INFLUENCE OF INFORMATION LITERACY, TRAINING AND ICT COMPETENCE ON JOB PERFORMANCE OF ARTISANS IN NORTH CENTRAL NIGERIA

Abstract

ABSTRACT

The study investigated the influence of information literacy, training and ICT competence on job performance of Artisans in three states in North Central Nigeria. The study was guided by eight objectives with corresponding research questions and four null hypotheses. The objectives were to determine the information literacy level of artisans, type of training programmes provided for artisans, identify the information literacy skills, identify the ICT competence, determine the influence of information literacy skills on job performance, determine the influence of training on job performance, determine influence of ICT competence on job performance of artisans and to identify challenges facing information literacy, training and ICT competence on job performance. The population of the study was 2,371 Artisans and sample size of 341 respondents was used. The instrument used was a self-designed closed ended questionnaire. Descriptive statistics (frequency counts, mean and standard deviation) was used to analyse data collected on the research questions, while inferential statistical tools (multiple regression, regression coefficient and ANOVA) were used to test the four null hypotheses. Findings from the descriptive analysis revealed that artisans have exhibited high level of information literacy skill with 3.02 value, apprenticeship, use of case study and coaching/mentoring were the major styles preferred by artisans to acquire training with value of 3.45. Artisans were competent in basic and simple ICT operations needed for their job with 3.27 value. The study concluded that Artisans exhibited high skill in sourcing, identifying, use, location and evaluation of information with. Possession of information literacy skills by artisans has influenced their job tremendously as required. Training is the only avenue for gaining new knowledge and improving quality of products and services for Artisans. Competence in ICT among artisans enhances job performance by easing communication, increase productivity and encourage wider patronage. Results from hypotheses tested showed that all null hypotheses were tested at 0.05 level of significance revealed that for a unit increase in one unit of any of the independent variable, there was an increase in dependent variable. The study recommended amongst that Artisans should endavour to strive for more competency in identification of accurate information and continue to use this information to improve service delivery. Librarians also should look beyond the learned society in catering for information needs of artisans and apart from the stereotype apprenticeship style of training common among artisans, Distance learning and Internet-based learning should be considered and utilized.