INTEGRATION OF TECHNOLOGICAL INNOVATION (ICT) INTO ISLAMIC EDUCATION IN NIGERIA

Abstract

Islam is a religion with guiding principles. Thus, from its advent, it commands Muslims to seek for purposeful knowledge in order to enhance their economic, social and spiritual status. The first divine revelation to the messenger of Allah, Muhammad (SAW) enjoins mankind to seek for knowledge, hence, the Prophet (SAW) detailed that, seeking knowledge is obligatory upon every Muslim. He also mentioned that one can go as far as China to seek for inclusive and beneficial knowledge. As such, Islam welcomes the use of technological innovation to teach, learn and explore the treasures of Allah on earth and in heaven for sustainable development. Furthermore, Islam through its principles (Shari’ah) handles all the ill effects surrounding such innovations. The article therefore discusses the meaning of technology, its position in Islam, the benefit of ICT to Muslims. The study adopts survey methods; hence, materials were sourced from libraries and personal observations. The study discovered some negative impacts of ICT to social and spiritual life of people in the society. Also, it realised that ICT aids quick and easy way of disseminating information in teaching and learning. Finally, the paper recommends among others that while using technological innovations, Muslims should be guided by the context of the divine revelation. Also, the government should control or curb the misuse of innovative technology by the people in the society.