Challenges Affecting Educational Research in Delta State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study investigated the factors inhibiting the conduct and uptake of educational research in Nigeria with specific reference to Delta State. Data were collected using a self-administered questionnaire from forty-two (42) academic staffs drawn from three universities and three Colleges of Education in the state. The data was analysed using descriptive statistics. Two hypotheses on factors affecting research were tested at the level of confidence p. = .05 using the student-t test. A range of managerial and methodological factors were identified as affecting the conduct and uptake of research in the country. These respectively included absence of a clear national development philosophy and adequate funding for research and gaps in methodological competence and research integrity on the part of educational researchers. These findings are cross-referenced with related literature after which conclusions are drawn and recommendations are made.