ACADEMIC STAFF PROFICIENT IN UTILIZING PRODUCTIVITY SOFTWARE APPLICATIONS FOR ACADEMIC PURPOSES IN SELECTED UNIVERSITIES IN NIGERIA
ACADEMIC STAFF PROFICIENT IN UTILIZING PRODUCTIVITY SOFTWARE APPLICATIONS FOR ACADEMIC PURPOSES IN SELECTED UNIVERSITIES IN NIGERIA
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Date
2026
Authors
MUHAMMAD, Aliyu Rabiu
DENNIS, Sarat Newton
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Library and Information Management Forum Vol. 28. No. 1 2026
Abstract
Background: In the contemporary academic environment, Information and Communication
Technology (ICT) integration has transitioned from a luxury to a fundamental necessity for
research and teaching. A lecturer's proficiency with advanced productivity software is a
critical factor influencing institutional relevance and global competitiveness. Objectives: This
study aimed to empirically assess the perception, proficiency, and practical competence of
academic staff in utilizing core productivity software across federal, state, and private
universities in Nigeria. Methodology: Utilizing a descriptive survey design, the study targeted
a population of 540 academics. A census approach yielded 384 usable responses, representing
a 71% response rate. Data were collected via the validated "Productivity Software Proficiency
and Application Scale for Academic Staff (PSPAS-AS)" and analyzed using descriptive and
inferential statistics. Findings: Results revealed a strong positive perception of software utility
for teaching effectiveness (M = 4.12) and job performance (M = 4.23). While general
proficiency was high, a significant "advanced feature gap" was identified; staff showed high
proficiency in basic document creation (M = 3.83) but only moderate skill in professional
formatting (M = 3.37) and complex spreadsheet formulas (M = 3.48). Staff demonstrated high
competence in independent academic work (M = 4.28) but lower proficiency in digital student
supervision (M = 3.21). Conclusion: The study concludes that while foundational literacy
exists, Nigerian academics require specialized, task-specific training in advanced digital
features to drive global research visibility and institutional leadership. Keywords: Productivity
Software, Academic Staff, ICT Proficiency, Nigeria, Technology Integration, Knowledge
Sharing.
Description
Journal of Library and Information Management Forum