ASSESSMENT OF CIVIC EDUCATION AS INSTRUMENT FOR CHARACTER REFORMATION AMONG STUDENTS OF SECONDARY SCHOOL IN OGUN STATE

Abstract

The study assessed civic education as instrument for character reformation among students of secondary schools in Ogun State. This study employed descriptive survey research design where questionnaire was used to acquire necessary data for the research work. Population comprises all secondary schools in Odeda Local Government, Ogun State. Simple random sampling technique was used to select five secondary schools in which thirty (30) students were chosen to make a total of one hundred and fifty (150) as sample for study. Two (2) research questions were raised and answered in this study. Reliability of the instrument was determined using Cronbach Alpha and data collected were analyzed using simple percentage, mean and standard deviation statistical tool. Findings reveal that civic education holds significant potential for shaping students' moral and ethical values, several challenges hinder its effectiveness. Inadequate instructional materials, lack of trained teachers, insufficient curriculum content, and a lack of administrative support are major barriers that need to be addressed to maximize the impact of civic education. Additionally, the low levels of student engagement suggest that more effort is required to make civic education more relevant and appealing to students. Addressing these challenges is crucial for ensuring that civic education can fulfill its role in character reformation, ultimately contributing to the development of responsible and morally upright citizens. It is therefore recommended that curriculum for civic education should be revised to better address contemporary moral and ethical challenges faced by students. This includes integrating more practical and interactive content that resonates with students' daily experiences and societal issues.