Emerging Technologies for Life Long Learning Skills and Challenges Faced by Home Economics Teachers in Clothing and Textiles in Lagos State

Abstract

The objectives were to ascertain the awareness of teachers on the emerging clothing and textile technologies and the challenges faced in their utilization in the classroom. The study involved 117 members of Home Economics teachers’ association (HETAN) in Mushin and Surulere Local Government Areas of Lagos State. The instrument was validated by three experts in Home Economics Department of Lagos State University of Education, while a reliability coefficient was established from a trial test conducted on 20 respondents who were not part of the study. A structured questionnaire with 34 questions was the main instrument used in which respondents answer Yes or No.  Frequency count and percentage was used in analyzing the responses. The result shows that, 117 (100%) were aware that everything today is shaped by technology. 108 (92.3%) answered yes that clothing technology can be used to teach various aspects of the course, 99 (84.6%) answered yes that these skills can be acquired within and outside the classroom, 117 (100%) answered yes that teachers of Home Economics need to constantly upgrade themselves. 72 (61.5%) said they have not been trained in these technologies. 117 (100%) answered yes that they like innovations, 63 (53.8%) answered no, that there is no budget for schools from government on technology. 90 (76.9%) answered no, that there is no good network provider, 63 (53.8%) do not have constant electricity supply during school hours.99 (84.6%) answered yes that if the technologies are locally produced, they will adopt in the classroom. In conclusion, long life skills can be acquired within and outside the school environment, therefore the following recommendations were given: Lagos State Government should provide good infrastructure, budget for technology in schools.