Socio-Cultural Factors Affecting the Teaching and Learning of Social Studies in Nigeria

Abstract

Many studies have been carried out on cultural variables that promotes the teaching and learning of social studies, but little or no emphasis have been made on those socio-cultural factor that inhibits it. The thrust of this work therefore is to examine those socio-cultural factors in Nigeria that affects social studies teaching and learning. Family/ community background of the child was looked at, cultural, language and religious differences in Nigeria’s heterogeneous society are also such factors that hinder social studies teaching and learning. It was recommended that multicultural education should be conceptualized into the school content, social studies teachers should handle religious and cultural topics objectively, and teachers should be analytical and impartial in approaching such sensitive issues.  Also, cultural laws should be honestly explained to children if there must be an improvement in student’s achievement in social studies.

Keywords: socio-cultural, teaching, learning, social studies.