Factors influencing Choice of Clothing and textiles among undergraduate students: A study of Teaching Facilities, Career Prospects and Strategies for improvement

Abstract

This study explores the factors influencing choice of Clothing and textiles among undergraduate students in Delta State, with a focus on teaching facilities, career prospects, and strategies for improvement. The study adopts a descriptive survey method and Pearson Product Moment Correlation research design. The population comprises 220 undergraduates students of Clothing and textiles in Delta State, Nigeria, Data is collected through a structured questionnaire, titled " Factors Influencing Choice of Clothing and Textiles among Undergraduates Students, teaching facilities, Job Prospects and Strategies for Improvement Questionnaire" (FICCTUSTFJPSIQ), which was validated and tested for reliability. The analysis includes mean and standard deviation for research questions and Pearson product moment correlation for hypotheses. The findings indicate that teaching facilities, such ICT facilities, computer aided instruction, well- equipped laboratories, enough conducive classrooms, instructional materials, with educational facilities and equipment significantly influence choice of Clothing and textiles undergraduate students. Many career opportunities in Clothing and Textiles such as Fashion designing, Pattern and Clothing production, Interior and Exterior designing, weaving, knitting/crocheting and tie dye/ batik production also play significant role . Strategies to improve students' choice involve were giving incentives, donation of equipment, excursion to clothing manufacturing industries among others. In conclusion, the study emphasizes the importance of teaching facilities and career prospects in shaping students' choice of Clothing and Textiles. To enhance this choice, educators should consider students' vocational and entrepreneurial skills need while employing effective teaching strategies. It is recommended for educators to base teaching and learning more on practical skills for business operations and stakeholders should support in motivating students’ that excel in productivity in the area of Clothing and textiles education