SOCIAL STUDIES TEACHING METHOD IN CURBING ILLICIT DRUG USAGE AMONG UPPER BASIC SCHOOL STUDENTS IN ANAMBRA METROPOLIS

Abstract

This study investigated the use of inquiry teaching method in Social Studies to curb illicit drug usage among upper basic school students in Anambra Metropolis. Three research questions guided the study. The study examined the factors militating against curbing of the vices among students of the upper basic schools. A descriptive survey and quasi-experimental research using standardized achievement test and questionnaire was employed for the study. The achievement test questions were adapted from National Examination Council (NECO) past questions. The questionnaire items were developed by the researcher, but validated by experts. The reliability of the instruments was determined using test and re-test method and the coefficients of reliability obtained were 0.75 and 0.78 for achievement test and questionnaire respectively. The target population included all Upper Basic 9 students in three randomly selected local government areas in Anambra State, Nigeria. The sample was made up of 87 students, 58 in control group and 29 in experimental group. The data collected were analysed using mean and standard deviation to answer the research questions. The findings of the study revealed that inquiry teaching method is capable of curbing illicit use of drugs among Upper basic students. Based on the finding of this study, it was recommended among others that teachers should always use student-centred methods such as inquiry method which will engage the students deeply with mental work capable of distracting them from taking illicit drugs. Also, government should provide in-service training for teachers to keep them up to date with happenings in education world.