Students‟ Perceptions of the Methods Teaching Social Studies and Its Implications on Their Learning Outcomes In the Cape Coast Metropolis

Abstract

The study sought to examine students‟ perceptions of the methods teaching Social Studies and its influence on their learning outcomes in junior high schools within the Cape Coast Metropolis. The descriptive survey design was used in the conduct of the study. A sample size of 160 respondents were carefully chosen through the disproportionate sampling procedure. Questionnaires were used to gather data from respondents. Secondary data were also collected on students‟ academic performance. The data collected were analyzed using means and standard deviations as well as multiple linear regression. The findings of the study revealed that, students generally had positive perceptions about the methods used in teaching Social Studies. Again, the study revealed that teachers used the appropriate methods in teaching Social Studies; that is, student-centered and teacher-centered methods. Students preferred student–centered methods to teacher-centered methods. Finally, the study indicated that, students‟ perceptions of Social Studies teaching method was a significant positive predictor of students‟ learning outcomes. Based on the findings of this study, it was recommended that circuit supervisors in the Cape Coast Metropolis should organize seminars and workshops once a while for Social Studies teachers to consider the current trends of teaching Social Studies in the classroom