Month: December 2019

Dec 27

the impact of digital communication in the 21st century

The impact of digital communication in the 21st century

CHAPTER ONE/INTRODUCTION

1.1 BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY

The history of human communication began with the oral or spoken tradition. Through the course of history, the dissemination of messages progressed from simply the oral tradition, to script, print, wired electronics, wireless electronics and finally digital communication. The greatest change in message dissemination in recent history occurred with the introduction of computers and the Internet in the early 1990s. Since then, this drastic change of communication medium has significantly affected humans’ perception of the media, the usage of time and space, and the reachability and control of the media (Guo-Ming, 2012).

In the present age of digital communication, time has been compressed by reducing the distance between different points in space, and the sense of space has led people to feel that local, ^national, and global space becomes obsolete (Harvey, 2010). In addition, the reachability of digital media can now extend to all people, instead of a limited audience. This is significant because without the confinement of time and space, the control of message production and dissemination is no longer a privilege possessed only by church, state, and government, but instead, equally shared by all individuals (Guo-Ming, 2012).

The digital communication, that resulted from the invention, encapsulated the characteristics of the old or traditional media, and extended the potentials arid possibilities into which both the “old” and “new” media could be put into use. Tokunbo and Felix (2013) noted that the digital communication, promoted by Internet technology, exhibit an integration and convergence of the existing media to extend the frontiers of the possibilities of the media of communication, The digital communication, which hallmarked the integration and convergence of computer and telecommunication technologies, revolutionized the face of human communication especially in the 21st century7. The new information Technology “provides near limitless possibilities of increasing the quantity and enhancing the quality, speed, and availability of information in a complex but increasingly interdependent world (Soola, 2010).

According to Tokunbo and Felix (2013), the digital communication, propelled and driven by the internet, provide platforms for social interactions between and among users in such a manner that no older platforms/media can boast of. Ignatius, Alice and Lucky (2014) opined that by their nature the social media have peculiar characteristics that make them probably more appealing to the audience than the conventional media. The veracity of this assertion could be perceived in the pace of the growth of the social media sites over the few years of their emergence. He gave the example of Facebook, which is the acclaimed most popular channel among the social media reached over one billion users within ten years of its existence as a medium of communication in the world. The medium attained a “total of 1.23 billion users” in just a decade of its birth (Ignatius, Alice and Lucky, 2014). Other social media sites have similar significant number of users within their short span. This level of wider spread of the media among the people has never been seen in any other earlier means of communication.

The invention of the digital communication in modern communication is rapidly changing the whole mass media landscape and communication enterprise in the universe presently. This very development brought by technologies is affecting the means of assembling, delivery or dissemination and reception of mediated messages today (Ignatius, Alice and Lucky, 2014). These new means of interactions have greatly changed the media uses by the audience, the journalists and the mainstream media’s relation with the audience. The social media have altered the basic processes involved in news gathering and dissemination in the world. With that, the audience pattern of news consumption especially

with regard to the contents of the traditional mass media is envisaged to be affected.

However, the positive impact of the digital communication is greatly among youth as its allowed youth to make friends beyond the borders of their country. According to Chimela, Ovute and Obochi (2015), social media have provided an open arena where the youths are free to exchange ideas on various trending issues. In support of this fact, Chinwe and Uche (2014) noted that as social media is quickly becoming prime political battlegrounds for several political contenders, it has changed young people’s political outlooks and participatory behavior in Nigeria, This is because it has a democratic potential that opens for new forms of political participation and conversations. Socially, the digital communication have contributed in making an average Nigerian youth to know more about the different tribes in Nigeria (Ignatius, Alice, and Lucky, 2014). Therefore, the focus of this study is on the impact of digital communication in social life of Nigeria youth; looking into the credibility of News on social media amongst Ebonyi state University  students.

1.2 STATEMENT OF PROBLEM

With the prevalence of the digital communication technologies, there is a change in the media choice of the youths globally, Nigeria inclusive. A researcher like Broddason (2016) gives credence to the above view bynoting that, “there is general agreement among media and communication scholars that a monumental shift is occurring in the media and communication habits of young people.” The rate at which they cling to the use of social media is quite alarming, this leaves people in doubt whether the new channels of communication would utterly displace or at least reduce the youths’ patronage of the mainstream media.

Presently, the youths’ much reliance and choice of the social media is not hidden at all. Invariably, these digital communication’s ability to exert influence on the use of the conventional media is an unarguable reality. According to Aja (2011) “traditional media organizations such as radio, television, newspapers and magazines seem to have lost prominence and their audience…” Their news and information, as the European Society of Professional Journalists (2014) observes, are being increasingly circumvented by users who use alternative media sources.

From the foregoing, the mainstream media’s losing of grip on the youths’ and the general usage of the prior existing channels of communication is an envisaged phenomenon. This kind of expectation is usually nursed by the people with the introduction of a new means of public interaction. That perhaps informed why Broddason (2016) arguesfor instance that “there is some suggestion of television being replaced by the “digital communication.”

However, amidst all sociological benefits, social media have regrettably contributed to moral degeneration and decadence among youths in several countries, including Nigeria. This, no doubt, stems from the gross obsession with and abuse of these social networking sites. Due to the increase in social media web-sites, there seems to be a positive correlation between the usages of such media with cyber bullying, online sexual predators and the decrease in-face-to-face interaction. Likewise, social media seem to be influencing youths’ lives in terms of exposing them to images or alcohol, tobacco, and sexual behaviors (Kaplan, 2010).

Therefore, the challenge now is that the influence of social media on youths’ uses of conventional mass media in Nigeria is hitherto buried in obscurity. Another problem is finding out whether the social media usage enhances the youths’ interaction with the country’s leaders. Also, it is important to systematically ascertain other purposes which the social media accomplish for the youths. These outlined points are the problems which this study has empirically investigated and provided answers to them.

1.3 OBJECTIVE OF THE STUDY

The main objective of this study remains on The utility of digital communication in this contemporary day while other specific objectives include:

  • To ascertain the influence of digital communication on youths’ use of traditional mass media in Nigeria.
  • To determine whether digital communication usage enhance the youths’ interaction with Nigerian leaders.
  • To examine the influence of digital communication to the social behaviour of Nigerian youth.

1.4 RESEARCH QUESTIONS

    • To what extent is the influence of digital communication on youths’ use of traditional mass media in Nigeria?
    • To what extent does digital communication usage enhance the youths’ interaction with Nigerian leaders?
    • To what extent is the influence of digital communication to the social behaviour of Nigerian youth?

