PERFORMANCE

This study examines the performance of the ZigBee Received Signal Strength Indicator (RSSI) in indoor environments, with a focus on understanding how distance and environmental obstacles influence wireless signal propagation. The research was conducted at the Faculty of Engineering, University of Benin, utilizing two ZigBee Pro S2B modules configured through XCTU software. Measurements were taken at distances ranging from 10 feet to 50 feet, under various conditions involving obstacles such as furniture, walls, and human presence. The findings indicate that RSSI values exhibit a progressive decline with increased distance and greater obstacle density. Specifically, the signal strength diminished by approximately 4 to 6 dB for every 10-foot increment, with an additional decrease of 3 to 5 dB for every two additional obstacles encountered. It was determined that walls and human presence are the most significant factors contributing to signal attenuation, due to effects related to reflection, absorption, and scattering. These results are consistent with theoretical path loss models and corroborate prior empirical studies, reinforcing the notion that the performance of ZigBee technology is significantly influenced by environmental conditions. The study concludes that ZigBee is well-suited for short-range, low-power Internet of Things (IoT) and sensor applications; however, optimal node placement and the implementation of mesh networking are critical for ensuring reliable communication in complex indoor environments. The insights derived from this research hold valuable implications for enhancing the design and deployment of wireless sensor networks in academic and smart-building contexts.

Construction projects are frequently affected by labour-related problems that disrupt project delivery and reduce overall performance. This study examined labour-related factors affecting construction project performance in Edo State. It evaluated the frequency and severity of labourrelated factors, ascertained differences in the severity of labour-related factors on the performance of construction projects and determined the influence of labour-related factors on project cost performance in Edo State. A quantitative research approach was employed through the administration of a structured questionnaire to professionals in contracting firms such as architects, builders, M&E engineers, quantity surveyors, civil and structural engineers. The data collected were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Kruskal Wallis H test to determine, differences in the effects of labour-related factors on project cost performance in Edo State. The findings reveal that, the most frequent and severe labour-related factor affecting project cost performance is time management. The severity of most labour-related factors do not differ for different firm sizes and cost performance levels. However, the severity of occupational education level and experience was observed to be significantly different among micro, small and medium construction firms. While training was observed to be significantly different for different cost performance levels. The study recommends that micro construction firms should employ highly skilled and experienced labourers. The study demonstrated the contribution of labour-related factors to construction cost performance.

The study empirically examined change management and performance within the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency. To guide the study, three research questions were raised, and three hypothesis was generated. A survey research design which entails the use of structured questionnaire in sampling the opinion of the respondents on the subject was adopted in gathering data three. The Taro Yamane (1976)sample determination formula was used to determine the sample size from the population,and after due computation, a sample of 280 respondents was arrived at. A total of 280 questionnaires were distributed. The data collected were analyzed using descriptive statistics, simple frequency count, percentages, and mean. Findings obtained from the analysis among other things, showed emotional readiness plays a crucial role in enhancing employee performance within the organization. It was concluded that successful change management in Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency depends largely on the extent to which employees are emotionally,cognitively, and intentionally prepared to engage with and sustain transformation processes, making readiness a critical determinant of organizational performance and long-term success Based on the findings, the study suggested that the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) should introduce regular emotional intelligence and stress management workshops to help employees develop resilience and adaptability during organisational change processes.

In today's fast-paced and competitive business environment, organizations are constantly seeking innovative strategies to enhance their performance and maintain a competitive edge. Employment training and development have emerged as crucial components of organizational success, enabling employees to acquire new skills, knowledge, and competencies that drive productivity and efficiency. This study investigates the impact of employment training and development on organizational performance, with a specific focus on the department of Vocational and Technical Education, University of Benin. The descriptive survey research design was adopted, with a population of all administrative staff from within the faculty of Education, University of Benin, Benin city, Edo state. A proportionate sampling technique yielded a sample size of 60 respondents. Four research questions were raised and answered in the study. Data was collected using a structured questionnaire and analyzed using mean and standard deviation. The findings of this study reveal a positive correlation between employment training and development initiatives and organizational performance metrics, including employee productivity, job satisfaction, and retention rates. The study also identifies key factors that influence the effectiveness of training programs, including leadership support, employee engagement, and opportunities for skill application. The results of this study provide valuable insights for organizational leaders and human resource practitioners seeking to optimize their training and development initiatives and enhance overall organizational performance. The study's findings have significant implications for the development of evidence-based training strategies that drive business success.

This study examined the attainment of pupils physiological needs and academic performance of primary school pupils in Owan West LGA. To guide this study, Six research questions were raised. Two were answered while four were formulated into hypotheses and tested at 0.05 level of significance. The study was a descriptive survey research which adopted the correlational research design. A total of 100 respondents who are parents of pupils in public primary schools in Owan West LGA formed the sample of the study. The research instrument used was a questionnaire titled "Physiological needs and academic performance of pupils questionnaire (PNAPPQ)." Data collected were analysed using mean score, standard deviation, Pearson Product Moment Correlation Coefficient and the Fisher Z test. The findings revealed that the level of attainment of pupils physiological needs and the level of academic performance of primary pupils were high in Owan West LGA. The findings further showed that there is no significant relationship between the level of attainment of physiological needs and academic performance of primary school pupils. Other findings include that there is no significant difference in the relationship between the level of attainment of physiological needs and the level of academic performance of primary school pupils in Owan West Local Government of Edo State based on location, parents educational background and socio-economic status of the family. Based on the findings, it was recommended among others that; government agencies and other non-profit organizations should consider taking up water and sanitation projects to the grassroots to ensure better learning outcomes from pupils. Sleep has influence on academic performance. Pupils should have at least 8 hours of sleep daily, as recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO)

