Cloud computing: Innovative strategy towards effective pedagogy in Christian religious studies

  • Odey Elizabeth Akpanke Department of Religious and Cultural Studies, Faculty of Arts, University of Calabar, Calabar Cross River State, PMB 1115, Nigeria
  • Eneji Gabriel Ajor Department of Religious and Cultural Studies, Faculty of Arts, University of Calabar, Calabar Cross River State, PMB 1115, Nigeria
  • Okafor Justus Onyebuchi Department of Religious and Cultural Studies, Faculty of Arts, University of Calabar, Calabar Cross River State, PMB 1115, Nigeria
  • Adams Peter Akpo Department of Religious and Cultural Studies, Faculty of Arts, University of Calabar, Calabar Cross River State, PMB 1115, Nigeria
Article ID: 1713
Keywords: cloud computing; ICT; teaching and learning; pedagogy; Christian religious studies

Abstract

Cloud computing is an emerging phenomenon within the realm of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) that holds significant potential for enhancing various aspects of skill acquisition, data analysis, critical thinking, knowledge updating, problem-solving, research data generation, and the facilitation of engaging and stimulating teaching and learning experiences, among other benefits. Cloud computing is widely recognized as a standard paradigm that offers efficient network access to a shared pool of computing resources. These resources can be provisioned and released with minimal effort and reciprocal agreements between service providers. Education, on the contrary, is a systematic procedure of imparting knowledge that necessitates consistent updating and application of internationally recognized best practices in its execution. Therefore, this paper articulates the significance of implementing and utilizing cloud computing as an innovative approach to future-oriented and efficient pedagogy in the field of Christian Religious Studies. The outcome of this interaction can best be illustrated from the experience of many seminaries and theological colleges that have adopted cloud-based Learning Management Systems (LMS) such as Moodle or Canvas. These platforms allow educators to share course materials, facilitate discussions, and assess student performance. The research design employed in this study is survey methodology. The study’s population included 540 participants, specifically 313 undergraduate students, 192 education lecturers, and 35 administrative staff members from a tertiary institution. The sample size of 230 respondents was determined using the YARO YAMENT formula and selected through a stratified random sampling technique. A questionnaire consisting of 30 items was utilized to collect data. The questionnaire was developed, validated, and its reliability was assessed using the CRONBACH alpha formula, yielding a coefficient of 0.84. The collected data underwent analysis utilizing measures of central tendency (mean) and dispersion (standard deviation) in order to address the research inquiries. Additionally, the null hypothesis was assessed through the application of ANOVA. The study revealed that achieving a global equilibrium in terms of information and materials accessible to cloud computing users is crucial. Specifically, online materials should be designed to incorporate both local and global content, ensuring their relevance and appeal to individuals regardless of their language or cultural background. Fifteen viable strategies for enhancing futuristic and effective pedagogy in the field of Christianity.

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Published
2025-01-14
How to Cite
Akpanke, O. E., Ajor, E. G., Onyebuchi, O. J., & Akpo, A. P. (2025). Cloud computing: Innovative strategy towards effective pedagogy in Christian religious studies. Forum for Education Studies, 3(1), 1713. https://doi.org/10.59400/fes1713
Section
Article