| Description | | CHAPTER ONE
Introduction
Background to the Study
Diarrhoea accounts for high levels of mortality in young children in developing countries like Nigeria, despite worldwide efforts to improve overall child health levels. Each year, in the developing countries of Asia, Africa and Latin America, approximately five million children under five years of age die from acute diarrhoea. About 80 per cent of these deaths are in the first two years of life (Lucas & Gilles, 2009) In the developing world as a whole, about one-third of infant and child deaths are due to diarrhoea and approximately 70 per cent of diarrhoeal deaths are caused by dehydration - the loss of large quantity of water and salts from the body, which needs water to maintain blood volume and other fluids to function properly (Gupta & Mahajan, 2005). UNICEF (2002) submitted that in Nigeria, infant mortality rates are twice as high in rural settings as they are in urban ones due to poor hygiene and poor sanitation. Of the annual 3 million infant births in Nigeria, approximately 170,000 result in deaths that are mainly due to poor knowledge and management practices of childhood diarrhoea. Several factors are likely to contribute to the very high diarrhoea morbidity and mortality rates, in children under-five years including poverty, female illiteracy, poor water supply and sanitation, poor hygiene practices and inadequate health services (Park, 2009). Malnutrition is another established risk factor for mortality among children with diarrhoea disease. This may be due to inadequate case management. The first line of management of diarrhoea, is therefore, the prevention of dehydration. This can be achieved at home using Oral Rehydration Therapy (ORT).
Diarrhoea is the disturbance of the gastrointestinal tract comprising of changes in intestinal motility and absorption, leading to increase in the volume of stools and in their consistency (Ballabriga, Hilpert & Isliker, 2000). In diarrhoea, stool contains more water than normal stool and is often called loose or watery stool. In certain cases, they may contain blood in which case the diarrhoea is called dysentery (Obionu, 2001). Any passage of three or more watery stools within a day (24 hours) is referred to as diarrhoea (Tauxe, 1997). The consistency and the volume of stool constitute how to classify diarrhoea.
World Health Organization - WHO (1993) classified diarrhoea as acute or persistent based on its duration. An episode of diarrhoea that lasts less than two weeks is acute diarrhoea, while diarrhoea that lasts more than two weeks is persistent. Morley (2000) further classified diarrhoea according to its typology: Secretary diarrhoea, osmotic diarrhoea and exudative diarrhoea. Secretary diarrhoea results from active process in the intestinal epithelium stimulated by the presence of toxin, chemical or nutritional product in the intestinal linning. Osmotic diarrhoea is caused by the presence of the intestinal linning of osmotically active solutes that are poorly absorbed by the injection of laxatives such as magnesium sulphate or magnesium hydroxide. Exudative diarrhoea is associated with damage to the mucosa lining leading to outpouring of mucus, blood and plasma protein among other substances. However, it is important to note that the classification of diarrhoea does not influence the cause.
Diarrhoea is a symptom of infection caused by a host of bacterial, viral and parasitic organisms most of which can be spread by contaminated water. Diarrhoea in most cases is caused by three major groups of micro-organisms namely; Viruses, bacteria and protozoa or parasites (Lucas & Gilles, 2009). The main agents of diarrhoea according to them are enteroviruses (e.g. rotavirus, escherichia coli, campylobacter spp, shigella, vibrio cholera, salmonella (non typhoid), entamoeba histolytica, giardia lamblia, cryptosporidium). These are further grouped in the following ways: Viruses (e.g. Rota virus); Bacteria (e.g. shigella, escherichia coli, vibrio cholerae, salmonella non typhoid, campylobacter spp). Parasites (e.g. entamoeba histolytica, crytosporidium and giardia lamblia). All over the world, viruses especially rotavirus has been identified as the major cause of acute diarrhoea in children. Studies in Nigeria also found viruses as the major causes of diarrhoea in 60 per cent of cases with bacteria responsible for about only 3-20 per cent. Most of these pathogens are transmitted by faeco-oral route. Childhood diarrhoea within the context of this study refers to any type of loose, watery stool that occurs more frequently than usual in a child. The various causative agents vary according to the signs and symptoms manifesting from the disease.
The main consequence of diarrhoea are frequent loose or watery stools, the risk of dehydration, damage to intestine (especially when there is bloody diarrhoea) and loss of appetite with or without vomiting. However, Victoria, Bryce, Fountaine and Monasch (2000) asserted that signs of dehydration are not evident until there is acute fluid loss of approximately 4-5 per cent of body weight. The signs and symptoms of dehydration include sunken fontanelle, dry mouth and throat, fast and weak pulse, loss of skin elasticity and reduced amount of urine. This loss leads to shock and untimely death of under-five. Werner (2001) noted that dehydration takes its heaviest toll on infants and children under-five. The signs and symptoms according to Longmach, Wilkinson and Rajagopalan (2004) are passage of frequent loose watery stools, abdominal cramps or pain, fever particularly if there is an infectious cause and bleeding. Bacteria and parasites often can produce bloody diarrhoea (dysentary). In addition, inflammatory bowel disease, polyps and colorectal cancer can cause blood and mucus in the stools, nausea and vomiting may also be present in the case of infection.
The main dangers of diarrhoea are dehydration and malnutrition (WHO, 1993). Dehydration according to WHO is most often caused by loss of a large amount of water and salt from the body, while malnutrition can be caused by an inadequate diet due to poverty, a lack of appropriate foods or incorrect beliefs about feeding, frequent infections of which diarrhoea is one of them.
Spradley and Allender (1996) stated that the most common modes of transmission of diarrhoea are contaminated food and water, dirty feeding utensils (especially feeding bottles and teats) and the faecally contaminated fingers of the infants or the mother. Infection occurs through ingesting food contaminated with adequate doses of Salmonella, and Shigella or E. Coli. The cycle begins when the infectious agent multiplies and grows in the food medium. The agent subsequently invades the host upon ingestion of the food.
There are other physical modes of transmission of diarrhoea as identified by the United Nations Children?s Fund - UNICEF (1998). These include: poor source of water supply, especially in rural areas; poor environmental sanitation leading to attitudinal problems of defecating in open spaces, pit latrine, bushes and in the streams (used for drinking and bathing). Feeding bottle is also a feature of infection (Federal Rebublic of Nigeria - FRN 2002). Lucas and Gilles (2009) also maintained that transmission of diarrhoea occurs by the faecal-oral route due to poor standards of personal and environmental hygiene. These conditions will determine the seriousness of infection of diarrhoea. The most important aspect of managing a child with diarrhoea are preventing or treating dehydration and maintaining good nutrition.
These preventive practices according to WHO (1993) include breast feeding, improved weaning, use of plenty of water for hygiene and clean water for drinking, hand washing, use of latrines, proper disposal of the stools of young children, use of Oral Rehydration Therapy (ORT) and Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS) and immunization against measles. Cutting (1994) stressed that drinking extra fluid in the early stages of diarrhoea is crucial in preventing dehydration and subsequent death. He also noted that the combination of giving more fluid than usual as soon as diarrhoea starts and continuing feeding is an effective home therapy for acute diarrhoea. The knowledge and practice of these becomes necessary for the mothers in the issues of childhood diarrhoea.
