ENHANCING TERTIARY STUDENTS’ MINDSET TOWARDS LEARNING APPROACH

Abstract

This study sought to examine tertiary students’ mindset towards learning approach. The study was a descriptive survey carried out in south-east Federal Government Universities in Nigeria. The population consisted of all undergraduate students of south-east Federal universities. Purposive sampling were employed to select 3 out of 6 Federal universities in the south east geo- political zones. The researchers in collaboration with co-researchers utilized spontaneous interview method to access undergraduate students’ mindset. The level of students utilized were 200 level students and above whose academic programme is for four years. The study utilized multiple response of Strongly Agree (SA) - 4 points, Agree (A ) – 3 points, Disagree (D) - 2 points and Strongly Disagree (SD) – 1 which was rated in simple percentages. The instrument adapted for the study was “Enhancing Tertiary students’ mindset towards learning (ETSMTL)’’. The instrument were validated by experts. Its reliability indices were established to be 80% using Cronbach Alpha. The instrument were administered to undergraduate students by research assistants (co-researchers) and researchers. The administered instrument were recorded on a tape with permission from Director Students Affairs of various institutions. Already collected instrument were handed over to the researchers on the spot. Data were analysed using simple percentages. A criterion percentage rating of 50% was used for decision taking. 50% and above were regarded as stable (fix) mindset while below 50 % were regarded as unstable (growth) mindset. The findings of the study revealed among others that there is need for individual learner to understand himself, his environment and work towards achieving the stated purpose of being in the environment. The study recommended among others that there should be a change on how one perceive challenges, mistakes and feedback.