Harnessing Digital Transformation for Enhanced Teaching and Learning of Environmental Education in University of Port Harcourt, Nigeria.
Authors
Bell-Gam Roseline Soprinye
University of Port Harcourt, Nigeria (NG)
Ovwromoh, Blessing Chinwe
University of Port Harcourt, Nigeria (NG)
Article Information
DOI: 10.51583/IJLTEMAS.2025.1408000205
Subject Category: ADULT AND NON-FORMAL EDUCATION (ENVIRONMENTAL UNIT)
Volume/Issue: 14/8 | Page No: 1680-1687
Publication Timeline
Submitted: 2025-09-26
Published: 2025-09-25
Abstract
Abstract: Increasingly shifts in education into the digital age has challenged institutions of learning to rethink how learning is delivered especially in different fields including environmental education that demand both theoretical and practical engagement. This study explored how digital transformation can enhance teaching and learning in environmental education in the University of Port Harcourt. Using a descriptive survey method and a sample of 360 respondents comprising lecturers and students, the study examined levels of awareness, perceived benefits, and the challenges encountered in implementing digital tools. The findings revealed a high level of awareness about digital platforms such as Zoom, Google Classroom, and other learning management systems. However, actual usage was limited due to challenges like poor infrastructure, insufficient ICT training, and irregular power supply. Despite these setbacks, respondents acknowledged the value of digital learning in promoting flexibility, engagement, and access to resources. Based on the findings, the study recommends increased investment in digital infrastructure, consistent capacity building, and targeted motivation strategies to bridge the gap between digital awareness and practical implementation. If well harnessed, digital transformation can serve as a powerful tool to enrich environmental education and prepare students for solving real-world ecological problems.
Keywords
Digital Transformation, Environmental Education, Digital Tools, Educational Technology, Teaching and Learning
Downloads
References
1. Adekoya, A. O., Adesegun, O. A., Adekoya, A. O., Abolurin, O. O., Ehioghae, O., Idowu, A. O., & Ogunlesi, T. A. (2024). Integrating e-learning into the educational framework for undergraduate medical training: a Nigerian survey on trainers' perception and readiness. Pan African Medical Journal, 49(50). https://doi.org/10.11604/pamj.2024.49.50.42398 [Google Scholar] [Crossref]
2. Brooks, D. C. and M. McCormack. (2020) Driving Digital Transformation in Higher Education. Educause. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]
3. Dede, C. (2014). The Role of Digital Technologies in Deeper Learning. Students at the center: Deeper Learning Research Series. Jobs for the Future. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]
4. Emma-Okon, B., Tombs, M., Akomolafe, R., & Ayannuga, O. (2024). Teaching pre-clinical medical students remotely in Nigeria post COVID-19 pandemic: can past experiences shape future directions? BMC Medical Education, 24(515). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12909-024-05508-w [Google Scholar] [Crossref]
5. Ferreira, C. M., Oliveira, I. M., & Pires, A. (2024). Enhancing Earth and Environmental Science undergraduate students’ skills through GIS. Education Sciences, 14(9), 1026. https://doi.org/10.3390/educsci14091026 [Google Scholar] [Crossref]
6. Hajj-Hassan, M., Chaker, R., and Cederqvist, A. M. (2004). Environmental Education: A systematic Review on the Use of Digital Tools for Fostering Sustainability Awareness. Sustainability. 16(9) 3733.https://doi.org/10.3390/su16093733 [Google Scholar] [Crossref]
7. Markowitz, D. M., Laha, R., Perone, B. P., Pea, R. D., & Bailenson, J. N. (2018). Immersive virtual reality field trips facilitate learning about climate change. Frontiers in Psychology, 9, 2364. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2018.02364 [Google Scholar] [Crossref]
8. Ogolodom, M. P., Mbaba, A. N., Okpaleke, M. S., Chukwueze, I. O., Okankwu, E. A., Joseph, D. Z., & Orevaoghene, O. E. (2022). Online learning in Nigerian universities during the COVID-19 pandemic: the experiences of nursing and radiography undergraduate students. Journal of Radiology Nursing, 42(1), 128–135. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jradnu.2022.08.012 [Google Scholar] [Crossref]
9. Oshodi, I. K. (2022). A review of the impact of Education Technology in developing countries: A case study of Nigeria. DOI: 10.13140/RG.2.2.10596.30084. Retrieved from https://www.researchgate.net/publication/357814372. A review of the impact of Education Technology in developing countries. A case study of Nigeria. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]
10. Selwyn, N. (2021). Education and Technology: Key Issues and Debates (2nd ed.). Bloomsbury Academic International. Review of Education. DOI:10.1007/s1159-022-09971-9 [Google Scholar] [Crossref]
11. Shin, D., Jung, S., Kim, C., & Lee, H. (2023). Designing immersive virtual reality simulation for environmental education. Electronics, 12(2), 315. https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics12020315 [Google Scholar] [Crossref]
12. Tilbury, D. (2020). Reorienting higher education for sustainable development: Imperatives and priorities. Journal of Environmental Studies and Sciences, 10(3), 157-168. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13412-020-00591-4 [Google Scholar] [Crossref]
13. Ubabuike, J. C., & Ojechi, P. C. (2025). The impact of digital learning tools on students’ engagement and retention in public secondary schools in Anambra State, Nigeria. International Journal of Education Research and Scientific Development, 8(1), 115–125. DOI: 10.59795/ijersd.v8i1.252. Retrieved from https://ijresd.net/index.php/IJRESD/article/view/252 [Google Scholar] [Crossref]
14. Udeze, A. N., & Adesola, T. A. (2024). Learning Technologies: Its Role and Challenges on Students’ Learning in Nigeria. International Journal of Library Science and Educational Research, 4(8). Retrieved from https://cambridgeresearchpub.com/ijlser/article/view/280 [Google Scholar] [Crossref]
15. Uzorka, A., & Odebiyi, O. A. (2025). Impact of Digital Learning Tools on Student Engagement and Achievement. Journal of Digital Learning and Distance Education. DOI: 10.56778/jdlde.v4i1.511. Retrieved from https://rjupublisher.com/ojs/index.php/JDLDE/article/view/511 [Google Scholar] [Crossref]
16. UNESCO. (2017). Education for Sustainable Development Goals: Learning objectives. UNESCO Publishing. https://unesdoc.unesco.org/ark:/48223/pf0000247444 [Google Scholar] [Crossref]
17. UNESCO. (2021). Education for Sustainable Development: A roadmap. United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization. https://unesdoc.unesco.org/ark:/48223/pf0000374802 [Google Scholar] [Crossref]
Metrics
Views & Downloads
Similar Articles
- Advanced Techniques for Fake News Detection on Twitter Using NLP and AI: A Comprehensive Review
- Review of Self Compacting Geopolymer Concrete Using Slag Sand as Fine Aggregate
- Performance of Local Construction Contractors – Case Study of Registered Contractors in Monrovia, Liberia
- Cross-Cultural Perspectives on Innovation Management in Multinational Organizations
- Modeling of Reaction Between Dissolved Oxygen (DO) And Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD) in Degradation River