Traditionally, mothers are expected to spend most of their time in the house, looking after their children and carrying out other domestic functions. It may be right and natural, therefore, that the first person to manage a diarrhoea episode at home is possibly the mother. Mothers on this basis have been identified as the most important people involved in the management of childhood diarrhoea, hence mothers are used for this study. Landy (1992) referred to them as the key persons and managers of the home. She asserted that people, especially mothers possess adequate knowledge about their baby?s health and disease prevention. Thus, they are recognized as very important persons for the smooth running of the family, including supervision of health of their children. Macleans (1998), on his own part, accorded mothers the traditional responsibility of looking after their children with regard to weaning and nursing care. This, according to him, is because of their being close to their children. This situation is similar to the relationship between mothers and their children in Ezeagu LGA. As asserted by Davely and Wilson (1981) and Bethann, Gopel, Douglas and Lynn (1992), literate mothers are better able to look after their children than non-literate ones. Thus, those who possess the appropriate knowledge are more likely to be able to take the appropriate action to protect their children especially the under five (childhood).
According to Hodges (2001) childhood is a period of rapid physical growth, including the development of the brain almost to its full adult size, and is also a critical period for the development of the cognitive functions. He further added that the key factors for child growth and development are adequate care, good health, nutrition and stimulation. Inadequate nutrition and care in the first few years of life can seriously interfere with brain development and lead to such neurological and behavioural disorders as learning disabilities (Bargley, 1996). Childhood in the context of this study means the condition or period of being a child or a young human being below the age of five. The knowledge of adequate and quality childhood care could lead to healthiness of the child in terms of prevention of early childhood diseases like diarrhoea.
Knowledge according to Winifred (1989) is accumulated facts, truth, principles and information to which human mind has access. Knowledge can be defined as the sum of conceptions, views and propositions which has been established and tested (Conforth, 1996). The Nigerian Education Research Council - NERC (1982) asserted that an educated and knowledgeable person is one who understands, among other things the basic facts concerning health and disease and protects his or her own health and that of the community. WHO (1995) also maintained that if a person is well informed in the area of health, he or she would be able to reject practices that imperil his or her health. The individual will also be well equipped to make the right decision concerning the children and family, and will play active role in improving the society in which the person lives. In the context of this study, knowledge refers to the act of having adequate information and understanding of the concept, signs and symptoms, modes of transmission and management practices of diarrhoea by the child bearing mothers. Adequate or high level knowledge of the concepts, signs and symptoms, mode of transmission of diarrhoea is capable of guaranteeing proper management practices of diarrhoea among children.
Management according to Osinem (2008) is the co-ordination of all the resources of an organization through the process of planning, organizing, directing and controlling in order to attain organizational objectives. Koontz and Weighrich (2005) described management as the process of designing and maintaining an environment in which individuals working together in groups efficiently accomplish selected aims. Management as defined by wikipedia, the free Encyclopaedia (2007) is the art and science of getting things done through others. It can also refer to the person who performs the act of management. Management in this context involves childbearing mothers doing or producing something like proper breastfeeding, washing feeding bottles, washing plates and hands, keeping the environment clean and producing oral rehydration solution to cope with childhood diarrhoea. Ekenedo (1994) noted that there was a relationship between knowledge and management practice adopted by mothers. She concluded that better life will not come from mere acquisition of knowledge but from its practice.
Practice, according to Hornby (2001) is a way of doing something that is common or habitual; it is a way of doing something or expected way in a particular situation. Funks and Wagnalls (2003) defined practice as any customary action or proceeding regarded as individuals habit. Sally (2004) further defined practice as an established way of doing things especially one that developed through experience and knowledge. When management relates to practice, it becomes management practice.
Bucher (1994) perceived management practice as the application of good health actions to ones daily living such as proper personal hygiene and nutrition. In this study, management practices refer to all the actions that are undertaken by mothers to avert childhood diarrhoea. There are many such management practices.
WHO (1993) identified a number of management practices and these are: breast feeding, Oral Rehydration Therapy(ORT), weaning practices, use of plenty of water for hygiene and use of clean water for drinking, hand washing, use of latrines, safe disposal of stools of young children and measles immunization. Early knowledge and practice of these in the home may increase the chances of its efficacy and likely reduce complications following diarrhoea. It is most likely that mothers who are the home-makers will make use of them in order to save their children when they are informed. Okafor (1993) opined that women are better able to understand information and follow instructions if their level of education and information should be raised. The way of determining if women possess adequate knowledge regarding childhood diarrhoea is to assess the level of knowledge they possess about the aspects of the disease.
Level of knowledge and practice can be ascertained in numerous ways. Ashur (1977) opined that a proportion of less than 40 per cent correct response should be taken as indicator of low level of knowledge, 40 - 59 per cent is considered average and 60 - 80 per cent is considered high, while over 80 per cent is regarded as very high level of knowledge. Okafor
(1997) modified Ashur?s four scales of measurement into five scales by carving two levels that is, 10-20 per cent as ?very low? and 21-39 per cent as ?low? out of Ashur?s proportion of less than 40 per cent described as ?low? level of knowledge. The Ashur?s (1977) principle was adopted in the present study to determine the knowledge and management practices of childhood diarrhea by mothers in Ezeagu L.G.A.
This study was carried out in Ezeagu L.G.A of Enugu State, with its headquarter at Aguobu Owa. The inhabitants of the area are mainly farmers, civil servants and traders. The possible sources of water supply range from the use of stream, tanker water to the occasional use of tap water. They also use rain water during rainy seasons. General environmental sanitation is poor as there are no facilities for refuse disposal. They make use of open refuse dumps to dispose of refuse - dumping them into nearby bushes, burn them or dumped by the roadside. They use pit latrines and nearby bushes for sewage disposal. However, some well- to-do families make use of water closet system. Some are literate while others are not. The sociodemographic factors that may influence this study include; education, age and parity of the women. This is because an educated mother might use health information more than the uneducated counterparts (Okafor, 1993). Their age and parity also differed and might have conferred different levels of experience which may also affect the management of childhood diarrhoea. Studies such as those of Rao, Vinod, Mishra and Rutherford (1998), which revealed that more educated women were more likely than less educated women to manage diarrhoea in children. Ekenedo (1994) found that age and parity level might affect the rate at which childhood diarrhoea is managed. This revelation which was made by Ekenedo (1994) Sixteen years ago and confirmed by Rao et al (1998) - might have influence on mothers in Ezeagu LGA where the present study will be carried out.
The desire to effect change in behaviour for reducing the risk of future illness according to Philips (1991) should be based upon theoretical models that identify predictors of behavioural change. Several models or theories concentrate on the significance of socio- cognitive variables in preventive health. Theoretical models relevant to childhood diarrhoea knowledge and management practices among mothers in the context of the present study will include the following: health action process approach, systems management theory and self efficacy theory.
The extents to which mothers in Enugu state portray their knowledge and management practice of childhood diarrhoea do not appear to have received adequate research attention. This cannot be less true about mothers in Ezeagu LGA. Finding out these, certainly, will represent a positive step forward in the effort to promote the childhood diarrhoea knowledge and management practices. Following from these therefore, one is then inclined to ask, what is the level of knowledge possessed by mothers in Ezeagu LGA of Enugu state towards the childhood diarrhoea and what management practices do they adopt? The above in essence, represent the reason of this study.
