Assessing the Impact of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) on Student Learning in Higher Education: Evidence from Milton Margai Technical University and the College of Business and Information Technology, Sierra Leone


Authors : Kabba Haroun Bangura; Zachariyah Bai Conteh; Allieu Edward Kanu

Volume/Issue : Volume 10 - 2025, Issue 11 - November


Google Scholar : https://tinyurl.com/2e8jsp6c

Scribd : https://tinyurl.com/438fwpur

DOI : https://doi.org/10.38124/ijisrt/25nov1371

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Abstract : This study examines the influence of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) on students’ learning in higher education, with specific reference to Milton Margai Technical University and the College of Business and Information Technology in Sierra Leone. The research explored how the availability, accessibility, and usability of ICT resources affect students’ academic engagement and outcomes. A cross-sectional survey design was employed, using questionnaires and interviews to collect data from 440 respondents selected from a population of 3,173. The analysis applied Pearson correlation to test the hypotheses on the relationship between ICT usage and students’ learning. Findings revealed that ICT infrastructure in the two institutions is limited, with inadequate computer laboratories, internet connectivity, and teaching software. Despite these constraints, results indicated a significant positive correlation between ICT availability, accessibility, usability, and students’ learning. The study concludes that strengthening ICT facilities and training is crucial for improving academic quality. It recommends that universities invest in ICT infrastructure, ensure reliable internet access, and integrate ICT into teaching and learning practices to enhance educational outcomes. This study examines how Information and Communication Technology (ICT) influences student learning in higher education institutions in Sierra Leone, focusing on Milton Margai Technical University and the College of Business and Information Technology. A cross-sectional survey of 440 respondents was conducted to assess the availability, accessibility, and usability of ICT resources. The results revealed that while ICT facilities are present in limited quantities, their accessibility and effective utilization remain constrained by inadequate infrastructure, unreliable connectivity, and low digital literacy. However, statistical analysis indicated significant positive relationships between ICT integration and student learning outcomes. The study recommends increased investment in ICT infrastructure, capacity building for lecturers and students, and policy measures to promote digital inclusion across tertiary institutions in Sierra Leone. (López-Sánchez et al., 2023; World Bank, 2022).

Keywords : Information and Communication Technology, Students’ Learning, Higher Education, Sierra Leone, ICT Resources.

References :

  1. Afolabi, F., & Okeke, C. (2020). ICT integration in African universities: Opportunities and constraints. African Educational Research Journal, 8(3), 112–124.*
  2. Creswell, J. W., & Creswell, J. D. (2018). Research design: Qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methods approaches (5th ed.). Sage Publications.
  3. European Commission. (2020). Digital education action plan 2021–2027: Resetting education and training for the digital age. Brussels: European Union.
  4. Kamara, M., & Sesay, S. (2021). ICT integration in higher education in Sierra Leone: Challenges and prospects. Journal of African Higher Education Studies, 5(2), 45–60.*
  5. López-Sánchez, J. A., García-Peñalvo, F. J., & Conde, M. Á. (2023). ICT adoption and student learning outcomes in higher education: A systematic review. Computers & Education, 194, 104685. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.compedu.2023.104685
  6. Mhlanga, D., & Moloi, T. (2022). COVID-19 and the digital divide: Lessons for online learning in Sub-Saharan Africa. International Journal of Educational Technology in Higher Education, 19(1), 21. https://doi.org/10.1186/s41239-022-00336-7
  7. Sesay, Z. (2022). The digital divide and student learning in Sierra Leonean universities. Sierra Leone Journal of Education and Development, 3(1), 88–102.*
  8. UNESCO. (2021). The digital transformation of education: A review of global practices. Paris: UNESCO Publishing.
  9. World Bank. (2022). Sierra Leone Education Sector Plan 2022–2026: Transforming learning for all. Washington, DC: World Bank.

This study examines the influence of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) on students’ learning in higher education, with specific reference to Milton Margai Technical University and the College of Business and Information Technology in Sierra Leone. The research explored how the availability, accessibility, and usability of ICT resources affect students’ academic engagement and outcomes. A cross-sectional survey design was employed, using questionnaires and interviews to collect data from 440 respondents selected from a population of 3,173. The analysis applied Pearson correlation to test the hypotheses on the relationship between ICT usage and students’ learning. Findings revealed that ICT infrastructure in the two institutions is limited, with inadequate computer laboratories, internet connectivity, and teaching software. Despite these constraints, results indicated a significant positive correlation between ICT availability, accessibility, usability, and students’ learning. The study concludes that strengthening ICT facilities and training is crucial for improving academic quality. It recommends that universities invest in ICT infrastructure, ensure reliable internet access, and integrate ICT into teaching and learning practices to enhance educational outcomes. This study examines how Information and Communication Technology (ICT) influences student learning in higher education institutions in Sierra Leone, focusing on Milton Margai Technical University and the College of Business and Information Technology. A cross-sectional survey of 440 respondents was conducted to assess the availability, accessibility, and usability of ICT resources. The results revealed that while ICT facilities are present in limited quantities, their accessibility and effective utilization remain constrained by inadequate infrastructure, unreliable connectivity, and low digital literacy. However, statistical analysis indicated significant positive relationships between ICT integration and student learning outcomes. The study recommends increased investment in ICT infrastructure, capacity building for lecturers and students, and policy measures to promote digital inclusion across tertiary institutions in Sierra Leone. (López-Sánchez et al., 2023; World Bank, 2022).

Keywords : Information and Communication Technology, Students’ Learning, Higher Education, Sierra Leone, ICT Resources.

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Paper Submission Last Date
31 - December - 2025

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