PROMOTING POLITICAL PARTICIPATION AMONG YOUTH: AN ANALYSIS OF EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING METHODS IN POLITICAL SCIENCE

This study examined promoting political participation among youth: an analysis of experiential learning methods in political science. The population of this study comprised of youths in Akoko South West Local Government Area, Ondo state. Sample of one hundred (100) population were randomly selected for the study. Structured questionnaire duly validated was used for data collection. The research instruments were analyzed using frequency and simple percentage intending to examine promoting political participation among youth: an analysis of experiential learning methods in political science. PPMC was used for the hypotheses. The results showed experiential learning methods in political science impact the political participation of youth. It was shown that hands-on engagement in political activities play in shaping the political attitudes and behaviors of young individuals. The findings revealed that experiential learning methods influence youths’ political attitude. Furthermore, it was shown that limited funding and resources and educators lack the necessary training and support are the challenges and barriers to implementing experiential learning methods in political science for promoting political participation among youth and finally, it was shown that experiential learning approaches foster a sense of civic responsibility and community engagement among youth in the realm of politics. The research hypotheses revealed that there was a relationship between experiential learning methods and political participation of youths and finally, there was a significant relationship between experiential learning methods and community engagement. The researcher therefore, suggested amongst others that Government should create opportunities for young individuals to actively participate in political activities such as volunteering for campaigns, joining political organizations, or attending local government meetings. This hands-on experience can increase their understanding of the political process and issues, leading to more informed attitudes and behaviors. Schools should organize political simulations or role-playing activities where youths take on different political roles (e.g., candidate, voter, journalist).