Statement of the Problem
Adequate and accurate knowledge has been admitted as a prerequisite for the adoption of desirable health behaviour. WHO (1995) asserted that when a person is well-informed, the individual will be equipped to make the right decision concerning the health of the children and family and will take an active role in improving the society in which the person lives. Mothers should have adequate knowledge of the childhood diseases, among which diarrhea is one. This knowledge which they gained from the different MCH clinics should help the mothers to take adequate and accurate care of their children.
Regrettably, in spite of the knowledge gained by these mothers, childhood diarrhea is found to be the second main cause of under-five mortality the world over, in the developing countries and in Nigeria in particular. It is not unlikely that low level of knowledge of mothers in Ezeagu LGA may militate against the effective performance of diarrhea prevention practices.
It is against this background of the cases and magnitude of diarrhoeal diseases, its associated implications and complications and the need for child safety and health promotion that the researcher was motivated to ascertaining the knowledge and management practices of childhood diarrhea by mothers in Ezeagu LGA of Enugu State.
Purpose of the Study
The purpose of the study is to find out the knowledge and management practices of childhood diarrhea by mothers in Ezeagu LGA. Specifically, the study intends to find out:
1. level of knowledge of the concept of diarrhoea possessed by mothers in Ezeagu LGA;
2. level of knowledge of the signs and symptoms of childhood diarrhoea possessed by mothers.
3. level of knowledge of modes of spread or transmission of diarrhoea possessed by mothers.
4. level of knowledge of the dangers of childhood diarrhoea possessed by mothers in Ezeagu LGA.
5. level of knowledge of preventive measures against childhood diarrhoea possessed by mothers.
6. the management practices of childhood diarrhoea by mothers in Ezeagu LGA;
7. the difference in the knowledge of mothers about childhood diarrhoea according to level of education;
8. the difference in the management practices of mothers about childhood diarrhoea based on level of education;
9. the difference in the knowledge of mothers about childhood diarrhoea based on age;
10. the difference in management practices of mothers about childhood diarrhoea based on age;
11. the difference in the knowledge of mothers about childhood diarrhoea based on parity
;
12. the difference in the management practices of mothers about childhood diarrhoea based on parity.
Research Questions
The following research questions were formulated to guide the study;
1. What is the level of knowledge possessed by mothers regarding concept of childhood diarrhoea?
2. What is the level of knowledge possessed by mothers regarding signs and symptoms of diarrhoea?
3. What is the level of knowledge possessed by mothers regarding modes of transmission of childhood diarrhoea?
4. What is the mother?s level of knowledge of the dangers of childhood diarrhoea?
5. What is the level of knowledge possessed by mothers regarding the preventive measures of childhood diarrhoea?
6. What are the management practices of mothers regarding childhood diarrhoea in Ezeagu L.G.A?
7. What is the difference in the level of knowledge of mothers regarding childhood diarrhoea according to level of education?
8. What are the differences in the diarrhoea management practices of mothers regarding diarrhoea according to level of education?
9. What is the difference in the level of knowledge of mothers regarding childhood diarrhoea according to age?
10. What are the differences in the management practices of mothers regarding childhood diarrhoea according to age?
11. What is the difference in the level of knowledge of mothers regarding childhood diarrhoea according to parity? and
12. What are the differences in the management practices of mothers regarding childhood diarrhoea according to parity?
Hypotheses
The following null hypotheses are hereby postulated for the study and will be tested at .05 level of significance.
1. There is no statistically significant difference in the level of knowledge of mothers regarding childhood diarrhoea according to age.
2. There is no statistically significant difference in the level of knowledge of mothers regarding childhood diarrhoea according to level of education.
3. There are no statistically significant differences in the management practices of childhood diarrhoea by mothers according to parity.
4. There is no statistically significant difference in the level of knowledge of mothers regarding childhood diarrhoea according to parity.
5. There are no statistically significant differences in the management of childhood diarrhoea by mothers according to age.
6. There is no statistically significant difference in management practice of childhood diarrhoea by mothers according to level of education.
Significance of the Study
Information, of both local and foreign origin abounds regarding childhood diarrhoea in Nigeria. The study will ginger interest in the area of childhood health and disease in Nigeria. Mothers especially childbearing women will benefit from the result of the study as it will provide them with appropriate information on the concept, signs and symptoms, modes of transmission and the preventive measures of childhood diarrhoea. This will enable the women to make informed choices on the adoption of the management practices. Appropriate knowledge will influence them and enhance their practice. It will also help them in educating the public on the preventive measures of childhood diarrhoea. Low level of knowledge on the other hand will equally compel health policy makers to step up efforts in the area of education, seminars, workshops especially in rural areas with a view to raising the level of knowledge of the people regarding childhood diarrhoea and its management practices.
The result on the management of childhood diarrhoea by mothers will be useful to mothers and caregivers. Appropriate practice will be encouraged and allow these mothers and caregivers to carry out these practices in the already established direction. On the other hand, inappropriate practice will call for adjustment and improvement and provide enlightenment efforts to achieve better results. Specifically, the data to be generated on the management practices of mothers may likely sensitize the mothers on the childhood diarrhoea in Ezeagu LGA to encourage identified sound practices while engineering changes in the unwholesome practices of mothers towards childhood diarrhoea.
The findings of differences in the level of knowledge and management practice according to level of education will be useful to mothers, caregivers and institutions of learning. These mothers and caregivers by level of knowledge, who had adequate knowledge and appropriate practice may be encouraged. Those with low level of knowledge and inappropriate practice may be exposed to education and enlightenment interventions by health workers that will enhance their knowledge and management practice of childhood diarrhoea.
The findings will be useful to the general public who may need appropriate information on childhood diarrhoea. Researchers will benefit from the study. They can build on the findings for further research is this area of knowledge. The data concerning this study may help to enrich the pool of data on the subject matter. Such data may also be beneficial to both Health and Education ministries in Enugu state, and may form the basis for future policy formulation and modification.
The study has identified some of the demographic factors associated with the knowledge and management practices of childhood diarrhoea. This will help health workers to know the group of mothers that needs more education on childhood diarrhoea. These adjustments will facilitate understanding and corresponding behaviour among mothers concerning childhood diarrhoea. When this happens mothers will be convinced to adopt appropriate practices in managing diarrhoea cases. The end product of this will be a morbidity and mortality decline.
Finally, scholars and reading public will benefit from the theoretical significance of the study. It will contribute to the synthesis of the relevant theories in the field of study. It seeks to explain why people think, feel, and act the way they do. The study will add to the existing literature in the field of health education and child health in particular.
