Background of the study
Nigerian history, with its rich and complex narratives, forms an essential component of the national curriculum. In secondary schools in Lokoja, Kogi State, traditional teaching methods—predominantly lecture-based and reliant on textbooks—often fail to capture the dynamism of historical events and cultural heritage. Augmented Reality (AR) provides an innovative means of engaging students by overlaying digital information onto the physical environment. AR-based courseware can transform historical maps, artifacts, and events into interactive 3D models that allow students to “experience” historical settings, witness reenactments, and interact with digital representations of historical figures (Adeola, 2023). This immersive technology can enhance students’ spatial and temporal understanding of events, making history more relatable and memorable. By integrating AR into Nigerian history lessons, educators can bridge the gap between abstract historical concepts and students’ lived experiences, thereby fostering deeper engagement and critical thinking (Ibrahim, 2024). However, successful implementation requires addressing challenges such as high technology costs, the need for teacher training, and ensuring that content is culturally accurate and pedagogically sound. This study will explore how AR can be leveraged to enhance the teaching of Nigerian history, assess its impact on student engagement and learning outcomes, and provide recommendations for effective integration in secondary schools in Lokoja (Chinaza, 2023).
Statement of the problem
Secondary schools in Lokoja currently struggle to present Nigerian history in an engaging manner. Traditional textbooks and lectures often do not convey the vibrancy and complexity of historical events, leading to low student interest and retention. Although AR has the potential to revolutionize history teaching by creating interactive, immersive learning experiences, its adoption is limited by several factors. High costs for AR devices and software, insufficient teacher training, and challenges in creating culturally and historically accurate digital content hinder widespread implementation. Additionally, technical issues such as poor internet connectivity and device compatibility can further reduce the effectiveness of AR-based learning tools. These obstacles prevent students from fully engaging with the subject matter and limit their ability to connect with their cultural heritage. This study seeks to assess the role of AR in enhancing the learning of Nigerian history, identify key barriers to its effective use, and propose viable strategies to integrate AR into the history curriculum of secondary schools in Lokoja (Ibrahim, 2024; Adeola, 2023).
Objectives of the study
To evaluate the impact of AR-based courseware on student engagement in Nigerian history.
To identify technical and pedagogical challenges in AR implementation.
To propose strategies for effective integration of AR in history education.
Research questions
How does AR-based courseware affect student understanding of Nigerian history?
What are the main technical challenges in implementing AR in secondary schools?
How can teacher training be improved to support AR-based learning?
Significance of the study
This study is significant as it examines the transformative potential of AR in history education. Findings will guide educators and policymakers in enhancing curriculum delivery, thereby fostering greater student engagement and a deeper appreciation of Nigeria’s cultural heritage (Adeola, 2023; Ibrahim, 2024).
Scope and limitations of the study
The study is confined to AR applications in Nigerian history classes in secondary schools in Lokoja, Kogi State. Limitations include high technology costs and the need for specialized teacher training.
Definitions of terms
Augmented Reality (AR): Technology that superimposes digital information onto the real world.
Nigerian History: The study of Nigeria’s past events, cultures, and significant historical milestones.
Interactive Learning: A pedagogical approach that actively engages students in the learning process.
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