Innovative Learning Strategies and Students’ Academic Performance in Selected Tertiary Institutions in Anambra State, Nigeria

Abstract

Education in the 21st century is undergoing a significant transformation driven by rapid technological advancement, globalization, and the evolving needs of society. There is a paradigm shift toward innovative learning strategies by tertiary institutions in Nigeria because it has the potentials to promote active engagement, critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving abilities among students.  The motivation for the study emanated due to educational concerns bordering on declining academic performance, limited instructional innovation and inadequate integration of educational technologies experienced in most tertiary institutions in Nigeria. The introduction of innovative learning strategies into tertiary institutions in Nigeria has been proven to be an effective alternative to conventional teaching and learning methods which will actively engage students by enhancing motivation and engagement thereby improving learning outcomes. This research work investigated how academic performance of students in selected tertiary institutions in Anambra State could be enhanced through innovative learning strategies. Specifically, the study examined how Learning Management System (LMS) enhances students’ academic performance in selected tertiary institutions in Anambra State Nigeria. The study also investigated how flipped classroom enhances students’ academic performance in selected tertiary institutions in Anambra State Nigeria. Thirdly, the study also ascertained how collaborative learning can enhance students’ academic performance in selected tertiary institutions in Anambra State Nigeria. Accordingly, the study adopted a descriptive research design using a survey method to source the needed data from the respondents. The target population of the study consists of the students of the selected tertiary institutions in Anambra State, Nigeria. Partial least square structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) was used to test the hypotheses formulated to guide the study at 5% level of significance. The findings of the study revealed that Learning Management System(LMS),flipped classroom and collaborative learning  significantly and positively enhance students’ academic performance in selected tertiary institutions in Anambra State Nigeria. The study recommended that tertiary institutions should engage more on the use of learning management systems for enhanced students’ engagement and academic performance. The study recommended that tertiary institutions in Nigeria should improve the quality and consistency of flipped classroom implementation by providing well-structured pre-class materials and the use of in class sessions for active learning. The study also recommended that lecturers should strengthen collaborative learning by designing structured and assessable group activities that ensures equal participation, accountability and interaction among students.