Scope of the Study
The study was delimited to mothers in Ezeagu LGA. of Enugu state, which is made up of eight towns namely; Imezi owa, Aguobu owa, Mgbagbu owa, Oghe, Olo, Awha, Umanaa and Umumba. Ezeagu LGA is located some 20 kilometers south west of Enugu, the Enugu state capital in Eastern Nigeria. The study was concerned with finding out the childhood diarrhoea level of knowledge and management practices of mothers in Ezeagu
L.G.A. This will consist of the causes, modes of spread, signs and symptoms and control/preventive measures or management of childhood diarrhoea. The socio-demographic factors of age, level of education and parity and their relationship to the knowledge and management practices of mothers regarding childhood diarrhoea will also be explored | ABSTRACT
This study was carried out in order to determine Health Implications of Divorce among Children and Mothers in Jaba Local Government Area of Kaduna State in Nigeria. A total of three hundred and forty three (343) questionnaires were distributed to respondents in Jaba Villages within the local government jurisdiction of Kaduna State. The sample size of 300 was arrived at after using the spearman?s rank of correlation for sample size determination. The statistical tool used in the study is known as Spearman?s Rank Order Correlation Coefficient to test the level of significance of hypotheses, and if there exist a relationship between the variables under investigation. The study shows that majority of respondents were of the opinion that mothers and children?s wealth have health effects due to divorce, while others argued against this opinion. It also shows that majority of the respondents acknowledges that divorces has an implications of women and children and others disagreed of this opinion. The study shows that majority of the respondents were of the opinion that problem of finance and sexual problem results to societal menace of divorce, while others disagreed of these opinions. Other effect that may occur due to divorce includes societal problem, problem of infertility on the bearing of child, negative effect of child education, in-laws-intrusions, alcoholism, assaults, slapping, bitting amongst others. The study concludes that a marriage devoid of problems is said to be happy marriage, unlike those marriages with problems. The survival of any marriage life goes with deep level of understanding. The study recommends that Government should set up agencies where marital-related issues can be resolved, so that if there exist breakdown of marriage agreement it can be done on a peaceful ground
CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background of the study.
Marriage is as old as man himself. It is a socially recognized and approved union between individuals, who commit to one another with the expectation of a stable and lasting intimate relationship (Ahron Constance, 2004). It begins with a ceremony known as a wedding, which formally unites the marriage partners. A marital relationship usually involves some kind of contract, either written or specified by tradition, which defines the partners? rights and obligations to each other, to any children they may have, and to their relatives. In most contemporary industrialized societies, marriage is certified by the government. In addition to being a personal relationship between two people, marriage is one of society?s most important and basic institutions. Marriage and family serve as tools for ensuring social reproduction. Social reproduction includes providing food, clothing, and shelter for family members; raising and socializing children; and caring for the sick and elderly. In families and societies in which wealth, property, or a hereditary title is to be passed on from one generation to the next, inheritance and the production of legitimate heirs is a prime concern in marriage. However, in contemporary industrialized societies, marriage functions less as a social institution and more as a source of intimacy for the individuals involved. When the primary purpose of this sacred union is defeated and no longer seen as an ideal agreement by the partners involved, an annulment of the marriage vows is embarked on which is divorce and this exonerates both partners of their marital rights and vows. Divorc which is the legal dissolution of a marriage contracted between a man and a woman. It is legal in the sense that its dissolution is affected by a reputed court of law. It is the court of law that determines the end of marriage by the term ?divorce?. Divorce is quite different from separation between a husband and wife that are not legally married. It then means that, Divorce is distinguished from annulment, which declares a marriage void from the time of its celebration.
Barlet (2004) posited that Divorce is so widespread in our society that an intelligent study of divorce is necessary if one is to have the attitude and understanding that will help him/her build a good marriage and avoid eventuality of divorce. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), Health is a state of complete physical, social and mental well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity. Based on this definition, it is virtually impossible to attain complete state of health in divorce. This correlates divorce and its health implication generally on men, women, children and also its adverse effects on the society at large. Studies have shown that divorce has its massive effects more on women and children since it is believed that women are the weaker sex although this research is not based on that ideology but at the same time on the health implications on women and children.
According to a New York Times article, ?More Americans Rejecting Marriage in 50s and Beyond?. In the past 20 years, the divorce rate has increased over 50% amongst the baby boomers. More and more adults are staying single and according to an analysis of census data conducted at Bowling Green State University in Ohio, they say the divorce numbers will continue to rise. Baby boomers that remain unmarried are five times more likely to live in poverty compared to those who are married. According to the statistics, it will also be three times as hard to receive food stamps, public assistance or disability payment
According to Lawson (2002) Sociologists believe that the rise in the number of older Nigerians who are not married is a result of factors such as longevity and economics. Women, especially, are becoming more and more financially independent which allows them to feel more secure with being alone. In previous generations, being divorced or single was seen differently than it is now. This has resulted in less pressure for baby boomers to marry or stay married. Therefore the study seeks to explore health implications of divorce among children and mothers in Jaba Local Government Area of Kaduna State in Nigeria.
1.2 Statement of Problem
According to Bramlet (2001) divorce no longer seems a hard decision to come by due to the intensive increase in divorce rate. In Nigeria, between 2003 to 2005 divorce had risen by 70% as estimated by court statistics. Individuals tend to see divorce as an escape route to marital issues and incompetence when in the actual sense divorce expands the issues and make them complex exposing them to more dangers than is already experienced. Many years ago, the mere mention of divorce aroused massive attention but with the level exposure and association with the western world where divorce seem to be as easy and instant as marriage vows. The health implications of divorce on children amount to their the effects it has on the education, relationship with parents and peergroup ,religious effects, social effects, psychological effects amongst others. This observations motivated this study and is carefully analyzed.
1.3 Purpose of the study
The main purpose of the study was to determine the health implications of divorce on children and mothers in Jaba LGA of Kaduna state
Objectives of the study
Specifically, the objectives were;
1. To determine the physical health implications of divorce on mothers and children
2. To determine the emotional health implications on children and mothers.
3. To determine the social health implications of divorce on mothers and children
4. To determine the predisposing factors to divorce among couples in Jaba LGA.
5. To determine if the social health implications differ according to women of different religious background.
6. To determine if the physical health implications of divorce is related to the age of the children.
1.4 Research Questions
1. What are the physical health implications of divorce on children nd mothers?
2. What are the emotional health implications of divorce on children and mothers?
3. What are the social health implications of divorce on children and mothers.
4. What are the predisposing factors to divorce in Jaba LGA.
5. Are there differences in social health implications among women according to different religious backgrounds?
6. Are the physical health implications of divorce related to the age of children?
1.5 Research hypotheses
There is no significant difference in social health implications among women according to religious background.
There is no relationship between the physical health implications on children according to age.
1.6 Significance of study
The findings and recommendations from this study will be of immense value to these various groups:
ú The women of Jaba Local Government Area of Kaduna State who are in a better position to outline their differences in life as both married and divorcees.
ú The children in Jaba Local Government that will share their experiences a children of divorcees or married parents.
ú The children in Jaba Local Government share their experiences a children of divorcees or married parents.
ú The women and children will be made to understand the various health implications of divorce on them.
ú The People of Jaba Local Government generally and the society at large will be informed about the health implications of divorce ,preventive measures against divorce as an ultimatum.
ú This study will be a reference point for some students who may wish to carry out research work on similar topics in the future.
ú To health workers, social workers and the public generally, it will unfold the negative health effects surrounding divorce.
1.7 Scope of study
The study focuses on health implications of divorce among children and mothers in Jaba Local Government Area of Kaduna State in Nigeria. Specifically, villages like Sabonsarki, Sabangida, Habori, Kwaturu, Gidantagai and Jibir of Kaduna State will be investigated to find out the relationship between the independent and the dependent variable. | CHAPTER ONE
1.0 INTRODUCTION
1.1 BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY
Public relations has become a potent marketing tool in modern business management in recent times. Its influence is being felt on both big and small firms with the influence of even greater expansion. It is important for management organization including tertiary institutions to understand its potential and limitations.
