Attitude of Secondary School Students towards Social Science
Alipsa Jena
Ravenshaw University, Cuttack, Odisha, India.
Prahallad Majhi
Department of Education, Model Degree College, Nuapada, Odisha, India.
Ashok Dansana *
Department of Teacher Education, NCERT, New Delhi, India.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
This paper aims to explore the attitude of secondary school students towards Social Science subjects with respect to gender, future opportunities and types of schools. The present study was conducted following the Descriptive Survey Method where data was collected from 208 students across eight secondary schools in Jajpur District, Odisha, India. The intended data was collected through the GRASS scale and analysed statistically. The result of the study reveals that the students of government and private schools significantly differ in respect of their attitude towards Social Science. Private school students have a better positive attitude towards Social Science as compared to Government school students. There is no difference between secondary school students in their attitude towards Social Science with respect to gender. The students show a negative attitude towards Social Science in terms of future opportunities. Additionally, many students expressed scepticism about the practical applications and career benefits of social science. These findings underscore the necessity for educational reforms that enhance the perceived value and relevance of social science, incorporating practical issues and career-oriented counselling to foster engagement and appreciation among students.
Keywords: Attitudes, gender, secondary school, social science education, future opportunities