Nigeria replicated several lockdown initiatives from the Global North, all but e-learning.
- The new-normal highlighted why e-learning was important;
- With low ranking in infrastructure and internet accessibility, e-learning lacks the prerequisite technology to thrive in Nigeria
- Low electricity output further hinders students from accessing this process
- Private partnerships could facilitate e-learning in Nigeria
- Above all, embracing the process by all parties involved will increase the success rate
E-learning is a dynamic way of learning that enables students to gain relevant knowledge at their pace. It gives flexibility in the process with vast access to relevant learning materials and interactions with students.
Technological advances have birthed the supplementation and near phase-out of the traditional educational delivery system. They allow a more dynamic learning process with a wider reach for knowledge acquisition.
The process enables learning at a reduced cost, owing to its remote nature; it further enhances the acquisition of computer skills- which are transferable to other aspects of life. It also builds self-reliance and bolsters self-driven tutelage. This became very apparent during the pandemic, as many countries opted for remote learning. Yet, despite widespread acceptance of this model, Nigeria is still playing catch up. Here’s why:
1. Poor Technical Infrastructure
At the base of e-learning is technical infrastructure development. With its poor infrastructural development, ranked 125th/137 globally, the prospect of e-learning remains a big hurdle to scale. Despite the impressive development of the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) following market liberalization in 2000, the sector is under immense political and regulatory pressure. The detriment remains the inability of the country to adapt to the demands of the time. This makes uncertain the likelihood of implementing any form of e-learning and its accompanying benefits.
2. Internet Connectivity
Internet access cost in Nigeria is still very high. Nigeria ranks 160th in countries with cheapest internet access with an average price per package of $78.21 and an average price per MB of $4.34. This makes it difficult for students to afford.
3. Limited Expertise
At the heart of e-learning is technical know-how. In essence, lack of technical expertise means no distance-learning. To this effect, the Minister of Education, Adamu Adamu remarked on the challenges of technical expertise in the sector. Indeed, there are few technical staff in most Universities to maintain the current system. Lack of, or inadequate, trained personnel are a challenge to the use of ICT in higher institutions.
4. Financial Restrictions
The cost of acquiring the ICT equipment remains a stumbling factor for successful implementation of e-learning in Nigeria. The continuous misappropriation of funds has added to the prevalent issue.
5. Software and License Cost
The lack of technical know-how has created a gap in technical development at a reduced rate. This has made e-learning an expensive venture, especially because most distance-learning software are unavailable locally. As a result, most students are discouraged from taking up such an enterprise. And given the lack of technical staff, compounds the whole matter.
6. Maintenance and Technical Support
Maintenance remains a huge deterrent to distance-learning. Without proper maintenance, one cannot monitor the pace, progress or success of the e-learning module. Moreover, the unavailability of technical staff (few) poses an operational challenge; functioning costs go up as maintenance stays low.
7. Electricity
On electricity production, Nigeria ranks 70 in the world with just 28,000 Gigawatt hour (GWh). Indeed, the mainstay issue of power outage has hindered technological development. In a recent Dataphyte report, it observed how electricity production was mismatched against the number of households. So for e-learning that requires uninterrupted power supply, how’s it going to work?
Prospect for Remote Learning
To place the country on the radar of e-learning, there is a need to create awareness amongst the population on the effectiveness of e-learning. Most people feel the traditional method of learning is best, but the current situation suggests otherwise.
In the same vein, Non-governmental organisations and private sectors should get involved. They could equip university e-learning centres with model equipment for effective delivery of lectures to students with distance-learning technologies.
Similarly, the government should make internet connectivity a priority for higher education to leverage on the promises and opportunities ICTs present.
Again, a change in perspective of the students will enhance the success of the process. This will build their expectations and prepare them for the dynamism of e-learning. The ability of the students to adapt better study habits and self-discipline will enhance the overall success of e-learning.