TEACHERS PERSPECTIVE OF TERTIARY EDUCATION STUDENTS ENGAGEMENT WITH ICT. A CASE OF FEDERAL UNIVERSITY OYE EKITI (FUOYE

ABSTRACT This study investigated teachers’ perspectives on tertiary education students’ engagement with Information and Communication Technology (ICT) at Federal University Oye-Ekiti, focusing on the perceived effectiveness of ICT tools, the challenges faced in integrating these tools into teaching, and the extent of student engagement with ICT both within and outside the classroom. A descriptive survey research design was adopted. The population of the study consisted of lecturers and students at Federal University Oye-Ekiti, from which a sample of 150 participants—100 students and 50 lecturers—was randomly selected. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and semi-structured interview guides. The quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics, while the qualitative data from interviews provided deeper insights into the participants’ experiences and perceptions. Findings revealed that lecturers generally perceived ICT as a valuable tool for enhancing instructional delivery and student learning. However, they also identified several challenges, including poor internet connectivity, inadequate ICT facilities, lack of training, and inconsistent power supply. The study also found that students actively engage with ICT tools for academic purposes, particularly for research, assignments, and communication with peers and lecturers. This study concludes that while ICT integration in higher education is beneficial and widely accepted by both lecturers and students, overcoming infrastructural and institutional barriers is essential for maximizing its impact. It recommends that university administrators and policymakers invest in ICT infrastructure, provide consistent training for both staff and students, and formulate clear policies to support effective ICT integration. These steps will help foster a more engaging, efficient, and technologically enriched learning environment in Nigerian tertiary institution.