EVALUATION OF THE AVAILABILITY AND USE OF DIGITAL INFRASTRUCTURES AND DIGITAL RESOURCES FOR RESEARCH PROCESSES IN COLLEGES OF EDUCATION IN SOUTH - EAST GEO POLITICAL ZONE OF NIGERIA

Abstract

The availability and utilization of digital infrastructures and resources are critical to effective research processes in Colleges of Education. These facilities are often used as indices for rating institutions by the National Commission for Colleges of Education (NCCE). However, there is limited information on their availability and usage in research processes. This study evaluated the availability, utilization, and impact of digital infrastructures and resources for research in Colleges of Education in the South-East geopolitical zone of Nigeria. Employing a descriptive evaluation research design, five research questions and four hypotheses guided the study. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire, validated by experts in measurement and evaluation, with a high reliability coefficient of .88 based on Cronbach's alpha. The study sampled 300 lecturers from 15 departments across six colleges of education (federal, state, and private), selected through multi-stage sampling techniques. Data analysis involved descriptive and inferential statistics, including means, standard deviations, and z-tests. The findings revealed that digital infrastructures and resources are generally inadequate, with lecturers demonstrating minimal utilization, resulting in limited impacts on research processes. Key barriers identified included time wastage in using e-resources, poor motivation, and inadequate power supply. Hypothesis testing further confirmed that the availability, utilization, and impact of digital resources were not significantly greater than expected. These findings highlight the urgent need for targeted interventions. Recommendations include increased funding, enhanced training programs for lecturers, and the provision of better digital infrastructure to improve research efficiency. Addressing these challenges will enable Colleges of Education to build a more robust digital environment, fostering improved research outcomes and preparing students and staff to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving academic and professional landscape.