Extent Of Availability And Uses Of Computers In State And Private Secondary Schools
(A Case Study Of Secondary Schools In Enugu Metropolis)
The availability and utilization of computers in both state and private secondary schools vary significantly, influenced by factors such as funding, infrastructure, and educational policies. In some regions, state secondary schools have integrated computer labs equipped with desktops or laptops, aiming to enhance students’ digital literacy and educational experience. Private secondary schools, often having more financial resources, may boast more extensive computer facilities, including advanced software and internet access, fostering technological proficiency among students. The uses of computers in secondary education encompass diverse realms, including interactive learning through educational software, research projects, digital presentations, and online collaboration tools. Moreover, computers serve administrative functions such as attendance tracking, grading, and communication with parents. However, despite advancements, challenges persist, such as limited access in remote areas, insufficient training for educators, and concerns regarding internet safety and cybersecurity, which collectively shape the landscape of computer integration in secondary schools.
This study, investigated the extent of availability and uses of computer in teaching and learning in the state and private secondary schools. The study was designed to find out some factors that are responsible for any difference between the two types of schools. In order to do this effectively, five research questions were asked and answered. The literature related to the study was reviewed under the following factors. Areas where computer is used, kinds of software/Application programs, spread sheet, internet, graphical packages, attitudes of students towards computer learning and computer studies curriculum. The design of the study is survey. The area of the study is Enugu metropolis. The population of the study was 71502. The sample of the study was 4000. The sampling technique was random sampling. The instrument used is questionnaire. The instrument was validated by two experts in the school of Science Education. The reliability of the instrument was obtained using test – retest method. Data obtained were analysed using rate scale and decision rule. Results showed that there are more computers in state secondary schools more than in private secondary schools and the application software learned by the school are spreadsheet, word processor and windows. Also the result showed that some schools do not have computer laboratory and also, there is limited power supply. Conclusively students in state government schools use more computer than students in private secondary schools which indicate better achievement by students in state secondary school. Finally, the researchers suggest that both state schools and private schools should be equipped with computers and softwares or computer materials.
Title Page
Approval Page
Certification
Dedication
Acknowledgement
Table of Contents
List of Table
Abstract
CHAPTER ONE:
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background of the study
1.2 Statement of the problem
1.3 Purpose of the study
1.4 Significance of the study
1.5 Scope of the study
1.6 Research Questions
CHAPTER TWO:
LITERATURE REVIEW
2.1 Availability of computer and other laboratory facilities
2.2 The areas where computers are used
2.3 The kinds of Software/Application Programmes Learned
2.4 Altitudes of students towards computer studies
2.5 Computer studies curriculum
CHAPTER THREE:
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
3.1 Design of the study
3.2 Area of the study
3.3 Population of the study
3.4 Sample and Sampling techniques
3.5 Instruments used in the study
3.6 Validation of the instruments
3.7 Reliability of the instruments
3.8 Method of data Collection
3.9 Method of Data Analysis
CHAPTER FOUR:
PRESENTATION OF DATA AND
DATA ANALYSIS
4.1 Presentation of Data and analysis
4.2 Major findings of the study.
CHAPTER FIVE
DISCUSSIONS, SUMMARY, RECOMMENDATION,
CONCLUSIONS AND LIMITATION
5.1 Discussions of the Findings
5.2 Limitation of the study
5.3 Conclusion
5.4 Recommendations
5.5 Suggestions for further studies
REFERENCES
APPENDIX
INTRODUCTION
BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY
Science and computer education is of paramount important in the technology development of any country of the world.
Nigeria as a developing country can not be left out. In her quest for economic and technological development, therefore, the emphasis of science and science education have been greatly stressed by the federal and state government in the past and up till date.
Furthermore, computer which is an electronic device that is capable of accepting data craw facts from which required information is produced, as input, processes the data and produces information (that is information gotten from the processed data) as out put, fast, accurately and thus more efficiently than human being is a very important subjects and also a central science subject which can be applied in other subjects and in various aspects of our daily lives. For instance in Engineering, medicine, commercial purposes, security, schools learning, and administrator, communication networks, brewing to mention but are few. With the knowledge of computer education the problem of school record such as administration register, fees – registrar, staff record, school account etc can be prepared, amended, updated with the computer.
From the foregoing a well programmed science education is needed to achieve the above knowledge for the development of technological growth in the country.
Gbanganja (1991) et el envisaged that the best as of building a country to be scientifically and technologically mounted is to strengthen science education. Computer education which has just been introduced into most Nigerian secondary schools but has not been included in the West Africa examination council (WAEC)’s syllabus is more challenging because, everybody want to be computer literate. Computer learning, comprises both theoretical as well as practical aspects, unlike formerly when the use of computer was associated with big companies and parastatals like conglomerates, andis and other financial houses.
Preliminary investigations carried out by the researchers, during teaching practice, shows that computer education has been embraced by all Nigerians, hence, computer education is offered as a general subject in schools.
It is against this background that the study is intended to investigate the extent of availability and the use of computer in state and private secondary schools in Enugu metropolis.
