The Impact of ICT on the Job Performance of Workers in Selected Tertiary Institutions

1.0 Introduction

1.1 Background of Study

Information and Communication Technology (ICT) has become an integral component of modern organizational processes, influencing how tasks are executed across different sectors. The education sector, particularly tertiary institutions, has witnessed significant transformations driven by ICT innovations. As the backbone of information management and knowledge dissemination, ICT provides tools and platforms that enhance work efficiency, collaboration, and decision-making processes (Adekunle & Bello, 2020). In the context of tertiary institutions, ICT is employed in diverse areas such as teaching, research, administration, and communication.

The job performance of workers in tertiary institutions is critical to the attainment of institutional goals and the delivery of quality education. ICT tools, such as learning management systems, data management software, and communication platforms, have become indispensable in meeting these goals. These tools not only facilitate the automation of administrative tasks but also enable real-time collaboration, improve access to information, and enhance the overall productivity of workers (Ajayi, 2019).

However, the extent to which ICT impacts job performance varies depending on several factors, including the availability of resources, worker competency, and institutional policies. While some tertiary institutions have embraced ICT fully, others face challenges such as limited infrastructure, inadequate training, and poor funding. These disparities contribute to varying levels of ICT adoption and effectiveness across institutions (Eze & Nwachukwu, 2021). Moreover, the rapid evolution of technology necessitates continuous adaptation and upskilling among workers, which can strain institutions with limited resources.

The integration of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) has revolutionized various sectors globally, including education. ICT has become a crucial tool in enhancing productivity, particularly in the tertiary education sector, where the demand for efficiency, accuracy, and timely service delivery continues to grow. In the context of tertiary institutions, ICT plays a significant role in administrative functions, teaching, research, and communication, thereby influencing the job performance of workers.

The importance of ICT in driving organizational performance cannot be overstated. Studies have shown that ICT adoption enhances operational efficiency by streamlining tasks, reducing redundancy, and improving access to information (Bolarinwa & Oluwaseun, 2021). For instance, the use of management information systems in tertiary institutions has improved data management, facilitated e-learning, and enabled effective communication among staff and students. Despite its benefits, the adoption of ICT in tertiary institutions is not without challenges. Workers often face difficulties such as inadequate infrastructure, limited training, and resistance to change, which can hinder its effective utilization. Furthermore, disparities in Information and Communication Technology resources and access across institutions contribute to unequal job performance outcomes among workers (Okon & Ekpo, 2020). Therefore, in Nigeria where the research was carried out, the activities that was conducted is to explore the impact of information and communication technology on the job performance of workers in selected tertiary institutions.

1.2 Statement of Problems

Investigation revealed that there is lack of comprehensive training programs for staff, which affects their ability to fully utilize ICT tools. Many workers in tertiary institutions struggle to adapt to new technologies due to insufficient technical skills or training. Without the proper training, the intended benefits of ICT adoption such as increased productivity and streamlined communication are not realized. Furthermore, resistance to change is a common problem, as some workers are either unfamiliar with ICT or hesitant to embrace it due to fears of obsolescence or increased workload (Ajayi, 2019).

In addition to these infrastructure and training challenges, the impact of ICT on job performance in tertiary institutions is often undermined by poor institutional policies. Some institutions fail to implement robust ICT strategies that support continuous improvement and sustainability. As a result, even when ICT tools are available, they are not always effectively integrated into the daily operations of workers. This failure to maximize the potential of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) tools results in missed opportunities for enhanced productivity, better communication, and more effective management systems (Olaoye & Oyetola, 2020). It is against the backdrop that this study seeks to address these problems by evaluating the impact of ICT on the job performance of workers in selected tertiary institutions.

1.3 Aim and Objectives of Study

The aim of the study is to investigate the impact of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) on the job performance of workers in selected tertiary institutions. The specific objectives of the study are:

1. To examine the role of ICT in improving administrative tasks and communication among staff in selected tertiary institutions.
2. To assess the impact of ICT adoption on the teaching and learning process and its influence on academic staff productivity.
3. To identify the challenges faced by workers in tertiary institutions in utilizing ICT effectively.
4. To evaluate the level of ICT training and support provided to staff and its effect on their job performance.
5. To explore the differences in ICT adoption and usage across various tertiary institutions and its effect on job performance.
6. To recommend strategies for optimizing the use of ICT in improving the job performance of workers in tertiary institutions.