Nwokoye (1984:212) defined public relations as the activities of co ? operations, union, government or other organisations in building and marketing sound and productive relations with special public such as customers, relations employees or stock holders and with public at large so as to adopt itself to its environment and interpret itself to the society.
Bush and Houston (1995:200) noted that public relations is management functions which evaluate public attitude, identifies policies and procedures of an individuals or an organisations with the public interest and execute a programme of action to earn public understanding and acceptance.
Chukwu (2000:3 ? 4) stated that public relations practice is a management philosophy aimed at doing everything possible to create good relationship between one organization and its publics.
Public Relations is aimed at making friends for the organization and building internal and external good will on the reasonable assumption that these are strongly needed for an organization to remain in business and make profit with the increase in the activities of an organization. The need for an adequate communication between the organization and those who in one way or the other are affected by these activities of the organization becomes more imperative. An organization while wanting to remain liable, need to have good relations with its employees, consumers of its products and services, future investors, stock ? holders and infact that is the general public. As an organization specialized in manufacturing to potential customers that is up to date, forward looking concerned to produce and offer the best goods and services for the rice it charges and make sure that its customers are really satisfied.
Edoga and Ani (2001:287) noted that a company should deliberately plan and execute a continuous public relations programme to develop a good relation between it and that various publics, amongst sought with public relations.
Stressing the position of public relations in the country, Olakunori (1999:194) noted that most officials occupying the public relations of various organizations in the country today are not professionals; they generally have a fair knowledge of what they are supposed to do.
Federal polytechnic uwana ebonyi state (aifp)(AIFP) as an institution or organization has the students, members of its staff, parents- teachers association, the management, the host society, the state and the federal government, Nigerian Universities commission (NUC) etc. as its relevant publics. This implies that the activities performed by AIFP in one way or the other affect those aforementioned various public. Therefore, in order to maintain its public relations with those bodies, AIFP must at all time try to create a rapport and understanding or goodwill with all those bodies. This it will do through proper information circulation between itself and those various relevant publics to it. This can be done by allowing the free flows of information, paying of salaries as and when due to its staff, engaging in proper and standard academic work, abiding by the rules and regulations of NUC in the performance of its activities.
Manufacturers and producers of goods and service are now aware that public relations does not only ensure good relations with the public but can strive towards profit making through increased customers patronage. It is in the light of the importance attached to public relations that the researcher seeks to appraise the effectiveness of public relations in service industries in Federal polytechnic uwana ebonyi state (aifp)(AIFP) as a case study.
1.2 STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM
A good corporate image is usually regarded to be essentials for the existence of an organization. The success or failure of a corporation depends on its relationship with its publics, consumers, employees, stock-holders, government, community, distributions, supplies and others. A favourable corporate image create confidence in an organisations or institution.
There has been occupational troubles in tertiary institutions as become the order of the day. But AIFP as always remained in sector despite the occasional occurrence of these ugly incidents. The questions that called for answer are:-
Why has this problem of internal wrangle in our tertiary institutions?
Why has AIFP not witness the major break down of law and order despite the increase in school fees?
Why has AIFP been able to maintained peace despites the facts that there are some polities that do not go down well with the staff, lecturers and the students of the institute?
To what extent has public relations contributed in maintenance of peace and harmony in the institutions these and many more are the central task of this research work.
1.3 OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDY
To give focus to the study the following objectives are formulated:-
1. To find out the level of attention given to the publics in Federal polytechnic uwana ebonyi state (aifp)(AIFP).
2. To find out whether the institution have good relationship with the press.
3. To examine the level of students, lecturers, staff and management relations in AIFP.
4. To know how public relations help in improving communication between people and the organization.
5. To recommend solution to problems on public relations identified.
6. To determined the impact of public relations on consumers (students) patronage
7. To appraise the public relations activities of Federal polytechnic uwana ebonyi state (aifp)(AIFP).
1.4 RESEARCH HYPOTHESIS
Public Relations activities of AIFP
Ho: Public Relations activities of AIFP does not lead to increase the awareness of their services
Hi: These lead to increase the awareness of their services.
Ho: Public Relations activities of AIFP does not give
attention to the student of the institution
H2: Public Relations activities of AIFP gives attention to the student of the institution.
Ho: Public Relation activities of AIFP does not lead to increase (students) patronage.
H3: Public Relation activities of AIFP lead to increase (students) (students) patronage.
1.5 SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY
The most outstanding hope of this study is that, its finding will be of immense benefit to students, lecturers and staff of management of tertiary institutions. These will help to minimize conflicts in this institutions.
The study also gives an insight into the problem and practice of public relations in Nigeria Institutions of higher learning. This study by its objectives will not only assess the effectiveness of classified public relations, but all its application and uses generally. Therefore, when successfully carried out and documented, this study will serve as a source of relevant information to many institutions and organisations on ways of using public relations.
Finally, public relations practioners have been deprived of excellent performance in the operations because of scanty and insufficient data and adequate literature availability in this area.
This study when successfully completed and adequately supervised will be an addition to the essentials literature needed in public relations. Practitioners and consultants will therefore use it extensively for reference.
Based on forgoing, it becomes indisputable that the need for this study is worthwhile.
