Analysis of ICT Capacity Needs Of Vocational and Technology Education Lecturers in Universities For Technology -Enhanced Instructions in Abia State, Nigeria

Abstract

The study centred on the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) capacity needs of Vocational and Technical Education (VTE) lecturers in universities in Abia State, Nigeria, with a focus on technology-enhanced instruction. The study adopts a descriptive survey research design, targeting 117 VTE lecturers from two public universities in Abia State (Michael Okpara University of Agriculture Umudike and Abia State University, Uturu). A self-structured questionnaire, titled Information and Communication Technology Capacity Needs of VTE Lecturers Questionnaire (ICTCNQ), was administered to assess the digital and ICT skills required by lecturers for the adoption of e-learning platforms, digital instructional materials development, and ICT-based assessments. Data were analyzed using mean, standard deviation, and t-test statistics at a 0.05 significance level. The findings reveal that VTE lecturers require a range of digital skills to leverage educational software for technology-enhanced instruction. These skills include the ability to navigate Learning Management Systems (LMS), use digital tools for assessment, and design interactive online content. Furthermore, lecturers need ICT competencies in creating digital instructional materials, such as multimedia-based lessons, and converting traditional teaching resources into digital formats. The study also emphasizes the need for lecturers to develop skills in conducting ICT-based assessments that are secure, interactive, and aligned with students' learning outcomes. The results indicate no significant gender differences in the ICT skills required, suggesting that both male and female lecturers share similar needs for capacity building. The study concludes that to promote effective technology-enhanced teaching in VTE programs, universities in Abia State must invest in ICT infrastructure and provide continuous professional development for lecturers.