An evaluation of the role of religious education in shaping students' career choices in primary schools in Jos South LGA, Plateau State
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Background of the Study
In the contemporary educational environment, career guidance is increasingly integrated into the curriculum, yet traditional subjects such as religious education continue to play an influential role in shaping students' life perspectives. In Jos South LGA, Plateau State, religious education is not only a conduit for spiritual growth but also a significant factor in influencing career choices among primary school students. The teachings embedded within religious education offer moral and ethical guidance, which many educators argue can indirectly affect career aspirations by instilling values such as diligence, integrity, and service to the community (). In this context, career choices are often influenced by the internalization of values that align with the virtues promoted in religious texts and narratives. As students absorb lessons on hard work, honesty, and community service, these values may guide their future professional decisions and personal development. Educational stakeholders in Jos South LGA have observed that students who exhibit strong moral grounding are more likely to choose career paths that contribute positively to society, such as teaching, healthcare, or public service. However, there remains a critical gap in understanding the extent to which religious education directly or indirectly shapes these career decisions. Recent literature suggests that moral and ethical education, when effectively delivered, can serve as a motivational force that enhances students' long-term commitment to careers that are socially beneficial (). Additionally, the dynamic interplay between traditional values and modern career aspirations creates a unique educational challenge. While religious education provides the foundational ethics, external factors such as media, peer influence, and economic opportunities also play crucial roles in career decision-making. The current study seeks to evaluate the role of religious education in influencing these career choices, examining both the direct and indirect pathways through which moral values are internalized and manifested in career aspirations (). This investigation is timely as it addresses the broader implications of integrating moral education within the primary school curriculum and its potential long-term effects on professional development and societal contributions.
Statement of the Problem
Despite the recognized influence of religious education on character formation, its role in shaping career choices among primary school students in Jos South LGA remains underexplored. One central problem is the limited empirical evidence linking the values imparted through religious education with subsequent career decisions. While anecdotal evidence suggests that early exposure to ethical teachings may encourage students to pursue socially beneficial careers, systematic studies are lacking. Another issue is the challenge of isolating the influence of religious education from other factors that affect career choices, such as socio-economic background, parental influence, and the prevailing job market (). Teachers in primary schools often face difficulties in explicitly linking religious content with future career pathways, as the curriculum traditionally focuses on moral and ethical values rather than vocational guidance. Additionally, the curriculum may not provide sufficient practical examples or role models that demonstrate the transition from moral education to specific career paths. This ambiguity can lead to confusion among students regarding how their religious upbringing translates into career aspirations. Moreover, there is a notable gap in teacher training regarding the integration of career guidance within the framework of religious education. Such deficiencies hinder the ability of educators to present a cohesive narrative that aligns moral teachings with practical career options. The study aims to address these issues by systematically exploring the relationship between religious education and career choice among primary school students in Jos South LGA. By analyzing teacher perceptions, student outcomes, and curricular content, this research intends to clarify the extent to which religious education serves as a determinant of career direction and to identify strategies for enhancing this aspect of the curriculum ().
Objectives of the Study
• To evaluate the influence of religious education on students' career choices.
• To examine the integration of moral values and career guidance in the curriculum.
• To propose strategies for aligning religious education with career development initiatives.
Research Questions
• How does religious education influence career aspirations among primary school students?
• What are the challenges in integrating career guidance with religious education?
• What curricular strategies can effectively bridge the gap between moral education and career choice?
Research Hypotheses
• H₁: Religious education has a significant positive influence on students’ career choices.
• H₂: There is a significant relationship between the integration of moral values and career guidance in the curriculum.
• H₃: Teacher preparedness mediates the impact of religious education on career decisions.
Significance of the Study
This study is significant as it addresses the underexplored link between religious education and career choices, offering valuable insights into curriculum integration and teacher training. The findings can inform educational reforms aimed at aligning moral education with career development, ultimately benefiting students and the broader community.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study is limited to examining the role of religious education in shaping career choices among primary school students in Jos South LGA, Plateau State. It does not extend to other educational subjects or geographical areas.
Definitions of Terms
• Religious Education: Instruction that focuses on moral, ethical, and spiritual values.
• Career Choices: Decisions regarding professional pathways influenced by personal values and external factors.
• Curriculum Integration: The process of combining different subject areas to provide a cohesive educational experience.
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