Interconnection of Creativity, Innovation, Technology, and Digitalization in Teaching Vocational and Technology Education in Colleges of Education in North East Nigeria

Aminu Musa Ningi, Baba Yahaya Idris, Idris Hussaini, Muhammad Kabiru Ismail

Abstract


The 21st century has transformed educational expectations, requiring institutions to produce graduates who are creative, innovative, technologically competent, and digitally literate. This study investigated the extent to which creativity, innovation, technology, and digitalization (CITD) are integrated into the teaching of Vocational and Technical Education (VTE) in Colleges of Education in North-East Nigeria. A descriptive survey design was adopted, involving lecturers and students from six Colleges of Education across the geopolitical zone. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire titled Interconnection of Creativity, Innovation, Technology, and Digitalization Scale (ICITDS), validated by experts and yielding a reliability coefficient of 0.87. Findings revealed that creativity and innovation are applied to a high extent in teaching VTE, while technology integration and digitalization occur at a moderate level. Respondents agreed that CITD enhances student engagement, problem-solving, and skill acquisition; however, challenges such as inadequate infrastructure, unreliable electricity, poor internet connectivity, and insufficient lecturer training hinder full implementation. The study concludes that while CITD integration is recognized as vital for improving teaching effectiveness and employability outcomes, systemic barriers must be addressed. It recommends investment in ICT infrastructure, regular professional development for lecturers, curriculum restructuring to reflect technological realities, and the establishment of a structured policy framework to guide and monitor CITD practices in VTE.

Interconnection of Creativity, Innovation, Technology, and Digitalization in Teaching Vocational and Technology Education in Colleges of Education in North East Nigeria 


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