Relationship between Students’ Participation in Co-Curricular Activities and Social Development at the Secondary Level

The research investigated the connection that exists between the involvement of students in co-curricular activities and their social development at the level of secondary school level. Quantitative causal-comparative research design was used, and the data were gathered through a sample of 1750 Grade 10 students in government secondary schools located in Pakistan and District Gujrat. The key variables were measured by using two researcher-made instruments, namely Students Participation in Co-Curricular Activities (SPCA) and Students Social Development (SSD), both of which were measured using a 5-point Likert scale. Descriptive statistics indicated that the participation of students in co-curricular activities was high with collaboration and dedication being the best aspects. The social development was also high, and social responsibility received the highest score, then communication skills and confidence. The analysis of correlation showed that there were strong positive associations between involvement in co-curricular activities and every aspect of social development with the general participation having the strongest correlation with social responsibility and the overall social development. The results are implying that active involvement in co-curricular activities largely leads to social development of the students at secondary level. This paper highlights the essence of systematic co-curricular activities in schools to develop interpersonal skills, social responsibility and confidence in students.