1.6 SCOPE OF THE STUDY
The study covers public Relations activities in service industries and it will equally cover an over view of public relations in service industries. The role of public relations activities in improving the image of service industries especially tertiary institutions. Due to limited time and other constraints, emphases was placed on Federal polytechnic uwana ebonyi state (aifp)(AIFP). Despite the fact that Enugu State University is the only institution use as a case study, but the researcher believes that whatever happens to Federal polytechnic uwana ebonyi state (aifp)(AIFP) will equally apply to other institutions in the state. | ABSTRACT
This research work was aimed at identifying the extent of the use of instructional materials in teaching Social Studies in Nsukka Educational Zone. This work was necessary because the success of any classroom teaching depends more on the extent of the use of teacher resources than verbalization. Three research questions were posited to guide the researcher in the study. These questions are: (1) What instructional media are available for Social Studies Instruction in Nsukka Education Zone? (2) To what extent are instructional materials used in Social Studies Instruction? (3) To what extent are different methods used in Social Studies lesson? Twenty-nine schools were sampled for this study. Instruments for data collection were questionnaire distribution schedule and checklist designed to elicit information from teachers. The data collected were analyzed based on mean scores and percentages. The information collected indicated that most of the resource materials are not available in schools, while some were available in some schools. The available materials were not adequately used. Based on these findings, recommendations were made which include that, teachers should be resourceful and use available teaching materials to make their lessons interesting thereby providing some motivation to the learners. Government should provide some money to schools to purchase the resources that the teachers cannot improvise. The researcher believes that if these recommendations are followed strictly, there would be much improvement in the teaching and learning of Social Studies in Nsukka Education Zone | Abstract
This study determines the influence of Economics teachers effectiveness and academic performance of senior secondary school student in Owerri Municipal Council. The researcher focused on how the teacher?s effectiveness helps in the academic performance. And why the researcher carried out this research was because many opinions were made from the population and many agreed to each questions been given and few disagreed like in research question 180 percent of the 222 questionnaire agreed on how the effectiveness of the teacher affects the academic performance of the students while 40 percent disagreed. This research has three research questions and different questions were asked, sources were gotten from the Owerri Municipal students which consist of 222 population of students. The data collected were analyzed using weighted mean method and presented in the tables or tabular forms. In my findings, I found out some problems that face the academic of the students which include: lack of interest, poor socio-economic background and illiteracy. In all government should make provisions for their educational stability. Moreover the researchers found out that the government has policies that is guiding the teaching and learning is area. The researchers also made some recommendation. The researchers also made some recommendation which if implemented will help the future upcoming teachers and student. |
| Content | Abstract
This research work is on Social media utilization and students academic performance. This work carefully examined the social media utilization and students’ academic performance in Alimosho Local Government Area, Lagos State The investigation used the data carefully gathered from questionnaires administered to students and teachers of four randomly selected senior secondary schools in the local government. Responses of 300 students and 40 teachers in the selected school were analyzed employing the descriptive statistical instrumental of frequency count and percentage. The analysis revealed that above 90 percent of the student engaged one social networking site or the other with the majority of them predominantly belong to Facebook, Whatsapp, and 2go social media communities. However, most students failed to utilize these sites for academic-related purposes but for relational purposes and romantic purposes among others. This is further affirmed by the results obtained by the researcher from the students’ poor performance in Senior School Certificate Examination (SSCE) between 2010 and 2015 in the selected schools. The researcher equally found out that students’ unguarded exposure to social networking sites posed many behavioral risks to them as some sites make them wild, aggressive, narcissistic, bullying in language, conduct, comportment, and character. Although social networking sites have a negative effect on teenagers, these sites also have benefits if students use then appropriately. This platform if properly utilized can be a veritable tool for e-learning. So school authorities should come up with a template on how their students can maximize the benefit of social media while the government needs to put in place adequate control measures to regulate the content of social media as well as student usage of the site. | | CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background of the study.
This research is on Health implications of divorce among children and mothers in jaba local government area of kaduna state. Marriage is as old as man himself. It is a socially recognized and approved union between individuals, who commit to one another with the expectation of a stable and lasting intimate relationship (Ahron Constance, 2004). It begins with a ceremony known as a wedding, which formally unites the marriage partners. A marital relationship usually involves some kind of contract, either written or specified by tradition, which defines the partners’ rights and obligations to each other, to any children they may have, and to their relatives. In most contemporary industrialized societies, marriage is certified by the government. In addition to being a personal relationship between two people, marriage is one of society’s most important and basic institutions. Marriage and family serve as tools for ensuring social reproduction. Social reproduction includes providing food, clothing, and shelter for family members; raising and socializing children; and caring for the sick and elderly. In families and societies in which wealth, property, or a hereditary title is to be passed on from one generation to the next, inheritance and the production of legitimate heirs is a prime concern in marriage. However, in contemporary industrialized societies, marriage functions less as a social institution and more as a source of intimacy for the individuals involved. When the primary purpose of this sacred union is defeated and no longer seen as an ideal agreement by the partners involved, an annulment of the marriage vows is embarked on which is divorce and this exonerates both partners of their marital rights and vows. Divorcé which is the legal dissolution of a marriage contracted between a man and a woman. It is legal in the sense that its dissolution is affected by a reputed court of law. It is the court of law that determines the end of marriage by the term “divorce”. Divorce is quite different from separation between a husband and wife that are not legally married. It then means that, Divorce is distinguished from annulment, which declares a marriage void from the time of its celebration.
Barlet (2004) posited that Divorce is so widespread in our society that an intelligent study of divorce is necessary if one is to have the attitude and understanding that will help him/her build a good marriage and avoid eventuality of divorce. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), Health is a state of complete physical, social and mental well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity. Based on this definition, it is virtually impossible to attain complete state of health in divorce. This correlates divorce and its health implication generally on men, women, children and also its adverse effects on the society at large. Studies have shown that divorce has its massive effects more on women and children since it is believed that women are the weaker sex although this research is not based on that ideology but at the same time on the health implications on women and children.
According to a New York Times article, “More Americans Rejecting Marriage in 50s and Beyond”. In the past 20 years, the divorce rate has increased over 50% amongst the baby boomers. More and more adults are staying single and according to an analysis of census data conducted at Bowling Green State University in Ohio, they say the divorce numbers will continue to rise. Baby boomers that remain unmarried are five times more likely to live in poverty compared to those who are married. According to the statistics, it will also be three times as hard to receive food stamps, public assistance or disability payment
According to Lawson (2002) Sociologists believe that the rise in the number of older Nigerians who are not married is a result of factors such as longevity and economics. Women, especially, are becoming more and more financially independent which allows them to feel more secure with being alone. In previous generations, being divorced or single was seen differently than it is now. This has resulted in less pressure for baby boomers to marry or stay married. Therefore the study seeks to explore health implications of divorce among children and mothers in Jaba Local Government Area of Kaduna State in Nigeria.
1.2 Statement of Problem
According to Bramlet (2001) divorce no longer seems a hard decision to come by due to the intensive increase in divorce rate. In Nigeria, between 2003 to 2005 divorce had risen by 70% as estimated by court statistics. Individuals tend to see divorce as an escape route to marital issues and incompetence when in the actual sense divorce expands the issues and make them complex exposing them to more dangers than is already experienced. Many years ago, the mere mention of divorce aroused massive attention but with the level exposure and association with the western world where divorce seem to be as easy and instant as marriage vows. The health implications of divorce on children amount to their the effects it has on the education, relationship with parents and peergroup ,religious effects, social effects, psychological effects amongst others. This observations motivated this study and is carefully analyzed.
1.3 Purpose of the study
The main purpose of the study was to determine the health implications of divorce on children and mothers in Jaba LGA of Kaduna state
Objectives of the study
Specifically, the objectives were;
- To determine the physical health implications of divorce on mothers and children
- To determine the emotional health implications on children and mothers.
- To determine the social health implications of divorce on mothers and children
- To determine the predisposing factors to divorce among couples in Jaba LGA.
- To determine if the social health implications differ according to women of different religious background.
- To determine if the physical health implications of divorce is related to the age of the children.
1.4 Research Questions
- What are the physical health implications of divorce on children nd mothers?
- What are the emotional health implications of divorce on children and mothers?
- What are the social health implications of divorce on children and mothers.
- What are the predisposing factors to divorce in Jaba LGA.
- Are there differences in social health implications among women according to different religious backgrounds?
- Are the physical health implications of divorce related to the age of children?
1.5 Research hypotheses
There is no significant difference in social health implications among women according to religious background.
There is no relationship between the physical health implications on children according to age.
1.6 Significance of study
The findings and recommendations from this study will be of immense value to these various groups:
- The women of Jaba Local Government Area of Kaduna State who are in a better position to outline their differences in life as both married and divorcees.
- The children in Jaba Local Government that will share their experiences a children of divorcees or married parents.
- The children in Jaba Local Government share their experiences a children of divorcees or married parents.
- The women and children will be made to understand the various health implications of divorce on them.
- The People of Jaba Local Government generally and the society at large will be informed about the health implications of divorce ,preventive measures against divorce as an ultimatum.
