M.G. AKINTARO

The academic performance of students is influenced by several factors, one of which is the communication behaviour of lecturers. Hence, this study investigates the impact of lecturers communication behaviour on students academic performance, with a particular focus on the Department of Mass Communication, University of Benin. The study employed the Social Learning Theory and Immediacy Theory, helped to frame the understanding of how students perceive and respond to lecturers communication styles. A survey research design was employed, using both questionnaires and interviews to collect data from selected respondents within the Department of Mass Communication at the University of Benin. Data collected were analyzed using tables for quantitative feedback and thematic analysis for open-ended responses. Findings revealed that lecturers communication behaviour significantly impacts students academic performance, as it was discovered that the way lecturers communicate can either enhance or hinder students learning experiences, thus, the impact can be positive or negative depending on the nature of the communication behaviour. The study concluded that lecturers communication behaviour plays a crucial role in shaping the academic outcomes of students. In relation to these findings, it is recommended that higher institutions conduct thorough interviews to assess lecturers communication behaviour during recruitment processes and provide continuous training to ensure lecturers remain effective, inclusive, and always adaptive to the diverse communication needs of students.

This study examined the influence of social media algorithms in shaping news exposure among undergraduate students in the University of Benin. The objectives were to determine how students use social media for news consumption, their awareness of algorithmic filtering, and its effect on perceptions of news credibility. Guided by the Uses and Gratification Theory and Media Dependency Theory, the study adopted a survey design. A stratified random sampling technique was used to select 400 undergraduate students, and structured questionnaires served as the main instrument for data collection.Findings revealed that most undergraduate students in the University of Benin rely on social
media as their primary source of news, with Instagram, Twitter, and WhatsApp ranking highest. However, while many recognized the role of algorithms in shaping their news exposure, less than half verified stories before sharing, exposing gaps in media literacy. The study also found that algorithms not only determine the kind of news students encounter but also influence their perception of its credibility, with Instagram and Twitter considered more trustworthy due to their visual appeal and real-time updates.The study concludes that social media algorithms significantly shape news consumption and trust. It recommends strengthening media literacy and promoting fact-checking practices among students.