Computer applications in developing countries

Abstract

Training in computer applications initially started in the United States (without planning) as a result of local concerns for citizens to become computer literate. It was later coordinated by state and federal concerns to allow for more orderly planning. Developing countries generally have embraced the introduction of new technologies without planning. It is not advantageous for countries struggling to service their debts to developed nations to embark on computer applications without planning. To do so means foregoing the experiences and benefits that can be derived from over two decades of research on computer applications. It might mean economic suicide for developing countries. It is important that developing nations take advantage of such benefits as software portability, CAI, CMI, programming, results of research on students, and computer planning. Nigeria, a developing country, seems to be following the path of the early days of computer applications in the United States and has not trained teachers in order to introduce computers to schools.

The research focused on the design of a computer application model for teacher training colleges in the state of Anambra, Nigeria by: (1) using a general survey to determine the needs and attitudes about computer applications; (2) using Delphi techniques to establish factors that affect computer applications; (3) utilizing planning; and (4) evaluating the model by the Nigerian Delphi panel of experts.