ICT Literacy and Readiness for Computer Based Test Among Public Secondary School Students in Anambra State

Abstract

Among the significant influences of the new information and communication technologies (ICTs) on the educational system is the emergence of the computer-based test (CBT) which now exists side by side, and in some instances, has replaced the traditional pen and paper method of examination. The introduction of CBT in the JAMB Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) and its use in post-UTME tests by various higher institutions have now made ICT literacy critical for one’s academic progression beyond the secondary school level. Therefore, this study examined readiness for Computer-Based Tests (CBT) among public secondary school students in Anambra State, Nigeria in terms of acquiring the requisite ICT literacy. Situated within the framework of the Diffusion of Innovations Theory, the study adopted the survey method.A sample of 659 respondents was selected from public secondary school students in the state. Data analysis employed simple percentages and Pearson chi-square test. Findings showed that to a significant extent, students in public secondary schools in Anambra State were aware of the relevance of ICT literacy for their participation in external examinations. However, a significant number of the students were yet to take steps to acquire ICT literacy in readiness for computer-based tests (CBTs). The rate of actual readiness for such tests was low among the students. Factors influencing readiness for CBT among the students were gender, age, school type (boys, girls or coeducational), school location (urban versus rural), school-based computer training, availability of computer at students’ homes and attending of outside-school computer coaching. It was concluded that many students in Anambra State public schools who participate in computer-based tests (CBTs) appear to acquire the required ICT skills only after they have left school, a situation that may not be very healthy given that early preparation is more likely to enhance better performance. The study recommended, among others, that school-based computer training should be enhanced by way of procurement of equipment and employment of computer literate teachers in order to enable schools provide such training on a regular basis to students which will enhance their readiness for computer-based tests (CBT).

Keywords: Computer Based Test (CBT), Information and Communication Technology (ICT), ICT Literacy, External Examination, Public Secondary Schools, Secondary School Students, Readiness.

DOI: 10.7176/NMMC/97-01

Publication date:August 31^st 2021