Enhancing Practical Skill Acquisition Among

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Odumegwu Ojukwu Journal of Vocational Education and Research, 2 (1); 252-264. Enhancing Practical Skill Acquisition Among Technical College Students ...
Odumegwu Ojukwu Journal of Vocational Education and Research, Volume 2, Number 1, 2017. ISSN: 2630-7081. Muti Disciplinay Journal of Vocational Education & Research (COOUJOVOCEDAR).

Enhancing Practical Skill Acquisition Among Technical College Students Through Information and Communication Technologies (ICTS) for Self Reliance in Abia State. By: 1

Onyebuenyi Promise, N. [email protected] 2

Mbah Chidozie, O. [email protected] & 3

Odeluga, Peter, E.

[email protected] 1

Department of Technology and Vocational Education, Enugu State University of Sci. & Tech.(ESUT). 2 Department of Automobile Technology Education, Fed. College of Education (Tech.), Umunze. 3 Department of Electrical/Electronics Technology Education, Fed. College of Education (Tech.), Umunze. Abstract. This study was designed to ascertain the strategies for enhancing practical skill acquisition among technical college students through the use of ICT for self reliance in Abia State. The study employed a descriptive survey research design and was carried out in technical colleges in Aba South, Aba North and Ukwa East Local Government Areas of Abia State respectively with a population of 42 respondents (31 male and 11 female technical college teachers). Due to the manageable size of the population, there was no sampling. The instrument for data collection was a structured questionnaire developed by the researchers and validated by three experts while the reliability index of 0.86 was established using Cronbach’s Alpha. Two research questions were raised and answered using mean and standard deviation while the null hypotheses formulated were tested using t-test statistics at 0.05 level of significance. Some of the findings include that web search engine can enhance practical skill acquisition to a great extent by providing up to date components information; digital videos can enhance practical skill acquisition among technical college students to a

Cite this article as: Onyebuenyi, P. N., Mbah, C. O & Odeluga, P. E (2017). Enhancing practical skill acquisition among technical college students through information and communication technologies (ICTS) for self reliance in Abia State. Odumegwu Ojukwu Journal of Vocational Education and Research, 2 (1); 252-264.

Odumegwu Ojukwu Journal of Vocational Education and Research, Volume 2, Number 1, 2017. ISSN: 2630-7081. Muti Disciplinay Journal of Vocational Education & Research (COOUJOVOCEDAR).

great extent by maintaining students’ learning interest and presenting clear pictures of stories to practical. It was therefore recommended that education policy makers and implementers should encourage the use of ICT in teaching practical oriented subjects for professional development of students at technical colleges for self reliance in Abia State. Keywords: ICTs, web search engine, digital videos, practical skill. Introduction Information is the bedrock of every developing nation and has been over time known as power. The distinction between road side artisans and technicians from technical schools lies on the level of information possessed. This information could be in form of theoretical or practical knowledge. It can be transformed to wealth or cause a positive change in the way actions and decisions are been taken. When acquired in school, it is regarded as formal and informal education when acquired outside school setting. Education is the medium of acquisition of minimum ethical standards that can propel its recipient towards the development of oneself and nation at large. According to Aguba (2006), education is the transmission of what is worthwhile. This was supported by Onoh (2006) who noted that education trains the mind, moderates character and sharpens the inmate ability of persons who are eager to attain self-actualization and economic independence. Onoh further explained that education also polishes, brushes and shines its benefactors to become useful citizens on their communities. Globally, education has seen greater improvement as a result of technological advancement. According to Oluka and Onyebuenyi (2017), innovations in technology had contributed immensely to the development of man and few can imagine living without technology. Technology as a key component of human life shapes the future and makes it compatible with nature through the discovery of more efficient methods and processes for the simplification of living. This advancement in technology has brought about tremendous change especially in the method adopted for teaching and learning activities. This position was supported by Jhurree (2005) who noted that much has been said and reported about the impact of technology, especially computers, in education. These improvements in technology as adopted by education in teaching and learning (from conventional / traditional method to

Cite this article as: Onyebuenyi, P. N., Mbah, C. O & Odeluga, P. E (2017). Enhancing practical skill acquisition among technical college students through information and communication technologies (ICTS) for self reliance in Abia State. Odumegwu Ojukwu Journal of Vocational Education and Research, 2 (1); 252-264.

