Emerging Technological Trends and Their Contributions to Inclusive and Accessible Education (Published)
The rapid advancement of technology is reshaping global education systems, creating opportunities for inclusivity and accessibility in ways that were previously unattainable. Emerging technological trends, such as artificial intelligence, virtual and augmented reality, adaptive learning platforms, mobile applications, and assistive technologies, are transforming how learners access, engage with, and benefit from educational content. Using data from both secondary and interdisciplinary sources, and adopting the use of the Connectivism Theory, this study revealed that these innovations not only personalize learning experiences but also break down barriers related to geography, disability, language, and socioeconomic status. For instance, AI-driven tools facilitate individualized instruction, while digital learning platforms expand opportunities for remote and underserved communities. More so, the study revealed that assistive technologies empower students with visual, auditory, or cognitive impairments to participate fully in learning environments. It showed that despite these advancements, challenges such as the digital divide, infrastructural gaps, and concerns about data privacy persist. The study established that when strategically integrated with supportive policies and equitable access, these technologies can significantly advance the global agenda for inclusive, equitable, and quality education as envisioned in the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG 4). The paper recommends the integration of digital learning tools, investment in assistive technologies, capacity building for educators, and affordable infrastructure and policy support etc. It concludes that emerging technological trends have become transformative forces in advancing inclusive and accessible education across the globe.
Keywords: Artificial Intelligence, ai-driven tools, assistive technology, cognitive impairment, digital learning
Advancement of Smart Academic Libraries in Northern Nigeria: Issues and Way Forward (Published)
The 21st century is known as the beginning of the knowledge age; a millennium characterized by leveraging on information to stay ahead using technology. The library occupies a critical place in the quality of information accessed and leveraged on by researchers and students. Academic libraries in Nigeria are not disconnected from this technology-based-information revolution. This study looked at advancement of smart academic libraries in Northern Nigeria: issues and way forward. Its objectives was to determine smart services available, investigate the extent of deployment, examine the underlying issues that hinder effective smart service delivery and proffer strategies for way forward in Northern university public academic libraries in Nigeria. The study adopted a review of documents and literature on smart academic libraries in Nigeria. Five public universities were purposively observed and sampled on their smart library perspective and capacity. Google-Forms-structured questionnaire was used through different online platforms. Simple percentage and frequencies were used in analyzing data collected. Findings showed that there are existing smart library services in the academic libraries of Northern Nigerian public universities but the extent of deployment of smart library services in their academic libraries is low. The research also revealed the numerous issues faced in providing smart services. The study recommended that the institution and library managements of academic libraries in Northern Nigerian public universities step up on ICT policy framework, practical deployment of smart library technologies and training of library staff for improved smart services
Keywords: Academic Libraries, Artificial Intelligence, Nigeria, Northern Nigeria, Smart Library, Technology