1.5 SCOPE OF THE STUDY

This work will concentrate on The utility of digital communication in this contemporary day

1.6 SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY

  • It is expected that the output of this research will benefit students
  • and the administration of  University, as will show the level of the students’ use of social media. Also this work will be of immense benefit to the field of Library and information sciences as it will be on addition to existing literature, and shall also add to the available academic literatures on digital communication.
  • Also the findings could be used by academic advisers and counselors proffer professional advice to the university authorities on how to regulate the social network usage among undergraduate students.
  • Again, the findings of this study would provide facts that will enable the ministry of communication technology to know what arises from students’ use of the social media. This will help the ministry, to -it know how to control social network usage.
  • Finally, this work would be beneficial to future researchers who can now readily lay their hands on the result of this work by making use of The research report.
Dec 19

The utility of digital communication in this contemporary day

The utility of digital communication in this contemporary day

CHAPTER ONE/INTRODUCTION

1.1 BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY

The history of human communication began with the oral or spoken tradition. Through the course of history, the dissemination of messages progressed from simply the oral tradition, to script, print, wired electronics, wireless electronics and finally digital communication. The greatest change in message dissemination in recent history occurred with the introduction of computers and the Internet in the early 1990s. Since then, this drastic change of communication medium has significantly affected humans’ perception of the media, the usage of time and space, and the reachability and control of the media (Guo-Ming, 2012).

In the present age of digital communication, time has been compressed by reducing the distance between different points in space, and the sense of space has led people to feel that local, ^national, and global space becomes obsolete (Harvey, 2010). In addition, the reachability of digital media can now extend to all people, instead of a limited audience. This is significant because without the confinement of time and space, the control of message production and dissemination is no longer a privilege possessed only by church, state, and government, but instead, equally shared by all individuals (Guo-Ming, 2012).

The digital communication, that resulted from the invention, encapsulated the characteristics of the old or traditional media, and extended the potentials arid possibilities into which both the “old” and “new” media could be put into use. Tokunbo and Felix (2013) noted that the digital communication, promoted by Internet technology, exhibit an integration and convergence of the existing media to extend the frontiers of the possibilities of the media of communication, The digital communication, which hallmarked the integration and convergence of computer and telecommunication technologies, revolutionized the face of human communication especially in the 21st century7. The new information Technology “provides near limitless possibilities of increasing the quantity and enhancing the quality, speed, and availability of information in a complex but increasingly interdependent world (Soola, 2010).

According to Tokunbo and Felix (2013), the digital communication, propelled and driven by the internet, provide platforms for social interactions between and among users in such a manner that no older platforms/media can boast of. Ignatius, Alice and Lucky (2014) opined that by their nature the social media have peculiar characteristics that make them probably more appealing to the audience than the conventional media. The veracity of this assertion could be perceived in the pace of the growth of the social media sites over the few years of their emergence. He gave the example of Facebook, which is the acclaimed most popular channel among the social media reached over one billion users within ten years of its existence as a medium of communication in the world. The medium attained a “total of 1.23 billion users” in just a decade of its birth (Ignatius, Alice and Lucky, 2014). Other social media sites have similar significant number of users within their short span. This level of wider spread of the media among the people has never been seen in any other earlier means of communication.

The invention of the digital communication in modern communication is rapidly changing the whole mass media landscape and communication enterprise in the universe presently. This very development brought by technologies is affecting the means of assembling, delivery or dissemination and reception of mediated messages today (Ignatius, Alice and Lucky, 2014). These new means of interactions have greatly changed the media uses by the audience, the journalists and the mainstream media’s relation with the audience. The social media have altered the basic processes involved in news gathering and dissemination in the world. With that, the audience pattern of news consumption especially

with regard to the contents of the traditional mass media is envisaged to be affected.

However, the positive impact of the digital communication is greatly among youth as its allowed youth to make friends beyond the borders of their country. According to Chimela, Ovute and Obochi (2015), social media have provided an open arena where the youths are free to exchange ideas on various trending issues. In support of this fact, Chinwe and Uche (2014) noted that as social media is quickly becoming prime political battlegrounds for several political contenders, it has changed young people’s political outlooks and participatory behavior in Nigeria, This is because it has a democratic potential that opens for new forms of political participation and conversations. Socially, the digital communication have contributed in making an average Nigerian youth to know more about the different tribes in Nigeria (Ignatius, Alice, and Lucky, 2014). Therefore, the focus of this study is on the impact of digital communication in social life of Nigeria youth; looking into the credibility of News on social media amongst Ebonyi state University  students.

1.2 STATEMENT OF PROBLEM

With the prevalence of the digital communication technologies, there is a change in the media choice of the youths globally, Nigeria inclusive. A researcher like Broddason (2016) gives credence to the above view bynoting that, “there is general agreement among media and communication scholars that a monumental shift is occurring in the media and communication habits of young people.” The rate at which they cling to the use of social media is quite alarming, this leaves people in doubt whether the new channels of communication would utterly displace or at least reduce the youths’ patronage of the mainstream media.

Presently, the youths’ much reliance and choice of the social media is not hidden at all. Invariably, these digital communication’s ability to exert influence on the use of the conventional media is an unarguable reality. According to Aja (2011) “traditional media organizations such as radio, television, newspapers and magazines seem to have lost prominence and their audience…” Their news and information, as the European Society of Professional Journalists (2014) observes, are being increasingly circumvented by users who use alternative media sources.

From the foregoing, the mainstream media’s losing of grip on the youths’ and the general usage of the prior existing channels of communication is an envisaged phenomenon. This kind of expectation is usually nursed by the people with the introduction of a new means of public interaction. That perhaps informed why Broddason (2016) arguesfor instance that “there is some suggestion of television being replaced by the “digital communication.”

However, amidst all sociological benefits, social media have regrettably contributed to moral degeneration and decadence among youths in several countries, including Nigeria. This, no doubt, stems from the gross obsession with and abuse of these social networking sites. Due to the increase in social media web-sites, there seems to be a positive correlation between the usages of such media with cyber bullying, online sexual predators and the decrease in-face-to-face interaction. Likewise, social media seem to be influencing youths’ lives in terms of exposing them to images or alcohol, tobacco, and sexual behaviors (Kaplan, 2010).

Therefore, the challenge now is that the influence of social media on youths’ uses of conventional mass media in Nigeria is hitherto buried in obscurity. Another problem is finding out whether the social media usage enhances the youths’ interaction with the country’s leaders. Also, it is important to systematically ascertain other purposes which the social media accomplish for the youths. These outlined points are the problems which this study has empirically investigated and provided answers to them.

