A Reader at the University of Calabar, Virginia Emmanuel Ironbar, has unveiled two books aimed at advancing knowledge in community development and innovative teaching practices NEGROIDHAVEN can say.
The books, titled Digital Framework for Rural and Community Development: Principles, Theories and Practice; and Community Psychology and Pedagogical Innovations in Teaching and Learning, were presented on Friday at the Cross River State Library Complex in Calabar.
Speaking at the event, Ironbar said the books were written to bridge the gap between academic theories and the realities of communities.
She noted that while academic work often focuses on theories and data, it is important for scholars to connect research to the lived experiences of people.
“Behind every theory is a beating heart. These books were born to bridge the gap between theories and human stories,” she said.
Ironbar also expressed appreciation to her colleagues, mentors, students and family members for their support, noting that the works were the product of years of academic engagement and field experience.
Reviewing the book on education, Community Psychology and Pedagogical Innovations in Teaching and Learning, a scholar, Professor Alexander Timothy, emphasised the importance of contextual learning.
He said teaching methods should reflect the social and cultural backgrounds of learners rather than relying on abstract examples disconnected from their realities.
According to him, learning does not occur in a vacuum, adding that effective teaching requires an understanding of the community and environment from which learners come.
Also reviewing the second book, Digital Framework for Rural and Community Development: Principles, Theories and Practice, another scholar, Dr. Bassey Ekpenyong, highlighted the growing relevance of technology in development planning.
Ekpenyong said the book proposes a framework that integrates digital tools, including information technology and artificial intelligence, into strategies for rural and community development.
He noted that the global shift towards digital systems requires development experts and policymakers to rethink traditional approaches to rural development.
The reviewer added that technology could help improve the measurement of economic contributions in rural communities, particularly among women engaged in agriculture and small-scale trading.
The event attracted academics, development experts, public officials and students, who commended the author for contributing to scholarship in education and development studies.