Odumegwu Ojukwu Journal of Vocational Education and Research, Volume 2, Number 1, 2017. ISSN: 2630-7081. Muti Disciplinay Journal of Vocational Education & Research (COOUJOVOCEDAR).

digital system) have led to the use of information and communication technologies (ICTs) in teaching and learning today. ICT are sets of technological facilities systematically and scientifically harnessed for transmission of information from one point to another, thus ICT is communication madeeasy. According to Sharma (2009), ICT are diverse set of technological tools and resources used to communicate, and to create, disseminate, store, and manage information. According to UNESCO (2002), ICT may be regarded as the combination of ‘Informatics technology’ with other related technology, specifically communication technology. The various kinds of ICT products available and having relevance to education such as teleconferencing, world wide web (search engine) email, audio conferencing, television lessons, digital videos, radio broadcasts, interactive radio counselling, interactive voice response system, audiocassettes and CD ROMs etc have been used in education for different purposes (Bhattacharya and Sharma, 2007). The field of education has been affected by ICTs, which have undoubtedly affected teaching, learning, and research. Great deals of research have proven its benefits to the quality of education. According to Yusuf (2005), ICTs have the potential to innovate, accelerate, enrich and deepen skills, to motivate and engage students, to help relate school experience to work practices, create economic viability for tomorrow's workers, as well as strengthening teaching and helping schools change. In the same view, McGorry (2002) submits that ICT has the potential to remove the barriers that are causing the problems of low rate of education in any country. It can be used as a tool to overcome the issues of cost, less number of teachers, and poor quality of education as well as to overcome time and distance barriers as internet usage in home and work place has grown exponentially. Ict has the potentials of removing the environmental differences that exist in the quality of education offered to students in developed and developing countries. Further, ICT facilities have brought tremendous change in the way the students learn. With the global networking, new avenues and resources of learning are available. Technological exposure has increase copy technology, adoption and innovation among students as a result; learning is no longer confined to the classrooms. In view of above position, Bhattacharya and Sharma (2007) noted that ICTs also allow for the creation of

Cite this article as: Onyebuenyi, P. N., Mbah, C. O & Odeluga, P. E (2017). Enhancing practical skill acquisition among technical college students through information and communication technologies (ICTS) for self reliance in Abia State. Odumegwu Ojukwu Journal of Vocational Education and Research, 2 (1); 252-264.

Odumegwu Ojukwu Journal of Vocational Education and Research, Volume 2, Number 1, 2017. ISSN: 2630-7081. Muti Disciplinay Journal of Vocational Education & Research (COOUJOVOCEDAR).

digital resources like digital libraries where the students, teachers and professionals can access research materials and course materials from any place at any time. In recent years there has been a broadly-based shifting of opinion and interest on how computers and the internet can best be harnessed to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of education at all levels and in both formal and non-formal settings. ICTs are more than just these technologies; older technologies such as the telephone, radio and television, although now given less attention have a longer and richer history as instructional tools. For instance, radio and television have for over forty years been used for open and distance learning, although printed documents remains the cheapest, most accessible and therefore most dominant delivery mechanism in both developed and developing countries. One of UNESCO‘s overriding aims is to ensure that all countries both developed and developing have access to the best educational facilities necessary to prepare young people to play full roles in modern society and to contribute to a knowledge nation. Maintaining capacity to advise national governments on the use of new technology in schools and in particular, given optimal balance to local circumstances between ICT and older educational technologies. Also in assisting countries in developing educational software and materials that reflect their own national and regional cultures are key components of the Organization‘s strategy to achieve the Education for all goals (UNESCO, 2002). Daniels (2002) opines that ICT has become within a very short time, one of the basic building blocks of modern society. Many countries now regard understanding ICT and mastering the basic skills and concepts of ICT as part of the core of education, alongside reading, writing and numeracy. In developing countries like Nigeria and Abia State particularly, it is disheartening to note that the use of ICT in secondary schools has not been given proper attention. These have affected the rate of growth and development of education. Abia State is one of the SouthEastern States bounded on the North and North East by Anambra, Enugu and Ebonyi, on the West by Imo, East and South East by Cross River State and to the South by Rivers State with a population of over 2,000000 (FRN Official Gazette, 2007). The use of ICT facilities like computers and the internet is still in its infancy as a result of limited infrastructure, the attendant high costs of access and lack of trained human resources (teachers) to utilize them especially in technical college level in the State. This would not yielded the desired result in training ICT employable craftsmen in the State. This condition needs to be improved as Cite this article as: Onyebuenyi, P. N., Mbah, C. O & Odeluga, P. E (2017). Enhancing practical skill acquisition among technical college students through information and communication technologies (ICTS) for self reliance in Abia State. Odumegwu Ojukwu Journal of Vocational Education and Research, 2 (1); 252-264.