1.3 OBJECTIVE OF THE STUDY

The main objective of this study remains on The utility of digital communication in this contemporary day while other specific objectives include:

  • To ascertain the influence of digital communication on youths’ use of traditional mass media in Nigeria.
  • To determine whether digital communication usage enhance the youths’ interaction with Nigerian leaders.
  • To examine the influence of digital communication to the social behaviour of Nigerian youth.

1.4 RESEARCH QUESTIONS

    • To what extent is the influence of digital communication on youths’ use of traditional mass media in Nigeria?
    • To what extent does digital communication usage enhance the youths’ interaction with Nigerian leaders?
    • To what extent is the influence of digital communication to the social behaviour of Nigerian youth?

1.5 SCOPE OF THE STUDY

This work will concentrate on The utility of digital communication in this contemporary day

1.6 SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY

  • It is expected that the output of this research will benefit students
  • and the administration of  University, as will show the level of the students’ use of social media. Also this work will be of immense benefit to the field of Library and information sciences as it will be on addition to existing literature, and shall also add to the available academic literatures on digital communication.
  • Also the findings could be used by academic advisers and counselors proffer professional advice to the university authorities on how to regulate the social network usage among undergraduate students.
  • Again, the findings of this study would provide facts that will enable the ministry of communication technology to know what arises from students’ use of the social media. This will help the ministry, to -it know how to control social network usage.
  • Finally, this work would be beneficial to future researchers who can now readily lay their hands on the result of this work by making use of The research report.
Dec 18

Religion And Politics In Nigeria

Religion And Politics In Nigeria, A Study Of Jos South LGA Of Plateau State

CHAPTER ONE/INTRODUCTION

Religion forms part of an individual’s identity and in turn influences the world in which they live in. This study investigates religion and politics in jos south LGA of plateau state and demonstrates that religion and politics are two inseperable realms since humans are both material and spiritual beings.

This chapter provides insight information on background, problem statement, objectives, research questions, hypotheses, research justification , literature review, theoretical framework , research ,methodology as well as scope and limitations of the study.

1.1 Background to the Study

All religions have multiple denominations and sects that vary greatly geographically and culturally. In respect to politics and governance with reference to Christianity, the Old Testament shows the relationship between the church and the state as one that is closely linked. Prophets such as Samuel, Elijah, Jeremiah, Isaiah and Nathan acted as God‟s messengers challenging the political leaders of that era. While in the New Testament ,Jesus‟ words: “Render unto Caesar what belongs to Caesar and unto God what belongs to God.”2 Have been interpreted to mean religion and politics are two seperable realms. Islam blends politics with military might for instance jihad is a religous and  political  slogan  that  suggests a violent course to make others submit to the Islamic faith.

Religion plays a key role in global politics .The current order of International system where nation-states are the main actors was largely shaped by the 1648 Treaty of Westphalia. The treaty ended the 30years of war in Europe which was triggered by religious domination by the Austrian-Hapsburg Empire resolve to impose Roman Catholicism on its Protestant subjects in Bohemia3. The war involded Catholics and Protestants fighting each other in European states including: Germany, France, Sweden and Denmark. The Treaty resolved that each state could keep its own religion without outside interference and also separated religion and politics by stating that all states will no longer be governed by religious leaders.

Religion has been used globally as a political tool for various reasons and in most instances to gain and retain political territories. The Ottoman empire(1300-1922) which was inspired by Islam and Islamic institutions existed for such a long period for only three main reasons: incorporating Islam in its state structure with the Sultan being regarded as the protector of Islam as well as the Islamic ideology of increasing muslim territory through Jihad. Finally the millet system was adapted of  which each religion was allowed to elect  their own religious leaders and enforce their own religious rules example Jewish millet and Orthodox Christians millet. The Sultan exercised control over these areas through the elected leaders5.

The Facist regime in Italy used religion for political advantages. The Facist Italy under Benito Mussolini signed the Lateran pact with the Roman Catholic church which granted Vatican City statehood and placed it under Church law, by the same token, catholic was recognised as Italy‟s state religion. This was aimed at influencing the Roman Catholics to accept a facist government by also persuing ideas of the church by making swearing in  public a crime, disapproving  the use of contraceptives and wanted to outlaw divorce in  Italy6.

The 21st  Century has witnessed the a surge in Islamic movements that use violence to achieve to instill fear and some sort of retaliation for issues that they have been violated.

1.2 Statement of the  Problem

Religion plays a vital role in the binding and supporting a society. This study observes that religion is an integral part of humanity and hence a key variable in the politics and governace of Plateau state As a democratic state, Nigeria guarantees the freedom of worship to all religions and no one is to be discriminated on the basis of the religion they profess. Nigeria  is a secular state, but in the practice of politics and governance in Nigeria  are religion and politics two seperable or inseperable realms?

1.3 Objectives of the Study

The main objective of the study is to examine religion and politics in jos south LGA of plateau state

Specific Objectives

  • To investigate the nexus between religious and political tussle in Jos South Local government Area
  • To examine and provide attainable recommendations to curtail the issues of religion and politics in Jos

1.4 Research Questions

  • What is the link between religion, politics and governance Jos?
  • Are there any attainable solutions to the problems on religious and political violence in Jos?

1.5 Significance of the Study

  •  Academic Justification

This study adds to the existing knowledge on religion and politics by demonstrating that religion is not only concerned with the spiritual well being of people but it also impacts on their political lives and behaviour hence alters governance in Nigeria

The study observed that religion is a key aspect that should always be considered in the formulation of government policies relating to politics and governance in Nigeria.This may also be applicable in other African states.

  • General Public Justification.

By collecting information directly from the people and different religious organisations, this study provides a precise impression on how religious convictions impacts politics and governance in Nigeria .

1.6 Definition of key terms and concept

Religion- Religion is the belief in and worship of a superhuman controlling power especially a personal God or gods

Governance – The way, mode, or coordination of governing through formulation of policies and adherence to them

Politics – This is an antagonism between contending interest clusters for supremacy and governance .This is achieved through individuals exercising their democratic right in an election.

