed which yielded 93% return rate. Data
collected were analyzed using descriptive statistics, including mean and standard deviation, while a t-test was used for inferential analysis. The study found that
mobile devices, applications, and internet services facilitate information accessibility, provide platforms for collaboration and networking, and aid in real
time information and feedback. It was recommended, among other things, that colleges of education in Anambra State should partner with service providers, such
as MTN and Airtel, to ensure seamless internet accessibility.
Keywords: Mobile Technology, Mobile devices, Applications, Internet services, Business Education
Dr. Ikeanyionwu, Chioma L.
Madichie, Christopher N.
School of Business Education,
Federal College of Education Technical, Umunze.
INFLUENCE OF DIGITAL TECHNOLOGY IN LANGUAGE EDUCATION TOWARDS SUSTAINABLE TEACHER EDUCATION IN NIGERIA: ADDRESSING THE DIGITAL DIVIDE.
Abstract
The rapid advancement of digital technology has revolutionized how education is delivered and accessed, particularly in language education. This paper explores the
influence of digital technology in language education towards sustainable teacher education in Nigeria, thereby addressing the digital divide. The paper examines the
current state of digital technology in language education in Nigeria, highlighting the challenges and opportunities it presents for sustainable teacher education. It also discusses the impact of the digital divide on teacher training programs and proposes strategies to bridge the gap. The findings of this study suggest that while digital technology has the potential to enhance language education and improve teacher training in Nigeria, the digital divide remains a major obstacle. The paper recommends investment in infrastructure, access to digital resources, training, and support for teachers and language educators. Finally, the paper underscores the importance of maximizing digital technology in language education to ensure sustainable teacher education in Nigeria by equipping teachers with the necessary skills and resources.
Keywords: digital technology, language education, teacher education, Nigeria, digital divide.
Hope Ifunanya Ogar
Department of English
Federal College of Education (T), Umunze
ifyhopy@gmail.com
07036815050
Nwanua Juliana Adaeze,
Delta State Polytechnic,
Ogwashi-Uku, P.M. B 1030, Delta State.
julienwanua@gmail.com
08131852199
Udensi U.J. (PhD)
Department of English
Federal College of Education (T), Umunze
DIGITAL ENTREPRENEURSHIP AND JOB CREATION IN ANAMBRA STATE
Abstract
This study aimed at examining how digital entrepreneurship promotes job creatio in Anambra state, Nigeria. Survey research design study was adopted. The
population comprised of all the 83 Business Educators in the two colleges of Education in Anambra state. No sampling technique was used as the population was
of manageable size. Three research questions guided the study. A 22-item structured questionnaire was used to collect data from the respondents. The instrument was
validated by three experts from the Faculty of Education, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka. Cronbachs’ Alpha was used to test the reliability of the instrument
and the overall reliability coefficient of 0.73 was gotten. Data were analyzed using mean and standard deviation. The findings indicated that digital entrepreneurship
promotes job creation in Anambra State through three key areas: digital knowledge base, digital business environments, and digital skills. It was recommended among
other things that government agencies, educational institutions, and private stakeholders should invest in digital education and training programs to equip individuals with the knowledge and resources required for digital entrepreneurship and remote employment opportunities.
Keywords: Digital, Entrepreneurship, Digital Entrepreneurship, Job, Job Creation.
Dr. Mbogu, Emmanuel Onyinye Ejike
Commerce & Co-operative Education Department
School of Business Education,
Dr. Ijeoma Unachukwu
Economics Edu. Department,
School of Arts and Social Sciences
F.C.E. (T), Umunze
TEACHERS’ PERCEPTION ON THE USE OF ICT FOR INSTRUCTIONAL DELIVERY OF ECONOMICS IN ONITSHA SOUTH LGA ANAMBRA STATE
Abstract
This study aimed at examing teachers’ perception on the use of ICT for instructional delivery of Economics in Onitsha south LGA, Anambra state, Nigeria. Survey
research design was adopted for the study. The population comprised of all the 11 Economics teachers in the six secondary schools in Onitsha South LGA. They was
not sampled. Five research questions guided the study. A 61-item structured questionnaire was used to collect data from the respondents. The instrument was
validated by three experts from the Faculty of Education, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka. Cronbachs’ Alpha was used to test for reliability which gave a
coefficient reliability of 0.73. Data were analyzed using mean and standard deviation. The findings revealed that the overall extent of integration of ICT in
teaching and learning of Economics is low, among others. It was recommended that school authorities should equip schools with modern ICT tools, reliable internet
access, and alternative power sources, among others.
Keywords: Economics, Instructional delivery, ICT, Economics teacher.
Dr Achumie Emmanuel, N.
and
Okafor, Ogochukwu, Anastasia
All authors from Commerce & Co-operative Education Department
School of Business Education,
F.C.E. (T), Umunze
APPLICATION OF MOBILE LEARNING AS A DELIVERY TECHNIQUE IN BUSINESS EDUCATION IN COLLEGES OF EDUCATION IN ANAMBRA STATE.