Odumegwu Ojukwu Journal of Vocational Education and Research, Volume 2, Number 1, 2017. ISSN: 2630-7081. Muti Disciplinay Journal of Vocational Education & Research (COOUJOVOCEDAR).

Mbah and Umurhurhu (2016) stress that engineering and technology education have witnessed the application of ICT in teaching-learning of technological concepts, principles and theories. There need to train craftsmen with soft and manipulative skills has become paramount as most tools and equipment are designed based on the principles of mechatronics, hence it is necessary to determine the strategies for enhancing practical skill acquisition through ICT in all levels of technical education. Technical education according to Aina, Ogundele and Olanipekun (2013) is an aspect of education which leads to the acquisition of practical, basic scientific knowledge, which involves special manipulative skills, creative minds and attitude relating to occupations in various sectors of the economic and social life. Nwachukwu, Bakare and Jika (2011) submit that technical college provides students with the relevant and adequate knowledge, skills and attribute for employment under the guidelines of a teacher in related occupations. It is imperative to note that ICT enables learning in all time and all places. On the other hand, most teachers in technical colleges have over times opt out of the use of ICT in teaching and learning activities, thereby encouraging the use of traditional (class room) method of teaching which have been seen as ineffective and unsatisfying especially in teaching and learning of practical oriented subjects and skills in contemporary society. As a result, most technical college graduates found today are not creative and cannot source information themselves. This has created a seriously gap and has resulted in ill practical skill acquisition among technical college graduates today. Practical skill as perceived by Anaele and Alade (2012) is a manual dexterity through repetitive performance of an operation. Skill in a particular field requires cognitive and psychomotor behaviours for proficiency as effective practical skill acquisition depends on a functional education. Against these backdrops are the needs for enhancing practical skills acquisition amongst technical college students through the use of ICT in teaching practical oriented subjects for self reliance in Abia State. Statement of the Problem ICTs have been utilized in education ever since their inception but they have not always been massively present and fully integrated in the learning of traditional subject matter. ICT adds value to the processes of learning and in its organization. The use of ICT facilities like computers and the Internet in teaching practical oriented subjects is still in its Cite this article as: Onyebuenyi, P. N., Mbah, C. O & Odeluga, P. E (2017). Enhancing practical skill acquisition among technical college students through information and communication technologies (ICTS) for self reliance in Abia State. Odumegwu Ojukwu Journal of Vocational Education and Research, 2 (1); 252-264.

Odumegwu Ojukwu Journal of Vocational Education and Research, Volume 2, Number 1, 2017. ISSN: 2630-7081. Muti Disciplinay Journal of Vocational Education & Research (COOUJOVOCEDAR).

infancy in Abia State due to limited infrastructure, attendant high costs of accessing it and lack of trained human resources (teachers) to utilize them. This has been proven over time to limit the level of learning especially in workshop practice (practical oriented subjects) as offered in technical colleges. The traditional (class room) method of teaching and learning permits only the teacher to utilize allocated resources (time, tool, machines, and material) in teaching the students. The traditional method does not always grant recipients time and autonomy to study, practice, explore and utilize learning resources at their pace which ICT does, thereby simplifying teaching and learning process. These has contributed to the ill training of technical college students in that it has made teaching and learning teachercentered and as well increasing the rate of dependency among students. It is therefore necessary to acknowledge and encourage the use of adequate ICT facilities in teaching and learning of practical oriented subjects in technical colleges for enhanced practical skill training of its recipient towards being self reliant in Abia State. Purpose of the Study The main purpose of this study was to determine the strategies for enhancing practical skill acquisition among technical college students through the use of ICTs for self reliance in Abia State. Specifically, the study sought to determine: 1.

extent to which web search engine can enhance practical skill acquisition among technical college students for self reliance in Abia State.

