By Istifanus Faith Pambolo
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board, JAMB), examination is a crucial milestone for students seeking admission into Nigerian universities. With the rapid advancement of technology, one would expect a corresponding improvement in student performance. However, the 2025 JAMB results have raised questions about the effectiveness of technology in enhancing students’ success.
This article explores the paradox of technology’s role in JAMB performance, highlighting both its potential benefits and limitations.
The promise of technology
Technology has revolutionized the way students learn and prepare for exams. Online resources, mobile apps, and digital study materials have made it easier for students to access quality educational content. These tools offer flexibility, personalization, and interactivity, which can enhance student engagement and motivation. Moreover, technology can facilitate real-time feedback, assessment, and tracking of student progress.
The reality of JAMB’s 2025 performance
Despite the availability of technological tools, the 2025 JAMB results have been disappointing. Many students struggled with basic concepts, and the overall performance was below expectations. This raises questions about the effectiveness of technology in improving student outcomes. Several factors might contribute to this paradox:
Limited access to quality resources.
Not all students have equal access to quality digital resources, internet connectivity, or devices. This digital divide can hinder the effectiveness of technology-based learning.
Inadequate teacher training
Teachers may not be adequately trained to integrate technology into their teaching practices, limiting its potential benefits.
Distractions and misuse
Technology can be a double-edged sword. Social media, online games, and other digital distractions can detract from study time, leading to poor performance.
Lack of personalization
Technology-based learning tools may not cater to individual students’ needs, learning styles, or pace.
The way forward
To harness technology’s potential in improving JAMB performance, several strategies can be employed:
- Bridging the Digital Divide: Ensuring equal access to quality digital resources, internet connectivity, and devices is crucial.
- Teacher Training: Providing teachers with training and support to effectively integrate technology into their teaching practices.
- Personalized Learning: Developing technology-based learning tools that cater to individual students’ needs and learning styles.
- Digital Literacy: Educating students on responsible technology use, digital citizenship, and online safety.
- Blended Learning: Combining traditional teaching methods with technology-based learning to create a balanced and effective approach.
- Conclusion
The JAMB paradox highlights the complex relationship between technology and student success. While technology offers many benefits, its effectiveness depends on various factors, including access, teacher training, and responsible use. By addressing these challenges and harnessing technology’s potential, we can improve student outcomes and enhance JAMB performance. Ultimately, technology can be a powerful tool in education, but its success depends on strategic implementation and effective integration.
Pambolo is a 300-level student of the Department of Mass Communication, Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University, Lapai, Niger State.
