The application of information and communication technology in Nigerian secondary schools

This study examined the application of information and communication technology (ICT) in Nigerian secondary schools. The study investigated the level of availability of ICT facilities in schools, the capacity for using ICT facilities for teaching learning, the perceived benefits of using ICT and the problems facing the use of ICT in secondary schools. The descriptive survey design was used for the study. The population consisted of all the teachers and principals of the secondary schools in Ondo and Ekiti States. The sample consists of 320 teachers and 40 principals randomly selected from the secondary schools in Ondo and Ekiti States. A self designed questionnaire tagged “ICT” and secondary schools (ICTSS)” was used to collect the data for the study. Data collected for the study were analysed using frequency counts and percentage scores. The study revealed that ICT facilities were lacking in schools and teachers and students were to a little extent exposed to the use of ICT. Moreover, the study revealed the perceived benefits of using ICT in schools which include making teaching-learning-interesting; helping the distance learning programme; helping teachers to be up-to-date; enhancing quality of work by both the teachers and the students. However, despite these perceived benefits, the study also revealed some of the challenges facing ICT in secondary schools as: irregular power supply: inadequate computer literate teachers; high cost of purchasing computers in schools; inadequate facilities to support full application of the ICT and lack of fund. It was therefore recommended that government should increase the funding of the education sector. There should also be periodic training for teachers on computer and ICT skills acquisition.   Key words: Application, information and technology, secondary schools