nyekwere ogedi pg/ma/07/43007 - university of nigeria ogedi.pdf · 1.1.1 brief history of nigerian...
TRANSCRIPT
1
INFLUENCE OF NEW MEDIA TECHNOLOGIES IN
BROADCASTING: A STUDY OF TELEVISION STATIONS
IN PORT-HARCOURT METROPOLIS
NYEKWERE OGEDI
PG/MA/07/43007
DEPARTMENT OF MASS COMMUNICATION,
FACULTY OF ARTS
UNIVERSITY OF NIGERIA, NSUKKA.
MARCH 2009
1
INFLUENCE OF NEW MEDIA TECHNOLOGIES IN
BROADCASTING: A STUDY OF TELEVISION STATIONS
IN PORT-HARCOURT METROPOLIS
NYEKWERE, OGEDI
PG/MA/07/43007
BEING A RESEARCH PROJECT SUBMITTED TO THE DEPARTMENT
OF MASS COMMUNICATION, UNIVERSITY OF NIGERIA, NSUKKA,
IN PARTIAL FULFILMENT FOR THE REQUIREMENT OF THE
AWARD OF MASTER OF ARTS (M.A) DEGREE IN
MASS COMMUNICATION
MARCH 2009
2
CERTIFICATION
This project report is certified as having met the requirements of the Department of
Mass Communication and the School of Post Graduate Studies, University of Nigeria,
Nsukka for the award of a Master of Arts Degree in Mass Communication.
---------------------------------- Date----------------------------
RAY A. UDEAJAH, (Ph. D.)
(PROJECT SUPERVISOR)
--------------------------------- Date------------------------------
RAY A. UDEAJAH, (Ph.D.)
(HEAD OF DEPARTMENT)
--------------------------------------- Date-------------------------------
(EXTERNAL EXAMINER)
3
DEDICATION
This work is dedicated to God Almighty.
To my little sister, Endwell Nyekwere.
To Mr. Blessing Oguni, my mother Mrs. Elizabeth Nyekwere,
my brother Empire Nyekwere
and my little nephew Testimony Obuah.
4
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
No achievement in life is without the contributions of others, who directly or
indirectly shared their gifts, talents and wisdom with us. This project work is no exemption.
I wish to express my utmost appreciation to God Almighty, the one who has brought
me this far and is not willing to let me go until he completes that which he has predestined for
me. The one whose claim as the Alpha and Omega has been made manifest in my life, his
unchanging grace cannot be fathomed. Life in U.N.N would have been meaningless and
useless without him. The incomparable God I thank you for all your provisions.
Iam indebted to my supervisor, Dr. Ray Udeajah, a father and good listener for all the
pains you went through to see that this work is a success. Your reward no doubt is in heaven
but you shall begin to reap the dividends from now.
I will not fail to acknowledge the inspiration drawn from my lecturers in the
department of Mass Communication U.N.N. Dr. R.A. Udeajah, the head of department, Dr.
Akpan, Mr. Okoro, Miss E.U. Ohaja and Mr. Anorue you all contributed to see me thus far.
I also appreciate the chief technician Mrs. Odikpo and the studio manager Mr.
Calistus Ezioku and all the staff in the general office.
I commend the wonderful mother God has given me, for her financial, spiritual and
moral support. Nnene, those your sleepless nights of prayers and groaning to God on my
behalf helped me a great deal. You motherly love and encouragement cannot be fathomed.
You will reap the fruit of your labour, you will not die before your time.
I owe my honest appreciation to Mr. Blessing Oguni who has been there for me both
financially, spiritually and morally. My word for you is that your family will always receive
help whenever you need one.
5
To my Pastor, Pastor, Ropo Okenya, I will not fail to appreciate you for your
contributions both financially, spiritually and morally and all the members of Arena of
Favour Parish, God bless you all for your ceaseless prayers of success on my behalf.
To Mr. and Mrs. Ikechukwu Obuah for purchasing the form for this programme and
your prayers and inspirations. I also appreciate Mr. Agbo for his scholarly advice,
encouragement and contributions in course of this work. Sir my word for you is that God will
bless and prosper the works of your hands.
I will not fail to appreciate my little sister Endwell specially for her sleepless nights to
see that she proof reads the manuscript. God will bless you real good and meet you at the
point of your needs. To my other siblings, Prince Nyekwere, Chinemezu Nyekwere, Effort
Nyekwere and Empire Nyekwere God will bless you real good for all your contributions
towards the success of this work.
I appreciate the wonderful family I met here on campus, the King‟s Model Parish
(Redeem family). I will ever live to remember you people. To all my friends, I appreciate you
for being there for me. To my course mates, knowing you people was not a mistake at all.
My thanks will be incomplete if I fail to acknowledge the author of whose books were
of immense help for the completion of this work.
NYEKWERE, OGEDI
DEPARTMENT OF MASS COMMUNICATION
UNIVERSITY OF NIGERIA, NSUKKA.
6
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Title Page ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- i
Certification page ------------------------------------------------------------------------ ii
Dedication --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- iii
Acknowledgement ------------------------------------------------------------------------ iv
Abstract ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ vi
Table of Contents -------------------------------------------------------------------------- vii
List of Tables ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ ix
CHAPTER ONE: INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background of the Study ---------------------------------------------------------- 1
1.1.1 Brief History of Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) Port-Harcourt - 7
1.1.2 Brief History of Rivers State Television (RSTV) Port-Harcourt --------- 7
1.1.3 Brief History of DAAR Communications (AIT) Port-Harcourt --------- 8
1.2 Statement of the Problem --------------------------------------------------------- 8
1.3 Objective of Study ------------------------------------------------------------------ 9
1.4 Significance of Study ------------------------------------------------------------- 10
1.5 Research Questions ---------------------------------------------------------------- 10
1.6 Theoretical Framework ----------------------------------------------------------- 10
1.6.1 The Technological Determinism Theory ------------------------------------- 11
1.6.2 Diffusion of Innovations Theory ---------------------------------------------- 12
1.7 Scope of the Study ----------------------------------------------------------------- 12
1.8 Definitions of Terms -------------------------------------------------------------- 13
References --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 15
7
CHAPTER TWO: REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE RES
2.1 The Evolution of Broadcasting in Nigeria --------------------------------------- 16
2.2 Concepts of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) -------- 18
2.2.1 The Internet ------------------------------------------------------------------------- 21
2.2.2 Satellite Technology --------------------------------------------------------------- 22
2.2.3 Cable Technology ----------------------------------------------------------------- 23
2.2.4 Computer Technology ------------------------------------------------------------ 25
2.2.5 Digital Cameras -------------------------------------------------------------------- 26
2.2.6 Digital Television ---------------------------------------------------------------- 26
2.2.7 Teletext ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 27
2.2.8 Micro-wave Technology ---------------------------------------------------------- 28
2.2.9 Fibre Optic ------------------------------------------------------------------------ 28
2.3 Development of Information and Communication Technology (ICTs) ------ 29
2.4 Challenges of New Media Technologies in the Nigerian Broadcast Industry 33
References ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 39
CHAPTER THREE: METHODOLOGY
3.1 Research Design ------------------------------------------------------------------- 43
3.2 Population of the Study ----------------------------------------------------------- 44
3.3 Sampling Technique --------------------------------------------------------------- 44
3.4 Sample Size ------------------------------------------------------------------------- 45
3.5 Instrument for Data Collection -------------------------------------------------- 45
3.6 Validation of Research Instrument ---------------------------------------------- 46
3.7 Reliability of Research Instrument ---------------------------------------------- 46
3.8 Procedure for Data Collection --------------------------------------------------- 46
3.9 Method of Analysis and Presentation of Data --------------------------------- 46
Reference --------------------------------------------------------------------------- 47
8
CHAPTER FOUR: DATA PRESENTATION AND INTERPRETATION
4.1 Data Presentation ------------------------------------------------------------------ 48
4.2 Analysis of Research Questions ------------------------------------------------- 51
4.3 Discussion and Interpretation of Result ---------------------------------------- 58
4.4 Implications of Findings ---------------------------------------------------------- 62
4.5 Answer to Research Questions -------------------------------------------------- 63
Reference ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 65
CHAPTER FIVE: SUMMARY, CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS
5.1 Summary ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- 66
5.2 Conclusion -------------------------------------------------------------------------- 66
5.3 Recommendations ----------------------------------------------------------------- 67
Bibliography ------------------------------------------------------------------------ 69
Appendix ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- 74
9
LIST OF TABLES
Table I: Return Rate of Copies of Questionnaires Distributed ---------------------- 48
Table 2: Demographic Distribution of Respondents ---------------------------------- 49
Table 3: Data Answering research Question 1 ----------------------------------------- 52
Table 4: Data Answering Research Question 2 ---------------------------------------- 53
Table 5: Data Answering Research Question 3 ---------------------------------------- 55
Table 6: Data Answering Research Question 4 ---------------------------------------- 57
10
ABSTRACT
The advances in new media technologies are an effective catalyst for change across the
globe. These technologies have not only radically improved the mode, accuracy and speed of
message production and transfer; they have also redefined the concept of broadcasting.
However, it remains increasingly difficult to ascertain the place of broadcasting in a world
that is overloaded with information. In order to generate data for the study, the survey
research method was used to collate relevant data for the study. Findings from the analyzed
data show that new media technologies have had a significant influence in output of the
stations under study. The problems of lack of technical know-how cost of acquiring these
equipment remains the barriers to their effectiveness. Base on the findings, the study
recommends, that the government should reduce value added tax on new media equipment,
as this will help reduce the overall cost of the equipment in order to lessen the stations
financial burdens. New media technologies have the capability to further the scope of
broadcasting by broadening their horizon and making Nigeria broadcasting a world
contender. This can only be achieved if the broadcast media go out of their way to procure
new and better facilities. Attempts should be made to educate old and prospective
broadcasters through the use of workshops, symposia, seminars and training courses.
11
CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background of the Study
As the world grows complex and sophisticated, new media technologies are invented.
The invention of new media technologies has always been a catalyst for change in the
broadcast industry. This change can be attributed to the introduction of new media
technologies in broadcasting occasioned by giant technological advancement.
The advancement in media technologies has cut the barrier of time and space in our
broadcast industry; it has also made communication easier and more democratic and the
creation and distribution of media content easier. No wonder Defleur and Dennis (1991: 229)
observed that:
Technology has always been a metaphor for change in media
industry. As far back as Gutenberg, it was technology: the
movable type that spurred change. Later, fast printing presses,
the telegraph, zinc engraving, modern photography, radio,
television, fibre optics, and other technologies heralded new
developments for media and their audience.
The emergence of new media technologies and the imaginative applications of these
new technologies and older technologies make it possible for the society to be more
informed. It also makes information processing, delivery, storage and retrieval easier. As the
world strives towards globalization, the new media technologies are believed to be a great
facilitator of this move.
Nsude (2004:102) believes that the human family is disunited and fragmented into
nations and cultures with conflicting interest and perceptions and there is need therefore for a
more united world. Throughout history, new media and new forms of media delivery have
continually appeared. Today we have witnessed the arrival of a global community brought
about by advances in communication technologies. This has invariably brought to fore the
concept of globalization. Marshal McLuhan, a Canadian Scholar, who foresaw the effect of
12
technological change in communication, said that the human society has been restored to a
„global village‟. The concept of global village assumes that “communication technology”
now work like the nervous system in the human family. Messages could be sent and received
with surprising speed. This therefore has shrunk the world into a smaller place not because of
a contraction in landmass, but due to the marvels in communication technologies.
Baran (2009:314) citing McLuhan states:
The media permit us to experience the world with a scope and
depth otherwise impossible. Media, then, are extension of our
bodies. Just as clothes are an extension of our skin, permitting
us to wander farther from our warm caves into the cold world;
just as the automobile is an extension of our feet, enabling us
to travel farther we could ever walk; television extends our
vision and hearing, and computers extend our central nervous
system. With television we can see and hear around the world,
beyond the galaxy, into the future, and into the past.
Computers process, sort, categorize, reconfigure, and clarify.
The new media technologies play functional roles and make tremendous contributions
to the day to day running of the broadcast industry and society. Each advance in
communication increases our power to convey and record information, and each has played a
role in prompting significant changes in our culture and society. It is difficult to digest fully
the influence of one medium before another comes on the scene. Prior to the arrival of new
media technologies, broadcasting equipment has been mechanical or analogue in nature.
These mechanical states of the equipment hinder effective production and dissemination of
news and information. Even the transmission of broadcast signals was often affected by wave
interference, hedges and unclear signals. The reception of signals was largely limited to the
carrying capacity of the transmitter. The arrival of the computer has had enormous influence
in the production process in the broadcast industry. The computer has put tremendous speed
on news reporting and editing making the process almost instantaneous. This process lays a
strong emphasis on accuracy as Agba (2001:3) citing Swinton (1974) observes, “You cannot
catch up with an error in an era of satellite circuits and high speed wires” in today‟s
13
cyberspace, high-tech age, the computer has reduced, if not completely removed, the
difficulties in the production of media products through the electronic system. For instance,
in the past, the production and distribution process in a broadcast industry involved clear
definitive steps and employed manual labour. Today, studies have revealed that broadcast
industry especially in Europe and North America not only gather information but also have
their stories written using computers. This modern technology eliminates the need for
compositors to type because reporters have done the key stroking and the story already exists
in an electronic form. In addition, many reporters run their stories through computers that
correct spelling and grammar. Also editors plan the pages of stories on computers, further
reducing the need for compositors. For instance with the new media technologies AIT news
can be accessed from any part of the world. The station‟s transmission on satellite has broken
the barriers inherent in analogue system and non-satellite system.
However, the introduction and acquisition of new media technologies have strongly
influenced broadcast transmission and reception particularly in Nigerian Television Authority
(NTA) Port - Harcourt, Rivers State Television (RSTV) Port - Harcourt and Daar
Communications Ltd (AIT) Port - Harcourt.
According to Agba (2001:47) technology is integral to a global marketplace wherein
media companies and individual media come together and compete across national
boundaries in a fashion unheard of only some years back. Broadcasting as a branch of mass
communication has witnessed a landmark transformation into a field of vigorous competition
with vast liberalization of infrastructure, information can now be digitalized, transported,
stored, retrieved, modified and distributed. High speed digital electronic highways serve as
the common technology through which these pieces of information are transported.