STATEMENT OF PROBLEM
For the past decades, computer learning was not part of the curriculum of Nigeria secondary schools but because of the dynamic nature of the world, technology had changed rapidly and Nigeria is welcoming the change to enjoy all the facilities that computer provides.
Even through computer education has been introduced into the curriculum of both government and private owned secondary schools in Enugu State, there is pavaty of research evidence on the extent of availability and use of computer in teaching the subject. In question form, the problem of this study is: (1) To what extent are government and private secondary schools in Enugu state equipped with computers and how are these computers utilized in the teaching of the subject?
PURPOSES OF THE STUDY
This study is aimed at investigating the extent of availability and use of computer in state and private secondary schools in Enugu metropolis.
Consequently, in carrying out the study, the researchers intend to:
1. Find out if he state government secondary schools and private secondary schools in Enugu metropolis have computers.
2. Determine what the available computers are used for in these schools.
3. Find out the kind of software package and applications programs learned in each of the school types.
4. Find out the problems encountered by students in the study of computer as a school subject.
SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY
Science and Technology have become an area of much emphasis in Nigeria today, as a result of which computer has not only been included in the curriculum of our secondary schools but has been made a compulsory subject. Since computer study requires more of practical than theory there is therefore, the need to find out if there are enough computer in our secondary schools.
The result from this study will be useful to the curriculum planners, who will know the areas where emphasis will be directed to whom planning in other to yield better result in the use of computer in secondary schools. It will also be useful to the ministry of education and private schools owners by making them aware of the areas where computers should be provided and take appropriate measures to repair the non functioning ones and provide adequate security against theft and vandalization.
Finally, this research project will equally serve as a source of information for further research work.
SCOPE OF THE STUDY
This study is undertaken and limited to state government and privately owned secondary schools in Enugu metropolis.
The researchers intend using J.S.S III classes have difficulties in completing forms without being guided, which will affect their responds.
LIMITATIONS OF THE STUDY
The limitations of the study include most especially inadequate finance and time. For this reason sampled population was used for data collection. The assessment cannot be without flaws as only 33 secondary schools were used to represents all other secondary schools in Enugu metropolis.
RESEARCH QUESTIONS
The following research questions were posed and answered in the following course of the study.
1) To what extent are computers available in state and private secondary schools?
2) What are the computers used for in these schools?
3) What kind of software packages and application programs are learned by students?
4) What problems are encountered by students in the study of computer as a school subject?
Computers play a crucial role in both state and private secondary schools, enhancing the learning experience and preparing students for the digital age. Here are some common uses and considerations regarding the availability of computers in these educational institutions:
Availability of Computers:
- State Schools: The availability of computers in state secondary schools can vary widely depending on the region, government funding, and educational policies. In some developed countries, there may be a reasonable number of computers in each classroom, while in less developed regions, access to computers may be limited.
- Private Schools: Private secondary schools often have better access to resources, including computers. They may be able to provide a higher number of computers per student compared to state schools. This can vary depending on the financial status and priorities of the private institution.
Uses of Computers in Secondary Schools:
- Research and Information Retrieval: Computers provide students with access to a vast amount of information through the internet, which is essential for research projects and assignments.
- Word Processing and Document Creation: Computers are used for creating documents, writing essays, and developing presentations, helping students improve their writing and communication skills.
- Digital Learning Resources: Educational software and online platforms are used for interactive learning, allowing students to engage with educational content in a more engaging and personalized manner.
- Programming and Coding: Computers are used to teach coding and programming skills, which are increasingly important in today’s job market.
- Simulations and Virtual Labs: Computers enable the use of simulations and virtual laboratories in subjects like science and mathematics, providing hands-on learning experiences.
- Collaboration and Communication: Students can collaborate on projects, communicate with teachers, and participate in online discussions, promoting teamwork and communication skills.
- Assessment and Grading: Computers are used for conducting online assessments, grading, and tracking student progress. This streamlines the evaluation process for teachers.
- Multimedia Learning: Computers support multimedia elements like videos, animations, and interactive quizzes, making learning more engaging and effective.
- Data Analysis: In subjects like mathematics and science, computers are used for data analysis, graph plotting, and statistical calculations.
- Administrative Purposes: Computers are used for administrative tasks, such as managing student records, scheduling classes, and tracking attendance.
Challenges:
- Budget Constraints: State schools often face budget constraints that limit their ability to provide sufficient computers and maintain up-to-date technology.
- Infrastructure and Maintenance: Ensuring a stable IT infrastructure and maintaining computers can be challenging, especially in state schools with limited resources.
- Digital Divide: Access to computers and the internet can exacerbate inequalities among students if not addressed properly.
- Teacher Training: Teachers need to be adequately trained to integrate technology effectively into their teaching methods.
- Security and Privacy: Ensuring the security and privacy of students’ data and online activities is a growing concern in the digital age.
In conclusion, computers are invaluable tools in both state and private secondary schools, offering various educational benefits. However, the availability and utilization of computers can vary widely based on factors such as funding, location, and institutional priorities. Addressing these challenges is essential to ensure that all students have equitable access to computer-based education.