Dec 17

IMPACT OF INSURANCE MARKET ACTIVITY ON ECONOMIC GROWTH IN NIGERIA

IMPACT OF INSURANCE MARKET ACTIVITY ON ECONOMIC GROWTH IN NIGERIA

ABSTRACT

Insurance is one of the cornerstones of modern day financial services sector. In addition to its traditional role of managing risk, insurance market activity, both as intermediary and as provider of risk transfer and indemnification, may promote growth by allowing different risks to be managed more efficiently through promoting long term savings, encouraging the accumulation of capital, serving as a conduit pipe to channelling funds from policy holders to investment opportunities as well as mobilizing domestic savings into productive investment. Insurance is an indispensable aspect of a nation’s financial system and theoretical conceptions explain that financial systems influence savings and investment decisions through lowering the costs of researching potential investments, exerting corporate governance, trading, diversification and management of risk, mobilization and pooling of savings, conducting exchange of goods and services and mitigating the negative consequences that random shocks can have on the economy. However, the level of insurance market activity which should be commensurate with Nigeria’s huge potentials has not been attained. Insurance by reducing uncertainty and volatility, smoothen the economic cycle and reduce the impact of crisis situations on the micro and macro level. But, the demands for protection against losses of life, property caused by natural disaster, crime, violence, accidents, fire are not met in Nigeria. It is against this background that this study examined the impact of life-insurance penetration, non-life insurance penetration, total insurance penetration and insurance density on economic growth in Nigeria. The study adopted the ex-post facto research design and annualized cross sectional data for 26-year period 1987-2012 were collated from the Central Bank of Nigeria statistical Bulletin, National Insurance Commission and Nigerian Insurers Association. Four hypotheses were proposed and tested using the Ordinary Least Square (OLS) regression model. Descriptive statistics and graphs were also used to complement the regression results. The results emanating from this study indicate that while life insurance penetration and insurance density had positive and significant impact on economic growth in Nigeria, both total insurance penetration and non-life insurance penetration had positive but insignificant impact on economic growth in Nigeria under the period of this study. The study therefore recommends among others, that for the insurance industry in Nigeria to exert more positive impact on the Nigerian economy, government policies concerning insurance should focus more on attracting rural communities into the insurance bracket. This will assist at enhancing savings therefore providing funds for investment into the Nigerian real sector.

 

Dec 16

Investigation in to the factors that influence the development of technical education

Investigation in to the Factors that Influence the Development of Technical Education in Ganjuwa LGA

Abstract

The study was on the Investigation in to the factors that influence the development of technical education. The study was guided by five research questions. Population for the study consisted of 5,003 NTC III Technical College students. Using a proportionate random sampling technique, a sample of 492 students was used for the study. The instrument used for collecting data is a structured questionnaire titled Investigation in to the factors that influence the development of technical education Questionnaire. Mean and standard deviation was used to analyze the data collected and answer the research questions. The findings of the study were: Technical College students agree that environmental factors and parents/guardians related factors influenced development of technical education, while Students personality related factors; peer group related factors and career guidance officer do not influence their vocational choice in Technical education. Based on these findings the following recommendations were made: Students should not be forced by parents or guardians to choose any career, but rather be guided according to their ability; Students should be encouraged to liaise and interact among themselves and with their teachers based on their individual personality difference and the suitable career opportunities that suit their abilities and interest when choosing a vocation.

Dec 15

AN ASSESSMENT OF THE APPLICATION OF OPERATIONS RESEARCH TECHNIQUES

AN ASSESSMENT OF THE APPLICATION OF OPERATIONS RESEARCH TECHNIQUES IN THE DECISION MAKING PROCESS OF MANUFACTURING COMPANIES

PROJECT ABSTRACT

In today’s complex and aggressive business environments, it is only an effective decision making that gives organizations an edge over their competitors. Since organizations continuously make decisions, managers should ensure that it is done scientifically so as to minimize the inherent risk of errors in the subjective approach to decision making. This work seeks to appraise the application of operations research techniques in the decision making processes of manufacturing companies. This study therefore sets to identify the various operations research tools applied in decision making, the benefits of using operations research and the various limitations to its application. The target population of this study is made up of the entire top, middle and lower management staff of the selected manufacturing companies; Innoson, Anammco and Juhel Nigeria Limited. Stratified sampling method was adopted so as to give a fair representation to the selected organizations in the ratio of 3:5:2 using the proportionality formular.(Q=A/N × n/1). The study obtained its data from both primary and secondary sources. The questionnaire was the major instrument of collecting data for the research. Interviews were also conducted to complement the information from the questionnaire. Data analysis was done through the use of tabular presentation, pie and bar charts. The five (5) formulated hypothesis were also tested for acceptance or rejection using the chi-square statistical technique. The findings indicates that linear programming, Network Analysis and decision trees are some of the operations research tools used in decision making and that the benefits enjoyed as a result of applying operations research to decision making justifies the expenditure incurred in that respect. The study also recommends that the use of operations research should be encouraged and sustained in view of the numerous benefits it offers to firms and that firms should embark on aggressive training of personnel to reduce resistance to its use.

CHAPTER ONE/INTRODUCTION

1.1 BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY

Everyday, managers makes decisions that commit organizational resources. These decisions determine the survival, growth or even death of an organization. The decision making process is not always activated when a manager perceives a problem as most decisions are made to ensure the stability, continuity and expansion of good prospects and operating performance. (Akintoye and Oluwatosin, 2006; 387).The Process of decision making requires the analysis of alternative solutions and the identification and selection of the alternative that offers the best outcome.

Managers today especially in developing countries use exclusively experience, hunches and rule of thumb in their decision making process. This qualitative approach may be found useful and adequate in certain circumstances but inadequate in others. When the problem is repetitive and the data are quantifiable, we find greater scope for the application of the quantitative techniques to ensure rational and logical decisions.

 

Okeke (1996; 1) opines that in the qualitative approach to decision making, the manager relies on his personal intuition or past experience in solving similar problems. Such an Intuitive “feel” for the problem may be sufficient for making a decision. He however concluded that there are problems for which more quantitative approach is inevitable.

 

This quantitative approach that we mean here goes by so many names; Management science, operations research, Quantitative Management, Decision Sciences, Systems Analysis etc. Although attempts have been made by some writers to differentiate these terms, they are quite often used interchangeably, their unifying factor or common denominator being their utilization of the techniques of Mathematics, Engineering, Economics, Computer Science etc in finding solutions to organizational problems.

Operations Research is simply defined as the application of scientific methodology in making more explicit, more systematic and better decisions. (Litterer, 1978:171).Scientific methodology is defined as a process of or logical approach to developing models that explain and predict real-world behavior. (Dannenbring and starr, 1988:1).Thus operation research seeks to describe, understand and predict the behavior of complex systems of human beings and equipment (Stoner, 1982:186).

