Digital connectivity as a predictor of cultural awareness and cross-cultural communication skills among pre-service teachers in a globalised world in Oyo State

This study examined the predictive roles of digital connectivity and access to online resources on global competence among pre-service teachers in Oyo State. A correlational survey research design was adopted for the study. The population comprised all pre-service teachers in public Colleges of Education in Oyo State, with a sample of 310 year-three pre-service teachers selected using a simple random sampling technique. Data were collected using three self-designed instruments: the Pre-service Teachers’ Digital Connectivity Scale (PTDCS), the Pre-service Teachers’ Access to Online Resources Scale (PTAORS), and the Pre-service Teachers’ Global Competence Scale (PTGCS). The reliability of these instruments was established through a pilot study, yielding Cronbach’s alpha coefficients of 0.82, 0.79, and 0.85, respectively, indicating high internal consistency. Data were analysed using Pearson Product-Moment Correlation and Multiple Regression Analysis at a 0.05 level of significance. The findings revealed a significant positive relationship between digital connectivity and global competence (r = 0.436, p < 0.05). Additionally, the joint effect of digital connectivity and access to online resources significantly predicted global competence (R² = 0.62, F = 45.23, p < 0.01). Digital connectivity was found to have a stronger influence (β = 0.56, p < 0.01) compared to access to online resources (β = 0.42, p < 0.01). The study concludes that enhancing digital connectivity and access to online resources can significantly improve pre-service teachers' global competence. It recommends that policymakers and institutions invest in digital infrastructure and ensure equitable access to online learning resources to foster global competence among pre-service teachers