Computer Based-Test as a Strategy for Forest Preservation: A Case Study of Universities in Ilorin Metropolis and Joint Admission Matriculation Board (JAMB), Nigeria

Abstract

The study aimed at assessing the use of Computer-Based Tests (CBT) in Nigerian universities, focusing on institutions within the Ilorin metropolis. The objectives were to examine the role of paper usage in environmental degradation by estimating the amount of carbon and methane generated per ton of paper produced and to explore students' perceptions of CBT. Data were collected through direct administration of questionnaire using stratified sampling technique. Also, data from the Joint Admission Matriculation Board (JAMB) were used to estimate the number of students who sat for Post UTME between 2014 and 2023. A total of 400 students, representing
0.49% of the total population of the University of Ilorin, Kwara State University, and Al-Hikmah University, were sampled. Frequency, simple percentage, and correlation analyses were used to present and discuss the findings. The results showed a significant relationship between demographic characteristics and computer literacy levels of undergraduate students. Furthermore, there was a significant correlation between students' computer literacy levels and their performance in computer-based examinations, with a correlation coefficient of R =0.8. The study also found that the use of CBT for JAMB UTME examinations between 2014 and 2023 conserved approximately 66,750,168 sheets of paper (equivalent to 8,010.75 trees) and prevented the release of over 825,107.25 kg of carbon over ten years. The study concluded that CBT is a positive development for both the education system and environmental sustainability. The study therefore recommended that institutions adopt CBT technology to reduce paper usage.