 

As the name implies, one can say that operations research means research on operations. Filley and House (1969:10) have noted that organizations and their component units carry on goal-oriented activities referred to as “operations” and that the systematic study leading to decisions as to which operations should be undertaken and how they should be tackled  is termed “research”. What management scientists or operations researchers do is to observe decision making environment, try  to identify, define and analyze problems, construct models which seek to solve these problems, choose those inputs of data required for a solution, find the optimal solution when it could be found and help in the implementation of the identified solution(Levin et al,1986:5).Operations research provides managers with quantitative basis for decision making and enhance their ability to make long range plans and develop broad strategy.

 

Operations research is approached in a spirit that demands that decision problems be properly defined, analyzed and solved in a conscious, rational, logical, systematic and scientific manner based on data, facts, information and logic (Loomba, 1978:25).The quantitative techniques inherent in management science are not to be regarded as an explicit formular to be uniformly applied to all types of situations. Rather, it is a style of management, which demands a conscious, systematic and scientific analysis and resolution of decision proba,1978:26-27).But the fact that the use of quantitative data constitutes the corner stone of operations research does not in any way preclude the use of qualitative analysis in arriving at optimal decisions. The quantitative approach, must build upon, be modified by and continually benefit from the experiences and creative insights of managers. The final stage in the decision making process, after all, is the exercise of judgment and in making this judgment, the decision taker has to take different factors-quantitative and qualitative into account. For example, there may be sudden change in government policy or of government itself, change of weather, technological advancement and so on. And this makes it very necessary for managers to involve qualitative approaches in decision making.

1.2. STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEMS 

The use of operation research tools in decision making presents a lot of challenges to the modern day manager irrespective of the benefits that comes with it.

Mathematical models are applicable to only specific categories of problems since not all business related problems are amenable to Mathematical modeling or configuration. Issues such as motivation, leadership style, organizational politics etc cannot be modeled. (Akintoye and oluwatosin; 2006:336)

 

The insufficient number of qualified and experienced personnel who could effectively apply these operations research models to firm’s decision making presents another problem. There are few professionals who have acquired practical exposure in the application of operations research to decision making in firms.

Finally resistance to changes is another issue that confronts the manager in the use of operations research in decision making. The use of operations research often generates resistance from employees and management because its implementation usually introduces changes to the known convention within the organization. This fear of the unknown may inhibit objective implementation of the recommendations. (Akintoye and oluwatosin; 2006, 336).

1.3 OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDY

The specific objectives which the study seeks to achieve are;

1) To determine the various operations research models used by organizations in decision making.

2) To identify the benefits derived from applying operations research models in decision making processes of firms.

3) To find out if the benefits derived from implementing operations research techniques in making decisions justifies the expenditure involved.

4) To determine the nature of the relationship existing between the use of operations research in decision making and the productivity levels of firms.

5) To identify problems which manufacturing firms encounter in the application of operations research to decision making?

1.4 RESEARCH QUESTIONS

This research study will seek to provide answers to the following research questions;

 

1) What are the various operations research models used by organizations in making decisions?

 

2) What benefits do organizations derive from the application of operations research models to decision making?

 

3) Does the benefit which accrues to firms by using operations research in decision making justify the expenditure involved?

 

4) What is the nature of the relationship between the use of operations research in decision making and the productivity levels in firms?

 

5) What are the problems encountered by manufacturing firms in applying operations research models in decision making?

 

1.5 RESEARCH HYPOTHESES

The following hypotheses would be tested for acceptance or rejection;

1)  HO1:   Linear programming, Network Analysis and Decision tree are some of the operations research models used by firms in decision making.

      Hi1:  Linear programming, Network Analysis and Decision tree are not some of the operations research models used by firms in decision making.

2) Ho2: Cost reduction, increased productivity and efficiency are some benefits enjoyed by firms that apply operations research tools in decision making.

   Hi2: Cost reduction, increased productivity and efficiency are not some of the benefits enjoyed by firms that apply operations research tools in decision making.

3) Ho3: The benefit that accrues to firms by using operations research in decision making justifies the expenditure incurred in implementing it.

     Hi3: The benefits that accrue to firms by using operations research in decision making do not justify the expenditure incurred in implementing it.

4) Ho4: There is a positive linear relationship between the use of operations research in decision making and the productivity levels in firms.

    Hi4: There is no positive linear relationship between the use of operations research in decision making and the productivity levels in firms.

5) Ho5: Employee resistance, lack of commitment and insufficient number of specialists are some limitations encountered in using operations research in decision making.

     Hi5: Employee resistance, lack of commitment and insufficient number of specialist are not some of the limitations encountered in using operations research in decision making.

1.6 SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY

This study has both practical and Academic significance to the society. The basic significance of this study is that it focuses on a subject on which very little has actually been written on so far.

 

Though manufacturing companies have existed for decades, very few authors have really explored how operations research models could be applied to organizational decision making in manufacturing companies. In this light, this study would contribute in building a literature on operations research.

 

1.7   SCOPE OF THE STUDY

The study is on the appraisal of the application of operations research models to the decision making process of manufacturing companies. The study is limited to selected manufacturing companies in Enugu, south eastern Nigeria. Manufacturing companies are scattered in Enugu and it will be difficult to cover all of them  given the constraints involved in such exercise.

The study will therefore concentrate on the following companies;

  1. a) Innoson Technical and Industrial Company Limited
  2. b) Anammco Nigeria Limited
  3. c) Juhel Nigeria Limited

 

These companies were chosen because of their large market share and most importantly the use of the scientific method in their decision making process.

In addition to the above named organizations, the work will make general references to all manufacturing organizations as the need arises.

1.8   LIMITATIONS OF THE STUDY

The basic limitations to this study are those that have to do with time, finance and the attitude of the respondents.

 

  1. a) Time: The time limit for this study is very limited. This research work is time consuming and because of the limited time the researcher could not obtain all the information needed for this study.

 

  1. b) Finance: Another prominent limitation to this study is the limitation placed on finance. The budget for this research was so huge and the researcher has not got enough money to embark upon the study. Due to the financial constraint, the researcher could not visit places where information relevant to the study could be obtained.

 

  1. c) Attitude of the respondents: Finally the lack of corporation of the respondents nearly frustrated this research effort especially as it has to do with the companies employees. The respondents were unwilling to supply the necessary information even when they have been assured confidentiality and that the information supplied would only be used for academic purposes.

In spite of these limitations, the findings of this research will still be valid.

