PERCEPTIONS OF STUDENTS TOWARDS LEARNING ISLAMIC STUDIES AS A COURSE OF STUDY AT NORTHWEST UNIVERSITY, KANO

This study examines the perceptions of students toward learning Islamic Studies as a course of study at Northwest University, Kano. It is agreed that, Islamic Studies plays a pivotal role in fostering moral, spiritual, and intellectual development, contributing to individual growth and societal harmony. However, student perceptions significantly influence their motivation, engagement, and academic performance in the subject. Four research objectives and questions were formulated to guide the current research work. A descriptive survey research designed was adopted and one hundred and sixty nine (169) samples were extracted from the large population. The study highlights several challenges, such as inadequate instructional resources, lack of modern pedagogical strategies, and societal misconceptions about the field's relevance. On the other hand, students appreciate the subject's role in promoting ethical conduct, critical thinking, and cultural understanding. Recommendations are proposed to address these challenges, including the integration of interdisciplinary approaches, enhanced career counseling, and improved teaching methodologies. The findings underscore the importance of aligning the Islamic Studies curriculum with contemporary societal needs while preserving its core values. This research contributes to the ongoing discourse on the relevance of Islamic Studies in higher education, offering actionable insights for educators, policymakers, and stakeholders to improve student engagement and outcomes in the field.