With the introduction of new media technologies, the broadcast media have
penetrated deeply into the basic fabrics of our social institutions in the society by beaming
14
out information and programmes that meet and satisfy the needs and aspirations of their
listener and viewer. In the words of Bittner (1989:37) Technology has aided the media to
move from the experimental stage, to the present stage where they now exert great influence
on world events.
With the introduction of new technologies in broadcasting, such as the Internet,
satellite cable system, fibre optics to mention but a few, journalism practice across national
boundaries has taken a drastic turn for the better. Technology has aided both the print and
broadcast media to establish a strong presence in the Cyberspace. This brings us to the
concept of technological convergence.
By technological convergence we mean the continuous development in media
technology aimed at bringing about a blend in technologies in the process of message
delivery. Okoro (2006:37) citing Folkerts et al states that in this process, technological
changes not only create new forms of media but also cause formally distinct media forms
such as newspapers to blend or overlap functions with the new media, as is now the case with
news on television and the internet.
Ilo (2000) in Okoro (2006:37) agrees that this convergence is rooted in technological
innovations in microelectronics, telecommunications and the computer. In this mode, all
kinds of data, irrespective of their origin can be manipulated and integrated through
digitalization on the basis of their common informational structure. With this development
they will become instrument for the dissemination and propagation of local Nigerian news
and culture across Nigeria borders and thus, maintaining a strategic presence on the
information superhighway.
In view of the above submission, it is pertinent for the broadcast media professionals
to be acquainted and able to manipulate these technologies and also have good knowledge of
the workings of these new technologies employed in broadcasting. This implies that, the
15
media professionals should know the means of acquiring them, installing and maintaining
these equipment and the ability to overcome the challenges posed by these innovations as a
catalyst for change and as the pivot around which great competition revolve in the broadcast
industry.
To authenticate the above assertion Mbam (2007:64) affirms that information and
communication technology (ICT) is applied in communication profession because media
practitioners need organized (systematic or formalized) way of handling information for
proper planning, proper decision making, and proper management in organization and
individual activities which information are meant for.
It is unarguably becoming a statement of fact that the success of any organization;
institution, business, or individual venture depends largely on the level of communication
effectiveness and efficiency at its disposal. Every business or organization, regardless of its
size or purpose, is concerned with processing of facts (or data) about its operations in order to
provide accurate information to its management. This function could be carried out faster
through the use of modern communication channels like internet, television, motion picture
etc, which disseminate information to all nooks and crannies of the populace. These modern
communication devices go a long way to alleviate the numerous human efforts being wasted
in our previous (un–organized or non–systematic) manner of running our organizations or
collecting our information (Mbam: 2002). The needs in today‟s organizational and
institutional pattern to save time, cost and minimize the process of organizing and
coordinating our big activities is the core function of Information and Communication
Technologies (ICTs).
However, the story is different in the Nigerian broadcast industry. Even in the face of
technological advancement in other countries and the applications of these new technologies
in the broadcast media, the acquisition and use in Nigeria is rather slow. Nigerian
16
broadcasters are yet to catch up with the trend in modern technologies, although
communication experts foresaw long ago that more private broadcast media will spring up in
Nigeria by 21st century, giving communication its place and priority in the country. The use
of new information technologies in Nigeria is a recent phenomenon, as the media are doing
their best to catch up with the trend of things in the world in terms of the acquisition and use
of these new technologies. These technologies are capable of creating sophistication in the
method of broadcasting and also improve the output and quality of programmes.
According to Amuchie (2001:48), in a world that has become a global village where
information travels faster than the speed of light, any country that stand aloof, whether out of
ignorance or lack of appreciation of this necessity will certainly contend with backwardness.
The Nigerian broadcast media cannot afford to stand aloof where others are making
progress, thus, to fight the shackles of backwardness successfully, there is need to embrace
the use of these technologies in order to improve the quality of the programmes and
broadcast. The improvement of the broadcast media all over the world is greatly due to the
application of the right technologies and communication system within their broadcast
network Malcom (2001: 217).
In view of the foregoing, a problem arises as to how to gauge the influence of these
new technologies on broadcast content, message delivery, information reach and quality.
Given the startling development of new media technologies and the expectation that proper
application of these technologies would improve broadcasting in Nigeria this study will
therefore, examine the Influence of new media technologies on broadcasting. A study of
television stations in Port-Harcourt metropolis. These television stations in focus include
Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) Port- Harcourt, Rivers State Television (RSTV) Port –
Harcourt and African Independent Television (AIT) Port – Harcourt.
17
1.1.1 Brief History of NTA Port-Harcourt
The Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) was established by decree 24 of 1977. The
decree was promulgated in March 1977 having effect from April 1976. By the decree, the
Nigerian Television Authority became the only body empowered to undertake television
broadcasting in Nigeria. Thus, all existing state broadcasting stations were thereby taken over
and incorporated into NTA.
NTA Port-Harcourt was borne as a result of this decree as far back as April 1972. The
premise of present NTA Port-Harcourt was formerly the premises of Rivers State
Broadcasting Corporation (RSBC).
In 1973, there was recruitment of staff to take over the operations of the equipment.
Work commenced both at the programmes and engineering departments. The first signal of
NTA Port-Harcourt was beamed in December 1974 from a 100 watt (sound) Thomson CSF
transmitter. By 1975, the major equipment was installed with a 10 - kilowatt Thomson
transmitter. The station was operating from a Thomson OB-van as the transmitter.
The Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), Port-Harcourt is now one of the eight
network centers created and is in-charge of the following production centers: NTA Uyo, NTA
Yenogoa and NTA Calabar.
1.1.2 Brief History of Rivers State Television (RSTV) Port – Harcourt
Rivers State Television, Port – Harcourt (RSTV) started transmission as a local TV
station with a 10 - kilowatt transmitter on channel 55 Ultra High Frequency (UHF) in 1985.
In 1991, the station was upgraded to cope with the challenges of modern broadcasting. With a
powerful 30 kilowatt transmitter, the station beams its signal on channel 22 Ultra High
Frequency (UHF). The station is located at Elelenwo near Port – Harcourt; RSTV is equipped
with state of the art gadgets, effectively covering: Abia, Imo, Delta, Edo, Akwa – Ibom,
Cross – Rivers, Rivers, Enugu and Anambra States. Its spill – over is also felt in parts of
18
Ondo and Ebonyi states, a development which strongly recommends RSTV to advertisers.
With high professional programming and excellent picture and audio quality, RSTV beats the
reach of other TV stations in the South - East and South – South Zones respectively resulting
in the ever expanding viewership of the station.
1.1.3 Brief History of DAAR Communications (AIT Port-Harcourt)
One of the private media companies that got the approval of the military government
to go into private broadcasting is Daar Communications Limited. From the stables of this
company sprout out the African Independent Television (AIT) .This station hit the Nigerian
airwaves with quality broadcast in December 1996 in Lagos zone. Following the successes
trailing their performances in Lagos, coupled with the class of license granted them, they
went ahead to build their station in Rivers State precisely Port-Harcourt in 2003 extending
their reach to the inhabitants of Port-Harcourt and its environs.
1.2 Statement of the Problem
It is saddening that despite the startling developments in media technology, TV
broadcasting in Nigeria especially in Rivers state is yet to assimilate the new innovation or
imbibe the realities of modern broadcasting. The advancement in media technology can only
be said to be achieving the desired ends when they readily and continuously influence
positively the operations of the Nigerian broadcast media. What this translates to, is that the
success or otherwise of all these technologies can only be measured in terms of the extent to
which they bring improvement on the accuracy, speed and transfer of message and redefine
the concept of broadcasting to an enviable height. The use of new media technologies can
only be said to be effective when the media professionals and audience benefit from the
technologies through improved quality of programmes. The problem still remains as to how
to assess the extent to which the new media technologies have influenced the television
19
stations in Port – Harcourt metropolis. ( NTA Port-Harcourt, RSTV Port-Harcourt and AIT
Port-Harcourt).
How have the new media technologies enhanced productivity in terms of accuracy
and news production in these stations? Are the public broadcast stations more abreast of the
influence of the new media or the private broadcast station more aware of this influence?
How have the new media technologies influenced the members of staff? How proficient are
the members of staff in the use of these new media technologies? What are the challenges
posed by these technologies to the members of staff? How do the stations acquaint their staff
with the operations of new media technologies? Are these influences positive or negative?
How have these technologies helped to overcome the barriers of time space and distance?
What are the resultant effects of the total qualities of programmes as a result of the use of
new media technologies? This research is therefore set basically to answer this question; what
influences have new media technologies played in broadcasting, with regard to NTA Port-
Harcourt, RSTV Port-Harcourt and AIT Port- Harcourt.
1.3 Objectives of Study
The objectives of this study include the following;
(i) To determine the extent to which the new media technologies have influenced the
operations of the broadcast media.
(ii) To examine the level of proficiency of the members of staff in the use of new media
technologies.
(iii) To determine the extent to which new media technologies have been incorporated into
the stations operations.
(iv) To determine the challenges posed by new media technologies to broadcast
operations.
20
1.4 Significance of Study
This study will be beneficial in the following ways:
The findings will help to reposition the thought pattern and help media professionals
to get acquainted with the new technologies to help produce quality programmes.
The findings of this research will add to the existing literatures and act as a handy
material for students who might have interest in researching further on the topic.
The study shows the extent to which broadcast media have incorporated the use of
modern technologies in their operations.
The findings from this research ascertained how favourable or unfavourable these
new technologies are to the broadcast media.
1.5 Research Questions
To realize the objectives of this study, the following research questions were asked;
(1) To what extent have the new media technologies influenced the operations of the
broadcast media in terms of reach, programmes, economy etc?
(2) How proficient are the members of staff in the use of the new media technologies?
(3) To what extent have the stations incorporated new media technologies in their
operations?
(4) What are the challenges posed by these new technologies to the broadcast industry?
1.6 Theoretical Framework
According to Ohaja (2003: 63) knowledge does not exist in a vacuum. In every
discipline, there is a body of theories that provide the explanation for observable phenomena
in the field.
Therefore, this research adopted the following theoretical postulations:
21
1.6.1 The Technological Determinism Theory
This theory was propounded by Marshal McLuhan in 1962. He explains
Technological Determinism Theory by stating that communication technologies shapes how
we as individuals in the society think, feel, act and how society operates as we move from
one technological advancement to another. This theory postulates that changes in
communication modes largely determine the course of history. This goes to show that the
explosion in information technology would be followed by change, both culturally, socially
and economically.
Williams (1990:13) went further to say that the central believe of this theory lies in
the inevitable power of technologies to cause widespread social change. New communication
technologies are discovered, by an essentially internal process of research and development
which then sets the conditions for social change and progress.
Griffins (2000:289) opined that this” theory regards our present culture upheaval as a
direct result of the information explosion fostered by television and the computers”.
Technological Determinism Theory emphasizes the importance of the medium and
subsequently, the influence which the medium can have on the audience.
McQuail (2005;12) calls it media – centric theory where he states that the theory sees
mass media as a primary mover in social change, driven forward by irresistible developments
in communication technologies.
Schement and Curtis (1995) in McQuail (2005:102) provide us with a detailed
“Timeline” of communication technologies inventions, which they classify according to their
being either “Conceptual or Institutional” (such as computers and satellites). History shows
several apparent trends but especially a shift over time in the direction of more speed, greater
dispersion, wider reach and greater flexibility. They underline the capacity for
communication more readily to cross barriers of time and spaces.
22
This theory emphasizes the importance of the medium and subsequently, the influence
which the medium can have on the audience. Elucidating on this, Nwodu (2004: 74) opined
that the theory shows not only that the medium, rather than the content of communication
influence both audience and the operators and that, the communication technologies are
turning the world into a global village.
1.6.2 Diffusion of Innovations Theory
In explaining this theory as it relates to this study, Diffusion is the process of spread
of a given idea or practice, over time via specifiable channels Katz et al (1963).This theory
holds that for a new idea or innovation to diffuse, there must be awareness stage, interest
stage, evaluation stage, trial and adoption stage. They added that different types of
innovations require different kinds of adoption units.
This implies that the success of any new innovation depends highly on the level of
awareness, interest and adoption that is given to that innovation. Therefore, for new media
technologies to have influence on the operations of the broadcast media, the professionals
must be aware of the technologies, it must interest them to use. Also they should be able to
evaluate the output and see how effective it is and decide whether to adopt it or not.
1.7 Scope of the Study
The interest of this study lied in the influence of new media technologies in
broadcasting with regard to television stations in Port – Harcourt metropolis.
The work does not study the generality of influence on all the equipment used in
broadcasting; rather it restricts itself to only new media (Internet), satellite technology, cable
system, computer, digital cameras, fibre optic, teletext and digital television employed in
broadcasting. Analogue equipment and other equipment not mentioned above are not within
the scope of this study.
23
1.8 Definitions of Terms
For a proper understanding of this work, key terms used are defined based on their
conceptual relevance to this study.
Influence: According to Oxford Advanced Learner’s Dictionary (7th ed.). Influence
is the effect that somebody or something has on the way a person thinks or behaves or
on the way that something works or develops. It could be further said as the power
that somebody or something has to make somebody or something behave in a
particular way.
New Media: According to Oxford Advanced Learner’s Dictionary (7th ed.).New
Media means new information and entertainment technologies, such as the Internet,
CD-ROMs and Digital Television. On the other hand McQuail (2005:136) simply
defines the “new media as a disparate set of communication technologies that shares
certain features apart from being new made possible by digitalization and being
widely available for personal use as communication devices.
Media Technologies: This refers to any special device or medium that helps in the
procession, distribution, storage, display and reception of information.
Broadcast: This is the business of sending out radio and television signals over a
distance, to a large heterogeneous audience by means of airwaves.
Broadcast Media: This is that electronic media or channel that uses the airwaves
which enables signals and information to be transmitted to a large and diverse
audience.
Convergence: According to Oxford Advanced Learner’s Dictionary (7th
ed.).Convergence means to move towards a place from different direction and meet.
Digital: According to Oxford Advanced Learner’s Dictionary (7th ed.). Digital
means using a system of receiving and sending information as a series of the
24
numbers, numbers one to zero, showing that an electronic signal is there or is not
there.
Globalization: This means international integration. It can be describe as a process
by which the people of the world are unified into a single society. This process is a
combination of economic, technology, socio – cultural and political forces.
www.wikipedia.org.
