EFFECTS OF INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY ON RADIO NEWS REPORTING IN HIGHER EDUCATION INSTITUTIONS

CHAPTER ONE INTRODUCTION 1.1 Background of the Study Information and Communication Technology (ICT) is widely regarded as a transformative force in the 21st century, having brought about profound changes in various aspects of life. Particularly within the electronic media, ICT has triggered significant and revolutionary shifts, especially in the broadcasting sector, greatly enhancing the immediacy and timeliness of news dissemination (Orhewere, 2017). ICT not only facilitates but also improves the creation, processing, sharing, and distribution of information within the broadcast industry, with a strong emphasis on delivering news promptly and efficiently. Traditionally, there used to be a considerable delay between when an event occurred and when it was broadcast to the public (Ndeyang, 2017). However, ICT has effectively bridged this gap, allowing news to be disseminated much faster and at a lower cost. The term ICT broadly encompasses the convergence of telecommunications, information services, broadcasting, and communication technologies. Historically, radio has played a vital role as a news medium due to its wide accessibility and immediacy. Radio news reporting traditionally depended on reporters, newsroom processes, and set broadcast schedules, which limited real-time updates and interaction with audiences (Briggs & Burke, 2018). With the emergence of ICT, radio journalism has entered a new era marked by increased speed, efficiency, and interactivity. The application of ICT has revolutionized the processes of news gathering, packaging, and reporting, enhancing the capacity of broadcasters to deliver timely news. McChesney (2015) emphasizes that ICT involves the integration and use of computer technologies to disseminate information to target audiences without being constrained by time or geographic boundaries. The adoption of ICT in broadcast news gathering is on the rise among reporters and editors due to the many benefits realized throughout the entire news supply chain. Nevertheless, the introduction of new technologies demands significant financial investment and resources. Many radio stations, especially in developing countries, face challenges in acquiring the necessary infrastructure and providing adequate training for their personnel (McChesney, 2015). Additionally, the rapid pace of information dissemination enabled by ICT can sometimes lead to compromises in the depth and accuracy of news reporting. The proliferation of citizen journalism and user-generated content on digital platforms raises concerns about the verification and credibility of news sources (Akpan, 2016). Moreover, unequal access to ICT infrastructure and digital skills contributes to a digital divide, limiting the advantages of these technological advancements for certain groups and potentially deepening existing information inequalities (van Dijk, 2020). The changing digital landscape also introduces ethical dilemmas for journalists, such as balancing speed with accuracy, preserving journalistic integrity, and combating misinformation (Ward, 2017). The incorporation of ICT into radio news reporting marks a significant development in the media industry. While it offers vast opportunities to improve the efficiency, accuracy, and scope of news delivery, it also brings forth challenges that require attention. Consequently, this study seeks to explore the impact of Information and Communication Technology on radio news reporting in higher education institutions. 1.2 Statement of the Problem The swift progress of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) has brought transformative changes to many global sectors, including the media industry. Radio news reporting, a longstanding key channel for information dissemination, is deeply influenced by these technological advances (Ibemesi, 2017). Traditional practices of news gathering, production, and distribution are being reshaped by digital tools and platforms, creating both new opportunities and challenges for radio broadcasters. Despite ICT’s potential to improve the efficiency, accuracy, and reach of radio news, various challenges persist (Wisdom, 2019). The adoption of ICT in radio newsrooms requires substantial investments in technology and staff training, which can impose financial burdens, especially on stations in developing areas. Additionally, the shift to digital media has raised concerns about journalistic quality, with the rapid spread of information sometimes undermining thoroughness and reliability (Wisdom, 2019). Furthermore, the persistent digital divide presents a major obstacle, as unequal access to ICT infrastructure limits the ability of some populations to benefit from technological progress. This inequality can worsen existing gaps in access to information (Okwara, 2018). The rise of social media and citizen journalism, empowered by ICT, also challenges the verification of news sources and the role of professional journalists in an increasingly democratized media landscape. Therefore, this study aims to investigate how Information and Communication Technology impacts radio news reporting within higher education institutions. 1.3 Research questions The following questions have been prepared to guide the study i.What are the ICT accessories employed to facilitate radio news reporting in higher institution? ii.What is the effect of ICT on radio news reporting in higher institution? iii.What are the challenges in the use of ICT in radio news reporting in higher institution? 1.4 Objective of the study The broad objective of the study is to investigate the impact of information and communication technology on radio news reporting in higher institution. The specific objectives is as follows i.To assess the ICT accessories employed to facilitate radio news reporting in higher institution ii.To evaluate the effect of ICT on radio news reporting in higher institution iii.To find out the challenges in the use of ICT in radio news reporting in higher institution 1.5 Research hypotheses The stated hypotheses have been formulated to guide the study H0: Information and communication technology does not have an effect on radio news reporting in higher institution Ha: Information and communication technology does have an effect on radio news reporting in higher institution 1.6 Significance of the study The study will be significant to NBC as it will offer evidence-based recommendations for policymakers and regulatory bodies on supporting the media industry's transition to a digital environment by revealing the challenges and opportunities associated with ICT integration. The study will also be significant to the academic community as it will contribute to the existing literature, add to library resources and serve as a guide to future researchers. 1.7 Scope of the study The study focus on the impact of information and communication technology on radio news reporting in higher institution. Empirically, the study will assess the various ICT employed to facilitate radio news reporting in higher institution, evaluate the impact of ICT on radio news reporting in higher institution and find out the constraints in the use of ICT in radio news reporting in higher institution. Geographically, the study is delimited to University of Abuja 90.3fm 1.8 Limitation of the study Like in every human endeavour, the researchers encountered slight constraints while carrying out the study. The significant constraints are: Time: The researcher encountered time constraint as the researcher had to carry out this research alongside other academic activities such as attending lectures and other educational activities required of her. Finance: The researcher incurred more financial expenses in carrying out this study such as typesetting, printing, sourcing for relevant materials, literature, or information and in the data collection process. Availability of Materials: The researcher encountered challenges in sourcing for literature in this study. The scarcity of literature on the subject due to the nature of the discourse was a limitation to this study