Research Article

Exploring the Impact of Oral Literature on the Morality of Learners in Primary Schools: A Case of Busongora North Constituency, Kasese District, Uganda

ABSTRACT

The purpose of the study was to explore the impact of oral literature on the morality of learners in primary schools in Busongora North Constituency in Kasese District, Uganda. The study was inspired by the fact that oral literature was not widely taught in primary schools, even when it could have the potential to shape the morals of learners. This could be the reason behind the morality gap among young people in many societies. Therefore, the study focused on investigating how teachers integrate oral literature into their lessons, teachers’ perspectives on the effect of oral literature on the moral development of students, and students’ perspectives on how oral literature influences their behavior and decision-making. The qualitative approach was employed, with in-depth interviews used to collect data from both teachers and students. Sample sizes were determined by data saturation, while respondents were recruited through convenience sampling. Findings reveal that oral literature plays a significant role in the moral development and decision-making processes of primary school learners. Additionally, teachers integrate oral literature in their lessons through various ways, such as storytelling and dramatization. The researchers recommend that the Ministry of Education and Sports and its partners should develop the curriculum further to make oral literature a key topic. There is a need for policy reviews, community partnerships, and further research to investigate the long-term impact of oral literature on moral development and its incorporation into other subjects. These recommendations will maximize the relevance of oral literature in the moral growth of learners.

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Keywords

oral literature morality moral growth and development teaching primary schools