Internet: According to the wikipedia. org the internet also known as the “Net” or the
“Web” can be easily understood as a “network of networks”. Specifically, it is the
worldwide publicly accessible network of international computer networks that
transmits data by packet switching using the standard internet protocol (IP). Oxford
Advanced Learner’s Dictionary (7th ed.). “Internet” is an international computer
network connecting other networks and computers from companies, universities, etc.
25
REFERENCES
Agba, P. C. (2001). Electronic Reporting: Heart of the new Communication Age. Nsukka:
University of Nigeria Press Limited.
Amuchie, M. (2001). “The Guardian Angel of Cosmo” Thisday Newspaper, March 24, 2001.
Baran, S.J. (2009). Introduction to Mass Communication: Media Literacy and Culture. (5th
ed.). New York: McGraw-Hill Companies.
Bittner, J. (1989). Mass Communication: An Introduction. New Jersey: Prentice Hall.
Defleur, M. and Dennis, E. (1991). Understanding Mass Communication. Boston: Houghton
Mifflin Company.
Griffin, E. M. (2000). A First Look at Communication Theories. New York: McGraw-Hill.
Katz, E. et al (1963). “Traditions of Research on Diffusion of Innovations” American
Sociological Review.
Mbam, C.E. (2006).” Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in communication
Profession”, in International Journal of Communication; An interdisplinary
Journal of Communication Studies. No 5 pp.60-68.
McQuail, D. (2005). McQuail’s Mass Communication Theory. (5th ed.). London: Sage
Nwodu, L. C. (2004). “Technological Determinism Theory and Media Practitioners
Perception of Cultural Influence of ICT on Developing Nations,” in Nigerian Journal
of Communication. No 4 pp.72-83
Ohaja, E. U. (2003). Mass Communication Research and Project Report Writing. Lagos:
John Letterman Ltd.
Ojobor, I. J. (2002). Mass Communication Theories. In C. S. Okunna, (Ed) Teaching Mass
Communication: A Multi-dimensional Approach. Enugu: New Generations Books.
Okoro, N. (2006).The Church in an Era of Information Technologies; Issues, Expectations
and Challenges. In U. Ozioko & E. Makata, (Ed) Evangelization and the Use of the
Media in the 21st Century. Enugu: Snaap Press Ltd.
Udeajah, R. A. (2004). Broadcasting and Politics in Nigeria 1963-2003. Enugu: Snaap Press
Ltd.
Ukonu, M.O. (2008). Perspective in International Communication and Global Media
System. Nsukka : University of Nigeria Press Limited.
Williams. R. (1990). Television, Technology and Cultural Form. (2nd
ed.). Fontana:
Routledge.
26
CHAPTER TWO
REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURES
To provide academic background and empirical support to this study, and also to
make this work comprehensive, the literature will be reviewed under the following sub-
headings.
The Evolution of Broadcasting in Nigeria
The Concept of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs)
The Development of Information and Communication Technologies
Challenges of New Media Technologies in the Nigerian Broadcast Industry.
2.1 The Evolution of Broadcasting in Nigeria
Broadcasting in Nigeria started around December, 1932, with the inauguration of the
empire service of the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC), a wire service provided by the
post and Telegraph department of the colonial regime. This served as an experiment by
British Empire Broadcasting Service to observe the distance which the short wave
transmission could travel, using relay stations to transmit to other parts of the country.
The broadcasting service distributed radio signals through wires connected to loud
speakers with the aim of offering the public subscription relays of BBC programmes. These
programmes were distributed through re-diffusion boxes located in their homes or public
places. The Radio Re-distribution Service (RRS) was launched on December 1, 1935 in
Lagos, broadcasting to over 500 subscribers who had received their loud speakers. By 1939,
there were over 1000 RRS subscribers and about 2000 licensed wireless receivers. The
service was extended to Ibadan that same year, marking the birth of the first broadcast
network in Nigeria.
27
The Radio Re-distribution Service was extended to Kano, Abeokuta, Ijebu-Ode, Port-
Harcourt, Enugu and Zaria in 1944 and in 1947, to Calabar and Jos. By then it had grown
astronomically to 9000 subscribers and 12,000 licensed receivers in 1949 as asserted by
Raymond (1996:3).
On June 16, 1952, the Nigerian broadcasting service (NBS) now known as the Federal
Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN) was established. At the inception of the NBS, few
local programmes were added to those who received through the wireless RRS to Lagos,
Ibadan and Kano. In the year 1959, the Western Nigerian Television (WNTV) was
established, followed by the Eastern Nigerian Broadcasting Service in 1960. The Northern
Nigerian Broadcasting Corporation operators of Radio/Television Kaduna, was established in
1962.
Interestingly, the creation of states in the federation necessitated that the new state
administrators could set-up television networks in their states. The old Mid–Western states
established the Mid–Western television (MTV) now NTA Benin in 1973. In 1977 Benue
Plateau Television (BPTV) was established and was the first Nigerian television station to
transmit in colour. Thus, the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) was finally inaugurated in
May, 1977 by Decree 24 of 1977, which took effect from April 1976. NTA became the only
body empowered to undertake television broadcasting in Nigeria. According to Jean (1979:9)
NTA commenced networking of news via Domestic Satellite. Between 1959 and 1962, there
were four (4) television stations in Nigeria. The number stood at seven (7) by the end of
1975. By 1977, there were ten television stations. The number grew up to seventy – two in
1983 and today, Nigeria can boast of over a hundred broadcast stations, with boost from
some private stations, following the deregulation of the broadcast industry in 1992. The
increase in the number of broadcast stations was spurred on by the trends in communication
28
technologies. The new dimension in technology has removed broadcasting from its
exclusively analogue nature to a concurrent digital nature.
2.2 Concepts of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs)
According to Nwokoye (2003:16) technology is the „academic and practical study of
material, source of energy and natural phenomenon with ultimate intention of applying these
in the service of man”. Put differently, technology connotes the systematic exploration of
scientific nature towards achieving the convenience needs of man. In line with this,
information technology is that aspect of technology that seeks to explore the scientific nature
towards solving the information and communication needs of man.
Nwachukwu (2004:123) notes, that information communication technologies (ICTs)
are all techno – communication gadgets including computers, satellites technologies and
other electronic equipment used in the generation, processing, transmission and management
of information to achieve desired efficiency and goals attainment.
Thus it is pertinent to note that there is no universally accepted definition of ICT. It is
rather a new method of thinking about all the uses of digital technology that already exist to
help individuals, businesses and organizations use of information effectively and efficiently
in their day – to – day activities. Ukonu (2006:133) explains that the “new communication
technologies are often confused with new information technologies. Although in practice
there is very little distinction between them. Ukonu (2006:120) posits that information
technology refers more to the processes that underlie data acquisition, processing, storage and
retrieval; while communication technology mainly refers to the computer driven and satellite
– based media for information dissemination.
He writes more that, because components like the computer can both generate,
process, store, output as well as transfer information, people have resorted to using the terms
information technology and communication technology interchangeably. Another custom is
29
to simply say information and communication technologies. The Cambridge Encyclopedia
(2000) defines “information communication technology more technically as follows; as a
term commonly used to cover the range of technologies relevant to information (knowledge,
data, feat, drawing, audio, recording, video sequences etc) in particular to computers digital
electronic and telecommunications.
Defleur and Dennis (1991:242) clarify further that; when we ask, “what is the new
technology? We are asking about the mechanical inventions that, when combined with social
forces, have heralded change in human communication. When we ask, “what are the new
technologies? We are typically asking about new media and distribution system that either
contribute to or compete with traditional mass media.
The above suggests that information technologies (ITs) have more to do with the
skills, knowledge and understanding needed to employ the information and communication
technologies appropriately and efficiently. Thus, the Information Technology Association of
America (ITAA) defines information technology (IT) as the study, design, development
implementation systems, particularly software applications and computer hardware.
Oliver and Chapman (1990:75) view information technology as the technology or
device which supports activities involving the creation, storage, manipulation and
communication of information, together with their related methods, management and
application. They are of the view that ITs are the broad base technology needed to support
information systems.
Information technologies encompass many aspects of computing technology and
cover many fields, as the term is now more recognizable than ever. However, it is not far
fetched from communication technology, which Reuben (1988:247) sees as any tool, special
device or medium that assists in information production, distribution, storage, reception or
display.
30
Mbam (2006:60) collaborates with the above assertion that ICT is the communication
and technology that involves the application of electronic equipment, especially the
computer, to the gathering, analysis, storage, retrieval and transmission of information as part
of man‟s effort to find solutions to the multifarious problems facing him. In other words,
ICTs could be the application of computer hardware and software components,
telecommunication equipment, and electronics in finding solutions to the multifaceted
problems of mankind. It is one of the most valuable resources or factors of communication
profession. It is therefore one of the nervous systems of modern communication and indeed
of the economy.
Communication technologies include all devices which help to expand our sensory
perception and capabilities; whereas, information technology deals with the application of
these devices. Thus, information and communication technologies are complementary terms
and are often used interchangeably. This has brought about the acceptance or general usage
of the term information and communication technology as one word. Consequent upon the
above, a good way to have good understanding of ICTs is to think and consider all the uses of
digital technologies that already exist to help individuals use of information. Ochai (2007:17)
opines that the term ICT encompasses all forms of technology used to create, store, exchange
and use information in its various forms such as data, still images, motion pictures, and other
forms including those not yet conceived.
Information Communication Technologies have been variously described as the
complex varied set of goods, applications and services used for producing, distributing,
processing and transforming information including telecommunication, television and radio
broadcasting, computer services etc Marcella (2000:48). ICTs represent a cluster of
associated technologies which are identified by their definite and functional usage in the
sphere of information gathering and dissemination. The common ground for the acceptance
31
of the various definitions of ICTs is the complexity of its nature and multiple applications.
This is because, it includes all devices and activities involved in the cumbersome task of data
processing, sending, receiving and retrieval.
The point still remains that despite the various definitions given of ICTs, it still
remains a device in the hands of whoever is using it. This reflects in the view of Amodu
(2007:176) that ICTs present an experimental ground that is limited only by the imaginations
and creativities of the users. The increase in awareness of ICTs calls for an increased level of
understanding and application of the gadgets, and the learning of new ways to manipulate
them in order to get desired results. Since ICTs are the driving force of what has been called
form our networked world into a very tight global community. We can only regulate the rate
of transformation of our world by understanding and manipulating the technologies to suit
our whims.
Today‟s broadcast industry is driven by technologies. Some of the dominant
communication technologies employed in broadcasting include internet, satellite technology,
cable system, computer technology, digital cameras, Digital television, teletext, microwave
technology and fibre optics to mention but a few.
2.2.1 The Internet
The internet service or what is known today as the information Super High Way (ISH)
is another vital information communication technology in modern broadcast industry. The
international computer network is virtual communication technology which has the ability to
exchange information electronically from one part of the earth to another.
The Oxford Science Dictionary, published by the Oxford University Press in 1996,
says it is “the global network that links most of the world‟s computer networks. It does not
offer services to the users, but serves primarily to interconnect other networks on which
services are located.” These services according to the dictionary include basic services for
32
electronic mail, the transfer of computer files remote log-in and jugh-level services including
the World Wide Web (www).
Ekemezie (2003:69) writes that, the “internet is a network of networks. It consists of
thousands of separate computer networks all inter-linked so that a user on any of these
networks can reach out and touch a user on any of the other networks”. With this, one can
send electronic mails and access information stored in computers all around the world.
Nworah (2001:5) also observes that the internet has provided Nigerian journalists
with international exposure, they no longer have to travel to New York or London to be read
or heard, they can now file a story from the remotest part of Nigeria and the story is posted on
the web.
Agba (2001:55) affirms that “the internet is just as a road network which link cities as
telephone networks link subscribers, the internet as a network of computers links computers
for the purpose of communication. The internet is therefore, a global communication
infrastructure, which enables any computer connected to it to communicate with any other
computer connected to the internet at electronic speeds regardless of geographical location.
2.2.2 Satellite Technology
Collin (1987:189) defines satellite as a “device that orbits the earth receiving,
processing and transmitting signals or generating images or data to be transmitted back to
earth, such as weather pictures”. He went further to say that communication technology
operates by receiving electronic messages from the ground uplinks to the earth station.
Satellite is one technology that has contributed monumentally to human development in the
areas of telecommunication, defence, transportation (air and water) and so on.
Mbaezue (2006:17) said satellite communication is a significant concept on
international as well as national and regional broadcasting. According to her, “satellites are
extending the range and flexibility of conventional broadcasting. On the other hand,
33
Obodoechi (2006:33) adds that communication satellites serve broadcasters and cable
operators as distribution devices for relaying programmes to widely dispersed stations and
systems.
Satellites are built and launched into space, where they are positioned in orbits
thousands of kilometers from the earth. “They revolve around the earth at the same speed as
the earth rotates on its axis. They are constantly in the same position in the rotating of the
earth stations. This enables satellites to beam all over the planet with ease”. Agba (2001:37).
As a communication technology, the satellites have indeed benefit humanity and the
broadcast industry. They do not only receive messages from the earth and transmit them
back; satellites can equally receive messages from each other.
Thus a satellite in the space can receive signal from another satellite in the space.
Satellites are today employed in broadcasting, telephone, internet, fax and other
communication endeavours. Stephen Acnes citing Hollins (1984:1) describes the satellite as
the single most important piece of new hardware in the telecommunication revolution.
According to Ibemesi (2007:250) for satellite communication to happen, two
requirements exist; one, there must be a satellite located in space; two there must be an earth
station located on the earth. Signals are thus transmitted to the satellite from the earth station.
The satellite then re-transmits these signals to the earth for consumption. Taking television
for example, pictures picked by the camera are transmitted to the satellite through the earth
station. The satellite then powers these picture signals in frequency and beams them back to
the earth where they are received by viewers using satellite dishes directed to the space.
2.2.3 Cable Technology
The cable technology according to Ume-Nwagbo (1994) in Agba (2001:29) “is a
communication mode which uses wire or cable connection in distributing radio and or
television signals from a common distribution centre called a head end to a terminal
34
reproduction device which is usually located in a subscriber‟s home or some other agreed
location. Its history dates back to the 19th
century with the invention of the wired telegraph
through the contributions of Claude Chappe, Robert Hooke and Samuel Soemmering.
