Integration of Digital Technology in Rendering Counselling Services in Nigeria

Abstract

Aims: This study seeks to determine the integration of digital technology in rendering counselling services in Nigeria.
 Place and Duration of Study: This study was carried out in Nigeria, conducted within the space of four (4) months January 2022 to May 2022.
 Methodology: The design for this study is the descriptive survey research design. The target population for this study include all professional guidance counsellors registered with the Counselling Association of Nigeria (CASSON). In this wise, for ease of access the authors employed the accidental sampling technique during the administration process. The instrument for data collection is a structured questionnaire titled “Questionnaire on the integration of digital technologies in rendering counselling services in Nigeria” this instrument was structured on a 5-point Likert scale and further divided into clusters (see link https://forms.gle/Jr5PgpD5XvmzWwdY8). The validation of the instrument was done by two experts in the Department of Guidance and Counselling. The overall reliability of the instrument was established using Cronbach Alpha statistics and yielded a reliability statistic of 0.76. Data for this instrument was collected through a mailing approach. The method for data analysis adopted the use of Mean, Standard Deviation (Mean±STD) and Analysis of Variance (ANOVA). This was done after the normality of the data collected is established. In judging the response, the criterion mean score of 3.00 was adopted.
 Results: The sample size of 169 professional counsellors responded to the instrument and yielded the following results. The result revealed that counsellors rated agreed to all the items raised, the result further show that counsellors rated agreed to seven (7) items and disagreed with item 1, counsellors rated agreed to seven (7) items and disagreed with one (1) item and counsellors rated agreed to all the items raised in the fourth cluster. Results relating to the hypotheses tested revealed that there is no significant difference in the mean rating of counsellors with varied years of experience on the integration of telephone device in rendering counselling services, a significant difference in the mean rating of counsellors with varied years of experience on the integration of video conferencing service in rendering counselling services, a significant difference in the mean rating of counsellors with varied years of experience on the integration social networking tools in rendering counselling services and finally a no significant difference in the mean rating of counsellors with varied years of experience on the factors hindering the integration of digital technologies in rendering counselling services in Nigeria.
 Conclusion: it was concluded that guidance counsellors agreed to the integration of telephone device, video conferencing service, social networking in rendering counselling services in Nigeria. They further agreed to the factors hindering the integration of digital technology in rendering counselling services in Nigeria. The study further revealed that there is no significant difference in the mean rating of counsellors with varied years of experience (0-5 years, 6-10 years & above 10 years) on the integration of telephone device and also factors hindering the integration of digital technology in rendering counselling services in Nigeria. There is a significant difference in the mean rating of counsellors with varied years of experience (0-5 years, 6-10 years & above 10 years) on the integration of video conferencing service and social networking in rendering counselling services in Nigeria.

Integrative strategies for zoonotic disease surveillance: A review of one health implementation in the United States

“…From a research perspective, there is a need for continued research into the effectiveness of One Health approaches in preventing and controlling zoonotic diseases. This includes research into the impact of environmental factors, such as climate change and land use change, on disease transmission, as well as research into the development of new technologies and tools for surveillance and control (Akunne, et. al., 2022, Ellwanger, et.…”

Transparent reporting and equity in mortgage lending: A comprehensive review

“…By promoting greater transparency and accountability among lenders, transparent reporting fosters trust and confidence in the financial system. Borrowers are more likely to engage with lenders who prioritize transparency and adhere to ethical lending standards, thereby reducing the incidence of defaults, foreclosures, and financial crises (Ahmad et al, 2024) Looking ahead, addressing information asymmetry will remain a central challenge in mortgage lending, particularly in the context of evolving financial landscapes and emerging technologies (Nwankwo et al, 2023). As the digitalization of financial services accelerates, stakeholders must remain vigilant in ensuring that transparent reporting mechanisms keep pace with technological advancements.…”

“…In numerous regions, the demand for affordable homes far surpasses the available supply, resulting in housing instability and financial strain for countless individuals and families. High housing costs, coupled with stagnant wages, exacerbate the affordability crisis, particularly for low-and moderate-income households (Akunne et al, 2022). Addressing this challenge requires collaborative efforts among policymakers, developers, and community stakeholders to increase the supply of affordable housing and implement strategies to mitigate the affordability gap (Valentina, 2021).…”

Innovations in Business Diversity and Inclusion: Case Studies From the Renewable Energy Sector

“…Training and development programs play a crucial role in promoting inclusion and ensuring that all employees have the tools and resources they need to succeed. Many companies offer diversity training programs to educate employees about the importance of diversity and inclusion and provide them with skills and strategies for fostering an inclusive workplace culture (Akunne et al, 2022). These programs may cover topics such as unconscious bias, cultural competency, and inclusive communication.…”