The Role of ICT in Skilled Manpower Development:  A Study of Plateau State Polytechnic, Barkin-Ladi Nigeria

Innocent Nasuk Dajang; Mandong Mathias Ayuba; Samuel Mahanan Dang

doi:10.56741/esl.v3i01.527

Authors

Innocent Nasuk Dajang
innocentdajang@gmail.com
University of Jos https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3636-9462
Mandong Mathias Ayuba Plateau State Polytechnic
Samuel Mahanan Dang Plateau State Polytechnic

Keywords:

ICT, Learning, Skilled Manpower, Teaching, Utilization

Abstract

Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in workforce development is an essential and rapidly growing study area. An increasing number of countries are now undertaking training to develop skills in the use of ICT in teaching and other school activities to ensure higher efficiency, higher productivity, and higher educational outcomes, including quality of cognitive, creative, and innovative thinking. Against this backdrop, this study examined the role of ICT in skilled workforce development in polytechnics with Plateau State Polytechnic, Barkin–Ladi as the focus. Using the WhatsApp platform, a focus group discussion was conducted with eighteen academic staff members of the Department of General Studies of the Plateau State Polytechnic for data collection. The theoretical framework adopted for the study was the Computer-Aided Language Learning (CALL). Amongst other findings, the study discovered that computers and the internet have become indispensable worldwide and have frequently aided the training of skilled workforce and the creation of jobs and economic growth. It concluded that using ICT in lecture preparation and presentation, instructional delivery, individualized learning, collaboration, and evaluation of learning will significantly benefit our society in skilled workforce development for nation-building.

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Author Biographies

Innocent Nasuk Dajang, University of Jos

has a Ph.D in English Language. He is an expert in English Syntax and Applied Linguistics, currently serving as a member of the Department of English at the Faculty of Arts in the University of Jos, Nigeria. His research interests include the use of English as a second language, language interference, and the attitudes of foreign language students towards improving their speaking abilities. He has published several research articles in reputable journals. He has also been involved in various academic and professional activities, including workshops, seminars, and conferences. (email: dajangi@unijos.edu.ng).

Mandong Mathias Ayuba, Plateau State Polytechnic

is a Chief Lecturer in The Department of General Studies Plateau State Polytechnic Barking Ladi. He has taught English and Literature in English in the institution for the past twenty-five years. He holds a B.A in Hons English Language and an M.A in English Language from ABU Zaria and the University of Jos. (email: mandongmathias4@gmail.com).

Samuel Mahanan Dang, Plateau State Polytechnic

is a holder of M.Sc on International Relations and Strategic Studies, University of Jos and B.A on Mass Communication, University of Maiduguri. Married to Umot Mahanan Dang and blessed with two daughters. (email: mahansd@gmail.com).

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