Tag Archives: Prospects

E-LEARNING IN NIGERIAN UNIVERSITY EDUCATION

PROSPECTS AND OF E-LEARNING IN NIGERIAN UNIVERSITY EDUCATION USING NATIONAL OPEN UNIVERSITY OF NIGERIA AKURE STUDY CENTER

ABSTRACT

This study was designed to investigate the Prospects And Challenges Of E-Learning in Nigerian University Education, a case study of National Open University of Nigeria Akure Study Center. The design of the study was questionnaire, specifically Frequency count, Percentage, Mean, t-test and ANOVA look into the Prospects And Challenges Of E-Learning in Nigerian University Education with a view to find out the area of strength and weakness in Computer usage .upon identifying weakness ,the study aimed at providing recommendation for improvement. 140 students and staffs participated in the study by providing data which was sought through the use of questionnaires. The instrument required information on Computer training background competence and literacy level of the Students and Staffs. Result level shows that acquaintance level necessary for the use of e- learning facilities by students were very high and Inability to operate computer and internet devices makes e-learning boring to National Open University of Nigeria students. Although, some staff and student of NOUN don’t know how to operate computer and learning new software’s to enhance e- learning does not waste student/staff time but inequality of access to technology is the prior challenges of e-learning among the student of NOUN. Also, E-learning is alternative to the face-to- face teaching method; E-learning complements face-to-face teaching method, and increased collaboration learning and interaction. There are significant challenges and prospects of E-learning in Nigerian University education such as inappropriate maintenance, no stable internet provider to support easy and fast learning and teaching, and this problem can be alleviated since there is no any significance difference between education via electronic means and conventional means if Government can. To counter the effect of challenges, Nigeria education can be ascertain if Government make internet accessible, provide adequate personnel on maintenance and finance e- learning.

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

 1.1     Background to the Study

E-learning refers to the use of ICTs i.e. Information and Communication Technology to enhance and support teaching and learning process. E-learning ranges from the way student use e- mail and accessing course work online while following a course on campus to programs offered entirely online. Advances in ICT have revolutionized higher education in many ways like increasing access to post-secondary instruction, improving the availability of educational resources, facilitating meaningful interaction among learners, outmoded educational system and as such better prepare students and the average citizen for the information age, and or accelerate national development efforts (Albirini, 2006).

The term e-learning is not a new phenomenon in promoting education in some parts of world. Presently, some institutions in Nigeria are using it to promote distance education (DE) and life long learning. E-learning according to Sale (2002), is the use of electronic technology to deliver education and training applications, monitor learner’s performance and report learner’s progress. Hedge and Hayward (2004), defined it as an innovative approach for delivering electronically mediated, well-designed, learner-centered and interactive learning environments to anyone, anyplace, anytime by utilizing the internet and digital technologies in concern with instructional design principles. It is all about learning with the use of computers. In this age, learning with the use of computer is simply online ways of acquiring knowledge through the internet or through the offline – CD-ROM; the online involves the use of Internet Explorer/Navigator. It may be in form of Audio, Visual, and or Audio/Visual. The process and applications of e-learning technology include computer-based learning, web-based learning, virtual learning, blended learning, hybrid models, internet learning, networked learning, Tele-learning, computer-assisted learning  and online classroom and digital collaboration where contents is delivered via the internet, intranet/extranet, audio and or video tapes, satellite TV and CD-ROM (Arbaugh, 2000; Achuonye, 2004; Ukoha, 2007).

In Nigerian schools, the commonest type of e-learning adopted is in form of lectures note on CD-ROM which can be played as at when the learners desires. The challenge of this method is that the numbers of students per computer in which these facilities are available are un-interactive as compared to when lectures are been received in the classroom. Some institutions adopted the use of intranet facilities; however, this is not well maintained because of incessant power problem and high cost of running generating set. Most students in Nigeria go to the cyber café but because there are people of diverse intension on the net at the same time, and the bandwidth problem, a multimedia interactive cannot be done. Despite all these and other challenges facing e-learning in Nigeria educational institution, institutions such as University of Ibadan, Obafemi Awolowo University, University of Benin, University of Abuja, University of Lagos, National Open University of Nigeria among others has the facilities for e-learning. The number seems very low (compared to other parts of the world and the usefulness of the e-learning in the economy development) because of location of most institutions, bandwidth issue and mostly the challenge of electricity. Though most of the educational institutions (private and public) have started setting up their ICT centres for internet services alone without actually taking into consideration other components of e-learning centre.

The focus of this research work is to find out the challenges and prospects of e-learning in National Open University of Nigeria ( NOUN ) , Akure study centre, therefore it is of paramount necessity to take a look into the foundation / history of National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN ) as well as her mode of Operations and her academic activities.

The National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN), was established in July, 1983, by an Act of the National Assembly as the first distance learning tertiary institution in Nigeria when it became crystal clear to the then Federal Government that the ever growing demand for education by her people cannot be met by the traditional means of face-to-face classroom instructional delivery. The institution was closed down few weeks after its establishment and the Act that established the University was suspended in 1984 by the then Federal Military Government that overthrew the civilian government. Many years after the closure, the compelling reasons that informed the earlier establishment of the university as well as the need to fill the gap created by the Federal Government clamped down on mushroom outreach study centers of many conventional universities all over the country and the need to take advantage of emerging developments in the field of ICTs which have revolutionalized the techniques and methods of instructional deliveries in the distance learning mode necessitated the reactivation of the suspended NOUN Act of 1983 in 2002. This paved the way for the resuscitation of the NOUN.

Keegan (1998) once said of Online-education as being “Characterized by the separation of teachers and learners which distinguishes it from self study and private tutoring, the use of a computer network to present or distribute some educational content, the provision of two-ways communication via a computer network so that students may benefit from communication with each other, teachers, and staff ”, linking it with the description of e-learning which Arbaugh, 2000; Archuonye, 2004 and Ukoha, 2007 said, “ e-learning implies the abilities of people to use information technology and the internet to learn improve their learning skills and strengthen their capabilities in the information society ”.