2.

extent to which digital videos can enhance practical skill acquisition among technical college students for self reliance in Abia State.

Research Questions The following research questions guided the study: 1.

To what extent can web search engine enhance practical skill acquisition among technical college students for self reliance in Abia State?

2.

To what extent can digital videos enhance practical skill acquisition among technical college students for self reliance in Abia State?

Cite this article as: Onyebuenyi, P. N., Mbah, C. O & Odeluga, P. E (2017). Enhancing practical skill acquisition among technical college students through information and communication technologies (ICTS) for self reliance in Abia State. Odumegwu Ojukwu Journal of Vocational Education and Research, 2 (1); 252-264.

Odumegwu Ojukwu Journal of Vocational Education and Research, Volume 2, Number 1, 2017. ISSN: 2630-7081. Muti Disciplinay Journal of Vocational Education & Research (COOUJOVOCEDAR).

Hypotheses The following null hypotheses were formulated and tested at 0.05 level of significance guided the study; H01:

A significant difference does not exist between the mean ratings of male and female teachers on the extent to which web search engine can enhance practical skill acquisition among technical college students for self reliance in Abia State.

H02:

A significant difference does not exist between the mean ratings of male and female teachers on the extent digital videos can enhance practical skill acquisition among technical college students for self reliance in Abia State.

Research Methods The study employed a descriptive survey research design and was carried out in Aba South, Aba North and Ukwa East Local Government Areas of Abia State respectively with a population of 42 respondents (31 male and 11 female technical college teachers). The entire population was used as the population size was manageable. The instrument for data collection was a structured questionnaire. The questionnaire has 49-item developed by the researchers. The questionnaire instrument is made up of two parts A and B with four points response categories of Very Great Extent (VGE), Great Extent (GE), Low Extent (LE) and Very Low Extent (VLE) assigned numerical values of 4, 3, 2 & 1 respectively. The instrument was validated facially by three experts while the reliability index of 0.86 was established using Cronbach’s Alpha. Cronbach’s Alpha was used because the instrument was polychotomously scored (Uzoagulu, 2011). Mean with standard deviation were used to answer the research questions. Upper and lower limits of the mean were used as basis for decision, thus; Very Great Extent (VGE)

3.50

-

4.00

Great Extent (GE)

2.50

-

3.49

Low Extent (LE)

1.49

-

2.49

Cite this article as: Onyebuenyi, P. N., Mbah, C. O & Odeluga, P. E (2017). Enhancing practical skill acquisition among technical college students through information and communication technologies (ICTS) for self reliance in Abia State. Odumegwu Ojukwu Journal of Vocational Education and Research, 2 (1); 252-264.

Odumegwu Ojukwu Journal of Vocational Education and Research, Volume 2, Number 1, 2017. ISSN: 2630-7081. Muti Disciplinay Journal of Vocational Education & Research (COOUJOVOCEDAR).

Very Low Extent (VLE)

1.00

-

1.49

The null hypotheses were tested using t-test at 0.05 level of significance. The null hypotheses was rejected when t-cal is greater than t-critical, otherwise not rejected when t-cal is less than t-critical. Results The results are presented in Table(s) 1, 2, 3 & 4 in line with the research questions and hypotheses that guided the study. Research Question 1 To what extent can web search engine enhance practical skill acquisition among technical college students self reliance in Abia State? Table 1: Mean with standard deviation of male and female teachers responses on extent to which web search engine can enhance practical skill acquisition among technical college students for self reliance in Abia State. S/ N

Extent to which web search engine can enhance practical skill acquisition among technical college students for self reliance Analyzes software components analyzes hardware components

Teachers (male) N=31 X1 SD 3.04 1.00 3.17 0.84

Teachers (female) N=11 X2 SD 3.11 0.99 3.15 0.87

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15

X 3.08 3.16

SD 1.00 0.86

GE GE

Up to date components information Easy access to circuit diagrammes Access to components function analysis Fault model analysis Interpretation of circuit design Source of components variety of information Maintenance measures Components properties analysis Safety measures Components characteristics Operational voltage Repair techniques Installation principles Cluster Mean

