The study investigated the use of webinar tools for teaching and learning by library and information professionals in Nigeria. The research objectives were to determine the level of ICT skills for webinar utilisation possessed by library and information professionals in Nigeria; ascertain the devices used for participating in webinars by Nigerian library and information professionals; ascertain the webinar platforms used by library and information professionals, and two others. The study adopted the descriptive survey research design and structured questionnaire was adopted as instrument for data collection. The instrument was converted to an online survey using online Google forms which was posted on the Nigerian Library Association (NLA) platform soliciting responses from members of the platform. The survey response summary showed that 109 library and information professionals participated in the study. The data were retrieved and analysed using descriptive statistics of tables, frequency, percentages, mean and standard deviation. The findings revealed that the level of librarians’ ICT skills regarding webinar participation is high (3.40 grand mean), and the majority of LIS professionals studied in Nigeria used smart phone and laptop devices for webinar participation, followed by tablets. Most of the respondents use Zoom, followed by Youtube as platforms for participation in webinars and two other findings. It was concluded that webinars play a very significant role, therefore full adoption and use of webinars in all learning institutions in Nigeria should be encouraged.

This research abstract provides a comprehensive overview of exploring the requirements and applications of the next generation Internet of Things (IoT). The study which used thorough literature review as methodology, involved a systematic search of relevant academic databases, such as Scopus, IEEE Xplore, and ACM Digital Library, using keywords such as “Internet of Things,” “next-generation IoT,” “IoT requirements,” and “IoT applications.” The search was limited to peer-reviewed journal articles, conference proceedings, and book chapters published within the last ten years to ensure the inclusion of the most recent and relevant information. It focused on identifying the key requirements for the next generation of Internet of Things (IoT) technologies, evaluating the current state of IoT applications and identify areas of improvement for future generations, investigating the potential impact of next-generation IoT on various industries and sectors. Other objectives of the study are: analysing the data security and privacy challenges that may arise with the implementation of next-generation IoT technologies, examining the potential environmental impact of next-generation IoT devices and propose sustainable solutions, investigating the use of artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms for enhancing the capabilities of IoT applications and the future perspectives of internet of things. Additionally, the research delves into the diverse range of applications that can benefit from the next generation IoT. These applications span across industries such as healthcare, agriculture, transportation, and smart cities. The IoT enables improved efficiency, automation of processes, and better decision-making in various sectors. The findings highlight the need for holistic approaches to address the requirements and challenges of the next generation IoT. By focusing on interoperability, standardization, security, and data management, researchers and industry professionals can ensure the continued success and advancements of the IoT.

Artificial intelligence, deep learning, machine learning, robotics and digital transformation have revolutionized industries, while creating new opportunities together with challenges and implications in the society. This comprehensive survey explores the applications, prospects, problems, and future perspectives of artificial intelligence, deep learning, machine learning, robotics, and digital transformation in the contemporary society. The objectives of this research included to explore practical applications of these emerging technologies and industrial trends, examine the impact and potential opportunities of the technologies and innovations, assess the challenges and problems associated with implementation of such disruption technologies and transformations, and determine future trends and advancements through which the technologies can be utilized to achieve sustainable prospects. The research methodology involved collecting and analyzing relevant scholarly articles and reports from electronic journals, electronic books as well as Internet and web based information. First, this comprehensive search was conducted in academic databases such as Scopus, ACM Digital Library, and Google Scholar. Secondly, critical review was done based on vital information regarding applications of these technologies, problems faced in implementation, future prospects and advancements in the field. With the digital transformation, this research has significant implications since artificial intelligence, deep learning, machine learning and robotics are applied in various industries and economies. Applications of these technologies in healthcare, manufacturing and transportation, climate adaptation and agriculture, business and trade, information science and computing as well information communication technology have led to improved efficiency, accuracy, and decision-making. By leveraging the capabilities of these technologies, significant progress has been made towards achieving sustainability and combating climate change challenges. Additionally, artificial intelligence, deep learning, machine learning, robotics, and digital transformation have profound implications for employment patterns, job skills, and workforce dynamics. Developments and connections in these emerging and disruption technologies present tremendous opportunities for humanities, organizations, industries and broad societies.