The emergence and proliferation of new information and communication technologies (ICT), had introduced an unstoppable revolution into education particularly in the areas of teaching and learning. The Internet and the web have further raised the revolutionary tempo especially through the enhancement of e-learning. For most open and distance learning providers, e-learning had added another dimension to the issue of access. While Open and Distance Learning, ODL, itself is hailed by nations as bailing them out of the problem of providing access to education to the masses, e-learning is further extending the frontiers by further removing distance from education and helping individuals who can, to access education anywhere, anytime, at their own pace and at any place. E- Learning or On-line education offers students excellent opportunities for individual communication with their study materials, study resources, and their tutors. It is the interactive exploits technology and communication systems to improve the learning experience. It has the potential to transform the way we teach and learn across the board (i.e.24 hours / 7 days) throughout the year. It can raise standards, and widen participation in lifelong learning. It is important to bear this in mind that E- learning as learning facilitated online through network technologies involves the utilization of virtual technologies in the practice of teaching, learning and assessment (Lee, Hong and Ling, 2002) and at National Open University of Nigeria, e-learning activities started with the most basic use of audio tapes and progressed to the use of CD-ROM, interactive videos and now, the university has a most standard e-learning laboratory using one of the best Learning Management Systems, LMS.

The National Open University of Nigeria, NOUN, sprang from the ashes of the defunct National Open University, which was abruptly closed down by a military government in April 1984, barely one year after its establishment. In the year 2000, after an international workshop co- hosted by the Commonwealth of Learning, COL, and the Nigerian Federal Government, the years 2001 – 2010 were declared a decade of open a distance learning in Nigeria. Thereafter, a time-line was drawn for series of activities and implementation strategies. One of such strategies was the resuscitation of the defunct Open University which now had to be re-named National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN). Electronic learning which is basically the use of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) to enhance and support learning / teaching and research (Eteng and Ntui, 2009). It was clear in the mind of the planner’s right from the beginning that e- learning or on-line learning would play a major role in the teaching and learning delivery system of the university.

The National Policy on Education (FRN, 2004. Pg 17) places emphasis on the provision and utilization of Information and Communication (ICT) when it states that “In recognition of the prominent roles of information and communication technology in advancing knowledge and skills necessary for effective functioning in the modern world, there is urgent need to integrate Information and Communication Technology (ICT) into education in Nigeria”. Educational institutions are getting more interested in improving their programme with ICT tools and applications to introduce flexibility in the teaching and learning process.

The following gives step-by-step description of the e-learning activities of the university i.e. National Open University of Nigeria.

Objective:

The main objective of the NOUN e-learning efforts is to encourage staff and students of the university to adopt an innovatory approach to educational provisions and instructional deliveries and imbibe the culture of using technologies to support such provision and deliveries.

Specific objectives:

Some of the specific objectives are:

  1. To sensitize staff and students of the university towards the use of e-learning
  2. To develop capacity in e-learning and provide leadership in this aspect of ICT utilization in Nigeria and within the West African sub-region.
  3. To raise general awareness of the academic community of e-learning
  4. To provide systemic and continuous support for staff and students in the use of e-learning
  5. To initiate a culture of innovation which will lead to experimentation in educational
  6. To include e-learning in the portfolio of teaching and learning tools at
  7. To establish and disseminate good practice in this area of teaching and learning in Nigeria and within the West African sub-region.
  8. To provide, as part of the university’s strategic plan, a sound infrastructure for the development and delivery of e-learning tools and services.

1.2     Statement of the Problems 

The call for utilization of e-learning in various educational sectors / unit on instructional delivery is to infuse and inject efficiency and effectiveness in Curriculum implementation. However, in developing countries like Nigeria, e-learning is challenged with the problem of material devices such as computer, computer laboratories, internet and email facilities, videophone systems and teleconferencing devices, fax and wireless applications, digital library, digital classrooms, multimedia systems and the problem of multimedia courseware development among others. Other studies indicates that there is dearth of professional trained and skills teachers for e- learning, lack of facilities, infrastructures and equipments (Jegede and Owolabi, 2008).

It is against this background that the present study is to be carried out to determine the extent of various challenges facing e-learning as well as to examine its prospects and benefits to the education industry if well utilized.

1.3     Purpose of the Study

The purpose of this study is to investigate and identify the challenges and prospects of e- learning in Nigerian university education using National Open University of Nigeria, Akure Study Center as a case study and to recommend possible solution.

1.4     Research Questions and Hypotheses 

Research Questions:

In trying to find solutions to specific problems arising from e-learning, the following research questions were asked.

  1. Are students really acquainted with the required knowledge necessary for the use of e-learning facilities?
  2. What is the attitude of students and staff of NOUN to the use of e-learning facilities towards teaching and learning?
  3. Does National Open University of Nigeria have enough e-learning facilities and equipments?
  4. To what extent is the e-learning facility being used towards the achievement of teaching-learning goals in NOUN?

Research Hypothesis:

H01:      There are no any significant challenges and prospects of E-learning in Nigerian University education.

H02: There is no significant difference between education via Electronic means and conventional means.

H03: There are no significant impacts of e-learning towards academic performance of students’ achievement in NOUN.

1.5     Delimitations of the Study

This study will focus on almost all selected departments across all faculties/schools in the National Open University of Nigeria, Akure Study Center, few of these schools are:

  1. School of arts and Social sciences;
  2. School of Agricultural sciences;
  3. School of Education;
  4. School of Earth Sciences;
  5. School of Law;
  6. School of Management Sciences; and
  7. School of Science and
  8. Theology and psychological study
  9. Research study
  10. Counseling and Business study

But the faculties and range which will not be able to cover with this research are as follow:

  1. School of medical
  2. School of applied science
  3. Space and Marine school

This is because much of practical work is required and can best be achieved with hands-on learning.

1.6     Significance of the Study

An attempt to embark on this study might provide a diagnostics basis for solving problems or challenges facing e-learning as well as knowing the prospects of e-learning in Nigerian university education. It might also help to change the altitude of students as well as teachers/lecturers towards e-learning. Also, it will find out the role of Government to the development of e-learning through the provision of e-learning equipment.

In addition, it will make the teachers/lecturers, Students and government to be aware of the challenges and prospects of e-learning in Nigerian university education.

