IMPACT OF TELECONFERENCING AND COLLABORATIVE LEARNING PLATFORMS ON JOB PERFORMANCE AT THE NIGERIAN AGIP OIL COMPANY (NAOC), PORT HARCOURT, RIVERS STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

Traditional face-to-face approaches to job training have long been the norm in industries especially in Nigeria until the outbreak of the global COVID-19 pandemic. This study challenges these conventional methods by exploring the impact of teleconferencing and collaborative learning on job performance in the context of the Nigerian Agip Oil Company (NAOC), Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria. Drawing from two discussions on the use of teleconferencing and collaborative learning as employee training platforms, this research investigates their effectiveness in enhancing training reach and improving employee job performance. The population of the study is 1,714. However, Taro Yamane formulation was used to determine a sample of 282 respondents. The sample size represents 16.45 % of the study population. The sample size was selected using the stratified and simple random sampling techniques. The questionnaire method was used to gather data for the study while the chi-square tool was applied to test the hypotheses. Firstly, the findings revealed a positive correlation between the use of teleconferencing as a training platform and an increase in the number of training beneficiaries at the NAOC. This underscores the efficacy, efficiency and cost-effectiveness of teleconferencing in reaching a large number of employees simultaneously, regardless of geographical constraints. Secondly, the study found a significant relationship between collaborative learning and improved job performance among employees in the organization. Collaborative learning fosters knowledge sharing, skill development, and active engagement, leading to enhanced problem-solving abilities and teamwork. Based on these conclusions, the study recommends the need to implement and expand teleconferencing training; promote collaborative learning and conduct regular training needs assessment for staff of the NAOC.