Avaiability and utilization of audio visuals for teaching and learning in Nigeria University: A case study

Abstract

Purpose: The study investigated the availability and utilization of audio-visual (AV) resources for teaching and learning in Nigerian universities, with a focus on the Faculty of Social Sciences, Bingham University, Nasarawa State. Design/Methodology/Approach:It was guided by five (5) specific objectives. The descriptive survey research design was adopted using a sample of 195respondents drawn from a population of 487 students. This population representsthe total number of undergraduates in the Faculty in levels 200, 300, and 400. Two instruments were used for data collection, viz; an observation checklist and a 39-item questionnaire was used.195 copies of the questionnaire were distributed but 187 were returned giving a response rate of 95.9%. Data collected were analysed using mean scores, standard deviation, frequency counts and simple percentages. Findings:The finding shows the availability and utilization of a good number of AV resources, which include: interactive whiteboards, computers, and maps/charts, among others. The utilization of these AV resources was found to have effects in the areas of making learning easy, reducing the cost of acquiring learning materials, increasing the academic performance of the students, etc. Furthermore, the study discovered numerous challenges facing the utilization of AV resources for teaching and learning with their solutions, revealed. Implications:University management should support and further increase the training and re-training programmes given to staff and students on the use of modern teaching and learning technologies. Internet connectivity should be provided at a subsidized rate to the students. Furthermore, there is a need for an upgrade in Internet bandwidth. Staff should be encouraged and allowed to engage in capacity development programmes to enable them to acquire required ICT skills, which is a vital tool for the utilization of audio-visual resources in teaching and learning. Originality/Value: Based on the findings, it was recommended, among other things, the need for authorities of Nigerian universities to invest more in the deployment of AV resources for teaching and learning as they will go a long way in creating a good learning environment, and making teaching and learning more easy and interesting