Enhancing Primary Pupils' Problem-Solving Skills Through the Use of Information and Communication Technology in Rivers State, Nigeria
Keywords:
Pupils, Problem-Solving, Skills, ICT, Primary EducationAbstract
In today’s fast-changing world, problem-solving is an essential skill for pupils to master. However, traditional teaching methods are no longer sufficient in providing pupils with the opportunities they need to develop and enhance this skill. This paper, therefore, examines the integration of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) as the key to enhancing pupils’ problem-solving skills. It also examines the benefits of educational software, such as simulations, collaborative tools, and gamified learning platforms, in providing interactive, engaging, and collaborative learning experiences that foster critical thinking, creativity, and teamwork as essential problem-solving skills. This paper also notes the challenges faced by teachers and pupils that could hinder the effective use of ICT in primary schools. For teachers, these challenges include a lack of clear instruction and guidance, among others. For pupils, they may include a rigid mindset and fear of failure, among others. The paper concludes that ICT is a veritable educational tool for building pupils’ problem-solving skills and preparing them for the demands of the 21st century. Therefore, it recommends, among others, that policymakers, school administrators, and educators in primary schools in Rivers State should prioritise the integration of ICT in classroom instruction in order to empower pupils with the competences they need to succeed in this rapidly changing world.
References
Adeola, A., David, W., & Sasha, B. (2023). Simulation/Definition, Types and Examples. Retrieved from https:/study.com/academy/lesson/simulation-definition-uses.html
Adeoye, M. A. (2023) Problem-solving skills among 21st Century learners toward creativity and innovation ideas. Thinking Skills and Creativity Journal, 6(1), 52-58.
Agarwal, N. (2026) Collaborative classroom innovative approach towards learning. From https://www.sarvohamnoida.com/blog/collaborative-classroom-innovative-approach-towards-learning.
Andrew, F., & Rush, K. (2024). What is collaboration: Definition. https:// www.techtarget.com/searchunifiedcommunication/definition
Ansaf, B., & Jaksic, N. (2020). Simulation and interactive digital tools to support teaching engineering manufacturing processes courses. Computer in Education Journal, 11(2), 1–4.
Barwa, A.S., & Ramdanel, C.S. (2022). The effect of implementation of a creative thinking model on the development of creative thinking skill in high school students: A systematic review. Review of Education, 10(3), 1–13.
Brandclick, X. (2026). Math playground games: Free online math games for kids. From https://www.brandclickx.com/math-playground-games/
Catagan, A.N.P., & Quirap, E.A. (2024). Collaborative learning and learners’ academic performance. International Journal of Multidisciplinary Research and Analysis, 7(3), 1326-1335.
Chen, X., & Zhang, Y. (2024). Virtual Field Trips in K-12 classroom teaching: A systematic review. International Journal of Technology in Teaching and Learning, 19(1), 52–68.
Edualde (2023). What is gamification, and why is it important? From https://www.edualde.ai/blog/what-is-gamification-and-why is-it-important?
Falconer, J. L. (2019). Interactive Quiz Yourself Simulation. Chemical Engineering Education, 53(4), 220–222.
Global Research and Insights (2018). Beyond millennial: The next generation of learners. Pearson.
Hears, J., Ramalingam, D., Scolilar, C., Anderson, P., & Duckworth, D. (2025). Creative thinking: Skill development framework. Australian Council of Education Research.
Hsu, C-Yun., & Wu, T.T. (2023). Application of business simulation games in flipped classrooms to facilitate student engagement and higher-order thinking skills for sustainable learning practice. Journal of Sustainability, vol 13(24), 16867.
Indeed Editorial (2026) What is information and communication technology? From: https://www.indeed.com/career-development/what-is-information-and-communication-technology.
Junuthula, S. (2022). Effect of fear of failure on teen decision-making. Advances in Applied Sociology, 12, 439-469.
Kapur, R. (2020). Problem Solving Skills: Essential skills in providing solutions to personal and professional problems. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/34690626. Kwangmuang, P., Jarutkamolpong, S., Sangboonraung, W., & Daungtod, S. (2021). The development of learning innovation to enhance higher order thinking skills for students in Thailand junior high schools. Heliyon, 7(6).
Lamina, O. (2020). Peer-led-team Learning (PLTL) Student Achievement and Engagement in Chemistry. https://dx.doi.org/10.2139/ssrn.3573527.
Linde, S. (2021) Decision-making: Definition and types. Study.com. https://study.com/academy/lesson/decision-making-definition-types.htms.
Lubert, T., & Thornhill-Miller, B. (2020). Creativity: An overview of the 7C’s of creative thought: The psychology of human thought: An introduction. Heildelberg publications.
Lucas, B. (2022) A field Guide to assessing creative thinking in schools. From https://www.researchgate. Net/publication/359314332-A-field-guide-to-assesin-creative-thining-in-schools.
Lorts, J. (2022) Six benefits of using Miro in the classroom (and one drawback) From https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/six-benefits-using-miro-classroom-one-drawback. Mahaputra, M. R. (2022). Factors affecting decision making: Experience and environment (study literature). Journal of Law Politic and Humanities, 2(3), 133-142.
Mangal, S. K. (2013). Advanced educational psychology. PHI Learning.
Marshall, M. (2022). Benefits of problem-solving in K-12 classroom. https://competition sciences.org/2022/10105/enefits-of-problem-solving-k-12-classroom
Mehadi, R. (2019). 21st Century skill “problem solving” defining the concept. Asian Journal of Interdisciplinary Research, 2(1), 71-81.
Ozdammi, F., & Ozdal H. (2015). Life-long learning competence: perception of the teachers’ abilities in using ICT. Procedia-Social and Behavioral Sciences. 182: 718-725
Putri, P., & Sofan, H. (2020). A simulation-based interactive learning multi-media development for photosynthesis and respiration in junior high schools. Journal of Educational Technology and Online Learning, 3(3), 311–339.
Rahman, S. A. (2024). The effect of “Matific" platform on preschool students' academic performance in Mathematics. International Journal of Technology in Education and Science, 8(3), 376-398
Robinson, G. (2021). Polling with Zoom. Fromm https//blog/Sussex.ac.uk/tel/2021/04/13/polling-with-zoom/ Rusmin, L., Misrahayu, Y., Pongpalilu, F., Radiansyah, R., & Dwiyanto, D. (2024). Critical thinking and problem-solving skills in the 21st century. Journal of Social Science, 1(5), 144–162.
Stout, M. (2021). Collaboration: What does it really mean? Handbook of collaborative Public Management.
Tilak, R., Prashant, C., Rashmi, M., & Meenakshi, S. (2022). Importance of critical thinking in education: World Journal of English Language, vol 12(3). Special issue.
Zoe, B. (2020). 6 Ways to Enhance Your Problem Solving Skills Effectively. https://www.ifeback.org.