The cable system is distinguishable from other wireless communication by its use of
wire “channels” to relay messages rather than airwaves. It involves the use of wire
connections to transmit and receive electronic data in communication. It can relay data both
in digital and in analogue form. Furthermore, the early cable system simply captured and
redistributed the signals of television in areas where reception was poor. But today, cable is
much more complex. It is both an industry and a medium. Cable has become the name given
to a communication industry that is in effect a distribution system for television, radio and
data signals.
In the views of Timothy Hollins (1984:1) the cable system;
Is the vanguard of technological revolutions, the
nervous system of an Information-centred society
and a means by which the old limitations in the
radio spectrum will be overcome, allowing a
tremendous expansion in our communication
capacity”.
Coaxial cable has the advantage of carrying many more signals than a single wire or
even a wireless system can. Supporting the above view, Ume-Nwagbo (1994:147) notes that;
of all mass-oriented communication systems currently in public domain, the cable system
offers the greatest access channels to the public. This derives from the fact that the system
generally uses coaxial and more recently, fibre optic cabling both of which offer wide-band
transmission paths. Coxial cables are capable of carrying up to 60 programme channels and
fibre optic cables potentially can send several hundreds of television channels over a single
cable.
The cable system is said to excel in fidelity in signal delivery and reproduction
because it can process vast frequency ranging from low frequency (IF) to the Ultra-High
35
Frequency (UHF), by using coaxial and fibre optic cables as relay and distribution paths, the
signals are free from jamming and interferences, which are common with conventional
broadcasting.
2.2.4 Computer Technology
Computer is a device that accepts processes and stores data. It is the nucleus of the
modern communication technology. Agba (2001:48) posits that the ability of the computer to
process, transmit, store and execute programmes makes it versatile. It speeds up problem
solving and increases productivity.
Hornby (2007:298) shares a similar view by writing that “computer is an electronic
machine that can store, organize and find information, do calculations and control other
machines”. www.webopedia.com gives two principal characteristics of a computer as
follows; one, it responds to a specific set of instructions in a well- defined manner; two, it can
execute a pre-recorded list of instructions or a programme.
Ochai (2007:22) opines that the computer can be used to manipulate data according to
a list of instructions. The ability of the computer to keep signals in its memory and provide
visual and even radio interpretations to such signals makes it an invaluable hardware for
information dissemination in broadcast industry. Also, it offers faster, cheaper, more efficient
and effective means of achieving quality in news-gathering, processing and dissemination.
Initially, the principal input into computer was number essentially for arithmetical
computation. Today, it has gone beyond that. It can now process non-numerical inputs like
spoken and written languages. It can translate languages, retrieve information and process
pictures.
However, the programming of computer to perform a desired task (software) has also
advanced; it permits the use of communication line to tie in a whole series of terminals to a
36
single computer or a set of computers and can be shared by many users with individual
terminals or consoles. This is referred to as on-line, time-sharing computing system.
The foregoing makes it clear that the speedy information ability of the computer
makes electronic reporting a lot easier. The influence of computer in news gathering and
processing on the internet is fantastic. So is the part it plays in electronic publishing.
2.2.5 Digital Cameras
Digital is a system where “binary based constant amplitude signals, varying in time,
provide signal recording without noise or distortion”, and digitize, is the creation of a “digital
equivalent of an analogue image by sampling and converting it to binary system”. (Kindem
and Musburger:154) in journal of the National Broadcasting Commission.
According to Ekemezie (2003:26), the images are recorded digitally in the camera‟s
memory unlike the analogue system which uses photographic signals in form of 0s and 1s”.
This improved technology has come to be useful to media men. The images in the camera
memory can be stored in the computer or electronically sent to the internet for mass
consumption.
Due to digitalization, the work processes of the media industry have changed. Using
digital technology in content and programme production has been considered easier Niina
and Sanna (2005:54). In spite of the hard financial situation posed by digitalization in the
broadcast industry, digitalization has led to increased multi-professionalism and mixed job-
descriptions, which means for example that in the future journalists in addition to their
traditional task will record, film and edit their programmes.
2.2.6 Digital Television
According to en.Wikipedia.org/wiki/Digital television, digital television (DTV) is the
sending and receiving of moving images and sound by means of discrete (digital signals), in
37
contrast to the analogue system. DTV is the umbrella term encompassing High-Definition
Television and several other applications, including Standard Definition Television, Data
casting, Multicasting and Interactivity.
It transmits broadcast signals by encoding it as 0s and 1s. The digital code used in
computers. DTV can be compressed to provide four, five, or more channels in the same
bandwidth required for one channel of the current standard television, better sound, and about
five times more pictures. www.cetconnect.org/digital/glossary.asp.
The digital television also uses progressive and interlaced scan, which are able to deliver
information fast. It allows broadcasters to deliver more programmes and added functionality.
The three most prominent methods of delivery are digital satellite, digital terrestrial and
digital cable.
Digital signals make possible video-on-demand, interactive programme guides.
Digital signals create sharper and crisper video and can be compressed, increasing the
number of channels that can be transmitted over a single system. Dominick (2002:261).
2.2.7 Teletext
The teletext was introduced by the British Telecommunication around 1974. The
device blends elements of television broadcasting and print. It is a one way system, which
sends “electronic pages” over frequencies used for television signals. The pages with the aid
of a special decoder appear on home television screen. The digital transmission of
information appears on home screens in “video page” which can be selected for reading in
order or at random, much like a newspaper. Newson and Wollert (1988:142).
The teletext offers all the advantages of electronic processing and storage of data. it is
a terminal-to-terminal, non-interactive electronic mail service. The teletext user has a hand-
held remote control and simple button commands change the screen for television image.
38
2.2.8 Micro-Wave Technology
Micro-waves are very short electromagnetic waves which work by line-of-sight
transmission. Microwave systems may be used to send network television (e.g NTA)
programmes to thousands of miles before they reach the local TV stations. Micro-wave
technology has a device called terrestrial (land) micro-wave system which operates in the
same general range of radio frequencies as though communication satellites
However, micro-wave can be obstructed by physical structure like buildings standing
before them and can travel between 70 to 100 kilometres depending on the distance and
terrain. They can be employed in short distance communication like within a school or in
long distance communication like between cities. Agba (2001:31). The advantages of this
system are; lower cost and increased efficiency of transmission over traditional landline
systems.
Micro-wave sensors are capable of providing information previously unobtainable
with basic imaging techniques such as photography, television or multi-spectral imaging used
in post remote observations Bittner (1991:276). Progress in this area has been so rapid that
many private companies and electronic media houses operate their own micro-wave system
to connect widely scattered offices.
2.2.9 Fibre Optic
This is a device, which uses optical fibres to transmit information over a
communication channel. According to Oxford Advanced Learner‟s Dictionary “it is a process
of sending information by means of infrared light signals along a thin glass fibre. The
international Dictionary of Telecommunications, defined fibre optic “as the branch of optical
technology concerned with the transmission of radiant power through fibres made of
transparent materials such as glass, fused silica or plastic”.
39
Fibre optics is a communication line just like copper wire (cable). As the name
suggests, the device uses light to transmit information. Instead of transmitting electrical
voltage, it sends light impulses through a fibre with a small aperture through which the light
passes. Consequently, of all the things known to man, light has the greatest speed of travel. It
underscores the speed at which information is disseminated by means of this device. Fibre
optic has the ability to carry increased quantities of information at high speed,such
information could be in the form of voice, data or images. The device is capable of carrying
any type of signal that can be transmitted on conventional metal wires. It is believed to be the
latest technology in wired communication. Agba (2001:31).
2.3 Development of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs)
The developments of ICTs have come of age. The level of sophistication and
miniaturization association with modern information and communication technologies have
not always being like this, it has progressed from large format, to complete analogue system,
which has been transformed by digital technologies.
According to Thompson (1999:152) the inventions and innovations in communication
technologies started in the 19th
century with Henrian 1831 inventions of electromagnetic
telegraphs and Wheatsone development of useable system in 1837. Furthermore, land base
telegraph invention by Moses in1843 joined the league. Headrick (1981:130) went further to
write that the submarine cable was subsequently developed in the 1850s and laid between
East Asia, China and Europe.
The consequence was the establishment of international News Agencies and the
rivalry that ensued. This necessitated the modernization of these communication
technologies; computer became the central nervous system of the new communication and
information technology. Sandbank (1972:4) in Wogu (2006:185) noted that it provides
“cheaper, more effective and efficient means of achieving quality in news gathering,
40
processing and dissemination”. Ever since then, computer has been applied in media
industries through such systems as videotext, internet, animation, computerized cameras,
telephones and camera automations. It has equally lightened the printing works of
typesetting, compugraphication, key boarding, electronic editing and printing. It has also
obliterated the constraints of time and space in the act of information gathering, processing
production and dissemination.
Reuben (1987:200-202) in Aririguzoh (2006: 160) asserts that the ability to
communicate effectively depends on the available technologies that is at one‟s disposal. He
went further to chronicle the development of information and communication technology
thus;
About 2000 BC, the early humans communicated by first drawing symbols on the
walls of their caves, the way they beat their drums and the kind of smoke coming out from
their caves communicated different messages among them. These very primitive
communication devices laid the foundation of our present day ultra-modern information
gathering and processing technologies. The development of writing dramatically increased
the possibilities of coding data in permanent and portable forms.
In about 1000 BC; early pictographic writing gave way to alphabets. Paper was
invented around 100 AD. The oldest known printed piece is a sutra printed in Korea in 750
AD. Modern printing began in Germany in the mid 15th
century even though the Chinese,
Japanese and Koreans developed printing much earlier.
By 1500 Johannes Guntenberg had completed the printing of a Bible using movable
type and a printing process that he had developed. Printing revolutionalized the
communication process and increased the rate of production of written and visual documents.
Meanwhile, communication technologies were developing. The ancient Greeks built many
high walls even into their country side. Different messages were relayed to the people by fire
41
and smoke signals. The Persians and Romans developed a Postal system; official
correspondence was conveyed by horse back between stations on a regular basis. The 1500s
and 1600s witnessed the influence of printing as newspapers started appearing in their present
day form.
In the 1600s; regular mail service was established to link major cities in Europe. The
1700s witnessed the operation of postal services in many countries. The telegraph made its
advent in 1794. The 1800s was awakening by the Samuel Morse invention of Morse code in
1837. It allowed the translating of characters into a sequence of long and short electrical
impulses (called dots and dashes) that can be sent to a recipient. In 1866 cable was laid across
the Atlantic to heighten the rapid transfer of information. The telephone came in 1876 when
Alexander Graham Bell discovered that human voice could be converted directly into
electrical energy and this in turn could be transmitted over a wire. In 1895, Marconi
discovered the wireless telegraph or radio transmission. This sent human voice on air. These
marked the introduction of electronic communication technology.
From the 1930s, television transmission came in. Computer came in the 1940s. The
1950s and 1960s saw the development of communication satellites, which served the same
relay function as the early but less sophisticated fire tower of ancient Greece. The use of
satellites made it possible to cover the whole world and relay immediately from location.
Direct broadcast satellites delivered television signals from the satellites to the homes. The
satellite dishes collect faint microwave signals from an orbiting satellite and amplify these
about a million times. Microwave technology allows stations not using standard AM, FM and
television frequency to transmit at higher frequencies. The higher the frequency, the further
the electronic microwave travels.
Recent years have witnessed the emergence of miniaturized transistor radios,
stereophonic audio equipment and mini cameras; wireless telephones, digital telephone
42
networks, helicopter borne homing antenna and the compact disk. From the 1980s, computers
and telecommunications found new applications in mass communication. Computerized
graphics came into existence and changed factual television. Lightweight electronic cameras
like beta cam and camcorder means that the television crew do not have to lug heavy
equipment to series of events. The introduction of domestic video recorders means that any
person with the equipment could time shift: record whatever is of interest to him off the air
and watch it later.
The development of technologies change the way we receive and pass messages
across. This means that the available ICT resources determine how we consume mass
communication products. Today teleconferencing or video communication aims at reducing
traveling costs by connecting people with video links. Post and Anderson (2000:226-228)
notes that large companies have built teleconferencing rooms linked to other similar centres
in other parts of the world. They can also view documents. All communication requires a
transmission medium. Signals can be carried by a variety of media, electricity, fibre optics or
waves. Signals sent through electricity pass through coaxial wires, example as used in cable
television. Fibre optic cables are reflective glass or plastic coatings. They offer the fastest
transmission rates with the least interference.
Wave transmission includes radio, microwave or infrared. They do not require cables.
The airwaves carry the signals. This is known as “broadcasting”. Any person with a receiver
or antenna can pick up the signals. Both microwave and infrared transmission require a clear
line of vision. Information communication technology has made electronic publishing easier.
Electronic publishing is the on-line publishing or the electronic delivery of newspapers,
magazines, news, books and other information via internet. E-publishing was initially aimed
at supporting research through the provision of on-line bibliography and data bases. The
43
coming of the web made e-publishing a most economical and quick way of disseminating
information on a mass scale to viewers worldwide.
Post and Anderson (2000:226-228) write further that the “internet provides on-line
archive, new media approach (of creating new materials for the web, real time news delivery
and customized information delivery); education, entertainment and news on demand.
Communication technology has made journalism a most dynamic profession. It has provided
television with new and fascinating tools with which to gather and report the news.
Broadcasting is now both contemporary and future relevant. By using these tools wisely and
skillfully, a television news reporter is able to gather process and deliver the news far better
than before. The present technologies dictate that broadcasting news reporters use them to
keep check on themselves as well as answer and re-answer questions bothering on social
values.
2.4 Challenges of New Media Technologies in the Nigerian Broadcast Industry
Despite the fact that New Media Technologies are basically of great service, they do
have some basic challenges which tend to hamper success and reduce workability. Some of
the challenges facing the Nigerian broadcast industry in line with the New Media
Technologies include;
Lack of Access, has profound effect on the way people learn, conduct research, buy
goods, communicate and even listen to radio and television, Krechowiecke (1999: 9) says
that “connectivity to the interest, (in Nigeria, as in other African countries) has remained
low”. This lack of access to the New Media Technologies is probably the worst problem
faced by Nigerian broadcast industry even in Africa. Although there has been an upsurge in
computer knowledge and usage in Africa, the infrastructure is inadequate.
