Utilization of Web 2.0 Technologies by Lecturers of Agriculture in Tertiary Institutions in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria

Abstract

The study examined the extent of utilization of web 2.0 technologies by lecturers of agricultural sciences in tertiary institutions in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. Specifically, it identified the personal characteristics of the respondents, examined their level of awareness of web 2.0 technologies, and also ascertained respondents' purpose of utilization and extent of utilization of stated technologies. Multi-stage sampling was used in the study. Data were collected with the aid of a structured questionnaire from 100 (one hundred) lecturers. Analyses of data were done using descriptive (frequency counts, percentage and mean) statistical tools. The findings revealed that a majority of the lecturers were male and married; a higher proportion (52%) of who possessed masters' (M.Sc.) degree. The findings showed further that the respondents were aware of, and frequently utilized many Web 2.0 tools, including Wikipedia, YouTube Drop box, LinkedIn and Twitter. These tools were however rarely utilized for educational purposes. Based on the findings of the study, it was recommended that there should be concerted effort by tertiary institutions to organize awareness campaigns and training programmes on new ICTs so as to keep lecturers abreast of, raise awareness about, and improve skills and knowledge in the utilization of these technologies for educational purposes.