COMPARATIVE USE OF LEARNING MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS (LMS) AND AI-BASED LEARNING TOOLS IN FEDERAL AND STATE TERTIARY INSTITUTIONS IN KOGI STATE

The integration of Learning Management Systems (LMS) and Artificial Intelligence (AI)-based learning tools has become increasingly important in improving teaching, learning, and institutional efficiency in higher education. However, disparities in the adoption and utilization of these technologies persist between Federal and State tertiary institutions in Nigeria, particularly in Kogi State. This study examined and compared the use of LMS and AI-based learning tools in Federal and State tertiary institutions in Kogi State with a view to determining their availability, utilization, effectiveness, and the factors influencing their adoption in teaching and learning. A comparative mixed-methods research design was adopted, utilizing structured questionnaires, semi-structured interviews, and document analysis to collect data from lecturers, students, academic staff, and institutional administrators. The study was anchored on the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT). Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Independent Samples t-test, while qualitative data were analyzed thematically. The study found notable differences in the availability, accessibility, and utilization of LMS and AI-based learning tools, with Federal institutions demonstrating relatively higher levels of adoption due to better funding, infrastructure, institutional support, and staff digital competence. The study further identified inadequate infrastructure, poor internet connectivity, limited training opportunities, insufficient technical support, low AI awareness, and funding constraints as major barriers to effective utilization. The study recommends increased investment in ICT infrastructure, regular capacity-building programmes for staff and students, formulation of institutional AI policies, strengthened technical support services, and equitable allocation of digital learning resources across Federal and State tertiary institutions to enhance teaching effectiveness and improve students' learning outcomes.