Relevant Interactive Learning Strategies Needed for Training of Polytechnic Pre-Service Technicians for Diagnosis and Repairs of Modern Automobilesin North-Eastern Nigeria

Abstract

The main purpose of this study was to determined competency training needs of polytechnic Pre-service technicians for diagnosis and repairs of modern automobiles in North-Eastern Nigeria. The study sought to answer two research questions using Competency Outcome Performance Assessment (COPA) model framework. It is paramount importance to note that competency training needs of diagnosis and repairs of modern cars requires practical and effective training skills to be able to adequately repair them. A descriptive survey research design was adopted for the study. The population for the study was made up of 384 technicians in automotive technology in the NBTE accredited polytechnics in Northern Nigeria. Out of 384 a sample of 192 was randomly selected for the study. The questionnaire consisted of 192 tasks on diagnosis and repairs skills needed, developed with reference to curriculum of National Automobile Technician Education (NATE) and National Vocational Certificate in Automotive / Mechatronics approved by National Board for Technical Education. The questionnaire was divided into two sections: A & B, (see Appendix I). Section A contains items designed to obtain personal information of the respondents, while section B is divided into four sub-sections (I, II, III & IV). The instrument was developed using COPA Model structure, adapted from Lenburge et al (2009). A four-point rating scale ranges from Highly Needed (HN) = 4, Needed (N) = 3, Moderately Needed (MN) = 2, Least Needed (LN) = 1 was employed in sub-section I, while four-point rating scaled ranges from most relevant (4), highly relevant (3), moderately relevant (2) and less relevant. A reliability test of the instrument was also conducted and analyzed using Cronbach Alpha coefficient method and yielded an overall reliability coefficient of 0.80. Data generated from the use of the questionnaire was analyzed with Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) 23rd version software using mean and standard deviation to answer the research questions. Findings revealed relevant interactive strategies needed in the training of polytechnic Pre-service Technicians in diagnosis and repairs of modern Automobiles. Based on the findings of the study, appropriate recommendations were made, among which is, that the identified modern technology skills should be integrated into the curriculum of Automotive Technology programmer in Nigerian polytechnic. Identified interactive skills will help lecturers in developing lesson plan using the competencies that are essentially needed by Pre-service automotive technicians in order for them to prepare on how to teach them appropriately.