1.9 DEFINITION OF TERMS

  1. a) Decisions: This is a choice or judgment that is made by a manager after thinking about what is best to do.(Hornby,2001;301)
  2. b) Decision making: This is the analysis of alternative solutions and the identification and selection of the alternative that offers the best outcome.(Akintoye and oluwatosin,2006;387)
  3. c) Models: A model is an idealized representation of a real life situation which allows managers to analyze and understand a system very well.
  4. d) Operations research: This is a multi-disciplinary area of activity that is concerned with organizational problems, the location of optimum solutions to problems relating to performance of men, money, materials and machines.

e)     Productivity: This has to do with the rate at which a firm produces goods and the amount of goods produced compared with how much time, work and money is needed to produce them.

Dec 15

AN ASSESSMENT OF HUMAN RESOURCES MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES

AN ASSESSMENT OF HUMAN RESOURCES MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES

Abstract

Human resources management exist to help employees and organization reach their numerous goals. In the course of doing this, they face many challenges arising from the demands of the employees, the organizations and the society. And, in a depressed economy like Nigeria, it takes an effective and efficient human resources manager to meet these challenges proactively. The purpose of human resources management is to improve the productive contribution of people in the organization in way that are strategically, ethically and socially responsible. This purpose guides the study and practice of human resources management. In line with the above, this research work investigated low productivity of workers as a basis for investigating the methodology adopted in managing human resources in Emenite Enugu. The study is divided into five chapters. Chapter one is the introductory chapter in which major direction of the work is discussed. Chapter two discussed the review of the related literature. Chapter three discussed the research design and methodology, while chapter four discussed the presentation and analysis of data. Chapter five discussed the findings, recommendations and conclusions based on the analysed data. From the data collected and analysed it was found that the human resources management techniques, methods and process employed by Emenite improved workers performance and productivity of the organization

  • CHAPTER ONE
    1.0 INTRODUCTION 1
    1.1 Background of the study 1
    1.2 Historical background of Emenite ltd 8
    1.3 The statement of the problem 20
    1.4 Objectives of the study 22
    1.5 Significance of the study 23
    1.6 Scope and limitation of the study 23
    1.7 Research Question 25
    1.8 Definition of terms 26
    References 31
  • CHAPTER TWO
    2.0 REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE 32
    2.1 Overview of human resource management 32
    2.2 Human resource planning-job evaluation 38
    2.3 Recruitment 40
    2.4 Selection 42
    2.5 Orientation of new employees 43
    2.6 Training and development 44
    2.7 Motivation as a human resources strategy 46
    2.8 Management and Employee relationship 54
    2.9 Employees performance appraisal 56
    2.10 Reward system 57
    2.11 Separation 59
    2.12 Issues influencing human resource activities 62
    2.12.2 Work Group influence 64
    2.12.3 Nature of task 64
    2.12.4 Budget 65
    2.12.5 External environment forces 66
    2.12.6 Economic conditions 67
    2.12.7 Government requirement and regulations 68
    2.12.8 Labour market 70
    2.12.9 Trade union /labour organization 70
    2.12.10 Collective bargaining process 73
    2.13.1 Strategic management 75
    2.13.2 Managing Fundamentals 77
    2.13.3 Human resources management approach 79
    2.13.4 Industrial relations strategy 82
    2.13.5 Marketing strategy 84
    2.13.6 Downsizing 86
    2.13.7 Teamwork 89
    2.13.8 Just in time 90
    2.13.9 Evaluating the efficacy of HRM 90
    References 92
    CHAPTER THREE
    RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODOLOGY
    3.1 Methodology 97
    3.2 Design of the study 97
    3.3 Sources of data 98
    3.3.1 Primary data 98
    3.3.2 Secondary data 100
    3.4 Procedure in collection of data 100
    3.5 Population of the study 101
    3.6 Determination of sample size 101
    3.7 Validity of the instrument 104
    3.8 Reliability of the instrument 105
    3.9 Treatment of data 106
    References 107
    CHAPTER FOUR
    4.0 PRESENTATION, ANALYSIS AND INTERPRETATION
    OF DATA 108
    4.1 Introduction 108
    4.2 Presentation and analysis of data 109
    CHAPTER FIVE
    5.0 SUMMARY OF FINDINGS, RECOMMENDATIONS
    AND CONCLUSIONS 127
    5.1 Findings of the study 127
    5.2 Recommendations 129
    5.3 Conclusion 130
Dec 15

AN APPRAISAL OF BUSINESS POLICY MODELS

AN APPRAISAL OF BUSINESS POLICY MODELS IN THE MANAGEMENT OF MISSION HOSPITALS IN THE SOUTH EAST NIGERIA

ABSTRACT

The study on the appraisal of Business policy models in the management of mission hospitals in the South East was motivated by the need to proffer possible strategies and solutions by the use of open system and stakeholders’ business policy models in the management of mission hospitals in the South East Nigeria. The study was guided by six key objectives from which appropriate research questions and hypotheses were formulated. The study adopted survey design. The research instruments were questionnaire and oral interviews. The population of the study was 6000 staff of the 27 selected mission hospitals drawn from 57 registered mission hospitals in the five states comprising: Abia, Anambra, Ebonyi, Enugu, and Imo States of South East Nigeria. A sample size of 375 was determined from the population using Taro Yamane’s formula while Purposive sampling technique was used in selection of the mission hospitals.  Cronbach Alpha was used in testing the validity and the reliability of the research instrument. The result was 0.98 indicating a high degree of relationship. The hypotheses were tested using parametric and non parametric statistical techniques which included:  Friedman Chi-square (X2), ANOVA (one-way) and Z-test. Findings reveal that the quality of service to patients in the mission hospitals to a large extent is contingent on having appropriate equipment, competent doctors and availability of drugs as contained in the open business policy model.  Stakeholders’ business policy model to a large extent also contributed to sustainability of operation in the management of mission hospitals. The study also indicated that open system business policy model to a large extent promoted competitiveness in the management of mission hospitals. There was a significant relationship between open business policy model and human resource management in the mission hospitals. Environmental turbulence and uncertainties such as ‘government policies on taxations and importation’ constituted the greatest challenges to the adoption of business policy models in mission hospitals. Stakeholders’ business policy model also impacted positively on the supply chain management through drug availability, quality drugs and good treatment in mission hospitals. Based on the results of the study, the following recommendations were made: hospitals Organizations should work toward greater relationship management institutionalize sustainability factors that can boost the confidence of staff, restructure the rules of management by adopting new strategies that encourages interactions and interdependence between the hospital and its environments. Hospital management should undertake continuous service innovation of activities and put in place in all the hospitals, boundary spanners who are expected to keep management informed about the environmental changes which could affect business policy adoption.  Private public partnership in the healthcare institutions should be fostered in the mission hospitals. The study concludes that adopting open system and stakeholders’ business policy models are vital and important for high performance management of the mission hospitals. With appropriate implementation of  business policy as was identified in this work the following outcomes will be inevitable: service quality will be assured, sustainability of operation will be improved, competitive advantage will be maximized, human resource management will be stable, effective and efficient, supply chain management will be optimized and environmental challenges will be predicted, adapted to and managed.

