INFLUENCE OF MODERN DIGITAL INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIALS FOR LEARNING OFFICE TECHNOLOGY AND MANAGEMENT COURSES IN POLYTECHNICS IN KWARA STATE

Abstract This study examined perceived influence of modern digital instructional materials on the teaching and learning of Office Technology and Management (OTM) programmes in tertiary institutions in Kwara State, Nigeria. The research focused on three key digital tools: computers, interactive boards, and multimedia projectors. Grounded in the Socio-cultural Theory of Teaching, Learning, and Development, the study adopted a descriptive survey design. The population comprised 261 students and lecturers from Federal Polytechnic, Offa, and Kwara State Polytechnic, Ilorin, with the entire population used as the sample due to its manageable size. Data were collected using a validated and reliable (Cronbach’s Alpha = 0.95) 20-item questionnaire. Mean and standard deviation were used to analyze the research questions, while independent sample t-tests were employed to test the hypotheses at a 0.05 significance level. Findings revealed a strong positive perception of the influence of all three digital tools, with grand means of 3.7 (computers), 3.62 (interactive boards), and 3.6 (multimedia projectors), indicating they make learning easier, more engaging, and improve interaction. However, a significant gender difference was found, with female students reporting a higher perceived influence across all tools. The study concludes that modern digital instructional materials are indispensable for achieving the practical objectives of the OTM curriculum but recommends gender-inclusive strategies and increased investment to ensure equitable access and utilization for enhanced graduate employability.