1.7     Definitions of Terms

Prospects: Prospects is from the Latin word prospective which means “a view or outlook”. A prospect is a way of looking ahead and expecting good things, a possibility that something fabulous or great will happen. It is like potential in that it is something that might be but is not yet. There is also the potential for something bad to happen, but prospects usually look good.

Challenges: Challenges refers to a matter or situation regarded as unwelcome or harmful and needing to be dealt with and overcome.

E-Learning: E-learning refers to electronic learning. This means using a computer to deliver part, or all of a course whether it is in a school or a full distance learning course.

Education: Education refers to the process of receiving or giving systematic instruction, especially at a school or university. The act or process of imparting or acquiring general knowledge, developing the powers of reasoning and judgement and generally of preparing oneself or others intellectually for mature life.

University Education: This refers to an optional final stage of formal learning that occurs after secondary education. It is otherwise known as higher education, post – secondary education, tertiary education or third-level education.

Distance Education: Distance education refers to a method of studying in which lectures are broadcasted or classes are conducted by correspondence or over the internet, without the students needing to attend a school or college.

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PROSPECTS AND CHALLENGES OF DIGITIZATION

PROSPECTS AND CHALLENGES OF DIGITIZATION OF ACADEMIC LIBRARY RESOURCES FOR EFFECTIVE SERVICE DELIVERY

 ABSTRACT

This study investigated the prospects and challenges of digitization of academic library resources for effective service delivery in Edo State, Nigeria. Five research questions guided the study. A survey research design was adopted, the total population for this study was 199 professional and Para-professional of all the university libraries in Edo State, and purposive sampling technique was used in selecting the population which constituted the sample. Questionnaires and observation checklist were used for data collection. A  total of 161 questionnaires were distributed to the respondents who comprised of the professionals and Para-professionals library staff from the university libraries under study and 115 questionnaires were retrieved and analyze using mean score, standard deviation, percentage and frequency counts. From the analysis of data collected, the findings revealed that increased access to library materials, effective preservation of library materials, improve library services, speedy retrieval of document and improving library visibility are the major purposes for digitization of library resources. However, the result shows that inadequate funding, high cost of purchasing equipment, inadequate skill personnel, erratic power supply, poor internet connectivity, copyright issues/management are some of the major challenges inhibiting effective and efficient digitization of library resources in academic libraries. Based on the findings, recommendation were made such as alternative power supply, seeking for financial aid from donor organization, establishment of copyright management, proper selection and procurement of facilities/equipment, and training and retraining of librarians to acquire all the relevant and up-to-date skills for effective digitization.

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1       Background of the Study

With the advent of information and communication technology (ICT) and the internet facilities, the traditional functions of the library as a place for storage and preservation of information sources has changed dramatically. Academic libraries are duly bound to acquire, preserve and disseminate information for whatever source to its clientele, in this information age. This has led to academic libraries in Africa and Nigeria in particular, to embark on integration of technology in their operations. This serve as a mechanism for improvement and development especially in a situation where attention is drawn to the academic contents and ways of preserving them for future use.

Otubelu and Ume (2015) opined that there is need for such sources of information to be kept, preserved and made available in a more convenient and accessible formats. Prolonging the life-span of information resources and knowledge assets of man is better carried out with information and communication technology (ICT) for easy access to and dissemination of information resources for effective service delivery.

Oyedun (2007) in Krubu and Osawaru (2011) defines academic libraries as those libraries that are mainly found in tertiary institutions, they are established to support learning, teaching and research processes. Academic libraries can be regarded as the focal point or heartbeat of its parent institution as they are primarily established to provide information resources to support the academic programmes. Igwesi (2010) noted that proper fulfillment of this role provides a sound basis for the transmission and advancement of knowledge. Over the past few years, academic libraries have been affected by advancement in information and communication technology (ICT) and it application to libraries. It introduction has revolutionized the way information is packaged, processed, stored, retrieved, and disseminated but also, how users seek and access information in the twenty-first century.

A number of scholars have defined the concept of digitization differently. According to Gbaje (2007), digitization is the process of converting non-digital born documents into digital format. Witten and Bridge (2003) defined it as the process of taking traditional library materials that are in the form of books and papers and converting them into electronic form where they can be stored and manipulated by a computer. Thus, digitization entails all the sequence involved in the course of converting conventional information materials into machine readable format (digital format). Digitization therefore involves more than the conversion of prints document to digital formats but includes policy enactment, planning and budgeting, acquisition of appropriate technology, scanning, uploading to the web or repository, preserving, maintaining archival media, and the organization of the digital content into a navigable format (flexible and compatible programmes) for increased access and effective service delivery of the digital content to the target audience.

The digitization of academic library resources and the intellectual output of an institution has a lot of invaluable benefits such as increasing the visibility of the library’s resources, improve services delivery to the myriad of users, enhanced access to current and vast amount of information from remote sites/location as users can easily access library resources from different parts of the world no matter the distance; flexibility of information search and retrieval; it ensures better preservation of library resources by a reduced handling of the original print materials and alleviating the problems normally associated with conventional library environment such as mutilation of information resources, theft, space constraints, scarcity or limited number of copies, limited hour of operation and poor storage environment normally associated with the manual preservation. It is a veritable information source of e-learning and it offers a platform for collaboration and interoperability of libraries globally.

Digitization has the potential of making Africa global producers of indigenous information and thus helps in preservation of our cultural heritage rather than being passive consumers of imported information. Hence, digitization paves way for the globalization of local content and the accessibility of global information resource (GIR) locally. In Africa, most digital initiatives are collaborative. For example, the Digital Image Project of South Africa (DISA) is a cooperative project of South African Librarians, archivist, and Scholars. Another is Kwetu Net, which has signed up African governments and Universities, as partners and has developed a full-test database on East Africa (Amollo, 2011). Asogwa (2011) noted that, since the evolution many digital library projects such as that of the Association of Africa University (AAU), the Rhodes University in South Africa, the University of Nigeria Nsukka, and the Africa Digital Library (ADL), are some of the digital library projects being implemented in Africa.

