DIGITAL MEDIA

In recent years, the widespread use of digital media has significantly transformed how university students communicate, learn, and express ideas. While digital platforms such as WhatsApp, Instagram, and Facebook have enhanced information sharing and connectivity, concerns have emerged about their influence on students' wvriting culture and academic performance. This study examined the impact of digital media on the writing culture of undergraduate students in public universities in Delta State, Nigeria. The study adopted a descriptive survey research design and was conducted in selected universities, including Delta State University, Abraka, and the Federal University of Petroleum Resources, Effurun. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data from a sample of 398 respondents, selected through a multi-stage sampling technique. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics such as frequencies, percentages, means, and standard deviations with the aid of the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS). Findings revealed that WhatsApp, Instagram, and Facebook are the most frequently used platforms, with most students spending between one and six hours daily online. While digital media facilitates learning, vocabulary development, and collaboration, it also promotes informal writing styles, spelling errors, and reduced originality. The study concludes that digitalmedia exerts both constructive and disruptive effects on students' writing practices. It recommends integrating digital literacy and academic writing training into university curricula, organizing workshops on formal writing, promoting plagiarism detection tools, and improving access to scholarly digital resources to enhance responsible digital engagement. Keywords: Digital media, writing culture, undergraduates, public universities, Delta State.

This study examines the role of digital media in accessing information on government policies in Edo State, Nigeria. With the increasing adoption of digital platforms, governments are leveraging websites, social media, and other online tools to communicate policies to citizens. The study adopted a descriptive survey design, targeting 150 respondents, with a focus on public servants who are more actively engaged with government policy information. Data were collected using structured questionnaires covering digital media usage, access, challenges, and strategies for improvement. Findings indicate that the Edo State Government effectively disseminates policy information through digital channels, and public servants rely significantly on these platforms for updates. However, challenges such as high data costs, poor network connectivity, misinformation, and concerns about data privacy hinder optimal access. Respondents recommended improvements in internet infrastructure, digital literacy programs, and the introduction of interactive features on government platforms to enhance engagement. The study concludes that while digital media has strengthened policy visibility and awareness, strategic interventions are needed to ensure equitable access and trust among all citizens. The findings have implications for policymakers in Edo State and other regions seeking to leverage digital technologies for effective governance.