INFLUENCE OF INSTRUCTIONAL SIMULATION STRATEGY ON STUDENTS ACHIEVEMENT IN COMPUTER STUDIES

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

Background to the Study

Computer science is the scientific and practical approach to computation and its applications. It is the systematic study of the feasibility, structure, expression, and mechanization of the methodical procedures (or algorithms) that underlie the acquisition, representation, processing, storage, communication of, and access to information. An alternate, more succinct definition of computer science is the study of automating algorithmic processes that scale. A computer scientist specializes in the theory of computation and the design of computational systems. Its fields can be divided into a variety of theoretical and practical disciplines. Some fields, such as computational complexity theory (which explores the fundamental properties of computational and intractable problems), are highly abstract, while fields such as computer graphics emphasize real-world visual applications. Still other fields focus on challenges in implementing computation. For example, programming language theory considers various approaches to the description of computation, while the study of computer programming itself investigates various aspects of the use of programming language and complex systems. Human–computer interaction considers the challenges in making computers and computations useful, usable, and universally accessible to humans. Computer Science is the systematic study of the feasibility, structure, expression, and mechanization of the methodical processes (or algorithms) that underlie the acquisition, representation, processing, storage, communication of, and access to information, whether such information is encoded in bits and bytes in a computer memory or transcribed in genes and protein structures in a human cell. It is a machine which can hold vast qualities of information and accurately stores information for future use.

Kremer (2008) defined computer as electronic machine that operate with remarkable speed and reliability. A micro processor “brain” and electronic memory work together to enable the computer process data. Why was the computer invented should be the next question that comes to mind. Computers were invented to solve many mathematical problems in the early stage. But today, computers have gone beyond that and there is hardly any area of life where computer cannot be applied. In a rapidly changing world, basic education is essential for an individual to be able to access and apply information. Such ability must include the adequate use of computer. The Economic Commission for Africa has indicated that the ability to use computer in accessing information is no longer a luxury, but a necessity for development. Unfortunately, many developing countries especially in Africa, are still low in computer application and use (Aduwa, 2005). Evoh (2007) emphasized that secondary school or secondary education is essential of the creation of eective human capital in any country. The need for the conclusion of computer science in the education curriculum of the Nigerian secondary schools cannot be overemphasized. In this technology-driven age, every one requires ICT competence to survive (Adom & Anie 2006).

This calls for early acquisition of computer skills by students. Oduroye (2002) emphasized the increase in demand for computer literacy in Nigeria. This is because; employees realize that computer and other ICT facilities can enhance eiciency, on the other hand, employees have also realized that computers can be a threat to their jobs, and the only way to enhance job security is to become computer literacy. Teaching and learning these skills is a concern among professionals. Computer application and use will prove beneficial in improving Nigeria’s educational system and giving students a better education, also, skilled computer professionals who will be well equipped to solve ICT problems in Nigeria and other parts of the world (Goshit, 2006). There are development in the Nigeria education sector, which indicates some level of computer application in the secondary schools. The federal Government of Nigeria in the national policy on Education (Federal Republic of Nigeria, 2004) recognize the prominent role of computers in the morden world, and has integrated computer studies and science into education in Nigeria. To actualize this goal, the document states that government will provide basic infrastructure and training of the primary school. At the junior secondary schools. It is also the intention of government to provide necessary infrastructure and training for the integration of computer science in the secondary schools system. It should be noted that 2004 was not the first attempt the Nigerian government made to introduce computer education in schools.

In 1988, the Nigerian government education enacted a policy on computer education. The plan was to establish pilot schools and diuse computer science innovation first to all secondary schools, and then to primary schools. Unfortunately, the project did not really takeo beyond the distribution and installation of personal computers (Okebukola, 1997). Aduwa and Iyamu (2005), concluded that the computer is not part of classroom technology in more than 90 percent of Nigeria public schools. Despite the importance of computer in our education system and nation in general, many factors however has hindered the growth and adoption of computer science in Nigeria secondary schools. Such factors range from lack of interest in computer studies in the part of the students to lack of dedication in the part of the teachers.