In Nigeria, a lot of impressive efforts have been made in digitizing library collections all over the country. According to Musa et al., (2014) some of the academic libraries who have already embarked on digitizing their local contents includes Kashim Ibrahim library, which is the main library of Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, their project started in July 2005; University of Jos in 2009 becoming the first institution (University) to establish an institutional repository (IR) and second in West Africa after University of Science and Technology, Ghana; University Nigeria joined the trend in 2008, as it commenced the digitization of it resources; Federal University of Technology, Akure, started in 2011, using Dspace (application software) in managing the institutional content of their repository and Covenant University in the year 2012 becoming the first private university that owns institutional repository. In the same vein, Igwesi (2010) noted that Nnamdi Azikwe University, (UNIZIK) Akwa; Federal University of Technology Owerri (FUTO), and Obafemi Awolowo University, (OAU) Ile-Ife have all started digitization of it collections. Other digital initiatives in Nigeria as noted by Ochai (2007) in Igwesi (2010) include: The Nigerian University Library Consortium which created the capacity for libraries to negotiate for reduced licenses for EBSCO host and it contains over 8000 academic journals in all fields. Also, the Nigeria Virtual Library Initiative by the Nigeria Universities Commission (NUC) which aims at bringing electronic information to Nigerian Universities.

According to Akintunde and Anjo (2012) the idea of institutional repository in Nigeria is a current theme in tertiary institution that have seen it as a necessity for making available their institution resources, thereby increasing their visibility and better ranking of the World Universities in particular. They further stated that this has been a healthy competition because more and more of the institutions have been devising creative means to increasing their digital contents in the public domain (online), resulting in more Nigerian contents on the internet, and particularly more openness and share-ability of institutional resources. The digitization of library resources and research outputs of an institution is a step in the right direction, since the aim and overall objective is to preserve and improve access to library resources. The manual system of searching for information sources and utilization in the conventional library does not permit multiple uses of the same materials by different users. It is also inefficient and time consuming, space constraints unlike the online library system (digital library). Hence, the need to exploit the benefits of digitization and digital library system to provide online services as well as enhancing effective and efficient information service delivery in the twenty-first century.

Brief History of the Libraries under Study Ambrose Alli University Library                               

The Ambrose Alli University Library was established in 1982, to support the teaching, learning and research activities of the parent institution. The creation of Edo State in 1992 had its name changed to Edo State University and has gone through an Act signed by the then Executive Governor of the State (Chief Lucky Nosakhare Igbinedion). In 1991, the school was renamed Ambrose Alli University Ekpoma, after the founder Professor Ambrose Folorunsho Alli.

The University Library had Prof. Sam I. Ifidon as its pioneer librarian from 1982-1997 and it current university librarian is Dr. (Mrs.) J. I. Aba. The library occupies a two story building situated at the middle of the school, it is stocked with over 280,000 (two hundred and eighty thousand) books and non book materials on various fields in line with the academic programmes of it parent institution. The library also have an E-library at the middle floor of the library, using SLAM (Strategic Library Automation Management) as it Library Application Software (LAS) for the automation of the library operations.

The main library buildings has a sitting capacity of over 500 (five hundred) readers at a time and carrels for academic staff there, are also over seven other outreach libraries established within the university community to facilitates all academic related activities (Osawele, 2015).

Benson Idahosa University Library

The Benson Idahosa University Library occupies a three story circular building situated opposite the central Administration building. The library is fully air-conditioned to enhance maximum comfort for serious academic and research activities.

The library commended in 2002 after the appropriate endorsement of the Nigerian universities commission. The library serves as the hub around which the academic activities in the university revolve. The library has a stock of over 42,014 volumes of textbooks and reference books. It subscribes to about 317 current journal titles with the 204 foreign titles and 113 local titles.

University of Benin Library (John Harris Library)

The university’s main library, the John Harris Library began with the inception of the university in 1970 at the Ekehuan Road Campus. The library was named after the pioneer librarian, Professor John Harris, from New Zealand.

The library is an ultra-modern building with central air conditioning. The building is designed to seat about 700 readers. It provides photocopying, duplicating, laminating and binding services. The library has been computerized.

1.2       Statement of the Problem

Today, academic libraries are struggling to keep their place as the major sources of inquiry in the face of emerging digital technology. Library consumers (especially the digital natives) have high expectations from the librarians and information professionals than ever before in order to access the right information and knowledge in the right format and at the right time from wherever they are (Jain, 2013). The invaluable importance of library digitization such as it improves speedy access to library materials, several users can access the same information materials the same time without hindrance, it eliminate the problem of distance, improve library visibility and effective preservation of library resource and improved library services, etc, have made this become one of the major impetus for change in academic libraries in the digital age for the adoption of ICT and digitization of library resources.

Although an impressive effort has been made by Nigerian university libraries in digitizing their local contents all over the country, yet progress has been significantly slow. However, scholars have observed that it is always misleading to assume that the introduction of computer-based library (digital library system) provides perfect and trouble free information management possibilities. These perceived problems could be attributed to a number of challenges.

Knowledge of these challenges is essential for any university to be aware of in the course of digitizing it collections. It is obvious that there is still a gap which needs to be filled in order to achieve effective digitization initiatives in academic libraries in the country. Hence, the need for this study. which intends to examine the prospects and challenges of digitization of academic library resources for effective services delivery.

1.3       Objectives of the Study

The objective of this research is to investigate the prospects and challenges of digitization of academic library resources for effective service delivery. The specific objectives include to:

  1. Ascertain the purpose of digitizing library resources in the schools under study.
  2. Ascertain the resources to be digitize
  3. Reveal the facilities and equipment used for digitization
  4. Ascertain the level of digitization skills possess by the library staff.
  5. Identify the challenges affecting the digitization of library resources.

1.4       Research Questions

To achieve the foregoing objective, the following research questions are asked.

  1. What are the purposes for digitizing library resources?
  2. What are the resources available for digitization in libraries?
  3. Are there facilities and equipments for digitization in libraries
  4. What is the level of digitization skills possessed by the library staff?
  5. What are the challenges or problems affecting the digitization of library resources?

1.5       Scope of the Study

This research covers the following academic libraries in Edo State, Nigeria: Ambrose Alli University Library, Ekpoma (AAU), Benson Idahosa University Library, Benin (BIU), and University of Benin Library (John Harris Library), Benin (UNIBEN).

