GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION SYSTEMS AND ITS IMPACT IN CLASSROOM INSTRUCTIONS: A CASE STUDY OF SELECTED TERTIARY INSTITUTIONS IN KOGI STATE
DARE E. ALABA *
Department of Social Sciences Education, Kogi State University, Nigeria
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
In recent time there has been emphasis on individualized instructions and computer technology to facilitate learning at all levels of education and training. The feasible application of micro-computers in the Nigerian classrooms has come to limelight. This research paper studied the impact of geographic information systems in tertiary education in Nigeria: A case study of Selected Tertiary Institutions in Kogi State. A total of 320 questionnaires were administered to students using stratified random sampling technique. The students were drawn from four disciplines which are geography, Urban and Regional Planning, Geology and civil engineering. Descriptive statistic was employed to analyze the data. The study revealed that, the uses of GIS in Education constitute active learning and users friendly. It provides efficient geographical data models and visualizing them promote clarity and understanding in learners. GIS technology is plagued by low manpower in Nigeria. Database limits the types of spatial operation/analysis that can be done in the project. Based on the foregoing, the author puts forward some useful recommendation that could further enhance the use of GIS technology for training and practice in Nigeria.
Keywords: Geographic information system, computer software, tertiary education