DIGITAL TEACHING SKILLS AND MANAGEMENT OF STUDENTTEACHERS IN HIGHER INSTITUTIONS

Abstract

Objectives: Digital proficiency is one of the most essential skills educators must possess in the modern world, as it is becoming increasingly significant in the classroomWhile most existing models and frameworks focus on the preuniversity level, there is growing interest in the digital competencies of university lecturers—defined as the combination of knowledge, skills, and attitudes required to use technology effectively in teaching. This study examined the relationship between digital teaching skills and the management of student-teachers in higher education institutions in Nigeria. A structured survey was used to collect quantitative data for the study. The target population comprised undergraduate students from the faculties of education in public universities in Kwara State, Nigeria.. The data were analysed using SmartPLS tools. Results: The findings suggest that the management of student-teacher relationships in higher education institutions is significantly influenced by effective digital teaching skills, such as the use of Learning Management Systems (LMS), a student-centric approach, and networking. Conclusions: The study's conclusions show that learning management systems (LMS), student-centric approaches, networking, and the development of future instructors in higher institutions have a good and significant association. Implication: According to the study, to increase the quality of future teachers in higher education, school administrators should keep pushing lecturers to use LMS, student-centric approaches, and networking effectively. Novelty/Original: This study provides evidence that digital teaching skills (learning management systems and networking) have a positive relationship with the management of student-teachers. This study also sheds light on how student-centric approaches can enhance the management of student-teachers in higher institutions.