3.42 3.14 3.52 3.33 3.54 3.55 3.38 3.09 3.40 3.29 3.35 2.88 3.31 3.28

3.63 3.26 3.08 3.23 3.43 3.29 3.25 3.27 3.29 3.32 3.25 3.02 3.21 3.25

3.53 3.30 3.30 3.34 3.49 3.32 3.32 3.18 3.35 3.31 3.30 2.95 3.26 3.28

0.61 0.73 0.62 0.70 0.68 0.82 0.67 0.81 0.71 0.67 0.69 0.87 0.77 0.75

VGE GE GE GE GE GE GE GE GE GE GE GE GE GE

0.51 0.72 0.50 0.71 0.66 0.78 0.68 0.89 0.63 0.69 0.62 0.90 0.73 0.72

0.70 0.74 0.74 0.69 0.69 0.85 0.85 0.72 0.79 0.64 0.75 0.84 0.80 0.78

Overall (42)

Decision

VGE: Very Great Extent, GE: Great Extent, SD: Standard Deviation

In Table 1, the mean responses of male and female teachers reveal that item number 3 was agreed to a very great extent while items numbered 1, 2, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14 and 15 were agreed to a great extent. The aggregate scores ranged from 2.95 to 3.53. The

Cite this article as: Onyebuenyi, P. N., Mbah, C. O & Odeluga, P. E (2017). Enhancing practical skill acquisition among technical college students through information and communication technologies (ICTS) for self reliance in Abia State. Odumegwu Ojukwu Journal of Vocational Education and Research, 2 (1); 252-264.

Odumegwu Ojukwu Journal of Vocational Education and Research, Volume 2, Number 1, 2017. ISSN: 2630-7081. Muti Disciplinay Journal of Vocational Education & Research (COOUJOVOCEDAR).

Table shows that web search engine can enhance practical skill acquisition among technical college students for self reliance in Abia State. The grand mean value of 3.28 also attested to that while the pull standard deviation 0.75 indicates homogeneity of opinions Hypothesis 1 A significant difference does not exist between the mean ratings of male and female teachers on extent to which web search engine can enhance practical skill acquisition among technical college students for self reliance in Abia State. Table 2: t-test analysis on the mean responses of male and female teachers on extent to which web search engine can enhance practical skill acquisition among technical college students for self reliance in Abia State. Respondents

No

X

SD

Teachers(male)

31

3.28

0.72

Teachers(female) 11

3.25

0.78

Total

Df

Level of signi.

t-tab

t-Cal

Decision

40

0.05

2.021

0.11

NS

42

NS: Not Significant. SD: Standard Deviation. DF: Degree of Freedom

The t-test result above shows that t-cal (0.11) is less than t-tabulated (2.021) at 40 degree of freedom. Hence, the null hypothesis is not rejected. This implies that a significant difference does not exist between the mean ratings of male and female teachers on extent to which web search engine can enhance practical skill acquisition among technical college students for self reliance in Abia State. Research Question 2 To what extent can digital videos enhance practical skill acquisition among technical college students for self reliance in Abia State? Table 3: Mean with standard deviation of male and female teachers responses on extent to which digital videos can enhance practical skill acquisition among technical college students for self reliance in Abia State. S/N

Teachers (female) N=11 X2 SD 3.38 0.61

Overall (42)

16

Extent to which digital videos can enhance Teachers practical skill acquisition among technical (Male) college students for self reliance. N=31 X1 SD Show cases complex practical ideas 3.26 0.73

X 3.32

SD 0.67

GE

17

It helps develop quantitative reasoning

3.20

3.16

0.79

GE

3.12

0.76

0.81

Decision

Cite this article as: Onyebuenyi, P. N., Mbah, C. O & Odeluga, P. E (2017). Enhancing practical skill acquisition among technical college students through information and communication technologies (ICTS) for self reliance in Abia State. Odumegwu Ojukwu Journal of Vocational Education and Research, 2 (1); 252-264.

