BENEFITS AND BARRIERS OF TECHNOLOGY IN BASIC SCHOOL LANGUAGE EDUCATION IN NIGERIA: A CRITICAL REVIEW

The integration of technology into language education has reshaped pedagogical practices globally, offering new opportunities for enhancing teaching and learning outcomes. This paper critically examines the benefits and barriers of using technology in basic school language education in Nigeria. Adopting a conceptual and analytical review approach, the study synthesises both foundational and recent literature on computer-assisted language learning (CALL) and broader e-learning technologies. Findings indicate that technology integration promotes learner engagement, improves academic performance, facilitates learner-centred pedagogies, enhances assessment practices, supports collaborative learning, and reduces language learning anxiety. However, persistent barriers—such as infrastructural deficits, limited digital literacy, inadequate teacher preparedness, and systemic inequalities—continue to constrain effective implementation. The study concludes that the transformative potential of technology in Nigerian language education depends on context-sensitive policies, sustained investment, and pedagogically grounded integration strategies.