44
Floury (1999:3) mirrored this fact when he worried that “ in 1999, excluding south
Africa, only one African in every 9,000 has access to the internet, while around the world, the
average is one person to 40”.
In relaying other expressions, of concern by people over the delay in internet
connections, a research by Okafor (1984:14) shows that of the 150 million internet users
world-wide, Africa has the lowest usage with only 800,000.
Until date, this challenge still remains because, according to statistics given by
International Telecommunication Union (ITU) as at September 2006, there were only 5
million internet users in Nigeria representing 3.1 percent of the whole population of Nigeria.
Because of this obvious lack of infrastructure, and subsequent lack of access to the internet,
many users in broadcast industries cannot log on to the internet stations.
Unstable Power Supply is another problem suffered in the third world countries
especially in Nigeria. In a situation where there is unsteady power supply to power the
computers or to recharge the UPS, most broadcast station find it a waste of resources to
subscribe to the service providers. This in turn, means that they cannot be connected to the
internet which is at the centre of the New Media Technologies. When this happens, the
stations are unable to tune in internet stations. This is because as in most developing
countries, the cost of getting connected to the internet is so enormous that one can hardly
waste it with the prevalent epileptic power supply.
Information Overload, as a result of the new media technologies, is also one of the
challenges faced by the Nigerian broadcast industry. The present age has began to suffer from
information overload, which in turn leads to information anxiety. “Information overload
refers to the state of having too much information to make a decision or remain informed”
(Wikipedia, the free Encyclopedia). Put differently, the present world has got overwhelmed
by so much information that makes it difficult to make meaning out of them. The Wikipedia
45
explains this thus; “information overload comes from having more information available than
one can readily assimilate. This phenomenon is sometimes referred to as “techno stress”
techno stress induces a correlated perception that users of New Media Technologies are
controlled by new media technologies rather than being empowered by it. Like any kind of
stress, techno stress results in reduced interpretative performance and poor judgment, this is
well known to cognitive psychologists.
Baran (2009:332) puts it that too much choice leads to information overload. There is
a big difference between having more understanding or comprehension. Thus, the receivers
of information are so much bombarded with information that they become “obsessed” with
them and find it difficult to put them into constructive use. This situation is known as
information overload or information anxiety. With increasingly more sophisticated
technological back up, broadcasting is becoming a very serious factor in these unfavourable
phenomena of information overload and anxiety. With greater news coverage ability,
expanded network and virtually limitless reach, television and radio stations continue to fast
create a world overwhelmed with information. The satellite, microwave, cable and internet
technologies speak very loudly here.
Though information overload may be seen as a western world phenomenon, one finds
it easily agreeable that the fast rate of information availability in our part of the world is
leading us to the door-step of information overload and anxiety. The country‟s broadcast
industry stirred up by growing internal competition is fast rising after the fashion of the
western experience. One fears today that in no distant time, we like the western world will
become “obsessed” with information coming from our broadcast industry that continues to
grow in size and sophistication.
High Cost of equipment and accessories poses a lot of challenges to the computers,
internet connection, (broadband) internet browser (internet explorer software) sound cards for
46
playing music on external speakers, and computer speakers. All these are expensive as most
media people already have the good old-fashioned traditional television and radio sets, and
may have to buy the modern equipment that will help them broadcast to their audience
efficiently. This is very discouraging, as many broadcast station cannot afford this.
Irrespective of the Human Factor in communication, one of the “ills” of the new
media technologies is their tendency to ignore the human factor in communication. In this
case attention is focused more on the machine that relays information and on the marveling
mechanical processes involved in it than on the human for whom the communication is made.
More emphasis is here placed on how fast and how technically well packaged an information
is in getting to the human audience. The human capacity to understand and make constructive
use of the information is almost ignored.
Agba (2001: 45) presents the picture clearly thus; “there is more emphasis on the „how‟ of
presenting news than on the vital ingredients of journalistic reporting; hence more attention is
paid to the equipment which presents the news in a dramatic form than to news writer”.
Hoffer (1992: 5) in his own contribution describes the situation as “a perceptible more
from journalism to news packaging, from hiring reporters to hiring performers”. Still on this
neglect of human value in favour of technology, Tom Petit, the Executive Vice – President of
NBC News writes thus;
As television becomes more sophisticated, the
packaging element is overtaking the information it
is supposed to convey. That is, pictures are now
more important than facts. Thus the focus is now on
the “look” of the news and not on its content.
Consequently, the value of news is here sacrificed on the altar of “good” packaging
and the human value swallowed up by quest for technological wonders. The news is here
entirely stripped off every human value. As the increasingly large number of stations aim to
out-smart each other in the areas of technical excellence and speed in message packaging and
47
delivery, the very fundamental human factor is neglected in favour of these technological
values.
Another challenge posed by the application of the new media technologies is skillful
reportage, with live reporting you report events as they are happening. This means that you
are precluded from script writing, editing and re-shooting. Cremer, Keistead and Yoakam
(1996:234) are of the opinion that news is usually fast moving, spontaneous and chaotic. Spot
news is unpredictable. In the bid to stay on top of the news and in a highly competitive field,
reporters can make mistakes. A defamatory statement cannot be withdrawn neither can
wrongs turn into rights. Where the reporter is unable to adlib an unfolding news event in an
accurate and effective manner, using Electronic News Gathering becomes a challenge. Where
the reporter is an inexperienced journalist with a poor background in diverse fields, he may
not be properly informed or at most be very poor in live reporting.
Technical Complications may frustrate the best effort of a field reporter to report from
a live location. Where communications with the news anchor is by satellite, a delay of one or
half second may occur between the time the anchor speaks and the time the reporter hears his
voice. Similarly, the reporter may hear his own voice a second or half after he has spoken.
Sound engineers may minus out the reporter‟s voice by technical adjustments so that the
anchor and the viewers do not experience this lag, but the field reporter is still left with
distraction of hearing his own words on delay.
Facts not properly investigated are reported, chaos may erupt in the society especially
in an ethnically volatile country like Nigeria. The reach and speed of these technologies can
be used to mislead and deceive others. Skillful editing can remove flaws or tell totally
misleading stories. Spliced pictures can be presented as whole pictures. Picture can be made
to lie. Lies mislead and may cause societal disharmony.
48
Another obvious challenge the new media technologies are posing to our present age
is that of cultural and moral harm. Precisely in the aspect of broadcasting, this challenge has
made itself swell felt as radio and television stations become more and more insensitive to
morality and culture in their message delivery. Ibemesi (2007:257) citing David Shank was
apt in describing the phenomenon thus:
“Society, as we all know from experience, is becoming
inexorably crass. We are witnessing the new reign of trash TV,
hate radio, tort litigation, publicity stunts, excessively violent
and sarcastic rhetorics. Films are ever more sexually explicit
and violent. Advertising is noisier, more invasive, and
frequently skirting the bounds of taste …profanity is up, and
common decency is down… What others have called our „crisis
in family values‟ has more to do with the information
revolution than it does with Hollywood‟s lack of respect for the
traditional family model”.
Our own situation in Nigeria becomes more pitiable considering the fact that we
seem to always be more at receiving end as our acquiring of the modern technologies expose
us more to the rampaging forces of western cultural invasion.
49
REFERENCES
Agba, P.C. (2001). Electronic Reporting: Heart of the New Communication Age. Nsukka:
University of Nigeria Press Limited.
Agbo , E. (1999). Understanding and Using the Internet. Lagos: Coms-Unique (Nig.) Ltd.
Amafili, C. (2002). “Tips on Broadcasting Announcing and Presentation”. In C.S Okunna,
(Ed) Teaching Mass Communication: A Multi-dimensional Approach. Enugu: New
Generations Books.
Amaraebiugwu, A.S. (2006). “Electronic News Gathering: Impact, Implications and
Challenges in Television News Reporting”. In An Interdisciplinary Journal of
Communication No.4 June, 2006.
Baran, S.J. (2009). Introduction to Mass Communication, Media Literacy and Culture.(5th
ed.). New York: McGraw Hill Publishing Company.
Cairncross, F. (2000). The Death of Distance: How the Communication Revolution is
changing our Lives. Boston: Harvard Business School Press.
Cremer, C.F., Keistead Philip O., and Yoakam Richard O. (1996). Electronic News
Gathering: Television News, (3rd
ed), New York: McGraw – Hill Co Inc.
Charles, K. (2002). The End of the American Era. New York: Knopf.
Collins, S.M.H. (1987). Dictionary of Information Technology. New Delhi: University
Bookstall.
Defleur, M. and Dennis, E. (1991). Understanding Mass Communication. Boston: Houghton
Mifflin Company.
Digital Television. Retrieved January 5, 2009 from www.hdtv-source.com/hdtv-terms.php.
Digital Television. Retrieved January 5, 2009 from www.cetconnect. org/digital/ glossary. as
p.
Digital Television. Retrieved January 5, 2009 from www.thesoundcompany .net/companies/
stewart-filmscreenglossary.html.
Digital Television. Retrieved January 5, 2009 from www.sdsdigital.co.uk/jargon-Buster-p-
4.htmls.
Dominick, J. (1990). Dynamics of Mass Communication. New York: McGraw – Hill
Publishing Company.
Dominick, J. et al (1990). Broadcasting/Cable and Beyond. New York: McGraw-Hill
Publishing Company.
50
Ekemezie, P. (2003). Newbies Information Technology. Awka: J‟ Goshen Publishers.
Floury, J.M (1999) “In for All: The Promise of Telecentres in Africa”. In International
Development Research Centre (IDRC) Briefing, October 1999.
Headrick,D.R.(1981). The Tools of Empire: Technology and European Imperialism in the
Nineteenth Century. London: Oxford University Press.
Hoffer, E. (1992).”Are Electronics and Computer Changing News Gathering? ”. In
American University Report. Caira, (AUC) Today, December Vol. 1, Issue 1, p.5.
Hollins, T. (1984). Beyond Broadcasting: into the Cable Age. London: BFI, 1984.
Hornby, A.S. (2007). Oxford Advanced Learner’s Dictionary. (7th
ed). London: Oxford
University Press.
Kendrick, A. (1969). The Life of Edward R. Murrow. New York: Little Brown and
Company.
Krechowiecke, I. (1999) Getting Started on the Internet. Oxford: UK Cremer
Lev, Manovich.(2001). The Language of New Media. London: MIT Press.
Liwhu, B. (2008). “Digitisation and the Challenges for Nigeria Broadcasting Industry”. In
Journal of the National Broadcasting Commission. Vol. 10 No.2. pp.24-30. April –
June 2008.
Mackay, I. (1964). Broadcasting in Nigeria. Ibadan: University Press.
Mbaezue, E. (2006). “New Communication Technologies: Complement or Competitor”. An
Unpublished Project Report. Mass Communication Department, UNN.
Mbam, B.C.E. (2002). Information Technology and Management Information System.
Enugu: Our Saviour Press Limited.
(2006).”Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in Communication
Profession”. In Interdisciplinary Journal of Communication. No.5 September, 2006
Newson, D. and Wollert, A. J. (1988). Media Writing. California: Wadsworth Publishing
Company.
Niina, R. and Sanna, S. (2005). “The Implications of Digitalization for Job Descriptions, Life
Competencies and the Quality of Working”. In Nordicom Journal from the
Nordicom Information Centre for Media and Communication Research. Vol. 26
No.2. pp.54-62. November 2005.
Nkana, N. A. S. (2006). “Communication Strategies for the Future of Nigeria. In
Interdisciplinary Journal of Communication. No 4 . pp.84-95. June, 2006.
51
Nweke, O. (2001). “Information Technology and Modern Public Relations Practice: A
Critical Analysis”. Enugu, Journal of Public Relations Management, (2nd
ed) Vol. 1
No 2 Enugu Campus of UNN.
Nwodu, L.C. (2004). “Technological Determinism Theory and Media Practitioners‟
Perception of Cultural Influence of ICTs on Developing Nations”. In the Nigerian
Journal of Communications. pp. 72-83.
Nwokoye, A.D.C.(2003).”Technology and Modern Communication System”. In V.I.E. Ajiwe
(Ed) Onitsha: Jet Publishers.
Nworah, U.(2001). “The Impact of the Internet on Journalism Practice in Nigeria. Retrieved
January 5, 2009 from Http://www.Com.minit.Com/Africa/strategic thinking.
O‟Sullivan, T. et al (1998). Studying the Media. (2nd
ed). London: Armold Publishers.
Ochai, G. (2007). Information and Communication Technologies at a Glance. Nsukka:
Excellent Press.
Odoemelam, C.C. (2007). An Appraisal of the Impact of ICTs on International
Communication. An Unpublished Project Report. Mass Communication Department
UNN.
Okoro, N.M.(2007).”Advertising and Public Relations Opportunities in the New Media: A
Challlenge for Africa in a Globalized World”. In MAJASS December 2007, Vol.5,
No2 pp. 10-18.
Oliver, E.C. and Chapman, R.J. (1990). Technology: An Data Processing and Information
Illustration Manual for Business and Accounting Student. London: DP Publisher
Ltd.
Oluchukwu, W.J. (2006). “The Relevance of Communication and Information Technology
(CIT) to National Development: The Nigerian Experience”. In International Journal
of Communication No 4. pp. 182-190 June 2006.
Oyero, O. S. (2007). “The New Media Technologies: Prospect and Challenges for
Development in Africa. In Ebenezer Soola Conference on Communication:
Proceedings. Ibadan: Nigeria. pp.334-345.
Post Gerald, V. and Anderson David, L. (2000). Management Information System: Solving
Business Problems with Information Technology. (2nd
ed). USA: McGraw Hill
Publishing Company.
Robb, S. (1982). Television/Radio Age Communication. New York: Communication
Research Institute.
Shanthi K. and Taylor C. B. (2003). Open Networks Closed Regimes. Washington: Carnegie
Endowment for International Peace.
52
Shaun, Moores. (2000). Media and Everyday Life in Modern Society. London: Edinburgh
University Press.
Thompson, J.B. (1999). The Media and Modernity. Cambridge: Polity Press.
Trine, S. & Espen, Y. (2006). “Participation and Play in Converging Media Institutional
Perspectives and Text-User Relations”. In Nordicom Review Journal from the
Nordicom Information Centre for Media and Communication Research. Vol. 27
No.1.pp.34-45. February 2006.