This study investigates the effect of examination stress on students of the University of Benin, with particular focus on its causes, manifestations, and influence on academic performance and general well-being. The research aims to identify the major sources of examination-related stress, assess its impact on students’ academic outcomes, and examine the coping strategies employed by students in managing such stress. The study adopted a descriptive survey design. Data were collected through the use of a structured questionnaire administered to a representative sample of students in the Department of Sociology, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Benin. The data obtained were analyzed using simple percentages and frequency distributions for clarity and easy interpretation. Findings revealed that factors such as inadequate preparation, fear of failure, pressure to achieve high grades, and poor time management significantly contribute to students’ stress during examinations. The study further discovered that examination stress leads to anxiety, emotional instability, poor concentration, and a decline in academic performance among students. Based on these findings, the study recommends that the university management should organize regular counseling sessions and stress management seminars to assist students in handling examination-related pressure. Lecturers are also encouraged to create supportive learning environments, while students should adopt effective study habits and time management skills. In conclusion, the study affirms that examination stress, though an inevitable part of academic life, can be effectively managed through institutional support, personal discipline, and proper preparation, thereby improving students’ academic performance and overall well-being

This study was designed to diagnose influence of mental toughness on the performance of student- athletes; in the university of Benin.. The purpose of the study was to investigate the influence of mental toughness on student- athletes; The study adopted survey research design. The study made use of questionnaire to obtain data from respondent. Five objectives were raised for the study. The study made use of questionnaire to obtain data from respondent. three objectives were raised for the study. The result showed that mental toughness significantly influences the performance of student-athletes. The study also showed a positive and statistically significant correlation implying that as mental toughness increases, so did performance indicators such as endurance, tactical execution, and competitive composure. Based on the findings of the study, it was recommended among others that The University of Benin Sports Unit should formally integrate mental skills training into regular training programs for student-athletes. Techniques such as goal setting, visualization, positive self-talk, concentration drills, and stress-management strategies should be taught alongside physical and technical training to enhance mental toughness and overall athletic performance.

The study empirically examined change management and performance within the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency. To guide the study, three research questions were raised, and three hypothesis was generated. A survey research design which entails the use of structured questionnaire in sampling the opinion of the respondents on the subject was adopted in gathering data three. The Taro Yamane (1976) sample determination formula was used to determine the sample size from the population, and after due computation, a sample of 280 respondents was arrived at. A total of 280 questionnaires were distributed. The data collected were analyzed using descriptive statistics, simple frequency count, percentages, and mean. Findings obtained from the analysis among other things, showed emotional readiness plays a crucial role in enhancing employee performance within the organization. It was concluded that successful change management in Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency depends largely on the extent to which employees are emotionally, cognitively, and intentionally prepared to engage with and sustain transformation processes, making readiness a critical determinant of organizational performance and long-term success Based on the findings, the study suggested that the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) should introduce regular emotional intelligence and stress management workshops to help employees develop resilience and adaptability during organisational change processes.

The study examined comparative study on chemistry students’ performance taught in rural and urban areas in Egor Local Government Area of Edo State. The study adopted the survey design using questionnaire as instrument of data collection. The data was analyzed using percentage table to present the analysis of data sourced from the field survey. The results revealed that there is a significant difference in Chemistry students’ performance between rural and urban schools in Egor LGA. Urban students generally outperform their rural counterparts due to better access to qualified teachers, well- equipped laboratories, modern instructional materials, and a more conducive learning environment. Rural students face multiple challenges, including inadequate textbooks, limited parental and peer support, poor classroom environments, and shortages of experienced Chemistry teachers, all of which negatively affect their academic achievement. The findings confirm that school location is a major determinant of student performance in Chemistry, highlighting disparities in educational resources and support systems between rural and urban areas. The study recommends that educational authorities should prioritize upgrading laboratory facilities, classrooms, and
instructional materials in rural schools to provide a more conducive learning environment. There should be strategic deployment of qualified and experienced Chemistry teachers to rural schools, along with regular professional development programs to enhance instructional quality. Adequate textbooks, modern teaching aids, and laboratory equipment should be made available to rural schools to reduce the resource gap. Efforts should be made to involve parents and communities in supporting students’ learning through motivation, provision of study materials, and encouragement of academic pursuits. Establish mentorship and peer-support initiatives to positively influence student motivation, study habits, and academic engagement in Chemistry.

This study investigated the effects of pre-competition anxiety on athletes in individual
and team sports. Pre-competition anxiety, a common psychological response before
sporting events, can influence focus, confidence, and performance. The study aimed to
assess the level of anxiety experienced by athletes and its impact on their performance. A
descriptive research design was used, with data collected through structured
questionnaires administered to student athletes in the University of Benin from both
individual and team sports. The responses were analyzed to identify patterns and
differences in anxiety levels across sport types. Findings showed that athletes experience
varying levels of pre-competition anxiety. Moderate anxiety may enhance motivation and
alertness, but high anxiety often negatively affects concentration, confidence, and
performance. The study concludes that managing pre-competition anxiety is crucial for
optimal athletic performance. Coaches and sports professionals are encouraged to
implement strategies that help athletes cope with anxiety effectively