Dec 15

ADOPTION OF STRATEGY GOALS: EXPLORING THE SUCCESS OF STRATEGY IMPLEMENTATION THROUGH ORGANIZATIONAL

ADOPTION OF STRATEGY GOALS: EXPLORING THE SUCCESS OF STRATEGY IMPLEMENTATION THROUGH ORGANIZATIONAL

ABSTRACT

This study is about the success of strategy implementation. Implementation, the conceptual counterpart of strategy formulation, has been regarded as an extremely challenging area in management practice. Still, strategy implementation has received remarkably less attention in the strategic management literature. The existing implementation frameworks are mostly normative and rather limited.

On the other hand, the strategy as practice research agenda has emerged to study strategy on the micro level, as a social phenomenon. Practice researchers have introduced an activity – based view on strategy that is concerned with the day – to – day activities of organizational life that relate to strategic outcomes. Still, there is a clear need to know more about these strategic activities: what are they like, and how are they related to strategic outcomes.

This study explores the success of strategy implementation in terms of organizational activities, by focusing on two questions: how are the strategy goals realized through organic goal’s adoption? The research questions are addressed empirically.

The analysis produces a general strategic activity categorization consisting of numerous activities under five main activity categories of determining, communicating, controlling, organization and interacting with the environment. The activities divide into existing and desired ones, which further divide into enhancing and novel one, the analysis reveals that successful adoption of a strategic goal is desired activities that enhance the existing ones and extensive repertories of novel desired activities in addition, the scope of the strategic goals’ origin and its coherence with other elements of strategy is proposed to contribute to the adoption of the strategic goal.

The study contributed to the strategy as practice discussion by taking the activity – based view seriously and showing in detail what the strategic activities are like and how they are linked to the success of strategy implementation. The research reveals that strategy implementation is a much more complicated, creative, communicative, and external oriented phenomenon than the extant literature presents. Furthermore this study adds to the very limited empirical research on how strategies are adopted and enacted on all organizational levels. The practical implications of the study concern critical evaluation of existing and desired activity patterns, as well as understanding the significance of the strategic goals’ origin and the coherence of the strategic whole

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Title page

Certification

Dedication

Acknowledgement

Abstract

Table of contents

CHAPTER ONE

  • Background of the study
  • Statement of problem
  • Objectives of the study
  • Research questions
  • Hypotheses formulation
  • Significance of the study
  • Scope of the study
  • Limitations of the study
  • Definition of terms

References

CHAPTER TWO

  • 2.0 Review of related literature
  • 2.1 The concept of strategy
  • 2.2 Strategy as content and process
  • 2.3 Strategy as practice: An activity Based view of strategy
  • 2.3.1 Strategizing all over the organization
  • 2.4 strategic goals and components
  • 2.4.1 Individual collective and organization goals
  • 2.4.2 Strategic intent and goal
  • 2.5 Adoption of strategic goals
  • 2.6 Organization strategic activities
  • 2.7 The Essence of strategic action
  • 2.8 Strategic activities, Types and classification
  • 2.8.1 Strategic activity classification
  • 2.9 Bourdex Telecom’s strategic goal
  • 2.9.1 Development project related activities
  • 2.9.2 Desired activities for customer service
  • Process improvement

Reference

CHAPTER THREE

  • 3.0 Research methodology
  • 3.1 Research design
  • 3.2 Area of the study
  • 3.3 Population of study
  • 3.4 Sample size determination
  • 3.5 Instrument of Data Collection
  • 3.6 Method of Data presentation and analysis

References

CHAPTER FOUR

  • 4.1 Presentation and Analysis of Data
  • 4.2 Hypotheses test
  • CHAPTER FIVE
  • 5.0 Summary of findings, recommendation and conclusion
  • 5.1 Summary of findings,
  • 5.2 recommendations
  • 5.3 Conclusion
Dec 15

Leadership style among expatriate and Nigerian managers

Leadership style among expatriate and Nigerian managers

ABSTRACT

The study investigated the practice of leadership style among expatriate and Nigerian managers comparatively from the oil sector in Nigeria. The sample size for this work was 199 respondents randomly selected. Questionnaires prepared in three sets were administered. The first set administered to all the selected respondents irrespective of their levels of education and management hierarchy. The second set was directed to managers at middle level, while the third set was administered to highly educated managers, so to say. There were three research questions and three hypotheses in this research work. Z-test and chi-square were the statistical tools used in analyzing the research questions and the hypotheses. The result showed that there is significant difference between the proportion of expatriate managers who practice autocratic leadership style and the proportion of Nigerian managers who practice autocratic leadership styles. It also showed that middle level-expatriate managers are less autocratic than their Nigerian counterparts. That, there is no significant difference between the proportion of highly educated Nigerian managers who practice democratic leadership style. The major determinant of these significant differences could be seen to be cultural variable. Lastly, education seemed to be the dictator of the lack of significant difference between the proportion of highly educated Nigerian and expatriate managers that practice democratic leadership style. Based on the above findings, some recommendations were made and the work has implications for both expatriate managers and their Nigeria counterparts and suggestion for further studies were made.

CHAPTER ONE

1.1   Background of the Study

Leadership is an art. It is a secular subject which is necessary for both expatriate and Nigerian managers to understand. Without the knowledge and skills of leadership your company organization is going nowhere.

Whenever there is a good leader, you will notice a great deal of development and you will notice prosperity. The absence of leadership can be seen clearly in the two worlds. You will notice the absence of leaders in the spiritual or church world. When there is lack of good leadership in the organization or secular world, you will notice poverty, lack of development of the organization, lack of knowledge coming due to none teaching from those expected to impact the knowledge.

Directing the human resources of an organization to achieve organizational goals could be the most difficult functions of management. In big organizations like Shell and Elf, different people from all walk of life come together to make use of the physical resources to achieve the companies plans. The fact that no two human beings are the same makes leadership functions very complex.