Ukonu, M.O. (2006). “The New Information and Communication Technology and Media
Literacy”, In International Journal of Communication. Nsukka: CSF No 4, June
2006. pp. 116-133.
(2006). Dynamics of Mass Media Development in Nigeria. Enugu: Rhyce Kerex
Publishers.
(2008). Perspective in International Communication and Global Media System.
Nsukka: University of Nigeria Press Ltd.
Ume-Nwagbo, E.N. (1994). “The Cable System: Status and Prospects in Developing
Economics”. In Nsukka Journal of the Humanities, No 7 December, 1994. pp. 144-
148.
Wikipedia (2009). Digital Television 05/01/2009 available at: Retrieved January 5, 2009
from en.wikipedia.org/wiki/digitaltelevision.html
Zetti, H. (1992). Television Production Handbook. California: WadsWorth Publishing
Company.
53
CHAPTER THREE
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
This chapter is a description of the methods that was used in collection and analysis of
data. It discussed the research design, population of the study, sampling techniques, sample
size, instrument for data collection, validation of research instrument, reliability of research
instrument and method of analysis and presentation of data.
3.1 Research Design
Nworgu (1991:2) defines “research design” as a plan or blue print which specifies
how data relating to a given problem should be collected and analyzed. It provides the
procedure for the conduct of any given investigation.
Thus, this research adopted the survey research method; the rationale for adopting the
survey method was that it helped to elicit responses from the sample respondents. Babbie
(1975) cited in Okoro (2001:37), states that survey research is a very vital method structured
for collecting data for the purpose of describing a population too large to be observed
directly, through a careful sampling and good construction of a standardized questionnaire. It
becomes possible to gather data from a group of respondents whose characteristics may be
taken as being representative of those larger populations.
To buttress this fact further, Okoro (2001:37) says surveys are useful in the measurement of
public opinion, attitudes and orientation which are dominant among a large population at a
particular period.
Asika (2006:13) aptly wrote that” survey research focuses on the population or the
universe and data are collected from the population for intensive study and analysis. He went
further to say that more often than not; the researcher finds out that he cannot possibly study
all the subject or items in the population.
54
In the same vein, Ohaja (2003:11) also explains that “a survey is a study of the
characteristics of a sample through questioning that enables the researcher to make
generalization concerning the population of interest.
Therefore, survey is highly useful in the field of social and behavioural sciences and
indeed, in any study that has to do with human action and studies that have individual as unit
of analysis. This method was considered appropriate for this study since, it provided all
demographic and psychographic information, judgmental views and opinions from
respondents on the topic that was investigated.
3.2 Population of the Study
Wimmer and Dominick (2003:84) defined population as a group or class of subjects,
variables, concepts or phenomena. Dermers and Nicholas (1989:35) lend credence to this by
saying that population is the group or elements about which you are planning to make your
generalizations.
The population of this research work comprised the entire staff of NTA Port -
Harcourt, RSTV Port-Harcourt and AIT Port - Harcourt. By virtue of the fact that they are in
the right position and stand a better chance to supply the needed data for this study.
3.3 Sampling Technique
Sampling means selecting a part or portion of a given population as a representative
picture of the entire population. From the selected part, generalizations applicable to the
population from where the sample was drawn were made.
In Ohaja‟s perspective “sampling is the selection of some members or elements from
the population for actual investigation”.
For the purpose of this study, purposive sampling was used to study all the television
stations in Port-Harcourt metropolis, namely, Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) Port –
55
Harcourt, Rivers State Television (RSTV) Port-Harcourt and Daar Communications Ltd
(AIT) Port - Harcourt. The reason was that the researcher sought certain characteristics in his
sampling elements. NTA Port- Harcourt, RSTV Port- Harcourt and AIT Port- Harcourt were
considered by the researcher as having those characteristics, the researcher needed since the
topic had a direct bearing on them.
3.4 Sample Size
Due to the large nature of the population, limited time and resources available to the
researcher, a sample size of three hundred (300) respondents was used for this research.
Hence 100 respondents (33.3%) of the sample came from NTA Port Harcourt while another
100 (33.3%) came from RSTV Port-Harcourt and the last 100 (33.3%) summing it up to 300
was selected from AIT Port Harcourt. The returns from the respondents were used in the data
analysis of this study.
3.5 Instrument for Data Collection
This survey was conducted using the questionnaire as the main instrument for data
collection. According to Okoro (2001:52),”the questionnaire is a vital instrument for
gathering information from people about their opinions, attitudes, behaviours and perceptions
on a given phenomena”. The questionnaire contained both structured and unstructured
questions which were geared towards answering the research questions. The close-ended
questions required the respondents to choose from the list of options by checking and ticking
correctly already structured responses.
The open-ended questions created room for advancement of reasons by the
respondents by giving them the opportunity to report in writing their responses to the
questions. Thus, the instrument was administered to the respondents physically. It sought to
elicit the respondents‟ views and feeling about the issue under investigation.
56
3.6 Validation of Research Instrument
To ensure the validity of the research instrument, the researcher presented it to the
project supervisor who looked critically, through the instrument in order to point out to the
researcher statements that are poorly worded, and those that do not correspond with the
purpose of the study.
3.7 Reliability of Research Instrument:
The reliability of the instrument was confirmed by carrying out a pilot test with 20%
of the population (60 staff), and the results of the pilot test were found to be consistent, then
the instrument was deemed reliable.
3.8 Procedure for Data Collection
The copies of the questionnaire were administered personally by the researcher to the
respondents. This is because the researcher wanted to ensure that there was no mutilation and
to ensure early and high return rate.
3.9 Method of Analysis and Presentation of Data
To analyze the raw data, simple frequencies, numbers and percentages and tables was
used where necessary. The percentage method was adopted for presentation of data that was
analyzed with regards to its efficiency, wide use and ease of understanding.
57
REFERENCES
Asika, N. (2006). Research Methodology in the Behavioural Sciences. Lagos: Longman.
Babbie, E. (1983). The practice of social research (3rd ed.). California Wadsworth
Publishing Company.
Nworgu, B.G. (1991). Educational research: basic issues and methodologies. Ibadan:
Wisdom Publishing Ltd.
Oguonu, C. N. and Anugwom, E. E. (2006). Research methods in social sciences. Enugu:
Fourth Dimension Publishing Co., Ltd.
Ohaja, E.U. (2003). Mass communication research and project writing. Lagos: John
Letterman Ltd.
Okoro, N. (2001). Mass communication research: Issues and methodologies. Nsukka: AP
Express Publishers.
Wimmer, R.D. and Dominick, J.R. (2003). Mass media research: An introduction (2nd
ed.).USA: Belmont, Wadsworth Publishing Company.
58
CHAPTER FOUR
DATA PRESENTATION AND INTERPRETATION
4.1 Data Presentation
This chapter presents and analyses the data collected by the researcher in the course of
the study. It shows the computation and analysis of data using tables, frequency scores and
simple percentages.
A total of 300 copies of the questionnaire were administered for this study. 100 copies
were administered to each of the television stations under study summing it up to the 300
copies. Out of the 300 copies distributed, all were returned although twenty (20) were invalid,
making the return rate of copies of questionnaire distributed 280, representing a response rate
of 93.3% percent of the respondents.
Below is the table showing the return rate of copies of the questionnaire distributed in
three (3) television stations in Port-Harcourt Metropolis that is NTA Port-Harcourt, RSTV
Port-Harcourt and AIT Port-Harcourt.
Table I: Return Rate of Copies of Questionnaire Distributed
Television Stations Number Distributed Number Returned Percentage
NTA Port-Harcourt 100 95 33.9%
RSTV Port-Harcourt 100 90 32.2%
AIT Port-Harcourt 100 95 33.9%
Total 300 280 100%
59
Table 2: Demographic Distribution of Respondents
Code No Questions Options Frequency Percentages
1 Sex a) Male 130 46.4%
b) Female 150 53.6%
Total 280 100%
2
Age
a) 20 – 30 60 21.4%
b) 30 – 40 150 53.6
c) 40 – 50 70 25%
d) 50 – 60 - -
e) 60 and above - -
Total 280 100%
3.
Qualification
a) First school leaving
certificate
- -
b) WASC/SSCE/NECO
Certificate
10 3.6%
c) OND/NCE 30 10.7%
d) HND/BA/B.Sc 230 82.1%
e) Master‟s and above 10 3.6%
Total 280 100%
4.
Marital Status
a) Single 100 35.7%
b) Married 150 53.6%
c) Divorced 20 7.1%
d) Widow/Widower 10 3.6%
Total 280 100%
5.
Length of
service
a) 0 – 1 10 3.6%
b) 1 – 5 80 28.6%
c) 6 – 10 130 46.4%
d) 11 – 15 30 10.7%
e) 16 – 20 10 3.6%
f) 21 years and above 20 7.1%
g) None of the above - -
Total 280 100%
From the above table, it is evident that all the demographic information of the
respondents is contained therein.
60
Looking at the sex distribution table, it shows that 130 respondents, representing
46.4% are males while 150 respondents representing 53.6% are females. This gives a fair
representation of both sexes. In as much as sex has little or nothing to do with the study, it
was believed that there was a need for a fair representation of both sexes. In other words the
result from the data shows that the females are greater in number.
The age distribution table reveals that the sampled population, as shown in the table
above is made up of respondents between the ages of 30 – 40 years that is 150 respondents
(53.6%) 70 respondents (25%) were between 40 – 50 years, while 60 respondents (21.4%)
were between 20 – 30 years. As was deduced from the age distribution table a little over 50%
respondents falls within the age range of 30 – 40, 25% of the respondents were between 40 –
50 years while 21.4% respondents were between 20 -30 years. From the result it could be said
that the major work force of the stations under study is between 30 – 40 years of age. In other
words it could be said that respondents for this study cut across different age groups, they are
adults in their mid years.
On the educational qualification of respondents, the table shows that all the
respondents sampled are literate, as they received formal education to some level. 230
respondents (82.1%) have their first degree. 30 respondents (10.7%) have OND/NCE, 10
respondents (3.6%) have their higher degree while 10 respondents (3.6%) have O‟level
qualification. It is evident from the result that more than half of the respondents (82.1%) fall
within the first degree category, 10.7% have OND/NCE, 3.6% holds higher degree and
another 3.6% have their O‟level. From the result above, we can safely deduce that the
respondents sampled are literates.
The table on marital status reveals that there are more married people among the
respondents. 150 respondents (53.6%) were married, 100 respondents (35.7%) were single,
61
divorced respondents are 20(7.1%), while 10 respondents (3.6%) are widow/widower. It is
evident from the result above that all the category of marital status is represented among the
sampled respondents.
On the length of service with the organization; the table reveals that 10 respondents
(3.6%) have worked with the organization for less than one (1) year. 80 respondents (28.6%)
have worked between 1 – 5 years. 130 respondents (46.4%) have worked between 6 – 10
years. 30 respondents (10.7%) have worked between 11 – 15 years. 10 respondents (3.6%)
have worked between 16 – 20 years while 20 respondents (7.1%) have worked over 21 years
with their organizations.
It is worthy of note that close to average (46.4%) of the respondents have worked with
their organization within 6 – 10 years. The import of the respondents‟ length of service with
the organization lies in the fact that since they have worked with the organization for those
numbers of years, it is long enough to give adequate assessment of the relevance, influence
and possible shortcomings of the new media technologies.
If they are aware of these, they are in good stead to offer useful suggestions for the
improvement of their organizations via new media technologies.
4.2 Analysis of Research Questions
In this section, the four (4) research questions that were asked in chapter one of this
work were answered.
Research Question I
To what extent have the new media technologies influenced the operations of the
broadcast media?
This research question is answered by questions 10 and 19 in the questionnaire.
62
Table 3: Data Answering Research Question I
Code no Questions Options Frequency Percentages
10.
How has the use of
the new media
technologies
contributed to the
success of your
job?
a) It saves time 30 10.7%
b) it makes delivery easy 10 3.6%
c) it increases efficiency 40 14.3%
d) It reduces error 20 7.1%
e) It has cut the barriers of
distant
20 7.1%
f) All of the above 160 57.1%
g) None of the above - -
Total 280 100%
19.
In what ways have
the new media
technologies
contributed to your
station‟s quality of
programmes
generally?
a) There‟s increase in the
number of quality programmes
as a result of the speed at
which these machine works
30
10.7%
b) There‟s clarity in picture as
a result of the use of digital
video cameras.
10
3.6%
c) Digital editing of
programmes have removed
unwanted elements and made
programmes more palatable….
30 10.7%
d) As a result of digital editing
sound effects can now be
incorporated in to programmes
to depict real life experiences.
20 7.1%
e) All of the above 190 67.9%
f) None of the above - -
Total 280 100%
The above table shows that new media technologies have contributed to the success of
the broadcasters‟ job; 30 respondents (10.7%) contend that the new media technologies have
contributed to the success of their job by saving them time. 10 respondents (3.6%) agreed that
the modern technologies have contributed to the success of the broadcasters‟ job by making
delivery easy. 40 respondents (14.3%) affirms that it contributed by increasing efficiency in
their job. 20 respondents (7.1%) states that one of the achievements of the use of new media
technology is the reduction of error in scripts. 20 respondents (7.1%) observed that the new
technologies, have cut the barriers of distance while 160 respondents (57.1%) opined that the
63
new media technologies have contributed to the success of their job in the various ways
identified in the options.
Eliciting information from the respondents, as to what ways have the new media
technologies contributed to the station‟s delivery of quality programmes generally, 30
respondents (10.7%) observed that there is increase in the number of quality programmes as a
result of the speed at which these machines works. Another 30 respondents (10.7%) reveal
that digital editing of programmes has removed unwanted elements and made programmes
more palatable. 10 respondents (3.6%) assert that the modern technologies have helped in the
clarity of the pictures as a result of the use of digital video and cameras. 20 respondents
(7.1%) agreed that as a result of digital editing, sound effects can now be incorporated into
programmes to depict real life experiences. 190 respondents (67.9%) reveal that all the items
identified are the contributions of new media technologies.
Research Question 2
How proficient are the members of staff in the use of the new media
technologies?
In order to answer the above question, questions 7, 8 and 13 of the questionnaire were
examined.
Table 4: Data Answering Research Question 2
Code
No.
