The Impact of Information Communication Technology (ICT) on Nigeria's Public Academic Libraries

1.0 Introduction

1.1 Background of Study

The evolution of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) has significantly reshaped the way individuals and organizations communicate, leading to profound societal and institutional changes. Information Communication Technology refers to the integration of various technological tools, such as computers, the internet, and telecommunications, to facilitate the creation, storage, and dissemination of information. Its widespread adoption has created a digitally interconnected world where communication transcends geographical boundaries (Castells, 2010).

Historically, communication was constrained by physical and technological limitations, relying on face-to-face interactions, written correspondence, and traditional media like newspapers and radio. The advent of ICT has revolutionized these processes, enabling instantaneous and cost-effective communication through emails, video conferencing, and social networking platforms (Heeks, 2018). Public institutions, in particular, have benefited significantly from Information Communication Technology in their communication strategies. ICT tools have enabled more effective dissemination of information, improved service delivery, and fostered better engagement with stakeholders. For instance, government agencies now utilize online portals and social media to share policy updates and solicit feedback from citizens. Similarly, educational institutions have adopted digital platforms to facilitate teaching and learning, ensuring continuity and accessibility for students and staff (Basu et al., 2020).

The advent of ICT has transformed how people communicate, share information, and interacts globally. ICT encompasses the tools and platforms that facilitate information sharing, including computers, the internet, mobile devices, and other digital technologies. These advancements have redefined the communication landscape, enabling instantaneous exchange of information across vast distances and fostering a more interconnected world (Srinivasan, 2020).

In the context of communication within public institutions, ICT has been instrumental in enhancing efficiency, transparency, and accessibility. Public institutions rely on effective communication for their operations, from disseminating policies to engaging with the public. The integration of ICT tools such as email, video conferencing, and social media platforms has provided these institutions with the capability to connect with diverse audiences while minimizing time and resource constraints (Maguire et al., 2019). However, the implementation of ICT in communication is not without its challenges. Issues such as digital illiteracy, inadequate infrastructure, and cybersecurity concerns continue to hinder its optimal utilization, particularly in developing nations (Akinwale, 2021). Therefore, in Nigeria where the research was carried out, the activities that was conducted is to know the impact of ICT on general communication.

1.2 Statement of Problems

Investigation revealed that the rapid advancements in Information Communication Technology (ICT) have significantly transformed the landscape of general communication, yet this evolution is not without its challenges. One key issue is the digital divide, where unequal access to ICT resources is creating a disparity between individuals and communities. Those in rural areas or low-income groups often lack the infrastructure, skills, or affordability to utilize ICT effectively, which undermines efforts to ensure inclusive communication (van Dijk, 2020).

Additionally, the over-reliance on ICT for communication is affecting interpersonal relationships and emotional connections. While Information Communication Technology enables instant communication, it often lacks the depth and nuance of face-to-face interactions, leading to misunderstandings and a sense of detachment in personal and professional relationships (Turkle, 2015).

Furthermore, security and privacy concerns also pose significant challenges. As individuals and organizations increasingly rely on ICT for communication, the risk of cyberattacks, data breaches, and identity theft is rising (Garg et al., 2018). In public institutions, inadequate training and resistance to adopting new ICT tools are impeding the seamless integration of technology into communication systems. Many institutions struggle with outdated infrastructure or lack the expertise to harness ICT effectively, limiting its potential to enhance communication (Heeks, 2002).

1.3 Aim and Objectives of Study

The aim of the study is to examine the impacts of Information Communication Technology (ICT) on general communication. The objectives of the research study are:

1. To investigate how ICT has enhanced the speed, efficiency, and reach of general communication.
2. To analyze the challenges associated with the adoption and use of ICT in communication, such as issues of accessibility, misinformation, and security.
3. To explore the role of ICT in bridging communication gaps across different demographics, including rural and urban areas.
4. To assess the influence of ICT on interpersonal communication and relationships within academic and professional settings.
5. To identify strategies and policies that can optimize the use of ICT in improving communication systems in public institutions.

1.4 Research Questions

The following research questions are developed based on the objectives of the study to explore teachers' and students' perceptions of the problems related to the effective teaching and learning of English Language and Computer Science in JSS:

• How has ICT enhanced the speed, efficiency, and reach of general communication?
• What are the challenges associated with the adoption and use of ICT in communication, such as issues of accessibility, misinformation, and security?
• In what ways has ICT contributed to bridging communication gaps across different demographics, including rural and urban areas?
• How has ICT influenced interpersonal communication and relationships within academic and professional settings?
• What strategies and policies can be implemented to optimize the use of ICT for improving communication systems in public 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.

