The Efficacy of Technology Based Learning in Enhancing the Performance of Students in Electrical/electronic Education in University of Ilorin

ABSTRACT
This study assessed the efficacy of technology-based learning (TBL) in enhancing the academic performance and practical competencies of students in Electrical and Electronics Technology Education at the University of Ilorin, Kwara State. The primary aim was to evaluate the effectiveness of online learning platforms in delivering technical education in a digital environment, especially in the aftermath of the global transition to remote learning. The study specifically pursued five objectives: (1) to assess the impact of TBL on students’ academic performance; (2) to evaluate how TBL influences students’ understanding of complex electrical and electronics concepts; (3) to investigate the efficacy of TBL in developing students’ practical skills and ability to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world problems; (4) to identify challenges faced by educators in implementing TBL and how these affect students' learning outcomes; and (5) to examine how TBL enhances student engagement, motivation, and participation in the learning process.
The study focused on 100 to 400 level undergraduate students in the Department of Educational Technology, with a target population of 120 students. A random sampling technique was used to select participants. A mixed-method approach was employed, utilizing survey instruments and performance assessments. Data were collected through a researcher-designed questionnaire titled Effectiveness of Online Learning Platforms for Practical Skills Development for Technological Electronics Students, divided into four sections: Section A collected demographic data, while Sections B, C, D, E and F (with eight items each) explored the availability, usage, and perceived effectiveness of online learning platforms in technical skill development.
Descriptive statistics (frequency and percentage) and inferential statistics (ANOVA) were used to analyze the data via the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). Findings showed that students had a generally positive perception of TBL, acknowledging its usefulness in acquiring both theoretical knowledge and practical skills such as circuit design, diagnostics, and equipment handling. However, limitations were observed in the tactile delivery of hands-on experience. Despite this, virtual labs, simulations, and guided online activities were found to significantly enhance engagement, motivation, and skill acquisition.
The study concludes that technology-based learning, when properly integrated with practical components, plays a significant role in improving students’ academic performance, conceptual understanding, and hands-on competence in Electrical and Electronics Technology Education. It also highlights the need to address challenges faced by educators to optimize TBL outcomes for students.