Questions Options Frequency Percentage
7
Which new media
technologies do
you use in your
station? List.
a) Desktop/Laptop Computer 50 17.9%
b) Digital Camera 50 17.9%
c) Flash Drive 70 25%
d) internet 40 14.2%
e) digital recorder 20 7.1%
f) digital studio 5 1.8%
g) digital television 10 3.6%
h) CD-ROMS - -
i) satellite/cable system 10 3.6%
j) Video/Audio Mixer 5 1.7%
k) All of the above 10 3.6%
l) None of the above 10 3.6%
Total 280 100%
64
8.
How many of
these new media
technologies can
you operate
efficiently? List.
a) one 50 17.9%
b) Two 60 21.4%
c) Three 70 25%
d) Four 60 21.4%
e) Five - -
f) Six - -
g) Seven - -
h) Eight - -
i) Nine 10 3.6%
j) Ten - -
k) All 10 3.6%
l) None 20 7.1%
Total 280 100%
13.
How often do you
make use of the
internet in your
office?
a) Once a week 50 17.9%
b) Twice a week 30 10.7%
c) Thrice a week 30 10.7%
d) Four times a week 60 21.4%
e) Uncertain 80 28.6%
f) Every day 30 10.7%
Total 280 100%
The above table shows the available new media technologies in use in the sampled
stations as given by the respondents. The flash drive is largely in use, as 70 respondents
(25%) mentioned flash drive. It was followed by computers, digital camera, internet, digital
recorder, digital television, satellite/cable system, video/Audio mixer, digital studio in that
order while 10 respondents (3.6%) make use of all the new media equipment in their station.
Another 10 respondents (3.6%) cannot operate any of these new media equipment.
Probing further from the respondents how many of these new media technologies
they can operate efficiently, 50 respondents (17.9%) contend that they can operate only one
equipment, 60 respondents (21.4%) revealed that they can operate two (2) of the new media
equipment. 70 respondents (25%) affirm that they can operate three (3) of the new media
equipment efficiently. 60 respondents (21.4%) were of the view that they can operate four (4)
of the equipment. 10 respondents (3.6%) observed that they can operate Nine (9) of the
modern technologies. Another 10 respondents (3.6%) said they can operate all the equipment
65
identified efficiently while 10 respondents (3.6%) contend that they cannot operate any of the
equipment.
To find out the frequency level at which the respondents make use of the internet
facilities in their station; 50 respondents (17.9%) observed that they make use of the internet
facilities once a week. 30 respondents (10.7%) asserted that they make use of the internet
facilities twice a week. Another 30 respondents (10.7%) agreed that they use the internet
thrice a week. 60 respondents (21.4%) were of the opinion that they use the internet four
times a week. 80 respondents (28.6%) said the number of times they make use of the internet
is uncertain. 30 respondents (10.7%) contend that they make use of the internet facilities
every day.
Research Question 3
To determine the extent to which new media technologies have been
incorporated into the stations’ operations.
To answer this question, questions 5, 6, 11, 12 and 14 of the questionnaire were
examined.
Table 5: Data Answering Research Question 3
Code
No
Questions Options Frequency Percentage
5.
Do you have access to any
new media technology in
your office?
a) Yes 260 92.9%
b) No 20 7.1%
c) No idea - -
Total 280 100%
6.
If yes, which of the new
media technology do have
access to?
a) computer 90 32.1%
b) CD-ROMS 20 7.1%
c) digital television 20 7.1%
d) Internet 60 21.5%
e) Satellite Technology 10 3.6%
f) cable system - -
g) digital camera 20 7.1%
h) All of the above 60 21.5%
i) None of the above - -
j) Any other specify - -
Total 280 100%
11.
What type of studio does
a) Digital 210 75%
b) Analogue 60 21.4%
66
your station operate with? c) No idea 10 3.6%
Total 280 100%
12.
Is your station connected to
the internet?
a) Yes 260 92.9%
b) No - -
c) No idea 20 7.1%
Total 280 100%
14.
Are all the computers in
your station connected to
the internet
a) Yes 90 32.1%
b) No 150 53.6%
c) Not sure 10 3.6%
d) No idea 30 10.7%
Total 280 100%
In determining the extent to which new media technologies have been incorporated
into the stations‟ operations; 260 respondents (92.9%) agreed that they have access to the
new media technologies in their office. 20 respondents (7.1%) asserted that they do not have
access to any of the new media technologies.
On which of the new media technologies they have access to, 90 (32.1%) respondents
were of the view that they have access to computer, 20 respondents (7.1%) opined that they
have access to CD-ROMs, another 20 respondents (7.1%) revealed that they have access to
digital television, 60 respondents (21.5%) affirmed that they have access to the internet, 10
respondents (3.6%) asserted that they have access to satellite technology, 20 respondents
(7.1%) agreed that they have access to digital camera while 60 respondents (21.5%) said that
they have access to all the technologies.
Eliciting information on what types of studios the stations operate with, 210
respondents (75%) affirmed that their stations operate with digital studio, 60 respondents
(21.4%) observed that their station operates with analogue studio while 10 respondents
(3.6%) said they have no idea of the kind of studio their station operates with.
67
To ascertain further if the stations are connected to the internet, 260 respondents
(92.9%) agreed that their stations are connected to the internet, 20 respondents (7.1%) noted
that they have no idea if their station is connected to the internet.
In verifying if all the computers in the broadcast stations are connected to the internet;
90 respondents (32.1%) opined that all the computers are connected to the internet, 150
respondents (53.6%) revealed that not all the computers in the station are connected to the
internet, 10 respondents (3.6%) pointed out that they were not sure if all the computers in the
station are connected to the internet while 30 respondents (10.7%) said they have no idea if
all the computers in the station are connected to the internet.
Research Question 4
What are the challenges posed by new media technologies to the broadcast
industry?
To answer this question, question 20 in the questionnaire was addressed.
Table 6: Data Answering Research Question
Code
No
Questions Options Frequency Percentage
20.
What are the
difficulties posed
by these new
technologies to the
broadcast stations?
a) High cost of accessories 130 46.5%
b) ignorance/lack of technical
know-how about the new
technologies
70 25%
c) lack of access 60 21.4%
d) Any other, specify 20 7.1%
Total 280 100%
68
The above table shows that 130 respondents (46.5%) revealed that the high cost of
accessories is another problem encountered by the broadcast stations. 70 respondents (21.4%)
contend that ignorance/lack of technical know-how about the new media technologies on the
part of members of staff is another challenge, 60 respondents (21.4%) asserted that lack of
access to new media equipment is another challenge they face, while 20 respondents
representing (7.1%) respondents could not identify difficulty.
4.3 Discussion and Interpretation of Result
From the data gathered, presented and analyzed so far, the following findings
emerged. Table 3 sought to answer research question 1 to what extent have the new media
technologies influenced the operations of the broadcast media. For clarity of reason the
researcher first ascertained the views of the respondents on whether the use of the new media
technologies has contributed to the success of their job. The data contained in table 3 give the
responses of majority of the respondents‟ understanding of new media technologies‟
contribution to the success of their job as 160 or 57.1%. it is also evident that in the second
item on table 3, responses provided from 190 or 67.9% respondents reveal that new media
technologies have contributed to the quality of programme generally. The data presented in
table 3 points out further that new media technologies have had great influence on the work
performance of broadcasters and on the general output of broadcast stations. This is seen by
over 50% of the respondents to the first question analyzed in table 3 that new media
technologies have helped to achieve all the items identified in the options. In the second item
on the table over 60% respondents affirmed that new media technologies have created clarity
and fidelity in programme transmission, improved the speed of productions and helped to
promote richness and variety of broadcast programmes. It implies that new media
technologies have been very effective in view of their level of influence on broadcast media
stations.
69
Table 4 answers research question 2 how proficient are the members of staff in the
use of the new media equipment in the sampled stations as given by the respondents, the flash
drive is largely in use as 70 respondents or 25% mentioned. It was followed by computer 50
respondents or 17.9%, digital camera 50 respondents or 17.9%, internet 40 respondents or
14.2% in that order. It is obvious from the table that these new media equipments are in use
in these stations but considering the number of respondents that make use of each of them. It
implies that the level of usage is low.
Code No.8 on the same table probe further from the respondents how many of these
new media technologies they can operate efficiently. It is glaring from the data analyzed that
70 respondents or 25% agreed that they can operate three (3) of the new media equipments 60
respondents or 21.4% were of the view that they can operate four (4) new media equipments
60 respondents or 21.4% reveal they can operate two (2) of the new media equipments 10
respondents or 3.6% pointed out that they can operate nine (9) of the new media equipments
while 10 respondents or 3.6% said they can operate all the new media technologies.
A critical look at code no.8 in table 4 above, we will understand that the number of
these new media equipment that the respondents revealed that they can operate is not good
enough to say that they are proficient in the use of new media equipment. Only 10
respondents representing 3.6% of the total respondents agreed that they can operate all the
new media equipment they have in these stations. The implication of this to the broadcast
stations is that the success of any broadcast organization depends solely on the level of use
and application of the right equipment to improve their output. This affirms the view of
Defleur and Dennis (1991: 242) that information technologies have more to do with the
skills, knowledge and understanding needed to employ the information and communication
technologies appropriately and efficiently.
70
Code no.13 in table 4 above, sought the frequency level at which the respondents
make use of the internet facilities in their station. It was glaring from the data analyzed that
80 respondents or 28.6% said the number of times they make use of the internet is
uncertain,60 respondents or 21.4% were of the opinion that they use the internet facilities
four times a week. 50 respondents or 17.9% observed that they make use of the internet
facilities once a week. 30 respondents asserted that they make use of the facilities twice a
week. 30 respondents or 10.7% agreed they make use of the internet facilities every day.
While 30 respondents or 10 .7% opined that they use the internet facilities thrice a week.
The above data implies that the Nigerian broadcast industry is gradually adopting the
use of new media technologies and is applying its use moderately. If only 80 respondents
representing 28.6% of the total respondents agreed that the number of times which they make
use of the internet facilities is uncertain and 30 respondents representing 10.7% of the total
respondents said that they make use of the internet facilities every day then one can conclude
that the media personnel are not highly proficient in the use of the new media technologies
and lack access to these equipment because is not at their disposal to use it whenever they
require it.
Research question 3 set to determine the extent to which new media technologies
have been incorporated into the stations‟ operations. To answer this question response from
260 respondents or 92.9% of the total respondents agreed that they have access to new media
technologies in their stations. Therefore it can be said that they have incorporated the use of
the new media technologies into their operations. It is evident from code no.11 of the table 5
above that 210 respondents or 75% agreed that their stations make use of digital studio. 150
respondents or 53.6% were of the view that all the computers in the station were not
connected to the internet, 90 respondents or 32.1% said all the computers were connected to
71
the internet, 10 respondents pointed out that they were not sure while 30 respondents or
10.7% revealed they have no idea.
From the data presented in table 5 above it could be deduced that the broadcast media
have incorporated the use of new media technologies into their operations. However, the
level of compliance is low since the respondents could still identify some new media
equipment like the cable system not in use in the stations and some computers not still
connected to the internet which is the centre of the new media technologies in the television
stations under study.
Research question 4 was aimed at finding out the challenge posed by new media
technologies to the broadcast industry. It is obvious from table 6 above that 130 respondents
or 46.5% attest that high cost of acquiring the equipment has stood as an impediment to the
use of new media technologies. Lack of technical skill to manipulate the equipment as
pointed out by 70 respondents or 25% is another challenge encountered in the use of new
media technologies. 60 respondents 21.4% asserted that lack of access is an impediment
which they face in the use of new media technologies.
It is evident from the table that until this equipment become affordable and at the beck
and call of every media personnel, Nigerian broadcast industry cannot become a world
contender in the sphere of broadcasting. This lends credence to what Dominick (1990:558)
wrote that „new media technologies have gone a long way in bridging the gap between
nations, and subsequently accelerating economic and social growth among countries. It
changes the basic elements of communication, and has been said to provide human
development and eradicate poverty. This implies that if these equipment are not affordable
and accessible in these broadcast stations they will still remain backward in the sphere of
72
broadcasting making them totally dependent on the international news agencies as the case
has always been because they lack the right media equipment.
4.4 Implications of Findings
Despite the poor adoption of new media technologies in the Nigerian broadcast
industry, these facilities have had a very high level of influence on broadcast stations‟
output. The key areas where their influence has been felt the most include the clarity
and fidelity it gives to broadcast transmissions, the speed of broadcast productions
and richness of broadcast programmes. It has also gone a long way in improving the
work performance of broadcast personnel and cut the barrier of distance, thus further
improving the general output of the stations they work for.
The staff of the broadcast stations under study has been found to have only moderate
knowledge of the skills needed to manipulate the available new media technologies.
This implies that for the Nigerian broadcast industry to become a world contender and
stop the dependency syndrome associated with the third world media on the
international news agencies. The media personnel must be proficient in the use of the
new media technologies.
That there are numerous new media technologies available and relevant to the
Nigerian broadcast media. They include flash drives, computers, digital studio, digital
recorder, internet facilities, etc. although most of these facilities are already in use; the
extent of adoption is low. A major facility, like cable system needed to improve the
scope of Nigerian broadcasting is yet to be adopted, this means that many stations
reach would remain low, until relevant equipment are acquired.
However, there are some problems which are encountered with the use of these new
media technologies in Nigeria. The problems range from inability of staff to manage
and manipulate these equipment, high cost of the equipment and lack of access to the
73
equipment. This implies that the level of expertise in the use of the equipments is still
low. Again, the high cost of the equipment will continue to deprive Nigeria broad cast
stations of the capacity to meet with their counterparts in the developed world.
4.5 Answer to Research Questions
Research Question 1: To what extent have the new media technologies influenced the
operations of the broadcast media? responses from the respondents in table 3 above indicated
that the use of the new media technologies have influenced the operations of the broadcast
media by saving them time, made delivery easy, increased efficiency, reduced error in script
and cut the barriers of distance. It has also influenced the general output of the broadcast
media by the increase in the number of quality programmes as a result of the speed at which
these machines works. It has helped in the clarity of pictures as a result of digital editing and
sound effects.
Research Question 2: How proficient are the members of staff in the use of the new media
technologies? It was evident from the data analyzed in table 4 above that the media personnel
are not very proficient in the use of the new media technologies. This is deduced from the
data analyzed that only 10 respondents representing 3.6% of the total respondents can
efficiently operate all the modern equipment available in their stations. The members of staff
which also make use of the internet facilities every day which is at the centre of new media
also attest to this fact, that the staff are not very proficient in the use of the new media but
have average knowledge of its application as indicated by the data analyzed.
