Background of the Study
In recent years, the integration of technology in education has transformed traditional learning methods. One of the emerging trends in technology-enhanced learning is the use of hackathons—intensive, time-bound coding events where participants collaborate to solve software development problems. Virtual hackathons have made it easier for students from different locations to participate in these events, providing opportunities for students in secondary schools to develop their software programming skills, work in teams, and engage with real-world challenges. By engaging students in hands-on programming tasks, virtual hackathons can help bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application, thus fostering essential skills needed for careers in technology.
In Bida Local Government Area, Niger State, secondary schools are gradually beginning to embrace technology in education. However, there remains a gap in the development of software development skills among students. Virtual hackathons could serve as an innovative and effective approach to building these skills, enabling students to develop critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and teamwork while learning software development concepts. This study aims to explore the role of virtual hackathons in promoting software development skills in secondary schools within Bida Local Government Area, Niger State.
Statement of the Problem
Despite the growing importance of software development skills in today’s technology-driven world, secondary school students in Bida Local Government Area, Niger State, lack opportunities to engage in practical software development activities. Traditional classroom methods may not provide the hands-on experience necessary for developing these skills. Virtual hackathons present an opportunity to overcome this challenge, but their integration into the local educational system has not been adequately explored. This study will investigate how virtual hackathons can be utilized to enhance software development skills and whether they can be an effective tool for fostering creativity and collaboration among secondary school students in the region.
Objectives of the Study
To explore the potential of virtual hackathons in promoting software development skills in secondary schools in Bida Local Government Area.
To assess the impact of participating in virtual hackathons on students’ knowledge of software development concepts.
To identify the challenges and opportunities in integrating virtual hackathons into secondary school curricula.
Research Questions
How can virtual hackathons enhance software development skills among secondary school students in Bida Local Government Area?
What is the impact of participating in virtual hackathons on students' understanding of software development concepts?
What challenges and opportunities exist in incorporating virtual hackathons into secondary school education?
Research Hypotheses
Virtual hackathons can enhance software development skills in secondary school students in Bida Local Government Area.
Participation in virtual hackathons improves students' understanding of software development concepts.
Integrating virtual hackathons into the secondary school curriculum presents both challenges and opportunities.
Significance of the Study
The study will provide insights into the potential of virtual hackathons as a tool for enhancing software development education in secondary schools. The findings could guide policymakers, educators, and technology experts in developing strategies to incorporate hackathons into school programs, contributing to the development of essential digital skills for students in Bida Local Government Area.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
The study will focus on the use of virtual hackathons in secondary schools within Bida Local Government Area, Niger State. Limitations include the availability of internet infrastructure and students' prior experience with coding and software development.
Definitions of Terms
Virtual Hackathons: Online, collaborative events where participants work intensively on coding challenges to develop software solutions within a specified timeframe.
Software Development Skills: The ability to design, develop, test, and maintain software applications.
Secondary Schools: Schools that offer education to students between the ages of 12 and 18, typically covering junior and senior secondary levels.
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