I would like to extend a warm welcome to each and every one of you on behalf of the Vice Chancellor and the staff of Kaduna State University. It is my pleasure to welcome you to the Department of Educational Foundations. Our university and department are governed by laws and ethical principles; thus, it is of the utmost importance that education students thoroughly understand all of the regulations that govern their time spent in the department that are included in this handbook so as to have a pleasant and trouble-free experience while attending the university.
The purpose of this handbook is to provide our students with comprehensive guidance on the nature, philosophy, and goals of the department. For the duration of your time at the university, you will be able to get information on the specifics of the departmental courses that you are required to complete. I have the deepest hope that the students of the faculty will put the knowledge they will acquire from the foundation courses to enhance their pedagogical skills at all levels of education in Nigeria and beyond.
To produce teachers in Kaduna state, Nigeria, and beyond who are skilled practitioners, critical thinkers, social justice advocates, and stewards of inclusive and humanistic education through teaching, research and community service.
Our vision is to be a novel department that produces quality graduates skilled in educational pedagogy, innovative practices using new digital technologies, and a commitment to foundational principles based on equity, justice, and diversity.
The inception of the Department of Educational Foundations heralded a significant milestone for the academic community as it emerged as a distinctive entity within the broader framework of the Faculty of Education during the commencement of the 2021/2022 Academic Session. This newly established department serves a pivotal role as a dedicated service provider, delivering essential educational courses to students pursuing degrees in education.
The primary purpose of the Department of Educational Foundations is to fortify the educational journey of students by imparting a comprehensive understanding of the foundational pillars that underlie the discipline. Unlike other traditional departments within the Faculty of Education, the Department of Educational Foundations uniquely focuses on offering courses that delve into the historical, philosophical, psychological and sociological aspects of education. This distinctive approach is rooted in the belief that a profound grasp of these foundational principles is essential for teachers, providing them with a holistic perspective as they navigate the complex landscape of education.
As of the present, the department boasts a dynamic team of eleven dedicated teaching staff. Each faculty member brings a wealth of expertise and specialization in diverse yet interconnected areas within the realm of educational foundations. The collective expertise of the teaching staff forms a robust academic environment, fostering a rich tapestry of knowledge and facilitating a well-rounded educational experience for students.
The department’s commitment to diversity is evident in the varied specializations of its teaching staff. From historical education perspectives to philosophical underpinnings and sociological dimensions, each staff contributes a unique perspective that enriches the academic landscape. This diversity of expertise ensures that students are exposed to a multifaceted educational experience, allowing them to explore and engage with different facets of educational foundations.
The courses offered by the Department of Educational Foundations serve as a cornerstone for students pursuing degrees in education. These courses are carefully designed to provide students with a strong theoretical foundation, enabling them to critically examine the historical evolution of education, understand the philosophical and psychological frameworks that guide educational practices, and recognize the sociological influences that shape educational systems. By offering this nuanced and comprehensive educational experience, the department equips students with the tools they need to become reflective practitioners and advocates for positive change in the field of education.
The establishment of the Department of Educational Foundations reflects a forward-looking approach to education within Kaduna State University. By recognizing the importance of grounding teachers in a solid foundational understanding, the department contributes to the development of professionals who are not only proficient in their craft but also possess a broader perspective on the socio-historical context of education. This strategic focus aligns with the evolving needs of the educational landscape, preparing students to navigate the challenges of the 21st century Kaduna state, Nigeria and beyond.
Thus, the Department of Educational Foundations stands as a testament to the Kaduna State University commitment to providing a holistic and foundational education to aspiring teachers. With a dedicated team of teaching staff and a diverse array of specialized expertise, the department plays a pivotal role in shaping the next generation of reflective and informed education professionals.