Furthermore, the study will unravel: purpose, facilities used in digitization; types of resources digitized, extent of digitization skills possessed by the library staff under study and challenges associated with the digitization of library resources.

1.6       Significance of the Study

The essential value of digitization of academic library resources are the ability to preserve information resources, providing a platform for share-ability and duplicity of data; quick access to information in a digital format from remote location. In view of this, it is hoped that the finding of this research work will be of benefit to the library administrators, library system analysts and digital library management staff; library scholars and researchers, student of LIS profession and the general library users.

The findings of this study will help library heads/administrators to adopt effective strategies that will help them enhance their digitization practices in libraries. The system analysts and digital library management staff (and managers) will also find this work useful. This is because it is expected that the findings of this work will be useful as to the best practices involved in digitization process, designs, programming and their formation of strategies that could better enhances digitization.

Furthermore, the findings of this study will be useful to the university management board, library head and the entire library staff as it will help to reveal to them the extent of the digitization project in their library. In addition, the findings of this study will be of benefit to the library users (library community) as it will reveal to them the various library materials that are available for digitization and when fully digitized will enable them carryout effective teaching, learning and research activities.

This work will be a vital source material to researchers (LIS researchers) especially in the area of digitization of library resources, as it will help in widening their horizon in the knowledge of digitization in libraries. It is also hoped that the finding of the research will serve as a template for further study to be carried out in the area of digitization.

1.7       Limitations of the Study

The researcher encountered a number of problems in the course of carrying out this study. The time frame to carry out the study was rather too short; there was also financial constraint and access to relevant information sources were major challenges encountered.

1.8       Operational Definition of Terms

  1. Digitization: This entails all the sequence involved in the course of converting conventional information materials into machine readable format (digital format).
  2. Digital Library: Is a collection of documents in organized electronic form, available on the internet or on CD ROM disk.
  3. Institutional Repository: A repository established and managed by public or private institution.
  4. Academic Library: Academic library can be defined as libraries attached to tertiary institutions with the primary aim of supporting its learning, teaching and research activities.
  5. Information and Communication Technology (ICT): It is an omnibus term that combines computer and telecommunication technology; it is concerned with the technology used in handling, acquiring, processing, storing and disseminating information.

 

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PROBLEMS AND PROSPECTS OF COOPERATIVE SOCIETY IN NIGERIA

PROBLEMS AND PROSPECTS OF COOPERATIVE SOCIETY IN NIGERIA

ABSTRACT

In this research work, the researcher empirically unveil the problems and prospects of cooperative society in Oyi  LG in Anambra State. In the course the research, it was discovered that: Cooperative provides ready markets for members produce. Members are encouraged to engage in economic production and services that enhance gross domestic product and national income. Retail goods are made available for the consumption of the cooperators as well as the public at affordable prices. Bonuses are given to members on patronage which enhance their personal income. Cooperative members readily benefited from government and non-government organizations of expert advisory services in various ways. Cooperative enjoys soft loan benefits from the governments, banks and other similar institutions for the operation of their joint or individual businesses. Functional cooperatives education and training imparted on the members enable them to do well in their businesses. Standard of living of the cooperators has been raised thus guaranteeing quality of members’ lives. Cooperative is a major vehicle for a nation’s industrial development.

 

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.0     THE BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY

Although co-operation as a form of individual and societal behaviour is intrinsic to human organization, the history of modern co-operative forms of organizing dates back to the Agricultural and Industrial Revolutions of the 18th and 19th centuries. The status of which was the ‘first co-operative’ is under some dispute, but various milestones in the history may be identified.

In 1761, the Fenwick Weavers’ Society was formed in Fenwick, East Ayrshire, Scotland to sell discounted oatmeal to local workers. Its services expanded to include assistance with savings and loans, emigration and education. In 1810, Welsh social reformer Robert Owen, from Newtown in mid-Wales, and his partners purchased New Lanark mill from Owen’s father-in-law and proceeded to introduce better labor standards including discounted retail shops where profits were passed on to his employees. Owen left New Lanark to pursue other forms of co-operative organization and develop co-op ideas through writing and lecture. Co-operative communities were set up in Glasgow, Indiana and Hampshire, although ultimately unsuccessful. In 1828, William King set up a newspaper, The Cooperator, to promote Owen’s thinking, having already set up a co-operative store in Brighton.

The Rochdale Society of Equitable Pioneers, founded in 1844, is usually considered the first successful co-operative enterprise, used as a model for modern co-ops, following the ‘Rochdale Principles’. A group of 28 weavers and other artisans in Rochdale, England set up the society to open their own store selling food items they could not otherwise afford. Within ten years there were over 1,000 co-operative societies in the United Kingdom.

Other events such as the founding of a friendly society by the Tolpuddle Martyrs in 1832 were key occasions in the creation of organized labor and consumer movements.

From the report of the workshop held on 10th – 11th November 2008 during the 8 the ICA Africa regional assembly at the international conference centre, Abuja. Mr Tom Tar – The Executive Secretary of Cooperative Federation of Nigeria, In his introduction of the movement in Nigeria, said the Cooperative Federation of Nigeria (CFN) was formed in 1945 and got registered in 1967.

He traced the background of cooperatives in Nigeria to the traditional savings and loans system. He added that following agitation by the Agege Cocoa planters Union in 1907, the study for establishment of formal cooperation was commissioned in 1934. This was followed by the enactment of cooperative legislation in 1935. The early move was in agriculture and latter shifted to marketing following the shift in the Nigerian economy from agriculture to crude oil. He gave the scope of cooperative activities in Nigeria as covering: On population, he said there are about  5million family members covering 20 million house holds. Total number of registered cooperative societies is about 50,000.

1.1    STATEMENT OF RESEARCH PROBLEM

In considering the statement of the research problem, these question readily come to mind:

(i) Can any competent person  become a member of a society, at anytime.

(ii) Is the liability of the members is unlimited.

(iii) do the government encourages and supports the formation of co-operative societies by providing subsidies and exemptions.

(iv) Can It exist for long due to a legal entity separate from its members.