The leader as a human being comes into the organization with a different aspiration, temperament and intellectuality. The way he plays his role determines how other people perceive him. Leadership has been subjected to many definitions. This means that there is no general opinion regarding how the term “leadership” should be defined. This lack of opinion is not really, an outcome of lack of assets.

Many years of studies and researches have led to series of theories and models. Supporting this, Nwachukwu (1998) states that “many studies have been built-up creating more confusions”. He also cited another scholar who shares the same view with McCall, Jr., who states that “the growing mountain of research data has produced an impressive mass of contradiction”.

There are almost as many definitions of leadership as there are researchers who have studies the topic (and over 3000 empirical studies of leadership have been carried out)” cited in Feldman and Aronold (1983). Wexley and Yukl (1980) equally hold that,

“During the last few decades, hundreds of laboratories and field studies have been conducted to learn about the nature of leadership in organization. Most of the early studies of leadership were attempts to identify unique traits that are characteristic of successful leaders but not unsuccessful leaders or non-leaders”.  

However, Nwachukwu in his book defines leadership as “a social influencing process for attainment of goals”. He cited other scholars-Alam and Robert who defined leadership as a process where one person (or group of persons) exert(s) social influence over the members of a group. Elaborating on this, he states further that “a leader is the most influential person in an organization who provides direction, guides group activities and ensures that group objectives are attained”. A good leader, therefore, should be able to persuade others to move willingly and interestingly towards the achievement of group goals or objectives.

Bernard (1983) cited in Adag and Brief (1981) defined leadership “as the ability of one person to influence the behavior of another”. It is, therefore noteworthy to mention that the concept of leadership involves the concept of influence that induces any attempt directed at influencing the behavior of others for goals that may or may not coincide with those of the organization.

This led us to realize that in any typical organization, leadership exists in two forms-formal and informal. Somebody who is elected, appointed or nominated to a position of authority is said to exercise formal leadership. While informal leadership is exerted by a person who emerges as influential over others as a result of possessing special skills of resources which others do not have.

The influence a leader has helps him in obtaining and maintaining a high level of employee-test motivation and willingness to implement decisions. In addition to inducing subordinates, leaders in organizations usually perform very many other important functions. Such functions as ensuring the efficient organization of the group to perform its tasks in the most desirable way, ensuring that workers receive essential instruction and information, proper and immediate conflict management among subordinates, and maintenance of group cohesion and team work.

Leadership style indicates the pattern of leadership behaviour that characterizes a certain leader. Rue and Byers (1983) comment that studies conducted in the 1970’s by Kurt Levin, Ronald Hippit, and Ralph K White concentrated on the manner or style of leadership, these studies identified three basic leadership styles, autocratic, Laissez-faire and democratic”. Generally, the democratic leader guides and encourages the group to make and participate in making decision. A lassiez-faire leader allows individuals to make all decisions. And an autocratic leader makes all decisions for the group. The choice of a leadership style can be said to be determined by many factors which are leader’s motivational structure, that is, whether he or she is primarily motivated by talk accomplishment, by good inter-personal relationship, or cultural and educational orientation.

Then it is against this background described that the researcher wants to write to write on leadership styles of expatriate and Nigerian managers, a case study of two companies in Nigeria.

1.2   Statement of the Problem

Tuckman (1998) emphasized that the problem of the study should be stated clearly and unambiguously usually in a question form. So, the researcher while handling the topic which is the comparative study of the practice of leadership styles of expatriate and Nigerian managers to be the following problems:

  1. If there is any significant difference in the practice of leadership between the expatriates and Nigerian managers?
  2. If there is difference between the percentage of educated Nigerian managers and percentage of educated expatriate managers who practice democratic leadership?
  3. If there is, is the difference significant?
  4. Are middle level expatriate managers more autocratic than their Nigerian counterparts?

1.3   The Objective of the Study

  1. To investigate comparatively, the practice of leadership styles among expatriates and Nigerian managers.
  2. To determine whether there is no significant difference between the percentage of educated Nigerian managers and the percentage of educated expatriate managers who practice democratic leadership style.
  3. To determine whether the middle expatriate managers are more autocratic than their indigenous counterparts.

 

1.4   Research Questions

The research questions needed to be answered in this research so as to give the study necessary focus are as follows:

  1. That any significant difference exists between the practice of leadership among expatriates and Nigerian managers.
  2. That any difference between the percentage of educated Nigerian managers and the percentage of educated expatriate managers who practice democratic leadership style.
  3. That there are middle level expatriate managers more autocratic than their Nigerian counterparts.

1.5   The Hypotheses of the Study

The following null hypotheses are formulated to guide this study.

  1. There is no significant difference in the practice of leadership between expatriate and Nigerian managers.
  2. There is no significant difference between the educated Nigerian managers who practice democratic leadership style and the percentage of educated expatriate managers, who practice democratic leadership style:
  3. Middle level expatriate managers are more autocratic than their indigenous Nigerian counterparts.

1.6   Significance of the Study

        This study will be useful to both private and public organizations in the oil sector of the economy. The study will also be useful to students of management and those who provide information in organization like Shell and Agip Companies, in making sound policy decisions.

1.7.1   Scope of the Study and

1.7.2 Limitation of the Study

This study is aimed at investigating the practice of leadership styles among expatriates and Nigeria managers in selected oil companies like Shell and Elf.

A major area of limitation was the attitude of respondents, most of which were non-chalant, non co-co-operative, and ignorant about the subject oft the study.

Finally, this study was also constrained in terms of time, money and logistics, and of which none came cheap.

1.9   Definition of Terms

For the purpose of ensuring a better understating of the study, a clarification of some terms used in the study is provided as follows:

  1. Autocratic Leadership: Leadership approach that is practiced by any leader who makes most of all the decision for a group and has little concern for the human relationship of his employees. The leader’s concern is only with task at hand, high task, one person oriented leader.
  2. Democratic Leadership: Leadership approach in which the leader guides and encourages individuals within the group to make decisions. The leaders concern is not only with task at hand, but also with employees welfare, high-task, high person-oriented.
  3. Expatriates: Any person who is of foreign origin irrespective of nationality.
  4. Higher Education: The level of education in which one earns a first degree certificate and above.
  5. Influence: The ability of a person to alter the behaviour of another person.
  6. Laissez-Faire Leadership: Leadership approach in which the leader allows the organization to make all decisions. The leader is low-tasked and low person-oriented