- This study will be a reference point for some students who may wish to carry out research work on similar topics in the future.
- To health workers, social workers and the public generally, it will unfold the negative health effects surrounding divorce.
1.7 Scope of study
The study focuses on health implications of divorce among children and mothers in Jaba Local Government Area of Kaduna State in Nigeria. Specifically, villages like Sabonsarki, Sabangida, Habori, Kwaturu, Gidantagai and Jibir of Kaduna State will be investigated to find out the relationship between the independent and the dependent variable. | | CHAPTER ONE INTRODUCTION
Background of the Study
There is no single universal definition of Social Studies because the subject is defined according to the need of each society, which adopts it as a programme of study in schools and colleges. However, the Committee on Primary School Social Studies programme in Nigeria defines Social Studies as those common learning of man?s interaction with his social and physical environment, adding that it is not only a study, but a way of life, of how man influences, and is influenced by his physical, social, political, economic, psychological and cultural environment (Aina, Adeyoyin, Obilo. and Ahmadu, 1982)
Similarly Olaniyan (1998) emphasized that Social Studies is a programme which a society uses to instill in students the knowledge, skills, attitudes and actions it considers important concerning the relationship which human beings have with each other, their world and themselves. Bearing in mind the concept of Social Studies as an integrated discipline, the objectives are clearly stated in the National Policy on Education (FRN, 2004).
The primary concerns of the subject are encouragement of the awareness of the world in the child, inculcation and development of appropriate knowledge, skills, attitudes, values and social activities concerning relationships in people; to enable them find solutions to social problems in their surroundings and to develop positive
attitudes towards our fellow men in society.
Social science as the teaching and learning of individual subjects such as History, Geography, Government, etc. has finally given way to the conception in Social Studies as an integrated subject This came about in fact with the adoption in 1975 of the Integrated Social Studies Syllabuses developed by the National Educational Research Council fortheprimary schools and Teacher Training Colleges throughout the country at the on-set of the Federal Government University Free Primary Education (UPE). Similarly, the Integrated Social Studies Syllabus currently being used in the lower forms of secondary schools in the country as well as the one for the 3-3 Secondary School system of the New Education Policy was prepared by the Comparative Education Study and Adaptation Centre (CESAC), University of Lagos (Ogunsanya, 1984). Social Studies is a subject which deals principally with how human beings interact with one another and with the environment. The Committee on Social Studies singled it out as one major area of study through which national objectives on education in Nigeria can be achieved. Specifically, the Committee spelled out the underlisted objectives for teaching Social Studies in the primary and secondary school levels of the Nigerian education system:
1. To encourage the development of social responsibility towards other children, adult and the world.
2. To encourage the development of values, attitudes, skills and understanding necessary to live and function in society.
3. To create an awareness and an understanding of the evolving social and physical environment as a whole, its natural, man-made, cultural and spiritual resources together with national use and conservation of these resources for development
4. To ensure the acquisition of that relevant knowledge which is an essential prerequisite for personal development, as well as a positive personal contribution to the betterment of mankind.
5. To develop in children a positive attitude to citizenship and a desire to make a personal positive contribution to the creation of a progressive and united Nigeria.
6. To develop in the children the ability to think critically and reflectively and come to an independent conclusion.
7. To promise an understanding of the social problems facing the Nigerian society and a desire to find solutions to them (Ogunsanya, 1984; Obeta, 1996; and Enem, 2002).
The objectives of Social Studies Education in Nigeria, as stated above, show that the subj ect was introduced into the school curriculum to, among other things, get rid of certain social vices plaguing the Nigerian society. Such vices include tribalism, ethnicity, nepotism, political instability, mass poverty, immorality, drug abuse, disrespect for elders and so on. Social Studies also meet the needs of the society in the areas of social and intellectual skills as well as attitudes and values. The subject
is also concerned with acquiring the desirable information in order to be able to achieve meaningful development in all sectors of the economy (Ogunsanya, 1984). The summary of our discussion clearly indicates that Social Studies education is central to nation building. Our leaders and policy-makers need to acquire desirable social and intellectual skills, as well as positive attitudes and values that will enable them to make positive contributions to the process of nation building. They need to appreciate the economic and socio-political diversities of Nigeria, and the need for unity, tolerance and inter-dependence among the various component units of Nigeria.
To achieve the above objectives, the subject must be properly taught in our schools. One major characteristic of good teaching of Social Studies is the ability to inculcate in students a spirit of curiosity and self-instruction (Enem, 2002). A great deal has been discovered about what attracts the interest of children, holds their attention and fosters that natural curiosity. Enem (2002) opined that nothing attracts learners? attention faster than the use of relevant resource materials. For example, bright, contrasting colours seem to stimulate them as well as seize their attention. Similarly, interesting shapes and objects are also very important, especially at the lower levels of our education system.
The use of adequate and relevant resource materials has numerous advantages. For example, it facilitates teaching and learning, and makes learning faster and more permanent. Teachers do not need to expend a great deal of energy or time in giving out much information or much guidance. Rather, he guides the pupils to find out or
discover things on their own. For instance, if a picture of a boy eating a banana is shown to the class and the caption of the picture is: ?This boy is eating his banana?, the teacher could ask his class ?Where do you think the banana came from??. A question such as this forces the pupils to look at the picture critically and study it for contextual clues. Where is the boy standing? (Market, Farm or School?) What has he been doing? What are the commonest ways through which boys obtain banana?
In Social Studies, resource materials encourage the pupils to think critically and reflectively about their lives and their surroundings. This helps to build up the students? self esteem and confidence. In addition, resource materials arouse the students? interest on the subject. We all know that interest motivates learning. Social Studies teachers should make effective utilization of instructional materials in teaching because, they make teaching more meaningful, interesting and more permanent. The extent teachers make use of instructional materials in the teaching of Social Studies is not known. Therefore, the need arises for a determination of the extent teachers use instructional materials in teaching Social Studies at the Junior Secondary Schools (JSS).
Statement of the Problem
Experience shows that many teachers of Social Studies have been teaching for years without using teaching resources and without encouragement by the government. Abdullahi (1982) pointed to poor method of teaching as one of the
major factors that cause the poor performance of students in science subjects. Obi (1992) asserted that teachers have resorted to verbalizing their lessons relying heavily on the use of chalkboard, otherwise called ?talk chalk? method of teaching. Those views are in agreement with Mayer?s (1988) that teaching in the African context continues to be dominated by talk and chalk method. This poor method of teaching could be one of the reasons of underachievement of students in Social Studies.
There have been many researches directed at evaluating the extent of the use of instructional media in teaching Social Studies. For instance, researchers like Onyekwelu (1995), investigated Availability and Use of Media in Teaching History in Secondary Schools in Anam bra State. Angwe and Idogbe (2004) investigated the Availability and Use of Biology Lab Equipment in the Teaching of Biology in Secondary Schools in Vandeiky a L.G. A. of Benue State. Onuoha (1999) investigated on Students? Perception of Television Religious Programmes in Imo State. Eze and Iloh (1999) researched on Resources Used in Teaching Christian Religious Knowledge in the Junior Secondary School at Nsukka Urban. Agu Emeka (1995) investigated the Status of Media in teaching and learning of Economics in Enugu- North L.G.A. Ukachukwu (1998) researched on Effect of Overlay Technique on Secondary School Students? Achievement in Biology. Using good diagrams, Winn (1982) Projected and Non-projected media; Nwizu (1992), Multimedia Approach; Obi (1992), Different Modes of Picture Presentation (Ofoegbu, 1992).