(v) Is the society managed by one person only.

1.2    THE OBJECTIVE OF THE STUDY

It would have been a total waste of time, efforts, energy and of course fund, in conducting this research if it was not meant to achieve any meaningful objectives. The research would also have been seen as a fruitless exercise if there were no fundamental objectives to be achieved at the end of the study. The major objective of the study therefore was analysing the problems and prospects of cooperative society in Anambra State but the subsidiary objectives are:

– Cooperatives put people at the centre of their business and not capital.

– in cooperative movement, the welfare of members is emphasized

– Cooperatives engage in business activities that touch members e.g. schools building, credit.

         – cooperative Create jobs and empowerment for members

– cooperative Render service rather than making profit

– cooperative  emphasis on Mutual help instead of competition

– cooperative offers Self help instead of dependence

1.3    THE SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY

This study is significant because it will produce data on cooperative movement in Nigeria that will be useful to:

  1. federal ministry of labour and productivity
  2. national union of local government employees
  3. state civil service commission
  4. federal civil service commission .
  5. managers and top executives in organized private sector
  6. united nation commission on employment
  7. federal ministry of finance
  8. Central bank of Nigeria
  9. students carrying out a research work in this same issue.

1.4   HYPOTHESES

It is a conjectural statement of the relationships between two or more variables. It is testable, tentative problem explanation of the relationship between two or more variables that create a state of affairs or phenomenon.

E.C. Osuola (1986 page 48) said hypothesis should always be in declarative sentence form, and they should relate to them generally or specially variable to variables.

HYPOTHESIS THUS:

  1. Explain observed events in a systematic manner
  2. Predict the outcome of events and relationships
  3. Systematically summarized existing knowledge.

In essence, there exist NULL HYPOTHESIS set up only to nullify the research hypothesis and the ALTERNATIVE HYPOTHESIS for the purpose of the study. For the efficiency of the study, the hypothesis is as follows:

       Null Hypothesis (HO)

  1. The liability of the members is not unlimited.

       2 The society is not managed by one person only.

Alternative Hypothesis      (HI)

  1. The liability of the members is unlimited.
  2. The society is managed by one person only.

1.5 LIMITATIONS OF THE STUDY

A research work of this nature cannot come to an end without limitation. The researcher encountered numerous problems which affected the smooth running of the work. These problems includes, difficulty in procuring materials for the project, time factor and financial constraints.

Material Procurement

There was a lot constraints as to getting information and materials for the job. The researcher made series of consultations and visit to most renowned institutions to acquire the needed information. Most materials used were very difficult to come by, as there is no library within the town.

Time Constraints

Combining academic work with job is no doubt a thought provoking issue, as it has to do with time. Actually, a lot of time was wasted as the researcher visited the organizations and individuals together with government agencies to obtain valuable information for the project.

Financial Constraints

The researcher would have obtained more information than what is obtainable here but due to lack of money to visit some of the firms and government agencies located a bit farther from the researcher place of resident.

1.6 THE STRUCTURE OF THE WORK

This research work is to be organized in five chapters as follows:

  • Introduction
  • Review of related literature
  • Research method
  • Data presentation and analysis
  • Findings, Summary, and conclusion
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THE PROBLEM AND PROSPECTS FACED BY VOLUNTARY ORGANIZATION IN COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT (A Case Study of Okene Local Government Area of Kogi State)

ABSTRACT

The problem and prospect faced by voluntary organization towards community development is the main focus of this study. This study is aimed at identifying the development so caused by voluntary organizations towards community development at large particularly Okene Local Government. In the course of this study, the aim and objectives of voluntary organization towards community development are to: in light of the concept of voluntary organization on Okene Local Government to understand better and appreciated their physical, economic and social environment to help locate the need of their communities and proffers solution to the problem. The second aim of project work is to drive a useful comment in Okene Local Government towards community development to drive home some possible benefits and help design plans for further investigation and improvement. The population of the study was 3479, out of which 5% represents the sample size is 174 people. Questionnaire was administered to 174 respondents but only 97.7%% (170) was found valid. The data gathered was analysed using frequency and simple percentage. Some recommendations based on the subject matter were made such as that government should encourage the formulation of voluntary organization at all level of community development and conclusion was invariably drawn.

 

Chapter One

INTRODUCTION

1.1       Background of the Study

A voluntary group or union (also sometimes called a voluntary organization, common-interest association, [Prins HEL et al, 2010:226] association, or society) is a group of individuals who enter into an agreement, usually as volunteers, to form a body (or organization) to accomplish a purpose (Dictionary.reference.com). Common examples include trade associations, trade unions, learned societies, professional associations, and environmental groups.

Voluntary organizations emerged as self-help entities to combat economic and social inadequacies (Baarda, 2006). Voluntary organizations serve as an effective community development vehicle by their nature they build economic self-reliance and civil society. The benefits of voluntary organizations accrue to the larger society because they create local jobs, re-invest locally, emphasis on education and skills raises local management capacity, reduce migration and concentration of capital. People come together in voluntary organizations to pool their resources together so as to meet individual needs that could not be resolved by individual limited financial capacity (Birchall, 2004). The aim of voluntary organizations is to produce goods and deliver services, and to satisfy the legitimate needs of members and also to promote cooperation, relations, participation and consequently to promote interpersonal connections. Voluntary organizations provide services that benefit both members and the local community. It was also observed that it is an essential tool for development of less economically developed communities (Ibrahim, 2004).

Naturally, developing sustainable economic cooperation among individuals will be more profitable further than the creation of conflicts. It is only for this strictly pragmatic reason (and not for any other moral reasons as in the case of other social philosophies), that it is justified to found institutions that minimize conflicts and promote cooperation (Fairbairn, 1994).

Birchall (1997, 1998) traces the birth of modern voluntary organizations to Britain at the end of the eighteen century. Friendly organizations emerged among working class group to protect themselves against life hazards through mutual insurance, numbering over a million by 1834. They were seen as a self-help movement, being a response to the insecurities of reliance on wage labour arising with industrial revolution.

