Thesis Abstract

Abstract
This research project aims to investigate the attitudes of undergraduate youths toward democratic values and explore the implications for social studies education. The study will use a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews to gather data from a sample of undergraduate students. Through analyzing the data, the research seeks to identify the level of awareness and understanding of democratic values among young adults and examine how these attitudes may influence their engagement with social studies topics. The findings from this research will contribute to the existing literature on civic education and democratic values, particularly focusing on the perspectives of undergraduate students. By understanding the attitudes of young adults toward democratic values, educators and policymakers can better tailor social studies curriculum to address any gaps in knowledge or misconceptions that may exist among this demographic. Additionally, the study aims to provide insights into how the promotion of democratic values can enhance civic participation and engagement among undergraduate youths, ultimately fostering a more informed and active citizenry. The implications of this research extend beyond the classroom, as a deeper understanding of undergraduate attitudes toward democratic values can inform broader social and political initiatives aimed at promoting democratic principles and practices. By shedding light on the perspectives of young adults, this study seeks to contribute to the development of educational strategies that nurture a strong foundation of democratic values among future generations. Overall, this research project seeks to bridge the gap between theoretical discussions on democratic values and practical applications in social studies education. By exploring the attitudes of undergraduate students toward democratic values, this study aims to provide valuable insights for educators, policymakers, and researchers seeking to promote civic education and democratic engagement among young adults. Through a comprehensive analysis of the data collected, this research project aims to offer actionable recommendations for enhancing social studies curriculum and fostering a culture of democratic values among undergraduate youths.

Thesis Overview

INTRODUCTION

This research work sought to assess the attitude of undergraduate youths toward democratic values and the implication these would have on social studies education in Nigeria. The youths of Nigeria has been confirmed to form the bulk of the citizens which is the decision making group in the society. The lack of a democratic attitude of mind has been identified as the major obstacle that has mar democratic consolidation in Nigeria. Thus, both elites and youths have been observed to surprisingly shown weak commitment to the basic symbols and values of democracy. The youths must possess a good grapse of democratic values which will aid, guide and direct their conducts in the discharge of their civic responsibilities. And that the possession of democratic values is not only essential for youths to participate in democracy but is essential for them to participate well and positively.
In order to carry out this study, nine research questions were raised to investigate the attitude of youths to some selected democratic values. The survey research design, using the descriptive method was employed in the study. Six hundred subjects were selected from the four universities in Edo State. The study made use of the frequency and percentage statistical tools to analyze the research questions raised and t-test for the hypotheses raised.