The problem of the study therefore, is the extent of the use of instructional
materials in the teaching of Social Studies in Nsukka Education Zone.
Purpose of the Study
The major purpose of the study is to determine the availability and the extent of use of instructional materials in teaching Social Studies in JSS in Nsukka Education Zone. In order to achieve this major purpose, certain specific investigations will be undertaken. These include:
1. To determine the type of instructional materials available for use in
schools in Nsukka Education Zone in teaching Social Studies.
2. To establish the extent of use of the available instructional materials for Social Studies lessons.
3. To identity methods used in teaching Social Studies in the schools.
Significance of the Study
The findings of this study will be beneficial to the Social Studies teachers in Nsukka Education Zone. It will provide information on the available media which they can use. It will also be beneficial to the curriculum planners. It will help curriculum planners to determin e the type of instructional materials available for use, establish the extent of use and identify methods used in teaching Social Studies in the schools. This is with a view to determining instructional materials to be included in the curriculum of the JSS Social Studies and that of the Teacher Training Colleges.
It may provide the justification for emphasizing the teaching of improvisation to trainee teachers in the Colleges.
The results of the study will provide information on the available modes for Social Studies instruction. This will be very useful to ministries of education and policy makers by providing them with data on the materials that needed to be acquired for effective Social Studies instruction.
The extent of use of these materials will enable the Post Primary School Board to organize workshops, conferences and seminar on the production and use of instructional materials to facilitate the learning of Social Studies.
The results of the study will provide information that may be useful for research in this area.
Scope of the Study
The study is limited to the availability and use of instructional materials in teaching Social Studies in JSS in Nsukka Education Zone. It also includes a determination of the teaching methods teachers adopt in Social Studies instruction.
Research Questions
The following research questions have been formulated to guide the study:
1. What instructional materials are available in schools for Social Studies
instruction in Nsulika Education Zone?
To what extent are instructional materials used in Social Studies instruction?
What different methods are used in Social Studies lessons? | CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background to the Study
The issues of poor academic performance of student in Nigeria have been of much concern to all sundry. The problem is so much that it has led to the widely acclaimed fallen standard of education. Education has been described as the key that unlock the door to modernization. Observation has shown that the story is different at the national level. Over time students academic performance in both external and internal examinations has been used to determine excellence in teachers and teaching (Taya, 2001).
Teachers have been shown to have an important influence on students? academic achievement and they also play a crucial role in educational attainment because the teacher is ultimately responsible for translating policy into actions and principles based on practice during interaction with the student. (Eze E.N. 2011). Both teaching and learning depends on teachers. No wonder an effective teacher has been conceptualized as one who produces desired results in the course of his duty as a teacher.
Nigeria secondary schools lack dedicated and qualified economic teachers, especially since 1989 when secondary school student population started to increase astronomically in many states of the federation. It should be noted that no educational system could rise above the effectiveness of its teacher and for any society to change the citizens must be dedicated.
This is so because education helps one to acquire knowledge and skill, which enables him to understand his problem and look for way of solving these problems. It is an ironic coincidence that while developed countries would love and cherish economics in their schools, the Nigerians in the secondary and tertiary institution are scared of the subject economics because of mathematics and statistics aspect of it. This hatred has also led to the poor performance in senior certificate examination.
The Ashby commission set out in 1959 observed that a well qualified teaching staff is the first important step to be considered in an attempt to train skilled manpower. The commission asserted that one out of every two teachers in secondary schools should be a graduate. The commission also recommended the introduction of Bachelor of Arts degree in Education B.A (Education) in all Nigerian Universities. It is a universal agreement that teachers are the main determinant of the quality of education one receives. The kind of teachers trained and posted to our secondary schools may well determine what the future generation will be.
Economics is as old as human race, the early agricultural, manufacturing, weaving, trading, industrial and mercantile activities brought the civilization which started in Egypt, Greece and Rome. One group acquiring culture and knowledge from the other, whenever and wherever people have this type of relationship, there exist the need for transaction. So economics is indeed not a new subject though it is still difficult to say the exact data, economic events were translated into significant manner in monetary terms to create room for informed judgment, therefore the need for practicing economics. (Udo, 1995) views the study of economic as a pursuit toward understanding those fundamental concepts and issues which economics as a subject aspire to find solution to such as wants, scarcity, choice, scale of preference and opportunity cost etc. which are of great importance to man?s existence hence, proper analysis and documentation of their functional rehire is of paramount importance. It is not correct to assume that economic data need to be kept only by profit making organizations. They are equally important in non-profit making organization such as social clubs and motherless babies home etc. As of the increase in business activities, demands for economics and data in the labour market rises above the supply of relevant economic data. This is as a result of poor performance in economics in senior school certificate examination which is due to inadequate qualified teachers.
1.2 Statement of Problem
In recent times, more attention has been given to the performance of students on economics in the senior secondary schools. The performance has been poor; this is being attributed to the unqualified teachers that teach economics, lack of instructional material, poor method of teaching, attitude of learners and teachers towards teaching and learning. Furthermore, due to these poor performance of students enrollment on economics at senior secondary school examination has been low, which in turn affected the number of students that would study pure economics in higher institution.
Amafula E.U. (2001), views the problem as mainly due to inadequate teachers? preparations.
1.3 Purpose of Study
The purpose of this research therefore is to determine the influence of the level of effectiveness of teacher on the students academic performance in economics also in some other subject in our secondary school.
1. To investigate how the qualification of economics teachers in senior secondary schools affect the performance of the students.
2. To ascertain how the teachers method in teaching economics affect the student in senior secondary schools.
3. To find out how the motivation of the teacher affect the academic performance of the students in senior secondary school.
1.4 Delimitation of Study
The study would be limited to testing the impact of teacher?s effectiveness on student performance in economics and some other subject in senior secondary certificate examination in the government owned senior secondary school in Owerri Municipal Council of Imo State.
1.5 Significance of Study
The project would be of immense benefit to the government because it will be a working document for policy formulation in relation to the training of teachers. It will contribute to the existing literature on students performance and teachers qualification; hence it will be important to both teachers and student.
It would go a long way in helping curriculum planners make some adjustments in some of the topics in the syllabus. It should be of great important to economics teachers to implements the curriculum and seek for further improvements on the subject through in service training such as attending seminars and work shops, which will help in improving their method of teaching.
In this part of country, there has been a great increase in the number that enroll knowledge of economics in order to run his business affairs then the question is how effective is the teaching and learning of economics in secondary schools to make the understanding of economics a reality for the average student? This study would also find out whether the reason for increasing economics in the curriculum is being achieved. This is because economics is aimed at providing vocational skills that will be necessary for industrial and economic development in Nigeria as a whole.
1.6 Research Question
The following research questions are formulated as a guide to the study:-
1. To what extent does the qualification of economic teachers in senior secondary school affect the performance of the student?
2. To what extent does the teachers method in teaching economics affect the student academic performance?
How often does the teacher motivation affect the academic performance of the student? |
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