Abstract
Mobile learning represents a significant advancement in the integration of technology in education. This survey research design study was adopted to examine
the application of mobile learning as a delivery technique in business education in colleges of education in Anambra state, Nigeria. The population comprised of all the
83 Business Educators in two colleges of Education in Anambra state. They were not sampled. Three research questions guided the study. A 33-item structured
questionnaire was used to collect data from the respondents. The instrument was validated by three experts from the Faculty of Education, Nnamdi Azikiwe
University, Awka. Cronbach Alpha was used to test for reliability which gave a coefficient reliability of 0.73. Data were analyzed using mean and standard
deviation. The findings revealed several benefits of mobile learning as a delivery technique in business education in colleges of education in Anambra State, among
others. It was recommended that business educators integrate mobile learning into business education programmes to maximize its benefits, among others.
Keywords: Business Education, Mobile Learning, Delivery technique, College of Education.
Edith Mary Asuzu
08035659933
Accounting Education Department
and
Dr. Stella Ngozika Okafor
Commerce & Co-operative Education Department
School of Business Education,
F.C.E. (T), Umunze
IMPLEMENTATION OF BLENDED LEARNING FOR EFFECTIVE INSTRUCTIONAL DELIVERY OF BUSINESS EDUCATION IN HIGHER INSTITUTIONS IN ANAMBRA STATE, NIGERIA.
Abstract
The study focused on examining the implementation of blended learning for effective instructional delivery of business education in higher institutions in
Anambra state, Nigeria. Survey research design study was adopted. The population comprised of all the 158 Business Educators in the four public higher institutions in Anambra state that offer Business Education. They were not sampled. Three research questions guided the study. A 37-item structured questionnaire was used to
collect data from the respondents. The instrument was validated by three experts from the Faculty of Education, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka. Cronbachs’
Alpha was used to test for reliability and it gave a coefficient reliability of 0.73. Data were analyzed using mean and standard deviation. The findings revealed the several means through which blended learning can be implemented for effective instructional delivery in higher institutions, among others. It was recommended
among others that Business educators should utilize the several means for implementing blended learning for effective instructional delivery of Business Education in higher institutions in Anambra state.
Keywords: Business Education, Blended Learning, Instructional delivery, Effective instructional delivery, Higher institutions.
Dr Ethel-Echedo Ebere Margaret
Accounting Education Department
and
Umeano Faith Ukamaka
Commerce & Co-operative Education Department
All authors from School of Business Education,
F.C.E. (T), Umunze
ONLINE COUNSELLING IN ANAMBRA STATE: PROSPECTS, CHALLENGES AND EFFECTIVE STRATEGIES.
Abstract
This study aimed at investigating the prospects and challenges of online counseling in Anambra state, Nigeria. Survey research design study was adopted The population comprised all the 20 Guidance and Counselors lecturers (9 in COOU and 11 in NAU) in Anambra state public universities. They were not sampled. Three research questions guided the study. A 20-item structured questionnaire was used to collect data from the respondents. The instrument was validated by three experts from the
Faculty of Education, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka. The instrument was tested for reliability using Cronbach Alpha and overall reliability coefficient of 0.73
was gotten. Data were analyzed using mean. The findings indicated that online counseling in Anambra state had prospects like ease of access, more thoughtful and
organized sessions, among others. It was recommended that counselors should utilize online counseling since it can be accessed by people needing the service,
among others.
Keywords: Counseling, Online Counseling, Prospect, Challenge, Strategy
Paschal Uche Okeke
paschalucheokeke@gmail.com
Prof. Ifeoma Obi
Ifyobi25@yahoo.com
Madubugwu Nathaniel Lotanna
lotanath@gmail.com
All authors from Educational Foundations dept.,
Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University, Igbariam.
INFLUENCE OF DIGITAL DIVIDE ON SKILL ACQUISITION AMONG HOME ECONOMICS STUDENTS IN TERTIARY INSTITUTIONS IN ANAMBRA STATE: EDUCATORS PERCEPTION
Abstract
Digital tools are essential for skill acquisition among tertiary institution students. This study investigated the influence of digital divide on skill acquisition among
Home Economics students in tertiary institutions in Anambra state. The study adopted descriptive survey design, and a sample of 28 lecturers from Federal College
of Education Technical, Umunze and Federal Polytechnic, Oko was used. A structured questionnaire titled “Influence of Digital Divide on Skill Acquisition
among Home Economics Students in Tertiary Institutions” (IDDSAHESTI), consisting of fifteen (15) validated items was reviewed by experts. Its reliability was
tested using Cronbach Alpha yielding a coefficient of 0.84 and it was used to collect data from the lecturers. Data collected from the retrieved questionnaires were
analysed using descriptive statistics, while t-test was used to examine the significant differences in the lecturers’ responses. The study found that the inability to acquire practical skills, new skills, quality skills, entrepreneurial skill, with resultant effect of stunted growth, are the negative influences of digital divide. It also revealed that the digital divide affects students’ ability to collaborate, engage in e-commerce and marketing, and stay up-to-date with the trends in the workspace. The study recommends among other things, that the government should partner with private individuals to provide digital infrastructure for effective skill acquisition among students and ensure that training is organized for both students and lecturers to facilitate the integration of digital tools in teaching and learning.
KeyWords: Home Economics, Educator, Digital divide, Skill Acquisition
Chidolue, Ifeyinwa Bessie, Dr Assumpta A. Okoye and Okolo-Obiajulu,
Anthonia N.
School of Agricultural and Home Economics Education,
Federal College of Education Technical, Umunze.