In Nigeria the development of voluntary was influenced by government policies. This could be traced back to 1926 when the department of Agriculture started to organize Cocoa farmers around Abeokuta and Ibadan in western Nigeria, to sell their cocoa voluntarily (Ibrahim, 2001).

A voluntary organization is an organization in which those who transact with (i.e. patronize) the organizations also own and formally control the organization, and derive significant benefits from those of transactions over and above any financial returns they derive from their investment in the organization (Ijere,1992).

This definition captures the patronage-based returns aspect that appears to distinguish Voluntary Organizations from other forms of organization.

According to International Voluntary Alliance (1995): Voluntary organization is an autonomous association of persons united voluntarily to meet their common economic, social, and cultural needs and aspirations through a jointly-owned and democratically- controlled enterprises.

Another definition provided by Mladentaz (1933) cited by Ibrahim (2001) describes Voluntary Organization as: “Association of persons, small producers or consumers, who have come together voluntarily to achieve some of common purpose by a reciprocal exchange of services through a collective economic enterprise working at their common risk and with resources to which all contribute to the development of community’’.

The notion of community development owes a great deal to the efforts of colonial administrators. After the Second World War the British Colonial Office became concerned with ‘community development’. Mayo (1975: 130) suggests that administrators ‘concocted’ the term out of their attempts to develop ‘basic education’ and social welfare in the UK colonies. For example, a 1944 report, Mass education in the colonies, placed an emphasis on literacy training and advocated the promotion of agriculture, health and other social services through local self-help (Midgley et al 1986: 17). This was a set of concerns similar to those surrounding the interest in rural development and educational ‘extension’ in North America in the first two decades of the century. Community development was defined in one UK government publication as:

“active participation, and if possible on the initiative of the community, but if this initiative is not forthcoming spontaneously, by the use of techniques for arousing and stimulating it in order to achieve its active and enthusiastic response to the movement.” (Colonial Office 1958: 2)

The concern with community development was, in part, a response to the growth of nationalism, and, in part an outcome of a desire to increase the rate of industrial and economic development. The notion began to feature strongly in United Nations documents during the 1950s – and these drew extensively on the British literature and experiences in Africa and India (Midgley et al 1986: 18). Three important elements were identified:

  1. a concern with social and economic development.
  2. the fostering and capacity of local co-operation and self-help.
  3. the use of expertise and methods drawn from outside the local community.

Within this there does appear to be a certain contradiction. Community development emphasizes participation, initiative and self-help by local communities but is usually sponsored by national governments as part of a national plan. While from one side it can be seen as the encouragement of local initiative and decision making, from the other it is a means of implementing and expediting national policies at the local level and is a substitute for, or the beginning of, local government (Jones 1977).

The focus on the social and economic, local and global, also helps to situate debates about community development – and the disillusionment with its achievements that was widespread in many Southern countries by the 1970s. Many governments, particularly in Africa, failed to provide adequate financial support but nevertheless extolled the virtues of self-help. Community development was soon recognized by the people to amount to little more than a slogan which brought few tangible benefits. (Midgley et al 1986: 18)

This study therefore focuses on Problems and Prospects of Voluntary Organization in Community Development in Okene Local Government Area of Kogi State.

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THE EVALUATION OF THE PERFORMANCE OF THE FAMILY AS AGENT OF SOCIALIZATION AND IT’S PROSPECTS ( A Study of Some Selected Wards in Chikun LGA.)

THE EVALUATION OF THE PERFORMANCE OF THE FAMILY AS AGENT OF SOCIALIZATION AND IT’S PROSPECTS ( A Study of Some Selected Wards in Chikun LGA.)

ABSTRACT

Socialization is an ongoing process of social interaction through which children become functional members of a society. What it means to be a functional member in a given society, however, depends on the broader socio-cultural context. Goals of socialization and parenting practices used to accomplish these goals vary across cultural groups, and parents and other caregivers play a particularly influential role in the socialization process. The aim of the study was to evaluate the performance of the family as agent of socialization. The research design employed was a descriptive survey. The descriptive survey method was adopted since the main focus was to gather information about the family as a social institution. The questionnaire was the data collection tool that was employed in the data collection. The researcher explained the purpose of the study to participants after the explanation. The data collected was organized, tabulated and analyzed to help explain the variables of research. Data was analyzed by use of tables. The research conclusion was that the family play a vital role in ensuring that their offspring grow up to become responsible adults in the society. The recommendations were that discrimination among children should be far from their family environment.

 

CHAPTER ONE

1.0     INTRODUCTION

Socialization according to Adeyemi (2000) is the process of the child acquiring norms, attitudes, values, skills and sanctions of the society. Socialization is a life-long thing that occurs from cradle to grave. This research work from the foregoing will look into the “evaluation of the performance of the family as an agent of socialization and its prospects”. Socialization does not just occur but it starts from the cradle which is birth. The first socializer is the mother. The mother by nature has the privilege to carry the life in her womb right from the time of conception which is the period of 36 weeks popularly known as 9 months (ideally).

Furthermore, the child’s first contact with the mother after delivery is the sucking of the nipple or breast. The mother starts by training the child to get to differentiate between her and the father, and the other Sibling if there is. Therefore, the child continues to grow physically and mentally. The family now joins hands to see that the child differentiates evil from good.

They teach him the moral values of greeting elders, collecting things with the right hand than the left hand. Fafunwa (2001) viewed that in an ideal family setting, it is the duty of the parents to instill the right values to their children and to also live by examples. He went further to stress that unless the family lives up to its billings of moral training, the society will ever remain rotten morally. This research will look into the ways the family as the first agent of socialization has done so far in training the child to become a good citizen or a bad citizen. The family is the root and the beginning of everyone in this planet earth. It is the avenue where morals are being transmitted from one generation to another.

The family to some extent failed in its struggles to make its children responsible that is what the research is after.

1.1   Background of the Study

The concept of family is as old as man himself. It is the smallest unit of a society that consists of a father, mother and children if any. The family is made up of two major types the nuclear and extended family. The nuclear family comprises the father, his Wife and children only, while the extended family includes the grandfather, grandmother, nephew, niece, aunties, cousin etc. All these members of the family have a role to play in society. One sociologist Professor Patricia Wilmot in a paper presentation in the year 2005 observed that the beauty of any society depends with the knowledge and awareness of its family as an agent.

