AN ANALYSIS OF E-READINESS OF A HIGHER INSTITUTION (A CASE STUDY OF NATIONAL OPEN UNIVERSITY OF NIGERIA, BENIN CENTRE)

Abstract:

This study investigates the e-readiness of higher institutions with a focus on the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN), Benin Centre. E-readiness, encompassing the preparedness of institutions to integrate Information and Communication Technology (ICT) into their educational systems, is critical for academic development, global competitiveness, and socio-economic growth. Leveraging qualitative and quantitative methods, the research explores the extent to which e-readiness affects academic performance, infrastructure adequacy, and the preparedness of students and staff in utilizing ICT. The study analyzes infrastructural deficits such as inadequate power supply, limited ICT resources, and the high cost of access, which hinder the effective implementation of e-learning initiatives.

Findings reveal that while the use of ICT significantly impacts educational development, the infrastructure at NOUN, Benin Centre, falls short in supporting seamless integration. The research emphasizes the importance of reliable internet access, continuous professional development for staff, and robust ICT policies in bridging these gaps. Based on the analysis, recommendations include government intervention in ICT funding, the establishment of more e-learning centers, and mandatory ICT training programs for students and faculty. This study underscores the role of e-readiness in transforming higher education in Nigeria, thereby contributing to a knowledge-based economy.

Keywords: e-readiness, ICT integration, higher education, educational development, infrastructure challenges, digital learning, Nigerian universities

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CHAPTER ONE

1. INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background of the Study

The advent of the internet has transformed global communication, fostering significant improvements in education, business, and social interactions. The integration of ICT has catalyzed interactive learning processes, enabling higher institutions to deliver education efficiently. As Fuchs and Horak (2006) observed, e-readiness transcends mere access to technology; it encompasses the effective utilization of ICT for education, research, and economic development. The National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN), Benin Centre, exemplifies the challenges and opportunities of implementing e-readiness in higher institutions.

United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO, 2002) highlighted ICT as a cornerstone for education reform. Despite this, infrastructural deficits, such as inadequate power supply and limited internet access, persist in developing countries. Colle (2004) emphasized that e-readiness entails the availability of human resources, relevant content, and sustainable infrastructure. However, NOUN, like many institutions in sub-Saharan Africa, struggles with these aspects, limiting its capacity to meet modern educational demands.

Molosi (2001) remarked that while the television revolution spanned decades, the internet achieved significant global penetration within four years. Yet, as Naidro and Schutte (1999) pointed out, the slow deployment of ICT infrastructure in developing regions hampers progress. This research examines the e-readiness of NOUN, Benin Centre, and its implications for educational development in Nigeria.

1.2 Statement of the Problem

Despite increased adoption of ICT in Nigerian higher institutions, there is limited empirical data on its actual impact on educational outcomes. Challenges such as inadequate infrastructure, insufficient training for students and staff, and high costs of ICT services hinder effective implementation. This study seeks to address these gaps by analyzing the e-readiness of NOUN, Benin Centre, to determine its impact on academic performance and educational development.

1.3 Research Questions

1. What is the impact of ICT on socio-economic and educational development in Nigeria?
2. Does ICT extend beyond internet access to enhance learning outcomes?
3. How prepared are students and staff at NOUN, Benin Centre, for ICT integration?
4. What role does e-readiness play in improving ICT infrastructure and usage at NOUN?

1.4 RESEARCH HYPOTHESIS

H₀: there is no significant relationship between the use of ICT and access to the internet alone.

H₁: there is significant relationship between the use of ICT and access to the internet alone.

H₀: There is no mean difference in gender responses of the respondents that information and technology has significant impact on the social, economic and educational development in Nigeria.

H₁: There is mean difference in gender responses of the respondents that information and technology has significant impact on the social, economic and educational development in Nigeria.

H₀: Good ICT has no significant effect on academic performance of students

H₁: Good ICT has significant effect on academic performance of students

1.4 AIMS AND OBJECTIVES OF STUDY

1. To ascertain the influence of E-readiness on educational development in Nigeria.

2. To measure the adequacy of infrastructural facilities in the national open university of Nigeria, Benin centre.

3. To determine effect of E-readiness on the preparedness of students in the national open university of Nigeria, Benin centre

4. To determine the roles E-readiness plays in the social economic and educational development in Nigeria.

1.5 SIGNIFICANCE OF STUDY

This study provides insights into the critical role of e-readiness in advancing higher education in Nigeria. By identifying key challenges and opportunities, the research offers actionable recommendations for policymakers, educators, and stakeholders to enhance ICT adoption in universities.

1.6 SCOPE OF STUDY

The research work is limited to the roles of E-readiness on the educational development of the national open university of Nigeria, Benin centre.

It covers various areas of ICT development in Nigeria. It reveals people’s view on the impact of E-readiness on the academic performance of student in higher institutions in Nigeria.

The research work will make use of research questionnaires to gather good information concerning the roles of E-readiness on the academic performance of higher institution students in Benin centre.

1.7 LIMITATION OF STUDY

FINANCIAL CONSTRAINTS:

Due to lack of sufficient funds, the research was unable to visit all the areas of Benin City, but was able to gather meaningful information concerning the research topic.

TIME CONSTRAINTS:

Due to the researchers over involvement in other areas of research he was able to gather more information about the research topic; but he was able to meet up with great ideas concerning the research topic.

1.8 DEFINITION OF TERMS

ICT: information and communication technology; is an extended term for information technology (IT) which stresses the role of unified communications and the integration of telecommunications (telephone lines and wireless signals), computers as well as necessary enterprise software, middleware, storage, and audio-visual systems, which enable users to access, store, transmit, and manipulate information.

E-READINESS: this is also called electronic readiness, which is the preparedness towards the use of information and communication technology.

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