A Web-based Awareness System for Improving Open-source e-learning Software adoption by Nigerian Higher Institutions of learning

Abstract

Open-source software has been widely developed and adopted for different purposes, including in the educational sector. Many institutions of learning extensively utilize open-source e-learning software to complement their in-class programs, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. But many institutions of learning in Nigeria are still unable to utilize the opportunity due to a lack of adequate awareness and guidance on how to adopt the software. This study is aimed at educating the Nigerian public on open-source e-learning software and its benefits in education, especially in tertiary institutions amid the COVID-19 pandemic. To better have a wide coverage of respondents in Nigerian tertiary institutions, we conducted an online survey and a paper-based questionnaire. A sample of 500 responses was collected from Nigerians with different high educational levels regarding Open-Source e-learning adoption and awareness. However, only 349 responses were returned. The results of the survey were analyzed using python-based analysis libraries. The findings indicated that a greater percentage of the respondents were aware of what constitutes open-source e-learning but that most institutions in Nigeria have not fully utilized the platform for learning activities. It is implied that a reasonable number of respondents have literacy knowledge of open-source learning and agree that COVID-19 has greatly influenced the use of e-learning software in Nigerian institutions. It is therefore recommended that more work be done to improve the awareness level of various institutions to fully utilize the technology and the benefits it represents. This led to the development of a web-based solution for creating more awareness among the public. This would help close the gap found in this study and affect how open-source e-learning software is used in Nigerian schools.