• H₀1: ICT does not significantly enhance the speed, efficiency, and reach of general communication in public institutions.
• H₀2: Challenges such as accessibility, misinformation, and security significantly hinder the effectiveness of ICT in general communication.
• H₀3: ICT contributes significantly to bridging communication gaps between rural and urban demographics.
• H₀4: The use of ICT has a measurable impact on interpersonal communication and relationships in academic and professional settings

1.6 Significance of Study

This study will have significant implications for various stakeholders by illustrating how information and communication technology transforms general communication.

1. This research will enable policymakers to understand how ICT adoption will foster inclusive and efficient communication systems, allowing for improved governance and community engagement.
2. For educators and academic institutions, the research will reveal how ICT tools will enhance teaching and learning methods, promoting interactive and collaborative communication among students and teachers.
3. Public institutions and businesses will benefit by recognizing how ICT will streamline communication processes, improving organizational productivity and stakeholder relationships.
4. IT professionals will find valuable insights into how their innovations will address current communication challenges and create user-friendly platforms for diverse populations.
5. The study will also help individuals in society understand how ICT will reshape interpersonal communication, bridging gaps and fostering connections across geographic and cultural boundaries.

1.7 Scope of Study

The scope of this study is centered on examining the impacts of Information Communication Technology (ICT) on general communication within Lagos State, Nigeria. Lagos State, known as the commercial and technological hub of Nigeria, provides a rich context for exploring how ICT influences communication patterns in both formal and informal settings.

The study focuses on selected public institutions, including tertiary educational institutions and government agencies, to understand how ICT tools enhance or hinder communication effectiveness.

1.8 Limitations of the Study

The limitations of this research study include several factors that were beyond the control of the researcher.

1. One significant limitation was the insufficient access to comprehensive data, as some institutions were unable or unwilling to provide detailed information regarding their ICT usage and communication practices.
2. Additionally, frequent power outages and unreliable internet connectivity in certain regions of Lagos State affected the collection and analysis of data, particularly when online surveys and digital communication platforms were involved.
3. Furthermore, financial constraints were present, as the study required resources for data collection, analysis tools, and fieldwork, which were limited by the available budget. These challenges, along with the limited sample size, restricted the generalizability of the findings to all institutions or regions within Nigeria.

1.9 Definition of Terms

Information Communication Technology (ICT):

ICT refers to the integrated use of technologies such as the internet, telecommunications, broadcasting, and computing systems to store, retrieve, transmit, and manipulate data. In the context of communication, ICT encompasses various tools like mobile phones, social media platforms, email, and video conferencing, which facilitate both interpersonal and organizational communication. The rise of ICT has drastically changed how people communicate, reducing barriers such as geographical distance and time differences (Laudon & Laudon, 2020).

General Communication:

General communication involves the exchange of information, ideas, and messages between individuals, groups, or organizations. It can occur through verbal, non-verbal, or written means, and may include face-to-face interaction, digital media, or written communication. Effective communication plays a critical role in fostering relationships, enabling knowledge sharing, and enhancing social cohesion (Adams, 2018).

Digital Communication:

Digital communication is the use of digital platforms and technologies to exchange information. This includes communication through emails, social media platforms, online messaging services, and video calls. The rise of digital communication has contributed to the speed and convenience of information dissemination, particularly in educational and professional settings (Choudhury, 2019).

Social Media:

Social media refers to online platforms that facilitate the creation, sharing, and exchange of content in various forms, such as text, images, videos, and audio. It has become a primary form of communication for individuals, organizations, and businesses, creating spaces for discussions, networking, and socializing (Kaplan & Haenlein, 2020).

Technological Literacy:

Technological literacy refers to an individual's ability to use, understand, and assess technology effectively. It includes the knowledge and skills needed to operate ICT tools, analyze digital information, and understand the implications of digital interactions. Technological literacy is essential in today's digital age to ensure effective communication and informed decision-making (Binkley et al., 2012).

Communication Barriers:

Communication barriers are obstacles that hinder the clear and effective exchange of information. These barriers can be physical, psychological, or technological in nature, including issues like language differences, noise, technical failures, or lack of access to communication tools. In the context of ICT, barriers often relate to digital divide issues, where unequal access to technology can limit communication opportunities (Katz, 2019).