ROLES OF INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIALS AND INFORMATION COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY IN IMPROVING QUALITY OF TECHNICAL AND VOCATIONAL EDUCATION TRAINING

Abstract

The application of new and effective teaching aids is one of the major challenges facing the whole education system in Nigeria and for technical and vocational education training programme in particular. Quality of education in Nigeria has occupied the minds of many Nigerians as the issue has formed the main themes of many national conferences and workshops in recent times. With the recent emphasis on Information and Communication Technology, it’s a great measure for improving the quality of Technical and Vocational Education in Nigeria. Access to information communication technology has the potential to change the falling standard of education in Nigeria; however, the potential will not be realized unless stakeholders ensure that technical and vocational education teachers and students have access to instructional materials and information communication technology that promises positive academic and career outcomes. Today, technology has become essential in almost every educational, employment, community and recreational environment. This paper therefore, discussed the roles of instructional materials and information communication technology in improving quality of technical and vocational education training programme in Nigeria. Some of the roles include; motivation of teachers and students, adding interest, reducing boredom, making teaching and learning more realistic and meaningful etc. The paper stressed that for information communication technology and instructional materials to play useful roles, they must be available and effectively utilized in schools. It concluded by making practical recommendations.

Keywords: Technical Education, Vocational Education, Information Communication                                    Technology, Instructional Materials