Use of Instructional Technology for Effective Management of Primary Schools in Anambra State

Abstract

This study examined the use of instructional technology for effective management of primary schools in Anambra State. Four research questions guided the study in relation to the availability and usage of Instructional Technology (IT) in teaching-learning activities; its influence on student learning and academic achievements; and the factors influencing effective use of (IT) in primary schools in the Anambra State of Nigeria. The study employed the descriptive survey research design. The systematic sampling technique was used to select a sample size of 420 teachers from 52 primary schools (at interval of 20) selected out of a total population of 8, 396 teachers within the 1,040 primary schools in Anambra State, including 52 head teachers selected out of a total population of 1,040 head teachers within the primary schools in Anambra State. A questionnaire titled: Instructional Technology for Effective Management of Primary Schools Questionnaire (ITEMPSQ), which contained 40 items and designed on a 4 point scale was used to collect data for this study. The instrument was validated by two experts; one expert from the Department of Educational Management and Policy, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka and the other from the Department of Primary Education Studies, Federal College of Education (Technical), Asaba, Delta State. A pilot-test was conducted by the researchers on the instrument and was found to have a reliability coefficient of 0.86 using a Cronbach alpha coefficient measurement to appraise the reliability of the research instrument. Data was equally analyzed using mean score at 2.50 rating and standard deviation. Consequently, from the findings of the study, it was recommended that primary education be adequately funded in Nigeria through adequate budgetary allocation; constant and continuous staff training, retraining for teachers; and effective implementation of ICT policy couple with adequate provision of instructional technology facilities in teaching-learning activities in the primary schools.

Key words: Instructional Technologies, Effective Management of Primary Schools