Table of Contents
Abstract. 2
CHAPTER ONE.. 5
INTRODUCTION.. 5
1.1 Background to the Study.. 5
1.2 Statement of the Problem... 6
1.3 Objectives of the Study.. 7
1.4 Research Questions. 7
1.5 Research Hypothesis. 8
1.6 Significance of the Study.. 8
1.7 Scope of the Study.. 9
1.8 Limitations of the Study.. 9
1.9 Organization of the Study.. 10
CHAPTER TWO.. 12
REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE.. 12
2.1 Introduction.. 12
2.2 Theoretical Review.. 12
2.2.1 Access and Equity Theory.. 12
2.2.2 Integration and Adaptation Theory.. 13
2.2.3 Efficacy and Effectiveness Theory.. 13
2.2.4 Ethical and Legal Framework Theory.. 14
2.3 Conceptual Review.. 14
2.4 Empirical Review.. 17
2.5 Summary of Literature Review.. 19
Chapter Three.. 20
Research Methodology.. 20
3.1 Introduction.. 20
3.2 Research Design.. 20
3.3 Population of the Study.. 20
3.4 Sample and Sampling Techniques. 20
3.5 Instrumentation.. 21
3.6 Validity and Reliability of the Instrument. 21
3.7 Data Collection Procedures. 22
3.8 Data Analysis Techniques. 22
3.9 Ethical Considerations. 22
3.10 Limitations of the Study.. 23
3.11 Summary.. 23
CHAPTER FOUR.. 23
DATA PRESENTATION, ANALYSIS AND INTERPRETATION.. 23
4.2 DATA ANALYSIS.. 24
4.4 Testing Hypotheses. 39
Discussion of Findings. 41
CHAPTER FIVE.. 44
SUMMARY CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS.. 44
5.1 Summary of Findings. 44
5.2 Conclusion.. 45
5.3 Recommendations. 45
REFERENCES.. 48
Research Questionnaire for the project "ASSESSMENT OF THE USE OF TECHNOLOGY TO DELIVER GUIDANCE AND COUNSELLING SERVICES IN NIGERIA (A CASE STUDY OF TOP FAITH SECONDARY SCHOOL)". 51
CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background to the Study
The integration of technology into various sectors has revolutionized service delivery worldwide, including the field of guidance and counseling. In Nigeria, where access to traditional counseling services may be limited due to factors such as geographical distance and resource constraints, leveraging technology holds immense potential to extend the reach and efficacy of counseling services. This assessment seeks to explore the landscape of technology-enabled guidance and counseling services in Nigeria, examining the opportunities, challenges, and implications for both practitioners and clients. Adeniran, R. K., & Ishola, A. A. (2020).
The advent of digital platforms, such as mobile applications, websites, and teleconferencing tools, has facilitated the provision of counseling services beyond the confines of physical offices. With the widespread adoption of smartphones and internet connectivity, individuals in even the most remote areas of Nigeria can now access counseling support conveniently. Moreover, technology offers a degree of anonymity and privacy that may encourage individuals to seek help for sensitive issues they might otherwise avoid addressing. Okorie, N. U., & Anochie, P. I. (2019).
However, alongside these opportunities come challenges that warrant careful consideration. Issues such as data privacy and security, cultural sensitivities, and digital literacy pose significant hurdles to the effective implementation of technology-enabled counseling services in Nigeria. Furthermore, disparities in access to technology and digital infrastructure exacerbate existing inequalities, potentially excluding marginalized populations from benefiting fully from these services. By critically assessing the use of technology in delivering guidance and counseling services in Nigeria, this study aims to provide insights that can inform policies and practices to maximize the benefits while addressing the challenges encountered in this evolving landscape. Omoruyi, F. O. (2021).
1.2 Statement of the Problem
In Nigeria, the delivery of guidance and counseling services faces numerous challenges, particularly in reaching remote or underserved populations. With the advancement of technology, there arises an opportunity to leverage digital platforms to bridge this gap and provide accessible and effective counseling services. However, there is a lack of comprehensive assessment regarding the utilization and effectiveness of technology in delivering such services within the Nigerian context. Without a thorough understanding of the current landscape, it is challenging to optimize the integration of technology into counseling practices and ensure its suitability and efficacy for the diverse population in Nigeria (Adekeye, 2019).