Odumegwu Ojukwu Journal of Vocational Education and Research, Volume 2, Number 1, 2017. ISSN: 2630-7081. Muti Disciplinay Journal of Vocational Education & Research (COOUJOVOCEDAR). 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36

It offers cognitive experience It updates skills It offers affected experience It presents clear pictures of stories to practical Gain attention Maintain students interest It improves students analytical skill New concepts More examples Experience different environment Learn at individual’s pace Enhances team working Development of learners autonomy Supports navigation Reduces amount of written languages It facilitates thinking Chances for self testing Readily and accessible information Facilitates problem solving

3.32 3.20 3.32 3.08 3.25 3.08 3.23 3.28 3.18 3.48 3.63 3.57 3.18 3.09 3.31 3.14 3.18 3.22 3.48

0.73 0.71 0.99 0.99 0.75 1.08 0.96 0.86 0.90 0.50 0.70 0.75 0.81 1.01 0.73 0.63 0.77 0.94 0.62

3.26 3.09 3.25 3.42 3.35 3.42 3.40 3.63 3.65 3.49 3.42 3.35 3.05 3.36 3.21 3.05 3.00 2.60 3.22

0.76 0.79 0.93 0.68 0.62 0.73 0.70 0.56 0.68 0.71 0.51 0.59 0.96 0.72 0.80 0.96 0.86 1.05 0.86

3.29 3.15 3.29 3.25 3.30 3.25 3.32 3.46 3.42 3.49 3.53 3.46 3.12 3.23 3.26 3.21 3.09 2.91 3.35

0.75 0.74 0.96 0.84 0.69 0.91 0.83 0.71 0.79 0.61 0.61 0.67 0.89 0.87 0.77 0.80 0.82 1.00 0.74

GE GE GE GE GE GE GE GE GE GE VGE GE GE GE GE GE GE GE GE

37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45

Development of potential for deeper learning Source of evidence relating to skill Enhance communication skill Learning resources for future use It assists with mastery of learning It stimulates recognition It stimulates recall It stimulates excitement It establishes mood style

3.02 3.40 3.28 3.09 3.54 3.42 3.00 3.29 3.28

0.84 0.63 0.78 0.65 0.66 0.79 0.88 0.82 0.65

3.40 3.22 3.26 3.09 2.92 3.12 3.26 3.52 3.33

0.70 0.68 0.78 0.92 1.05 0.82 0.78 0.54 0.74

3.21 3.31 3.27 3.09 3.23 3.27 3.13 3,41 3.31

0.77 0.66 0.78 0.79 0.86 0.81 0.83 0.68 0.70

GE GE GE GE GE GE GE GE GE

46 47 48 49

It directs users focus It directs users attention It conveys structure and other things It represents items for easy manipulation

3.43 3.06 3.17 3.28

0.79 0.97 0.84 0.72

3.30 3.47 3.42 3.23

0.85 0.91 0.60 0.81

3.37 3.27 3.30 3.26

0.82 0.94 0.72 0.77

GE GE GE GE

Grand Mean/Pull SD 3.35 0.79 3.27 VGE: Very Great Extent, GE: Great Extent, SD: Standard Deviation.

0.77

3.19

0.78

GE

In Table 3, the mean responses of male and female teachers reveal that item number 28 was agreed to a very great extent while items numbered 16 to 27 and 29 to 49 were agreed to a great extent. The aggregate mean scores ranged from 2.91 to 3.53. The Table shows that digital videos can enhance to a great extent practical skill acquisition among technical college students for self reliance in Abia State. The grand mean value of 3.19 also attested to that while the pull standard deviation 0.78 indicates homogeneity of opinions.

Cite this article as: Onyebuenyi, P. N., Mbah, C. O & Odeluga, P. E (2017). Enhancing practical skill acquisition among technical college students through information and communication technologies (ICTS) for self reliance in Abia State. Odumegwu Ojukwu Journal of Vocational Education and Research, 2 (1); 252-264.

Odumegwu Ojukwu Journal of Vocational Education and Research, Volume 2, Number 1, 2017. ISSN: 2630-7081. Muti Disciplinay Journal of Vocational Education & Research (COOUJOVOCEDAR).

Hypothesis 2 A significant difference does not exist between the mean ratings of male and female teachers on extent to which digital videos can enhance practical skill acquisition among technical college students for self reliance in Abia State. Table 4: t-test analysis on the mean responses of male and female teachers on extent to which digital videos can enhance practical skill acquisition among technical college students for self reliance in Abia State. Respondents

N

X

SD

Teachers(male)

31

3.35

0.79

Teachers(female)

11

3.27

0.77

Total

42

df

Level of signi.

t-Tab

t-Cal

Decision

40

0.05

2.021

0.31

NS

NS: Not Significant. SD: Standard Deviation. DF: Degree of Freedom The t-test result above shows that t-cal (0.31) is less than t-tabulated (2.021) at 40 degree of freedom. Hence, the null hypothesis is not rejected. This implies that a significant difference does not exist between the mean ratings of male and female teachers on extent to which digital videos can enhance practical skill acquisition among technical college students for self reliance in Abia State. Major Findings of the Study. Based on the data collected and analyzed, the following major findings among others were: 1.

