Professor Silas Egbowon, a Professor of Educational Technology at Lagos State University (LASU), has called for a stronger integration of educational technology into Nigeria’s education system, emphasizing its crucial role in teaching, research, and socio-economic development across all disciplines. In his recent inaugural lecture at LASU, Egbowon highlighted the need for Nigeria to embrace educational technology in a comprehensive and structured manner to achieve key educational goals, such as those outlined in the Millennium Development Goals.
Egbowon proposed the establishment of a dedicated educational technology center that would focus on several key functions, including capacity building, digital literacy training, retraining of in-service workers, development of digital resources for learners with special needs, and the installation and maintenance of smart classrooms. This center would also support lecturers in creating effective online courses and keep digital educational materials updated.
In his lecture titled “Educational Technology: The Uninformed, the Misinformed and the Informed,” Egbowon addressed some of the misconceptions about educational technology, particularly concerns about its relevance and proper implementation. He noted that despite these challenges, educational technology offers numerous benefits, such as personalized learning, enhanced student engagement, improved motivation, and increased access to learning resources. It also promotes collaboration, communication, and lifelong learning, preparing students for the future world of work while fostering inclusivity and equality.
Egbowon defined educational technology as a systematic approach that leverages both human and material resources to enhance instruction through careful design, application, and assessment. He stressed that educational technology is not an end in itself but a means to improve educational outcomes. It is relevant across all disciplines and should be embraced by all, regardless of the field of study. He also emphasized that educational technology enhances productivity, saves time, and is cost-effective, dispelling the misconception that it could replace jobs.
The professor urged universities to encourage lecturers and students to undergo training in the design, production, selection, and use of instructional materials to improve teaching and learning. He recommended that faculties be equipped with modern materials like multimedia projectors and urged institutions to foster creativity, critical thinking, effective communication, and collaboration in the classroom.
In his recommendations, Egbowon also proposed the establishment of broadcasting outfits within educational technology centers to deliver live and recorded lectures, helping to alleviate overcrowding in traditional classrooms.
Expressing his gratitude, Egbowon acknowledged the support of the LASU leadership and his family, particularly his wife, for their contributions to his career and the opportunity to deliver the lecture. Professor Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello, the Vice Chancellor of LASU, represented by Deputy Vice Chancellor Professor Olufunsho Omobitan, commended Egbowon for his academic achievements and contributions to the field.
