Challenges and Prospects of Information and Communication Technologies Application Among Mass Communication Students of Tertiary Institutions in Lagos, Nigeria

Abstract

This paper assesses the challenges and prospects of the application of information and communication technologies by mass communication students of tertiary institutions, focusing on three educational institutions in Lagos, Nigeria. Survey research method through a questionnaire as an instrument was applied in collecting data for the study. A sample size of 300 respondents drawn from the three institutions was used. Findings revealed that students’ use of these technologies have steadily risen in recent years due to the derivable utilitarian and gratifying values, among which are accessibility, versatility, speed, cost effectiveness and entertainment. Indeed, the application of these tools, according to the findings, is a necessity if the students must cope with the current demands of their studies. The outcome of the study also revealed that students’ use of ICTs in their studies is not without some inherent difficulties. These include inadequate information and communication technology literacy, epileptic power supply, high costs and negative application by unscrupulous users. Following the inevitability of the use of information and communication technologies by mass communication students and media practitioners, some useful recommendations made include, among others, stepping up of comprehensive ICTs appreciation training for students, improved accessibility, qualitative service delivery by communication service providers and constant public power supply. Key Words: challenges, prospects, technology application, mass communication,                           tertiary institutions