EXPLORING THE INFLUENCE OF DIGITAL MEDIA ON RURAL COMMUNITIES IN NIGERIA: A STUDY OF ISOKO NORTH LGA OF DELTA STATE
Abstract
Abstract
This study examined the influence of digital media on rural communities, with a focus on the Isoko North Local Government Area of Delta State, Nigeria. The research adopted the survey method, utilizing questionnaires distributed across selected rural communities within the LGA. The study was anchored on Technological Determinism Theory and Diffusion of Innovations Theory, which both emphasize how media technologies shape societal behavior and the rate of innovation adoption. Findings revealed that a significant number of rural residents in Isoko North have access to digital media, predominantly through mobile devices. Digital platforms such as Facebook and WhatsApp were found to be the most widely used, especially for accessing health information, communication, and general awareness. However, major challenges identified include frequent power outages and the high cost of internet data. The study concludes that the majority of the residents have access to digital media. The study recommends improving digital infrastructure, providing subsidies for rural internet access, and launching more digital literacy campaigns aimed at rural dwellers.
Full-Text Access Notice
In accordance with the NERD Policy on promoting peer-reviewed publication, public access to the full text of a project, thesis or dissertation is restricted for three years, allowing the author and supervisors sufficient time to pursue peer-reviewed publication.
During this period, researchers with legitimate academic or research purposes may request authorisation directly from the author to enable NERD to release the indexed full texts of the work using the form below.