ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE AWARENESS AND DIGITAL COMPETENCIES AMONG CARPENTRY AND JOINERY CRAFT TEACHERS’ IN TECHNICAL COLLEGES IN EDO STATE

Abstract

This research explored the level of artificial intelligence (AI) awareness and its association with digital competence among carpentry and joinery (C&J) craft teachers in technical colleges in Edo State, within the educational technology domain. The study focused on assessing the extent of AI awareness, evaluating the digital competence of C&J teachers, and determining the relationship between AI awareness and digital competence. A correlational survey research design was employed, with data collected from 21 C&J craft teachers using a structured questionnaire. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Pearson Product-Moment Correlation, and one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA). The findings indicated that the participants demonstrated high levels of both AI awareness and digital competence. Furthermore, a strong, positive, and statistically significant correlation was found between AI awareness and digital competence (r = .560, p < .001). Demographic variables, including age, gender, and teaching experience, did not have a statistically significant effect on either AI awareness or digital competence (p > .05). The study concluded that enhancing AI awareness is important for strengthening digital competence among C&J teachers and facilitating technology-enhanced pedagogical practices. Accordingly, the study recommended continuous professional development programmes, institutional support for AI integration, and inclusive capacity-building initiatives across all trade disciplines to promote effective digital transformation within technical education institutions.