THE IMPACTS OF RADIO PROGRAMS AMONGST THE YOUTHS IN PROMOTING DIGITAL LEARNING ACROSS PUBLIC SCHOOLS IN AKWA IBOM STATE.

The advent of digital technology has made digital literacy a necessity for youths in the 21st Century. In Nigeria, and particularly in Akwa Ibom State, radio remains one of the most accessible and affordable media channels for disseminating educational information to youths in both urban and rural areas. Despite government and non-governmental efforts to promote digital learning through radio broadcasts, there is limited empirical evidence on the extent to which these programs influence youths in public secondary schools. This study therefore assessed the impact of radio programs amongst youths in promoting digital learning across public schools in Akwa Ibom State. The Study was anchored on the Social Learning Theory and Uses and Gratifications Theory. A survey research design was adopted. The population comprised SS1-SS3 students in public secondary schools in Akwa Ibom State. A sample size of 400 respondents was selected using multi-stage sampling technique. Questionnaire was the main instrument for data collection and data were analysed using frequencies, percentages and Chi square with the aid of SPSS. Findings revealed that youths are exposed to radio programs promoting digital learning and that such programs have significantly influence their knowledge and positive attitude towards the use of ICT tools for learning. However, challenges such as poor radio signals, irregular broadcast time and lack of access to computers were identified. The study concluded that radio programs are effective tools for promoting digital learning among youths. It was recommended that government, in collaboration with radio stations, should increase airtime for educational programs, improve signal strength and provide ICT facilities in public schools to reinforce radio lessons.