The Use of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTS) in Foreign Language Teaching in Nigeria: Prospects and Challenges

Abstract

The integration of information and communication technologies into foreign language teaching/learning has become indispensable, nay imperative, in today’s teaching and learning environment. This is so as computer literacy, together with reading and writing literacy are generally considered as skills needed by students to succeed in today’s technologically developed world. Furthermore, modern technologies are generally viewed as having potentials of impacting and revolutionizing the teaching and learning of all academic subjects. In Nigeria, the use of ICTs in secondary and tertiary educational institutions is more of a myth than a reality and this has caused the traditional approach to principally be considered in language teaching in schools within the Federation. This paper explored some of the negative effects of this traditional approach, particularly to foreign language teaching. It also examined the prospects and challenges facing the use of ICTs in foreign language teaching in Nigeria. It argued that ICTs have the potentials of improving the quality of language teaching and learning and of facilitating access to such teaching and learning. It also has the potentials of enhancing language competence and learners’ interaction among others. However, this modernist approach is faced with challenges such as ineffective education policies, absence of ICT facilities in schools, overcrowded classrooms and erratic power supply among others. Key words: Information Communication Technology (ICT), Educational Technology, Foreign Language Teaching, Multimedia