EVALUATING TEACHERS' ACCEPTANCE OF INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY AS AN INSTRUCTIONAL TOOL IN JUNIOR SECONDARY SCHOOLS IN ILESA, OSUN STATE, NIGERIA

This study examined teachers’ attitudes towards the integration of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in teaching and learning in selected junior secondary schools in Ilesa, Osun State, Nigeria. The study was motivated by the growing importance of ICT in modern education and the need to equip students with relevant digital skills for effective participation in the 21st-century knowledge-based society. Despite various government initiatives and institutional efforts to promote ICT integration in Nigerian schools, its adoption remains constrained by inadequate funding, insufficient technological infrastructure, limited access to digital resources and inadequate teacher training. These challenges may influence teachers’ perceptions, willingness and ability to incorporate ICT into classroom instruction. The study therefore focused on examining teachers’ attitudes towards ICT integration, their perceptions of its usefulness in improving teaching and learning, and the challenges affecting its effective utilisation in junior secondary schools. It also considered the importance of teachers’ preparedness, technological competence and institutional support in promoting technology-enhanced instructional delivery. The study is expected to provide insights into the factors influencing teachers’ acceptance and utilisation of ICT in educational settings. Furthermore, the findings will contribute to understanding the need for continuous professional development, improved ICT infrastructure, adequate funding and supportive educational policies to strengthen technology integration in Nigerian secondary schools. The study will also provide useful information for school administrators, educational policymakers and other stakeholders in developing strategies that encourage positive teacher attitudes and effective ICT utilisation. Ultimately, promoting teachers’ acceptance and application of ICT is essential for improving instructional effectiveness, enhancing students’ learning experiences and advancing the quality of junior secondary education in Nigeria.