Digital Tools and Performance of Lecturers in Federal Universities, South East, Nigeria

Abstract

This study investigated the relationship between digital tools and lecturer performance in Federal Universities in South East Nigeria. The research examined how Learning Management Systems (LMS) and Virtual Classroom Software, impact various aspects of lecturer performance, including Quality Service Delivery and Lecturer Commitment. The work was anchored on diffusion of innovation theory by Everett Rogers 1962 which states that the adoption of innovation transpires gradually. The study employed a survey research design with a total population of 12,172 from academic staff of the selected Federal Universities. Taro Yamane was used to determine the sample size of 303 lecturers from five Federal universities in South East Nigeria, selected through a multistage sampling technique. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive statistics, Pearson Product-Moment Correlation Coefficient, and Simple Linear Regression. The findings revealed significant positive relationships between digital tools and lecturer performance metrics. Specifically, Learning Management Systems showed a strong positive correlation with Quality Service Delivery (r=0.682, p<0.001), indicating that LMS implementation enhances the quality of educational service delivery. Virtual Classroom Software demonstrated a strong positive relationship with Lecturer Commitment (r=0.724, p<0.001), suggesting that virtual teaching tools increase lecturer engagement and dedication. The study concludes that the adoption of digital tools has not only enhanced the efficiency of lecturers work but has also opened up new avenues for collaboration and innovation, enabling lecturers to streamline their administrative tasks, improve the delivery of course content and engage students in more interactive and immersive learning experiences. Based on the findings, the study recommends that university management need to invest in robust digital infrastructure, provide comprehensive training for lecturers, and implement effective support systems for digital tool adoption.