Project Abstract

Abstract
The study aimed to investigate the factors that militate against students' commitment to the study of history in academic settings. A mixed-methods research design was employed, utilizing both qualitative and quantitative data collection techniques to gather comprehensive insights. The research involved surveys, interviews, and focus group discussions with students, teachers, and academic professionals. The findings revealed several key factors that hinder students' commitment to studying history. One significant factor identified was the perception of history as a dull and irrelevant subject. Many students viewed history as disconnected from their lives and future career prospects, leading to a lack of motivation to engage with the subject. Additionally, the research highlighted the impact of teaching methods and curriculum content on students' interest in history. Traditional lecture-based approaches were found to be less effective in capturing students' attention and fostering a meaningful understanding of historical events. Furthermore, the study identified a lack of diversity in historical perspectives as a barrier to student engagement. Students expressed a desire for more inclusive and diverse narratives in history education that reflect a broader range of experiences and voices. The research also revealed the influence of external factors such as parental expectations and societal attitudes towards the study of history. Pressure to focus on more "practical" or "career-oriented" subjects was cited as a common reason for students' disengagement with history. Moreover, the research explored the role of technology in history education and its impact on students' commitment to the subject. While digital tools and resources were seen as beneficial for enhancing learning experiences, concerns were raised about the potential distractions and information overload that technology can introduce. In conclusion, the study shed light on the multifaceted nature of factors that contribute to students' lack of commitment to studying history. The findings underscore the importance of addressing perceptions of history, improving teaching methods, diversifying curriculum content, and navigating external pressures to enhance student engagement with the subject. By understanding and addressing these barriers, educators and policymakers can work towards fostering a more positive and enduring commitment to the study of history among students.

Project Overview

INTRODUCTION

History is an important school subject which conveys invaluable lessons from the past and whose worth transcends regional, national and cultural boundaries. However, effective teaching and learning history in Nigerian Universities has long been blighted by problems and challenges that have often gone unaddressed. This problems and issues have consequently militated against the commitment of undergraduate students studying history. This study drawing on a sample size of 160 undergraduate students in the department of educational foundations and department of history in the university of Benin, examined “factors militating against students commitment to the study of history in the university of Benin”. The purposive and stratified research design was used for the study and data was collected using the self -structured questionnaire. the results and data gotten were analysed using mean statistics. The study found out that factors such as societal perception, methods of teaching, lack of field trips,lack of instructional materials, and teaching aids, peer group influence are the major problems plaguing the study of history in the university. It was therefore recommended that the subject should be placed on the right pedestal by the appropriate quarters hence improving societal perception. There should be more awareness and enlightenment on the appropriateness and advantages of studying history, the ministry of education in alliance with the federal government should invest more in providing history rooms and teaching aids for the department. the lecturers should always be resourceful and versatile to the class and endeavor to use teaching methods that keep the students interest alive, amongst others.