SOCIAL MEDIA AND BRIDGING OF COVID-19 INFORMATION GAP AMONG STUDENTS OF FEDERAL POLYTECHNIC, OKO

Abstract

This is a survey study. The researcher uses a sample of 112 students to x-ray the impact of new media in dissemination information on COVID-19 pandemic.  The study submits that WhatsAPP, Facebook and Opera news are rendering front line media services. Based on this, therefore, the paper reveals that new media have been potent at the awareness level. The paper also notes some differentials (gap) among the students in terms of level of awareness of COVID-19 pandemic terminology. This aspect of the result is hypothetically explained in the level of new media dependency, literacy level and income. The paper reinforces the role of the media in national development. The paper consequently recommends that governments and change agents take advantage of the possibilities inherent in the new media in the fight against COVID-19 pandemic.