Furthermore, the family is referred as the first agent of socialization because every individual is born into a family; nobody is a vagabond or homeless. Other agents, markets, stadium, hospitals, prisons are all behind the family as an institution. It is a well-known fact that the family serves as the first agent; it is equally the engine room of producing the children and character. It is the responsibility of the family to raise children and to cater for the needs of the family members. e.g. through the three basic necessities of life, food, clothing and Shelter. Sociologists’ experts observed that “unless the needs of the family members are met, they will remain a misfit in the society and their immediate environment”.

The family as the first agent of socialization plays the bigger role in socializing the child. They learn how to greet, show obedience and become responsible through the teachings of the family. Every family naturally will like its off-springs to proper in this life, because it brings honour and respect to the family. Everybody will respect such a family. For instance in Darasalam Tanzania as a nation, Julius Nyerere (Late) a former Tanzania President respected today because he was good and patriotic to an average Tanzanian, even his family members are being worshipped today. But where the father was a wicked soul before his death, nobody will respect his remains, so also the entire family members.

In any family set up the father must take his responsibility and also the mother, so that the children can’ learn from them as model or mentors. In a school, if a child becomes stubborn so much that he does not have time for his class studies, it is always a big problem to the teachers in school. These disobedience ranges from truancy, noise making, fighting, stealing (theft), lack of respect for elders, lack of interest for learning and what have you. Back at home, the children because of lack of parental attention, join bad companies (friends) who eventually introduce them to terrible habits like stealing, smoking of cigarettes, morphane, cocaine and even armed robbery.

Subsequently, the family that has time to teach and train members always succeeds. The children do bring joy and peace to the family members than problems. We want to stress here that some innocent families are trying to teach their children morals but only for the children to become wayward because of the type of friends they keep at school and within their neighborhood or vicinities. The truth of the matter is that you cannot change such a child except the grace (favour) of God. Therefore, children become wayward and stubborn as a result of societal influences and also lack of parental care. Adeyenu (2003) do serve that broken home accounts for the success of waywardness in children. Were the father and mother are no longer staying together in the name of separation or divorce (permanent separation). It is obvious that when two great elephants meet, only the grass that will suffer. It is indeed true because the children are the grasses where the parents serve as the great elephant.

Having said that, this research will explore performances of the family as the first agent of socialization and how it has fared most. The family is the basic unit and the beginning of the human race. It is the basis and foundation of every human being and as a result every person receives his first training from the agent. If the society is good it is as a result of a good family background. The family background of a person is a determinant factor that makes a human being complete and comprehensive. Therefore it is a good basis for people to behave well except that the family never did her role to teach and preach to the young ones. The family role in the society cannot be overemphasized because of its foundational level of molding and remolding of human beings. The family responsibilities are so enormous than other agents who are outside the home vicinity. A healthy family brings a wealthy society. This is as a result of the fact that every human being must pass through the school system which the first training starts from the home. The hour the child spend at home is more than that at the school and even the time he spends with his family. Therefore this research will in detail look into the responsibility of the family vis a vis learning morals other social values and norms.

1.2     Statement of Problem

Socialization process that people with the values, beliefs and standards of behavior that culture expects them to learn. (Yasaei, 2001) family is a small community that one of the aims is the socialization of children Family learning center person; for one, many of the family learns social behavior, such as respect for the rights of others, having good or evil traits and environmental compatibility of family and others. For the social development of children naturally be complete, certain conditions must prevail in the family environment, which are briefly discussed below.

One must in a family environment, a sense of peace and security and ensure that the love and respect of others. When someone in the family is about love, social relations will be strengthened further, but if a family environment with fear and anxiety, he joined the humiliation and hatred, the vengeful and cynical times, and certainly in the social connections will be a failure. The behavior of parents in child development and social education is very effective. If parents constantly argue and talk constantly of separation and divorce, the socialization of the child would be severely compromised. In these situations, children suffered from anxiety and fear, and always concerned that fights and disputes occur between parents. This practice has very bad effects on children’s mental and social fields and provides diversion and delinquency.

In addition, the children of these families after marriage and family, his parents followed the ugly behavior and their wives behave in the same style. This issue in addition to severe psychological distress for families, in the long term may even lead to ruin societies.

1.3   Objective of the Study

The research has the following objectives.

  1. To make a theoretical framework of the role of the family in the Nigerian society.
  2. To evaluate the performance of the family as an agent of socialization and its prospects.

iii. To make an evaluative performance of the family as an agent of socialization.

  1. To examine the performance of the family in the areas of social norms values and attitudes.
  2. To suggest and recommend ways on how the family as the first agent of socialization can do to be better up.

1.4   Research Questions

The researchers hereby make the following as guiding questions.

  1. What is the role of the family as an agent of socialization?
  2. Does other forces or agents affect the family?
  3. Why do children becomes wayward and stubborn?
  4. What are the forces that help the family to succeed?
  5. What is the effort the government is doing to help the family as an agent?

1.5     Significance of the Study

The result of this study will to a large extend be useful to the practitioners in the department of social services. They will acquire knowledge on how to help families identify their basic roles in the life of children. The rural communities will be educated and encourage in performing their roles in order to raise good and responsible adults in the future.

1.6     Scope of the Study

The study will be given a special preference on some selected primary schools in Chikun Local Government Area of Kaduna state and its environment. The result will consequently apply directly to the local government area and any generalization attempted for the whole country would be considered as rough extrapolation at the data.

1.7     Definition of Terms

Family: is the smallest unit at the society that comprise of the father, mother and children if any.

Evaluation: It is the act of trying to find out about a phenomenon or something.

Agent: It is a place or avenue

Socialization: It is the process of acquiring skills, attitudes values and norms.

Prospects: It has to do with result out of something.

Performance: Is the thing that happens or in a motion.

Values: Those accepted right behaviors in any place or society.

Sociologist: An expert of the nature and beginning of a society.

Extended: It has to do with far distant blood relations.

Nuclear: It has to do with near blood relations.

Mass Media: it has in do with electronic and print or papers.

Molding: The process of building a character or something.

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