A Study of Computer-based ICT Competency in the Social Science Sub-sector of the Nigerian Higher Education System

The computer has a wide usage and applicability that is second to no other device, thus necessitating that its study must be universal and multi-dimensional. The study sought to determine the level of computer-based ICT literacy and usage; and identify the associated constraints among social scientists in Nigerian higher institutions. Data were collected from 480 respondents who were selected via a multi-stage random sampling technique. Data collection instrument incorporated a computation of Computer-based ICT Literacy Coefficient (CILC) for each respondent as a function of ability to use ICT in course delivery, test/examinations, data collection and analysis, online discussion/seminar, and publishing. The instrument was pre-tested using the test-retest technique, yielding a coefficient r = 0.92 thus confirming its reliability. Having about average C ILC, respondents generally exhibited disparity in ICT literacy level on the basis of specialization, age, institution ownership, and qualification. Gender, years of job experience, and place of graduation had no significant correlations with CILC. The major constraints were acute power shortage, unstable/inadequate internet access, and inadequate institutional support. Recommendations were proffered based on the findings.