Web search engine can enhance practical skill acquisition among technical college

students to a great extent for self reliance in Abia State by: - Providing up to date components information. - Providing easy access to circuit diagrammes - Access to components function analysis - Access to fault model analysis - Interpretation of circuit design

Cite this article as: Onyebuenyi, P. N., Mbah, C. O & Odeluga, P. E (2017). Enhancing practical skill acquisition among technical college students through information and communication technologies (ICTS) for self reliance in Abia State. Odumegwu Ojukwu Journal of Vocational Education and Research, 2 (1); 252-264.

Odumegwu Ojukwu Journal of Vocational Education and Research, Volume 2, Number 1, 2017. ISSN: 2630-7081. Muti Disciplinay Journal of Vocational Education & Research (COOUJOVOCEDAR).

2.

Digital videos can enhance practical skill acquisition among technical college students for self reliance in Abia State to a great extent by: - Maintaining students’ interest. - It presents clear pictures of stories to practical. - It improves students’ analytical skill. - Learn at individual’s pace. - Enhances team working.

Discussion of Findings The findings of the study in research question 1 revealed that web search engine can enhance practical skill acquisition among technical college students for self reliance in Abia State to a great extent by providing up to date components information, providing easy access to circuit diagrammes, access to components function analysis, access to fault model analysis, interpretation of circuit design and that likes. The t-test result showed that t-calculated value was less than t-tabulated value showing that the null hypothesis was not significant. This implies that a significant difference does not exist between the mean ratings of male and female teachers on extent to which web search engine can enhance practical skill acquisition among technical college students for self reliance in Abia State. This is in harmony with the findings of Moore & Kearsley (2006) which stated that in concert with geographical flexibility, technology-facilitated educational programmes can also remove many of the temporal constraints that face learners with special needs. This was supported by the findings of the study conducted by Young (2002) which noted that students are starting to appreciate the capability to undertake education anywhere, anytime and anyplace. The study further revealed in research question 2 that digital videos can enhance practical skill acquisition among technical college students for self reliance in Abia State to a great extent by maintaining students’ learning interest, presenting clear pictures of stories to practical, improves students’ analytical skill, makes students to learn at individual’s pace and enhances team work. It is therefore necessary to encourage the use of digital video in Cite this article as: Onyebuenyi, P. N., Mbah, C. O & Odeluga, P. E (2017). Enhancing practical skill acquisition among technical college students through information and communication technologies (ICTS) for self reliance in Abia State. Odumegwu Ojukwu Journal of Vocational Education and Research, 2 (1); 252-264.

Odumegwu Ojukwu Journal of Vocational Education and Research, Volume 2, Number 1, 2017. ISSN: 2630-7081. Muti Disciplinay Journal of Vocational Education & Research (COOUJOVOCEDAR).

teaching and learning of practical oriented subjects and workshop practice class in technical colleges for self reliance of its recipients in Abia State. The t-test result according to null hypothesis two showed that the t-calculated value was less than t-tabulated value showing that the null hypothesis was not significant. This implies that a significant difference does not exist between the mean ratings of male and female teachers on the extent to which digital videos can enhance practical skill acquisition among technical college students for self reliance in Abia State. This is in consonance with the findings of Keengwe (2007) which stated that ICT promotes collaboration and interdependence among learners. This is in agreement with the findings of Plomp, Pelgrum and Law (2007) which stated that people have to access knowledge via ICT to keep pace with the latest developments. Conclusion Based on the findings of this study, web search engine can enhance practical skill acquisition among technical college students for self reliance in Abia State to a great extent among others by providing up to date components information, providing easy access to circuit diagrammes, access to components function analysis. These will stimulate students’ interest, reduce fatigue, enhance their practical knowledge and encourage proper use of ICT for self study and reliance. The study also noted that both male and female teachers agreed that digital videos can enhance practical skill acquisition among technical college students for self reliance in Abia State to a great extent among others by maintaining students’ learning interest, presenting clear pictures of stories to practical, improve students’ analytical skill and makes students to learn at individual’s pace. The contributions of ICT in educational development cannot be over emphasized in the contemporary society. It is therefore believed that if ICT is fully utilized in the teaching and learning of practical oriented subjects in technical colleges, practical skill acquisition would be enhanced among the students for self reliance on graduation in Abia State. Recommendations The following recommendations were made in view of the findings of the study: 1) Training of technical college teachers is critical to implementation and success of the ICT in education programs

