Table of Contents
Abstract. 2
CHAPTER ONE.. 5
INTRODUCTION.. 5
1.1 Background to the Study. 5
1.2 Statement of the Problem... 6
1.3 Objectives of the Study. 7
1.4 Research Questions. 8
1.5 Research Hypothesis. 8
1.6 Significance of the Study. 9
1.7 Scope of the Study. 9
1.8 Limitations of the Study. 10
1.9 Organization of the Study. 10
CHAPTER TWO.. 13
REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE.. 13
2.1 Introduction.. 13
2.2 Theoretical Review.. 13
2.3 Conceptual Review.. 15
2.4 Empirical Review.. 19
2.5 Summary of Literature Review.. 21
CHAPTER FOUR.. 22
DATA ANALYSIS AND INTERPRETATION.. 22
4.1 Preamble. 22
4.2 Socio-Demographic Characteristics of Respondents. 22
TABLES BASED ON RESEARCH QUESTIONS.. 25
4.3 Analysis of the Respondents’ Views on Research Question one:. 25
4.4 Testing Hypothesis. 43
Discussion of Findings. 45
CHAPTER FIVE.. 48
SUMMARY CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION.. 48
5.1 Summary of Findings. 48
5.2 CONCLUSION.. 49
5.3 RECOMMENDATION.. 51
REFERENCES.. 53
Research Questionnaire: The Impact of Guidance and Counselling on Student Academic Achievement in Nigeria.. 56
Case Study: Graceland Secondary School, Uyo. 56
CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background to the Study
In the Nigerian educational landscape, the relationship between guidance and counseling services and student academic achievement is of paramount importance. Nigeria, like many countries, faces multifaceted challenges in its education system, including issues related to infrastructure, socioeconomic disparities, and cultural nuances. Within this context, guidance and counseling serve as crucial components to address not only academic concerns but also the holistic development of students. This introduction aims to explore the intricate connection between guidance and counseling and student academic achievement in Nigeria, shedding light on the current state of affairs and the potential for these services to significantly impact educational outcomes. Akpan, U. S., & Udoudom, U. A. (2018).
A wealth of research supports the notion that effective guidance and counseling programs positively influence student academic performance. Studies such as the one conducted by Akpan and Udoudom (2018) highlight that personalized counseling interventions help students identify their strengths and weaknesses, leading to a more focused and directed approach to their academic pursuits. Furthermore, research by Eze and Ugwoke (2017) emphasizes the role of guidance and counseling in addressing psychological and emotional challenges that students may face, ultimately contributing to improved academic outcomes.
However, the successful integration of guidance and counseling in Nigeria faces challenges such as limited resources and inadequate training for counselors. Scholars like Akinade (2016) emphasize the need for a comprehensive and well-implemented guidance and counseling framework to address these challenges and unlock the full potential of students. This introduction sets the stage for a deeper exploration into the role of guidance and counseling in enhancing student academic achievement in Nigeria, providing a foundation for understanding the current landscape and potential areas for improvement.
1.2 Statement of the Problem
The issue of guidance and counseling in Nigeria poses a significant challenge to student academic achievement. The educational landscape in Nigeria is complex, and students often face various academic, social, and emotional hurdles that can impede their progress. The lack of a comprehensive and well-structured guidance and counseling system in schools hampers students' ability to navigate these challenges effectively. This deficiency is particularly evident in the inadequate provision of career guidance, personal development support, and mental health services. Without proper guidance and counseling, students may struggle with issues such as career indecision, poor study habits, and emotional distress, which can negatively impact their academic performance. Addressing these shortcomings and implementing a robust guidance and counseling framework is crucial for fostering a conducive learning environment and enhancing overall student academic achievement in Nigeria. Eze and Ugwoke (2017)
1.3 Objectives of the Study
The main objective of the study is to examine guidance and counselling on student academic achievement in Nigeria. Specific objectives of the study are:
- 1. To understand the relationship between access to and utilization of guidance and counselling services and academic achievement in Nigerian secondary schools.
- 2. To identify the specific types of guidance and counselling interventions that are most effective in improving academic achievement for students facing different challenges in Nigerian secondary schools.
- To assess the role of school and community stakeholders in supporting effective guidance and counselling programs to promote student academic achievement in Nigeria.
1.4 Research Questions
To guide the study and achieve the objectives of the study, the following research questions were formulated:
- Does the frequency of students’ utilization of guidance and counselling services correlate with their academic performance in core subjects across different socioeconomic backgrounds?
- How do individual and group counselling sessions focusing on study skills, test anxiety management, and career planning compare in their effectiveness for improving academic outcomes for students at different academic levels?
- How do the attitudes and training of school administrators and teachers towards guidance and counselling services influence their willingness to collaborate with counsellors and implement guidance programs?
1.5 Research Hypothesis
The following research hypothesis was developed and tested for the study:
Ho: There is no statistical significant relationship guidance and counselling and student academic achievement in Nigeria.
1.6 Significance of the Study
The study is important for many reasons. The following are the major stakeholders this paper through its practical and theoretical implications and findings will be of great significance:
Firstly, the paper will benefit major stakeholders and policy makers in the Guidance and Counselling sector. The various analysis, findings and discussions outlined in this paper will serve as a guide in enabling major positive changes in the industry and sub-sectors.
Secondly, the paper is also beneficial to the organizations used for the research. Since first hand data was gotten and analysed from the organization, they stand a chance to benefit directly from the findings of the study in respect to their various organizations. These findings will fast track growth and enable productivity in the organisations used as a case study.
Finally, the paper will serve as a guide to other researchers willing to research further into the subject matter. Through the conclusions, limitations and gaps identified in the subject matter, other student and independent researchers can have a well laid foundation to conduct further studies.
1.7 Scope of the Study
The study is delimited to Graceland Secondary School, Uyo. Findings and recommendations from the study reflects the views and opinions of respondents sampled in the area. It may not reflect the entire picture in the population.
1.8 Limitations of the Study
The major limitations of the research study are time, financial constraints and delays from respondents. The researcher had difficulties combining lectures with field work. Financial constraints in form of getting adequate funds and sponsors to print questionnaires, hold Focus group discussions and logistics was recorded. Finally, respondents were a bit reluctant in filling questionnaires and submitting them on time. This delayed the project work a bit.
1.9 Organization of the Study
The study is made up of five (5) Chapters. Chapter one of the study gives a general introduction to the subject matter, background to the problem as well as a detailed problem statement of the research. This chapter also sets the objectives of the paper in motion detailing out the significance and scope of the paper.
Chapter Two of the paper entails the review of related literature with regards to corporate governance and integrated reporting. This chapter outlines the conceptual reviews, theoretical reviews and empirical reviews of the study.
Chapter Three centers on the methodologies applied in the study. A more detailed explanation of the research design, population of the study, sample size and technique, data collection method and analysis is discussed in this chapter.
Chapter Four highlights data analysis and interpretation giving the readers a thorough room for the discussion of the practical and theoretical implications of data analyzed in the study.
Chapter Five outlines the findings, conclusions and recommendations of the study. Based on objectives set out, the researcher concludes the paper by answering all research questions set out in the study.
