This study was carried out to investigate the use of social media in development communication and how undergraduate students of Akwa Ibom State University perceived the usage. The specific objectives were: to find out if Akwa Ibom State University students are aware of the potential of social media for development communication and effect. Ascertain the specific social media that can be used for development communication. Determine the kind of development communication message that social media can be used for. Examine the constraints facing the use of social media for development communication and solutions.
The study adopted the survey research design which was employed to derive responses from a sample size of 200 undergraduate students of the Department of Mass Communication Akwa Ibom State University who were selected via random sampling techniques. Data were collected from this population using questionnaire.
The study revealed that: Akwa Ibom State University students are aware of the use of social media for development communication to a large extent; over half of the respondents use Facebook to send and receive information more than any other social networks; education messages were mostly communicated through the social media followed by messages on rural development; the use of the social media to communicate development was constrained greatly by lack of access to computers and high cost of subscription for internet access. Drawn from the findings, it was recommended that more enlightenment should be done in terms of using the social media to trigger development consciousness among the citizens.
Table of Contents
- Abstract
- Introduction
- Problems
- Definition of Social Media
- Social Media in Nigeria
- What is Development Communication?
- Areas of Development Concerns in Developing Nations
- Social Media, Development and Development Communication
- Methodology
- Findings
- Discussion
- Recommendation
- Reference
Objectives and Key Themes
This study investigates the perception and use of social media for development communication among Akwa Ibom State University students. The primary objective is to understand students' awareness of social media's potential in this context, identifying preferred platforms, message types, and constraints.
- The role of social media in development communication.
- Students' awareness and perception of social media's potential for development communication.
- Specific social media platforms used for development communication.
- Types of development communication messages conveyed through social media.
- Constraints and solutions related to using social media for development communication.
Chapter Summaries
Introduction: This chapter introduces the study's context by discussing the rise of social media and its widespread use, particularly among Nigerian youth and students. It highlights the increasing popularity of platforms like Facebook for social interaction and information sharing, citing various research studies that underscore the significance of social media in students' lives and its potential for broader societal applications. The chapter sets the stage by emphasizing the growing recognition of social media's role in development communication and its potential to enhance participatory development initiatives.
Problems: This section identifies a gap in existing research concerning the specific use of social media for development communication, particularly in Nigeria. It highlights the lack of sufficient understanding regarding students' awareness of social media's potential in this area, prompting the study to address key questions about the extent of this awareness, preferred platforms, and types of development messages conveyed through these platforms. The chapter establishes the research problem and rationale behind the study.
Keywords
Social media, development communication, Nigeria, Akwa Ibom State University students, perception, awareness, Facebook, information sharing, constraints, solutions, sustainable development.
Frequently Asked Questions: A Study on Social Media and Development Communication Among Akwa Ibom State University Students
What is the main focus of this study?
This study investigates the perception and use of social media for development communication among Akwa Ibom State University students in Nigeria. It aims to understand students' awareness of social media's potential in this context, their preferred platforms, the types of messages they share, and the challenges they face.
What are the key objectives of the research?
The primary objective is to understand students' awareness of social media's potential for development communication. The study also explores preferred social media platforms used for this purpose, the types of development communication messages conveyed, and the constraints and potential solutions related to using social media for development communication.
What topics are covered in the study?
The study covers a range of topics including: the definition of social media and development communication; the role of social media in development communication in Nigeria; areas of development concern in developing nations; the methodology used in the research; findings from the study; discussion of the results; and recommendations based on the findings.
Which social media platforms are relevant to this study?
While the study doesn't solely focus on a specific platform, it acknowledges the significant role of platforms like Facebook, and likely others, in social interaction and information sharing among students. The research will identify the specific platforms preferred by students for development communication purposes.
What are the key themes explored in the study?
Key themes include the role of social media in development communication, students' awareness and perception of its potential, specific platforms used, types of messages conveyed, and constraints and solutions related to its usage. The study also considers the broader context of development communication and its challenges in developing nations.
What is the methodology used in this study?
The provided preview doesn't detail the specific methodology employed. However, the presence of a dedicated "Methodology" chapter in the table of contents indicates that this aspect will be thoroughly explained in the full text.
What are the key findings and recommendations of the study?
The preview only offers a brief overview. The detailed findings and recommendations are presented in dedicated chapters ("Findings," "Discussion," and "Recommendation") within the full study.
What are the keywords associated with this research?
Keywords include: Social media, development communication, Nigeria, Akwa Ibom State University students, perception, awareness, Facebook, information sharing, constraints, solutions, sustainable development.
What is the significance of this research?
This research is significant because it addresses a gap in understanding how Nigerian students specifically utilize social media for development communication. It provides valuable insights into their awareness, preferences, and challenges, contributing to a more effective use of social media for development initiatives.
- Citar trabajo
- Edikan Ukpong (Autor), 2016, The Role of Social Media in Development Communication, Múnich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/509295