Furthermore, cultural and infrastructural barriers may impede the successful implementation of technology-driven counseling services in Nigeria. Factors such as limited internet connectivity, digital literacy disparities, and cultural stigmas surrounding mental health issues could hinder the adoption and utilization of digital platforms for counseling. Understanding these challenges is essential for designing tailored interventions that address the unique needs and circumstances of Nigerian communities, thereby maximizing the potential benefits of technology-enabled counseling services (Ezegbe et al., 2020).
1.3 Objectives of the Study
The main objective of the study is to examine Assessment of The use of technology to deliver guidance and counselling services in Nigeria. Specific objectives of the study are:
- To Evaluate the Effectiveness of Technology-Based Guidance and Counseling Services.
- Identify the Challenges and Limitations of Implementing Technology in Counseling Services
- 3. To Examine the Perceptions and Attitudes of Stakeholders Towards Technology-Based Counseling
1.4 Research Questions
To guide the study and achieve the objectives of the study, the following research questions were formulated:
- To what extent do Nigerian schools and communities have access to the technological resources necessary for implementing ICT-based guidance and counselling services?
- How receptive are students, ounsellors, and parents in Nigeria to using technology for guidance and counselling services, and what are the perceived advantages and disadvantages of this approach?
- Compared to traditional face-to-face counselling, how effective are technology-delivered guidance and counselling services in addressing the academic, social, and emotional needs of students in Nigeria?
1.5 Research Hypothesis
The following research hypothesis was developed and tested for the study:
Ho: There is no significant difference in the effectiveness of guidance and counseling services delivered through technology compared to traditional face-to-face methods in Nigeria.
1.6 Significance of the Study
The study is important for many reasons. The following are the major stakeholders this paper through its practical and theoretical implications and findings will be of great significance:
Firstly, the paper will benefit major stakeholders and policy makers in the Guidance and Counselling sector. The various analysis, findings and discussions outlined in this paper will serve as a guide in enabling major positive changes in the industry and sub-sectors.
Secondly, the paper is also beneficial to the organizations used for the research. Since first hand data was gotten and analysed from the organization, they stand a chance to benefit directly from the findings of the study in respect to their various organizations. These findings will fast track growth and enable productivity in the organisations used as a case study.
Finally, the paper will serve as a guide to other researchers willing to research further into the subject matter. Through the conclusions, limitations and gaps identified in the subject matter, other student and independent researchers can have a well laid foundation to conduct further studies.
1.7 Scope of the Study
The study is delimited to Top Faith Secondary School. Findings and recommendations from the study reflects the views and opinions of respondents sampled in the area. It may not reflect the entire picture in the population.
1.8 Limitations of the Study
The major limitations of the research study are time, financial constraints and delays from respondents. The researcher had difficulties combining lectures with field work. Financial constraints in form of getting adequate funds and sponsors to print questionnaires, hold Focus group discussions and logistics was recorded. Finally, respondents were a bit reluctant in filling questionnaires and submitting them on time. This delayed the project work a bit.
1.9 Organization of the Study
The study is made up of five (5) Chapters. Chapter one of the study gives a general introduction to the subject matter, background to the problem as well as a detailed problem statement of the research. This chapter also sets the objectives of the paper in motion detailing out the significance and scope of the paper.
Chapter Two of the paper entails the review of related literature with regards to corporate governance and integrated reporting. This chapter outlines the conceptual reviews, theoretical reviews and empirical reviews of the study.
Chapter Three centers on the methodologies applied in the study. A more detailed explanation of the research design, population of the study, sample size and technique, data collection method and analysis is discussed in this chapter.
Chapter Four highlights data analysis and interpretation giving the readers a thorough room for the discussion of the practical and theoretical implications of data analyzed in the study.
Chapter Five outlines the findings, conclusions and recommendations of the study. Based on objectives set out, the researcher concludes the paper by answering all research questions set out in the study.
