Perceptions and Attitudes of Undergraduate Students of Sociology towards Research Methods as a Course in Kogi State University, Anyigba, Nigeria

Abstract

This study was conducted to find out the views and attitudes of undergraduate students of Sociology towards research methods as a course in Kogi State University, Anyigba, Nigeria. The sample comprises those 2017/2018 third year undergraduate students of sociology at the institution, who registered and sat for the examination of the course (Soc 301). Data were collected through in-depth interviews; and the data were content analysed (manually). Findings of the study reveal that respondents perceived the course as though complex, technical and stressful but interesting, educative and beneficial. These views were however discovered to be due to the positive attitude respondents have towards the course. While this attitude appears commendable, the university management still needs to pay particular attention to the sustenance of the attitude through further provision of conducive and attractive learning environment as well as appropriate instructional materials, as these will help to impact profoundly on the students learning the course and other courses. Further, research methods teachers need to always make the teaching of the course interesting and practical to stimulate learning. Finally, students at all time need to be diligent and serious with the course so as to become better researchers and good sociologists in future.