ASSESSMENT OF THE AVAILABILITY AND UTILIZATION OF E-LEARNING TECHNOLOGY BY BUSINESS STUDIES STUDENTS IN JUNIOR SECONDARY SCHOOLS IN GOMBE STATE

This study assessed the availability and utilization of e-learning technology by Business Studies students in junior secondary schools in Gombe State. The study was conducted to determine the extent to which e-learning facilities are available in schools and how effectively they are utilized in the teaching and learning of Business Studies. The objectives of the study were to identify the available e-learning technologies, examine the level of their utilization by students, determine the factors affecting their utilization, and suggest strategies for improving the use of e-learning technologies in Business Studies education. A descriptive survey research design was adopted for the study. The population consisted of Business Studies students and teachers in selected junior secondary schools across Gombe State. A sample of respondents was selected using appropriate sampling techniques. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire designed by the researcher. The collected data were analyzed using descriptive statistics such as frequency counts, percentages, mean scores, and standard deviation. The findings revealed that some e-learning technologies such as computers, internet facilities, projectors, educational software, smartphones, and multimedia resources were available in a number of schools, although their availability varied significantly across schools. The study further revealed that the level of utilization of these technologies by Business Studies students was moderate. Factors identified as hindering effective utilization included inadequate ICT infrastructure, poor internet connectivity, insufficient funding, irregular power supply, lack of technical support, and inadequate training of teachers and students in the use of e-learning technologies. Based on the findings, the study concluded that while e-learning technologies have the potential to enhance the teaching and learning of Business Studies, their effectiveness is constrained by several infrastructural and operational challenges. The study recommended increased government funding for ICT facilities, provision of reliable internet services and electricity, regular training programs for teachers and students, and the development of policies that promote the integration of e-learning technologies into the teaching and learning process. Keywords: E-learning Technology, Availability, Utilization, Business Studies, Junior Secondary Schools, Gombe State, ICT in Education.