Background of the study
Presentation skills are essential for effective communication, critical thinking, and professional success. In Lafia Local Government Area, Nasarawa State, informal education has emerged as a key contributor to the development of students’ presentation skills. Informal educational initiatives—such as drama clubs, debate forums, public speaking workshops, and peer-led seminars—offer dynamic environments where students can practice and refine their oral communication abilities outside the formal classroom setting (Jibola, 2023). These activities provide hands-on opportunities for students to engage in public speaking, storytelling, and group discussions, thereby building confidence, clarity, and articulation in their presentations (Nwachukwu, 2024). The flexibility inherent in informal education allows for creative expression and personalized learning experiences, enabling students to experiment with different presentation styles and techniques. Moreover, the integration of local cultural narratives and indigenous communication methods enriches the learning experience, fostering an appreciation for both modern and traditional forms of expression (Ogbonna, 2025).
Lafia Local Government Area is characterized by a vibrant cultural milieu where oral traditions and community storytelling have long been valued. Informal education leverages this cultural heritage by incorporating traditional performance arts into modern presentation training. As a result, students are not only exposed to contemporary communication strategies but also learn to appreciate the nuances of local linguistic and non-verbal cues. Recent research suggests that students who participate in informal presentation activities exhibit improved confidence, enhanced public speaking abilities, and better overall communication skills (Afolabi, 2023). Despite these promising indicators, systematic investigations into the specific impact of informal education on presentation skills in Lafia remain limited. This study aims to address this gap by evaluating the effectiveness of various informal educational practices in developing robust presentation skills among students. The findings will provide valuable insights into how informal learning environments can complement formal instruction, ultimately preparing students for academic and professional success.
Statement of the problem
In Lafia Local Government Area, despite the recognized importance of presentation skills, there is a notable deficiency in the systematic development of these skills within formal educational settings. Many students struggle with public speaking and effective communication, largely due to a lack of practical training and opportunities to practice in a supportive environment (Okoro, 2023). Informal education offers a potential solution by providing platforms such as drama clubs and debate societies; however, the impact of these initiatives on students’ presentation abilities remains under-explored. Existing programs vary widely in quality and accessibility, and there is a lack of standardized assessment tools to measure their effectiveness. As a result, educators and community organizers face challenges in determining which informal practices yield the most significant improvements in presentation skills. Additionally, socio-economic factors and limited resources may restrict student participation in these programs, further complicating the landscape. This study seeks to evaluate the impact of informal education on enhancing presentation skills among students in Lafia. It will investigate the various strategies employed, identify key challenges in program implementation, and assess the overall efficacy of these initiatives in fostering improved communication competencies. By addressing these issues, the research aims to provide evidence-based recommendations that can inform the design of more effective informal educational interventions, thereby bridging the gap between informal and formal educational practices and ultimately enhancing student outcomes (Adesina, 2024).
Objectives of the study
Research questions
Research Hypotheses
Significance of the study
This study is significant as it evaluates the impact of informal education on the development of presentation skills among students in Lafia Local Government Area. The findings will provide crucial insights for educators, community leaders, and policymakers on effective strategies to enhance communication competencies. Improved presentation skills are essential for academic success and professional advancement. The study’s recommendations will help bridge the gap between informal and formal education, ensuring that students are well-prepared for future career opportunities and societal engagement (Balogun, 2024).
Scope and limitations of the study
This study is limited to assessing the impact of informal education on students’ presentation skills in Lafia Local Government Area, Nasarawa State. It focuses exclusively on informal educational practices and their direct impact on communication competencies.
Definitions of terms
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