Purpose: The paper aimed to investigate the status quo of the application and adoption of AI and ML technologies in providing library services in the African continent. It sought to establish the different use cases that these technologies are put to; it also sought to establish what benefits and challenges come along with the implementation of AI and ML technologies in the context of African libraries. Design/methodology/approach: The study adopts the structured literature review approach that identifies the current literature on the application of AI and ML technologies in library services in Africa. It involves searching various academic databases like Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar, using keywords such as “artificial intelligence,” “machine learning,” “library services” and “Africa.” It will be analyzed and synthesized in order to achieve a comprehensive overview of the topic. Findings: The review finds that AI/ML technologies in African library services are still in their introductory stage, and there are hardly a few research studies and case studies conducted so far. Its potential benefits include improved information retrieval, enhanced user experience and operational efficiencies. However, a number of challenges are also emphasized in the review, which include the limited availability of technological infrastructure, lack of digital literacy among the library staff and issues concerning data privacy and security, among others. Practical implications: These research findings will carry considerable weight among library professionals, policy and technology providers in Africa. The study gave strategic advice on the use of AI and ML technologies within the services provided by libraries. The critical issues have been mentioned along with best practices in this regard. The insights gained from this research can facilitate relevant training programs as well as building capacity that is so much more essential for the diffusion of these technologies in African libraries. Originality/value: The present review represents, to the best of the authors’ knowledge, the first comprehensive review that specially outlines the applications of AI and ML technologies in library services on the African continent. The findings further add to the scant literature at hand and create a base for future research and implementation in the African library sector.

The study deployed a self-administered questionnaire via Google forms to generate data from a sample of 237 lecturers working in various tertiary institutions across Nigeria. The questionnaire was used to collect data on the use of social media by lecturers, their perceptions regarding the influence of such use on their career goals, and demographic data and other characteristics. First, descriptive statistics such as frequencies and percentages were used to summarize the data, supported by measures of central tendency. These analyses were done using the SPSS software. From the survey result, all the responded lecturers had ticked the "high extent" option, which means that social media affects their career aspirations to a great extent. Correspondingly, based on the response, it can be stated that all the respondents believe that social media platforms can be used for the purpose of career development as well as increasing recognition related to their professional outcomes. In addition, related to the responsibility of staying updated with the latest trends and best practices of the relevant business sectors as well as participating in online communities and discussions associated with their teaching disciplines in order to learn from others in the same field, responses were found to be highly unanimous. Correspondingly, based on the research questionnaire regarding the challenges faced by the Lecturers in Nigeria while using social media for career development purposes, there have been a number of common challenges that have come into view.

The main objective of this study is to determine lecturers' perception of students' information literacy skills versus students' actual information literacy levels in a specialised federal university in Nigeria. Mixed qualitative methods of open-ended written interviews with lecturers and analysis of students' written assignment was employed. Twelve open-ended interview protocols were administered to twelve (12) lecturers in various departments in both Colleges of Science and Technology in addition to two librarians who teach the Use of Library and Study Skills Course. In the same vein, individual assignments of the entire 50, third year student of Electrical Electronic Engineering Departments were examined using a rubric prepared by the researchers (founded on the ACRL information literacy standards). The study presented herein is limited to only one department in the university and may not be used for the purpose of generalisation. It was discovered through the findings that students' information literacy level is quite low even in third year while the lecturers present an elevated impression of students' information literacy levels, rating them as excellent/advanced. The study recommends Quality Education in Developing Countries (QEDC)(2008) strategies and QEDC theory of change to serve as point of evaluation and genuine intervention in teaching and learning. The study also recommends regular information literacy education in-service programmes for the teaching staff to aid in enhancing their teaching capacity. The Nigerian Library Association (NLA) should work to develop an information literacy education policy and enforce it in Nigerian universities. The research unravels the status-quo of information literacy in the particular context and explicates the need for the ideal information literacy education. This paper fulfils the need to study the information literacy levels of undergraduates and the possible intervention programs. Keywords: information literacy, skills, lecturers' perception, students' information literacy, information literacy level