Libraries at University of Nebraska-Lincoln
Date of this Version
2022
Abstract
For adequate teaching and learning, twenty-first-century classrooms, combined with the needs of the new normal in the face of the Covid-19 pandemic, have mandated the effective use of online education platforms. This begs the question of how well-versed in information and communication technologies Nigerian Preschool Librarians are (ICT). Because there is a scarcity of studies on the subject, this is the case. As a result, the researchers were in a good position to determine or measure the level of ICT expertise of Preschool Librarians in order to embrace online education during and after the Covid-19 pandemic. The descriptive survey research design was used in this study, which was based on the scientific research paradigm and quantitative research technique. The survey included 165 Preschool Librarians from the Nsukka Education Zone in Enugu State, Nigeria. Data was collected using an ICT competency questionnaire that has been adequately validated and trial-tested. Using the Cronbach Alpha reliability method, the questionnaire's internal consistency reliability index was assessed to be 0.87. The data was analyzed using the mean statistical method to produce a response to the research question. Preschool librarians were found to have a low level of ICT expertise for the use of online instruction. It was also discovered that preschool librarians' level of ICT skills was significantly (p < .05) influenced by their age. As a result, it was suggested that the Local Government Education Authority provide in-service ICT training opportunities for teachers to ensure proper ICT use in the classroom.