AN INVESTIGATION OF THE CHALLENGES OF REMOTE WORK IN THE ERA OF INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY (ICT) AS PERCEIVED BY OFFICE TECHNOLOGY AND MANAGEMENT STUDENTS

The aim of this study is to an investigation of the challenges of remote work in the era of information and communication technology (ICT) in Office Technology and Management. Four research questions guided the work. The study reviewed literature on the challenges of remote work in information and communication technology (ICT). The population of this study was eighty four(84) students of Office Technology and Management, Federal Polytechnic Bauchi. The instrument used for this study was survey design. Questionnaires were used for data collection. The data collected were analyzed using five-point likers scale. The instrument was validated by two lecturers from Department of Office Technology and Management. The Findings show that remote work has a positive effect on time management, independence, problem-solving, and communication. It also reveals that remote work improves independent decision-making and reduces miscommunication but poses challenges to collaborative decision-making. The study, therefore, concluded that remote work, supported by ICT tools, has a generally positive effect on Office Technology and Management. It enhances independence, improves time management, and strengthens task delegation and performance evaluation. It was recommended among others that Organizations should provide regular training in leadership, communication, conflict resolution, and time management for remote managers and employees. The researchers suggest that to Investigate the long-term psychological and social effects of remote work on employees’ productivity and well-being. And to conduct similar research across other disciplines to determine whether the findings in Office Technology and Management are consistent with other professional fields.