Cite this article as: Onyebuenyi, P. N., Mbah, C. O & Odeluga, P. E (2017). Enhancing practical skill acquisition among technical college students through information and communication technologies (ICTS) for self reliance in Abia State. Odumegwu Ojukwu Journal of Vocational Education and Research, 2 (1); 252-264.

Odumegwu Ojukwu Journal of Vocational Education and Research, Volume 2, Number 1, 2017. ISSN: 2630-7081. Muti Disciplinay Journal of Vocational Education & Research (COOUJOVOCEDAR).

2) Education policy makers and implementers should encourage the use of ICT in teaching practical oriented subjects for professional development of students at technical colleges. 3) Government should endeavor to provide adequate ICT facilities that will enhance acquisition of practical skills. 4) Government and stake holders (public and private sectors) should consider the costs of importation of ICT facilities as to encourage its usuage in secondary schools. References Aguba, R. C. (2006). Philosophy of Education: A Functional Approach. Enugu: Computer Edge Publishers. Aina, J.K., Ogundele, A.G. & Olanipekun, S.S. (2013). Student’s proficiency in English Language relationship with academic performance in Science & technical education. America Journal of Educational Research. 1(9);355-358. Anaele, E. & Alade, I. A. (2012). Availability and Utilization of Educational Resources in Teaching and Learning of Technical Subjects in Secondary Schools for Quality Assurance. Nigerian Vocational Journal. 13(1); 39 - 49 Bhattacharya, I. & Sharma, K. (2007). 'India in the knowledge economy – an electronic paradigm', International Journal of Educational Management. 21(6);543- 568. Daniels, J.S. (2002). “Foreword” in Information and Communication Technology in Education–A Curriculum for Schools and Programme for Teacher Development. Paris: UNESCO. Federal Republic of Nigeria Official Gazette (2007). Legal Notice on Publication of the Details of the Breakdown of the National and State Provisional Total Census, (PDF). Retrieved from: en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/abia_state. On 10/10/2016 Jhurreev, V. (2005) "Technology Integration in Education in Developing Countries: Guidelines to Policy Makers”. International Education Journal [Electronic], 6(4):467483.Available: http://ehlt.flinders.edu.au/education/iej/articles/v6n4/jhurree/paper.pdf. Keengwe, J. (2007). Faculty Integration of Technology into Instruction and students perception of Computer Technology to improve students’ learning. Journal of information technology education. 2(6):169-180. Mbah, C. O. & Umurhurhu, E. B. (2016). Improving the Teaching-Learning of Computer Aided Drafting and Designing (CADD) for Effective Skill Development in Nigerian Tertiary Institutions. International Technology Research Journal (INTERJ) 4(1).31-38 Available at http://www.aphriapub.com/index.php/INTERJ McGorry, S. Y. (2002), 'Online, but on target? Internet-based MBA courses: A case study', The Internet and Higher Education. 5(2):167-175. Cite this article as: Onyebuenyi, P. N., Mbah, C. O & Odeluga, P. E (2017). Enhancing practical skill acquisition among technical college students through information and communication technologies (ICTS) for self reliance in Abia State. Odumegwu Ojukwu Journal of Vocational Education and Research, 2 (1); 252-264.

Odumegwu Ojukwu Journal of Vocational Education and Research, Volume 2, Number 1, 2017. ISSN: 2630-7081. Muti Disciplinay Journal of Vocational Education & Research (COOUJOVOCEDAR).

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Cite this article as: Onyebuenyi, P. N., Mbah, C. O & Odeluga, P. E (2017). Enhancing practical skill acquisition among technical college students through information and communication technologies (ICTS) for self reliance in Abia State. Odumegwu Ojukwu Journal of Vocational Education and Research, 2 (1); 252-264.