DIGITAL SKILLS AND DEVICE OWNERSHIP AMONG STUDENTS OF TERTIARY INSTITUTIONS IN ADAMAWA STATE, NIGERIA: PATTERNS, USAGE AND TRENDS

Abstract

This study investigated digital skills and competencies of students of in Tertiary institutions in Adamawa State, Nigeria. It identified the types of digital devices used, appraised the level of knowledge and usage and determined the frequency of the usage of those devices by the respondents. Multistage sampling technique was employed to sample 1500 respondents and the data obtained were analyzed using percentage and mean, Likert-type and rating scales. The results revealed that the most common types of digital  devices used by the respondents were smart phones (74%) and laptops (61%) and the level of knowledge and usage were rated highly for the use of smart phones (mean score = 4.05), laptops(mean score = 4.01) and desktops(mean score = 3.10). Furthermore, smart phones (mean score = 2.47), laptops (mean score = 2.50) and desktops (mean score = 2.20) were the most frequently used devices. The study recommends the need for students to engage other ICTs devices to enrich their learning experiences and these digital devices may be provided through donations from governmental and non-governmental organizations for more effective teaching and learning especially as Tertiary institutions transit towards incorporating online teaching.