The digital divide in the field of physical education and sports: A comparison of large cities and remote sparsely populated areas in Nigeria
1 Department of Electronic and Electrical Engineering, Faculty of Technology, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Osun, Nigeria.
2 Department of Psychology and Behavioral Studies, Faculty of Social Services, Ekiti State University, Ado Ekiti, Ekiti, Nigeria.
Research Article
Open Access Research Journal of Engineering and Technology, 2025, 08(01), 057-065.
Article DOI: 10.53022/oarjet.2025.8.1.0027
Publication history:
Received on 03 January 2025; revised on 15 February 2025; accepted on 18 February 2025
Abstract:
This study examines the factors influencing the digital divide in physical education and sports in Nigeria, highlighting infrastructural, socioeconomic, and policy-related barriers. A qualitative approach was adopted, using focus group interviews with 48 participants, including physical education teachers, sports coaches, and students from Lagos, Kano, Bauchi, and Ekiti. Findings revealed that poor internet access, unreliable electricity, and a lack of digital tools were the most significant barriers, particularly in rural areas. Socioeconomic disparities further widened the gap, as many rural participants could not afford digital devices or internet services. Additionally, policy gaps contributed to digital exclusion, with inadequate government investment in ICT infrastructure for sports education. While urban schools had better access to digital tools, inequalities persisted, especially in public and low-income institutions. The digital divide negatively impacted teaching quality, training effectiveness, and career opportunities, disadvantaging rural students. To bridge this gap, respondents recommended expanding internet and electricity access, subsidizing digital devices, enforcing ICT policies, and fostering public-private partnerships. The study concludes that a comprehensive digital inclusion strategy is crucial for ensuring equal access to digital resources in physical education and sports across Nigeria.
Keywords:
Digital Divide; Physical Education; Sports Education; Infrastructure; Socioeconomic Barriers; ICT Access; Policy Gaps; Urban-Rural Disparity; Nigeria; Digital Inclusion
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Copyright © 2025 Author(s) retain the copyright of this article. This article is published under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution Liscense 4.0