1.4 Research Questions

The research questions for this study, based on the stated objectives, are:

• How does the use of ICT improve administrative tasks and communication among staff in selected tertiary institutions?
• In what ways does ICT adoption influence the teaching and learning process and the productivity of academic staff?
• What are the key challenges faced by workers in tertiary institutions in utilizing ICT effectively?
• To what extent does the level of ICT training and support provided to staff impact their job performance?
• How do ICT adoption and usage vary across different tertiary institutions, and what effect does this have on job performance?
• What strategies can be recommended to optimize the use of ICT in improving the job performance of workers in tertiary institutions?

1.5 Research Hypothesis

In order to pursue the objective of this study, the following generalized statements have been designed to guide and aids in obtaining the result for the experiment to be conducted. For this work, the null hypothesis will be represented with H0 while the alternative hypothesis will be represented with hypothesis H1.

• H ₀ 1: The use of ICT does not significantly improve administrative tasks and communication among staff in selected tertiary institutions.
• H₀2: ICT adoption has a positive impact on the teaching and learning process and enhances the productivity of academic staff in selected tertiary institutions.

1.6 Significance of Study

This study will be beneficial to organizations, office practitioners and students. It can also be used for further research.

Organization:

The study will help treat and improve some existing theories on information as they apply to organizations as well as the office professionals in the areas of human resources management.

Further Research:

It is also hoped that the findings of this study will contribute to the existing knowledge and information in the area of research.

Office practitioners:

The significance of this research work is immeasurable both to the practitioner, office professionals, chief executives, personnel managers, the management of the organizations and the public at large. It is expected that the following findings and recommendations of the study will guide the area of study to consider introducing information communication for their office professional efficiency and other human resources departments for effective administration of personnel matters.

Student:

The study will be useful to student who may wish to write or make some research on a similar topic using this as a point of reference and to re-orient them towards their profession, future research or practical endeavours.

1.7 Scope of the Study

The study covers ICT as the main key to organizational growth. IT covers the job performers of office workers and it focus on improving work force of an organizations and situations in Anambra State.

The area's covered are five institutions, Federal Polytechnic, Oko, Nnamdi Azikwe University Awka, Anambra State University Uli, College of Education Umunze and College of Education Nsugbe.

The research will first identify the importance of ICT and educate its impact in an organization.

1.8 Limitations of the Study

The limitations of this study were primarily influenced by several factors that may have impacted the scope and depth of the findings.

1. The study relied on self-reported data from workers, which may have introduced biases, as respondents were inclined to provide answers they perceived as socially acceptable or that aligned with the study's objectives.
2. The study was also constrained by time and resources, which limited the ability to conduct in-depth interviews or longitudinal studies that could offer a more comprehensive understanding of ICT's impact over time.
3. Furthermore, there were challenges in accessing all the necessary data due to institutional restrictions or hesitancy from some respondents in sharing information about their experiences with ICT tools.

1.9 Definition of Terms

Information and Communication Technology (ICT):

ICT refers to the integration of various technologies, including computers, telecommunications, software, and digital tools, used for accessing, processing, and sharing information. In the context of this study, ICT encompasses all technological tools that are used by workers in tertiary institutions for administrative, teaching, learning, and communication purposes (Ajayi & Salawu, 2019).

Job Performance:

Job performance refers to the effectiveness with which an individual fulfills their duties and responsibilities at work. It includes the quality, efficiency, and outcomes of tasks carried out by workers. In this study, job performance specifically focuses on the administrative tasks, teaching, and research activities carried out by staff in tertiary institutions and how these tasks are enhanced or hindered by the use of ICT (Akinyemi, 2018).

Tertiary Institutions:

Tertiary institutions refer to higher education establishments that provide undergraduate and postgraduate education. These institutions include universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education. In the context of this study, the term applies to selected institutions within Lagos State, Nigeria, where the impact of ICT on job performance of staff is being explored (Oluwatayo & Olaniyan, 2020).

Administrative Staff:

Administrative staff refers to individuals who manage and oversee the daily operations and administrative tasks within a tertiary institution. This group includes clerks, secretaries, registrars, and other non-academic personnel responsible for supporting the institution's functions (Tariq, 2020).

Academic Staff:

Academic staff refers to the teaching personnel, including lecturers, professors, and researchers, who are responsible for delivering lectures, conducting research, and mentoring students within a tertiary institution. This group is pivotal in the application of ICT for enhancing teaching and learning (Adebayo & Lawal, 2021).

ICT Training and Support:

ICT training and support refers to the educational programs and resources provided to staff to equip them with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively use ICT tools. This can include formal training sessions, workshops, online courses, and ongoing technical support provided by the institution (Olaniyan & Oyeniran, 2020).

ICT Adoption:

ICT adoption refers to the process by which workers in an institution begin to use and integrate ICT tools into their daily work routines. The level of adoption depends on factors such as access to technology, willingness to learn, and the support provided by the institution (Eze & Ugwu, 2020).