Background of the study
Ethical decision-making is an essential component of personal and professional development, especially in an increasingly complex global society. In Kachia Local Government Area, Kaduna State, informal education has been identified as a promising strategy for enhancing ethical awareness among secondary school students. Unlike formal education, which often focuses on theoretical frameworks and abstract ethical principles, informal education emphasizes real-world experiences and interactive learning opportunities that enable students to explore ethical dilemmas in practical contexts (Abubakar, 2023). Through activities such as community service projects, role-playing scenarios, and group discussions, students are exposed to diverse perspectives that challenge their preconceptions and encourage critical reflection on moral issues. These experiences not only foster empathy and ethical sensitivity but also equip students with the decision-making skills necessary to navigate complex social environments (Usman, 2024). Moreover, informal education in Kachia integrates local cultural values and indigenous ethical norms, thereby providing a contextually relevant framework for ethical learning. Recent studies have demonstrated that experiential learning approaches are effective in enhancing ethical decision-making capabilities, as they promote active engagement and facilitate the internalization of moral values (Yakubu, 2025). However, there is a paucity of empirical research that examines how informal educational practices contribute to ethical decision-making among secondary school students in Kachia. This investigation seeks to address this gap by exploring the role of informal education in shaping students’ ethical perspectives and actions. The study will examine various informal learning modalities and assess their impact on students’ ability to analyze ethical dilemmas, make informed decisions, and act responsibly in their communities. By focusing on the interplay between experiential learning and ethical development, the research aims to offer insights that can inform both educational practices and policy reforms. The ultimate goal is to foster a generation of ethically conscious individuals who are equipped to contribute positively to societal well-being.
Statement of the problem
Despite the recognized importance of ethical decision-making, students in Kachia Local Government Area often struggle to apply ethical principles in real-life situations. The formal educational framework, with its emphasis on theoretical knowledge, does not adequately prepare students for the ethical challenges of everyday life (Abubakar, 2023). Informal education, which provides practical experiences and community-based learning, has the potential to bridge this gap; however, its effectiveness remains underexplored. Many informal educational initiatives are implemented on a limited scale and without systematic evaluation, leaving educators without clear guidance on best practices for promoting ethical decision-making among students (Usman, 2024). Additionally, cultural and socio-economic factors further complicate the integration of ethical learning into students’ lives, as traditional norms and modern ethical dilemmas often intersect in complex ways. The lack of empirical research on the impact of informal education in this context has resulted in a limited understanding of how these interventions influence ethical decision-making processes. This study seeks to investigate the role of informal education in enhancing ethical awareness and decision-making among secondary school students in Kachia. It will examine the effectiveness of various informal strategies in fostering critical ethical reasoning, identify the challenges associated with their implementation, and propose recommendations for integrating ethical education into broader educational frameworks. Addressing these issues is crucial for preparing students to navigate ethical dilemmas in both personal and professional contexts and for promoting a more just and responsible society (Yakubu, 2025).
Objectives of the study
Research questions
Research Hypotheses
Significance of the study
This study is significant as it examines the role of informal education in enhancing ethical decision-making among secondary school students. The research provides valuable insights into effective community-based ethical learning strategies, offering guidance for educators and policymakers. The findings will contribute to the development of comprehensive educational programs that integrate ethical reasoning into everyday learning, ultimately fostering a more responsible and morally conscious youth in Kachia Local Government Area.
Scope and limitations of the study
This study is confined to assessing the impact of informal education on ethical decision-making among secondary school students in Kachia Local Government Area, Kaduna State. It does not extend to other forms of ethical training or other regions. Limitations include access to diverse informal programs and potential cultural biases.
Definitions of terms
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