Electrical Engineering Practicum: The Place of Virtual Laboratory in Nigerian Universities

Isaac John Ibanga; Gideon Fwah Karnilius; Tanimu Anjili; Raphaelline Hyelaiti

doi:10.56741/esl.v2i02.368

Authors

Isaac John Ibanga
isaacjohn@mau.edu.ng
Modibbo Adama University
Gideon Fwah Karnilius Adamawa State Polytechnic
Tanimu Anjili Modibbo Adama University
Raphaelline Hyelaiti Government Science and Technical College in Potiskum

Keywords:

Electrical Engineering, Practicum, Engineering Education, virtual laboratory

Abstract

This study examined the level of awareness, perception, and utilization of virtual laboratories in Nigerian Universities by Electrical Engineering lecturers. The study was guided by three specific objectives and three survey research types. One hundred twenty-one lecturers in electrical engineering from 8 universities in Nigeria's Northeast comprised the study's population. Because the total population size was manageable, the study used whole-population sampling. Data was collected using a validated questionnaire. A reliability index of 0.79 was determined using Cronbach Alpha. Mean, and standard deviation were used to answer the research questions. The findings revealed that all the electrical engineering lecturers in Nigerian Universities are highly aware of Virtual Laboratories, and all the electrical engineering lecturers in Nigerian Universities rarely utilized Virtual Laboratories. The study recommended that the National University Commission should use all of its resources to promote the development of electrical engineering practicum by providing virtual laboratories to all universities in Nigeria, as the study found that electrical engineering lecturers in Nigerian universities have a high level of awareness of virtual laboratories; in addition to supporting physical laboratories in the universities, the administration should provide for the training of laboratory technicians and electrical engineering lecturers in Nigerian universities on how to effectively use the virtual laboratory facilities for conducting various types of experiments.

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Author Biographies

Isaac John Ibanga, Modibbo Adama University

is an erudite scholar, a researcher and a lecturer at the Sandwich Degree Programme of the Faculty of Education, Modibbo Adama University, Yola, Adamawa State, Nigeria. He is specializing in electrical technology education. (email: isaacjohn@mau.edu.ng).

Gideon Fwah Karnilius, Adamawa State Polytechnic

is a dedicated individual passionate about engineering and education. He is affiliated with the School of Engineering at Adamawa State Polytechnic in Yola, Adamawa State, Nigeria. His academic background and experience in the engineering industry enable him to deliver comprehensive and relevant lessons to his students. His dedication to staying updated with the latest advancements in engineering ensures that he provides his students with a well-rounded education that aligns with current industry practices. (email: fwagideon@gmail.com).

Tanimu Anjili, Modibbo Adama University

is a dedicated educator and researcher in the field of Electrical Technology Education. He is currently associated with the Department of Electrical Technology Education at Modibbo Adama University, located in Yola, Adamawa State, Nigeria. His research interests lie in exploring innovative approaches to teaching electrical technology and investigating the practical applications and impact of electrical systems in various industries. He contributes to advancing knowledge and enhancing electrical technology education through his research endeavours. (email: tanimuanjili@gmail.com).

Raphaelline Hyelaiti, Government Science and Technical College in Potiskum

is an enthusiastic and dedicated educator based in Yola, Adamawa State, Nigeria. She is a valued member of the faculty at Government Science and Technical College, where she plays a crucial role in shaping the minds of young learners. She is passionate about fostering a love for learning and empowering her students with knowledge and skills that go beyond the classroom. Her approach to education is student-centred, and she strives to create a supportive and engaging learning environment for her students. As an educator at Government Science and Technical College in Yola, she plays a vital role in preparing the next generation of skilled and knowledgeable individuals who will contribute to the development and progress of their community and beyond. (email: hyelaiti@gmail.com).

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