Research Question 3: To determine the extent to which new media technologies have been
incorporated into the stations‟ operations? The responses from the respondents show that new
media technologies have been incorporated into the stations‟ operations. 260 respondents
representing 92.9% of the total respondents said they have access to these new media
technologies in their stations, which means they work with them in their various stations. To
74
authenticate this further, 210 respondents representing 75% of the total respondents agreed
that they make use of digital studio in their stations. More so, some new media equipment
such as the computer, digital recorder, internet satellite technology were identified by the
respondents as some of the new media technologies they make use of in their stations.
Therefore we can say that they have incorporated new media technologies in their operations
although at a low pace.
Research Question 4: What are the challenges posed by new media technologies to the
broadcast industry? The analysis in table 6 above answers this question. High cost of
accessories was identified by the respondents as an impediment to the use of new media
technologies. Also Ignorance/lack of technical know-how about the new media technologies
and lack of access to the new media technologies were other problems identified by the
respondents. It was also glaring in table 6 above that irrespective of the positive influence of
these technologies, the broadcast media still have problems in incorporating it further into
their stations operation because of the expensiveness of this equipment, inexperience of the
media personnels‟ to manage and manipulate the equipment and non accessibility of the
equipment.
75
REFERENCES
Defleur, M. and Dennis, E. (1991). Understanding Mass Communication. Boston: Houghton
Mifflin Company.
Dominick, J.et al (1990). Broadcasting/Cable and Beyond. New York: McGraw-Hill
Publishing Company.
76
CHAPTER FIVE
SUMMARY, CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS
5.1 Summary
The essence of this study is to ascertain the influence which new media technologies
have had on the Nigerian broadcast media. To achieve this, a statement of problem was
formulated with four research questions drawn to guide the research. However for clarity of
purpose, television stations in Port-Harcourt Metropolis (NTA Port-Harcourt, RSTV Port-
Harcourt and AIT Port-Harcourt), were used as the study units for the research and relevant
literatures on ICT and broadcasting were reviewed.
In order to elicit the relevant data, the survey method of research was deployed using
the instrument of the questionnaire to formulate questions in line with the research objectives.
The results showed, among other things, that the Nigerian broadcast media have accepted and
adopted the use of some relevant new media technologies, particularly the extensive
application of the computer and flash drive in various areas of broadcasting.
The study also found out that this application has been very gradual, though moderate
in Nigeria. It was also revealed that most of the broadcast personnel are not proficient in the
use of the new media technologies. High cost of the equipment and lack of access are the
possible challenges encountered by the broadcast media in the application of the new media
technologies as was further revealed by the study.
5.2 Conclusion
It is clear that new media technologies have great influence on the operations of the
broadcast media. This of course, is the monumental capabilities of the new media
technologies in the Nigerian broadcast media. This realization has led to the acceptance and
77
use of some of the relevant technologies, such as computer, the internet, digital studio and
recorders. This infers that the media have fought the shackles of backwardness as implied by
Amuchie (2001: 48) when he said, “in a world that has become a global village any country
that stands aloof, whether out of ignorance or lack of appreciation of this basic necessity will
certainly contend with backwardness”.
The rate of adoption and usage of these technologies in Nigerian broadcast industry
has been very gradual as broadcasters are yet to be fully acquainted with the technologies,
thus, they apply them as moderately as their limited knowledge will allow.
Despite, the reluctance in the adoption of these media technologies there has been a
significant improvement in the work performance of broadcasters. New media technologies
have gone a long way to improve content, delivery and quality of broadcast programmes.
This affirms the opinion of Malcom (2001: 217) that “the position of broadcast media all over
the world would improve once they apply the correct technology and communication system
within their network”.
Being a developing phenomenon, the use of new media technologies in Nigeria is
plagued with some problems, which are not really insurmountable, but requires some level of
hard work and commitment to overcome.
5.3 Recommendations
From the facts emanating from this study, it is clear that broadcasting in itself is
technology-driven. It is thus inevitable that the future of broadcasting in Nigeria will be
digital.
In the light of this, the researcher recommends the following.
78
The government should reduce value added tax on new media equipment, as this will
help reduce the overall cost of the equipment in order to lessen the stations financial
burdens.
New media technologies have the capability to further the scope of broadcasting by
broadening their horizon and making Nigerian broadcasting a world contender. This
can only be achieved if the broadcast media go out of their way to procure new and
better facilities.
Lack of technical know-how is also a great impediment to the use of new media
technologies in the broadcast media. Attempts should be made to educate broadcasters
and other media personnel‟s through the use of workshops, symposia, seminars and
training courses.
The Nigerian government should try to formulate policies that will give prominence
to the promotion of research in science and technology. This will improve the outlook
of Nigerians on technological innovations, and help to improve their general
awareness and acceptance.
Broadcast media should provide their staff with training and refresher IT centres in
their organization. This would help to refresh and update their knowledge of new
media technologies as new innovations emerge.
Private, state and federal media stations should invest in the procurement of new
media technologies that are in tune with modern technological advances.
In order to completely eliminate ICT illiteracy among broadcasters, the government
through the federal ministry of education should make IT literacy training a
mandatory course in every tertiary institution, and even incorporated into the
introductory technology subject of the secondary and primary schools.
79
BIBLIOGRAPHY
BOOKS
Agba, P. C. (2001). Electronic Reporting: Heart of the new Communication Age. Nsukka:
University of Nigeria Press Limited.
Agbo , E. (1999). Understanding and Using the Internet. Lagos: Coms-Unique (Nig) Ltd.
Amafili, C. (2002). “Tips on Broadcasting Announcing and Presentation”. In C.S Okunna,
(Ed) Teaching Mass Communication: A Multi-dimensional Approach. Enugu: New
Generations Books.
Asika, N. (2006). Research Methodology in the Behavioural Sciences. Lagos: Longman.
Babbie, E. (1983). The practice of social research (3rd ed.). California Wadsworth
Publishing Company.
Baran, S.J. (2009). Introduction to Mass Communication: Media Literacy and Culture. (5th
ed.). New York: McGraw-Hill Companies.
Bittner, J. (1989). Mass Communication: An Introduction. New Jersey: Prentice Hall.
Cairncross, F. (2000). The Death of Distance: How the Communication Revolution is
changing our Lives. Boston: Harvard Business School Press.
Charles, K. (2002). The End of the American Era. New York: Knopf.
Collins, S.M.H. (1987). Dictionary of Information Technology. New Delhi: University
Bookstall.
Cremer, C.F., Keistead Philip O., and Yoakam Richard O. (1996). Electronic News
Gathering: Television News, (3rd
ed), New York: McGraw – Hill Co Inc.
Defleur, M. and Dennis, E. (1991). Understanding Mass Communication. Boston: Houghton
Mifflin Company.
Dominick, J. (1990). Dynamics of Mass Communication. New York: McGraw – Hill
Publishing Company.
Dominick, J. et al (1990). Broadcasting/Cable and Beyond. New York: McGraw-Hill
Publishing Company.
Ekemezie, P. (2003). Newbies Information Techsnology. Awka: J‟ Goshen Publishers.
Griffin, E. M. (2000). A First Look at Communication Theories. New York: McGraw-Hill.
Headrick,D.R.(1981). The Tools of Empire: Technology and European Imperialism in the
Nineteenth Century. London: Oxford University Press.
80
Hollins, T. (1984). Beyond Broadcasting: into the Cable Age. London: BFI, 1984.
Hornby, A.S. (2007). Oxford Advanced Learner’s Dictionary. (7th
ed). London: Oxford
University Press.
Kendrick, A. (1969). The Life of Edward R. Murrow. New York: Little Brown and
Company.
Krechowiecke, I. (1999) Getting Started on the Internet. Oxford: UK Cremer
Lev, Manovich.(2001). The Language of New Media. London: MIT Press.
Mackay, I. (1964). Broadcasting in Nigeria. Ibadan: University Press.
Mbam, B.C.E. (2002). Information Technology and Management Information System.
Enugu: Our Saviour Press Limited.
McQuail, D. (2005). McQuail’s Mass Communication Theory. (5th ed.). London: Sage
Newson, D. and Wollert, A. J. (1988). Media Writing. California: Wadsworth Publishing
Company.
Nwokoye, A.D.C.(2003).”Technology and Modern Communication System”. In V.I.E. Ajiwe
(Ed) Onitsha: Jet Publishers.
Nworgu, B.G. (1991). Educational research: basic issues and methodologies. Ibadan:
Wisdom Publishing Ltd.
O‟Sullivan, T. et al (1998). Studying the Media. (2nd
ed). London: Armold Publishers.
Ochai, G. (2007). Information and Communication Technologies at a Glance. Nsukka:
Excellent Press.
Oguonu, C. N. and Anugwom, E. E. (2006). Research methods in social sciences. Enugu:
Fourth Dimension Publishing Co., Ltd.
Ohaja, E. U. (2003). Mass Communication Research and Project Report Writing. Lagos:
John Letterman Ltd.
Ojobor, I. J. (2002). Mass Communication Theories. In C. S. Okunna, (Ed) Teaching Mass
Communication: A Multi-dimensional Approach. Enugu: New Generations Books.
Okoro, N. (2001). Mass communication research: Issues and methodologies. Nsukka: AP
Express Publishers.
(2006).The Church in an Era of Information Technologies; Issues, Expectations and
Challenges. In U. Ozioko & E. Makata, (Ed) Evangelization and the Use of the
Media in the 21st Century. Enugu: Snaap Press Ltd.
81
Oliver, E.C. and Chapman, R.J. (1990). Technology: An Data Processing and Information
Illustration Manual for Business and Accounting Student. London: DP Publisher
Ltd.
Post Gerald, V. and Anderson David, L. (2000). Management Information System: Solving
Business Problems with Information Technology. (2nd
ed). USA: McGraw Hill
Publishing Company.
Robb, S. (1982). Television/Radio Age Communication. New York:Communication
Research Institute.
Shanthi K. and Taylor C. B. (2003). Open Networks Closed Regimes. Washington: Carnegie
Endowment for International Peace.
Shaun, Moores. (2000). Media and Everyday Life in Modern Society. London: Edinburg
University Press.
Thompson, J.B. (1999). The Media and Modernity. Cambridge: Polity Press.
Udeajah, R. A. (2004). Broadcasting and Politics in Nigeria 1963-2003. Enugu: Snaap Press
Ltd.
Ukonu, M.O. (2006). Dynamics of Mass Media Development in Nigeria. Enugu: Rhyce
Kerex Publishers.
____(2008). Perspective in International Communication and Global Media System.
Nsukka : University of Nigeria Press Limited.
Williams. R. (1990). Television, Technology and Cultural Form. (2nd
ed.). Fontana:
Routledge.
Wimmer, R.D. and Dominick, J.R. (2003). Mass media research: An introduction (7th
ed.).USA: Belmont, Wadsworth Publishing Company.
Zetti, H. (1992). Television Production Handbook. California: WadsWorth Publishing
Company.
JOURNALS
Amaraebiugwu, A.S. (2006). “Electronic News Gathering: Impact, Implications and
Challenges in Television News Reporting”. In An Interdisciplinary Journal of
Communication No.4 June, 2006. pp 150-222.
Floury, J.M (1999) “In for All: The Promise of Telecentres in Africa”. In International
Development Research Centre (IDRC) Briefing, October 1999.
Hoffer, E. (1992).”Are Electronics and Computer Changing News Gathering? ”. In
American University Report. Caira, (AUC) Today, December Vol. 1, Issue 1, p.5.
82
Katz, E. et al (1963). “Traditions of Research on Diffusion of Innovations” American
Sociological Review.
Liwhu, B. (2008). “Digitisation and the Challenges for Nigeria Broadcasting Industry”. In
Journal of the National Broadcasting Commission. Vol. 10 No.2 pp 24-30 April –
June 2008.
Mbam, B.C.E. (2006).”Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in
Communication Profession”. In Interdisciplinary Journal of Communication. No.5.
pp.60-68. September, 2006
Niina, R. and Sanna, S. (2005). “The Implications of Digitalization for Job Descriptions, Life
Competencies and the Quality of Working”. In Nordicom Journal from the Nordic
Information Centre for Media and Communication Research. Vol. 26 No.2. pp 54-
62. November 2005.
Nkana, N. A. S. (2006). “Communication Strategies for the Future of Nigeria. In
Interdisciplinary Journal of Communication. No. 4. pp.84-94 June, 2006.
Nweke, O. (2001). “Information Technology and Modern Public Relations Practice: A
Critical Analysis”. Enugu, Journal of Public Relations Management, (2nd
ed) Vol. 1
No. 2. Enugu Campus of UNN.
Nwodu, L.C. (2004). “Technological Determinism Theory and Media Practitioners‟
Perception of Cultural Influence of ICTs on Developing Nations”. In the Nigerian
Journal of Communications. pp. 72-83.
Okoro, N.M.(2007).”Advertising and Public Relations Opportunities in the New Media: A
Challenge for Africa in a Globalized World”. In MAJASS December 2007, Vol.5,
No.2. pp. 10-18.
Oluchukwu, W.J. (2006). “The Relevance of Communication and Information Technology
(CIT) to National Development: The Nigerian Experience”. In International Journal
of Communication No. 4. pp. 182-190 June 2006.
Oyero, O. S. (2007). “The New Media Technologies: Prospect and Challenges for
Development in Africa. In Ebenezer Soola Conference on Communication:
Proceedings. Ibadan: Nigeria. pp.334-345.
Trine, S. & Espen, Y. (2006). “Participation and Play in Converging Media Institutional
Perspectives and Text-User Relations”. In Nordicom Review Journal from the
Nordicom Information Centre for Media and Communication Research. Vol. 27
No.1.pp.34-48. February 2006.
Ukonu, M.O. (2006). “The New Information and Communication Technology and Media
Literacy”, In International Journal of Communication. Nsukka: CSF No 4, June
2006. pp. 116-133.
83
Ume–Nwagbo, E.N. (1994). “The Cable System: Status and Prospects in Developing
Economics”. In Nsukka Journal of the Humanities, No 7 December, 1994. pp. 144-
148.
NEWSPAPER
Amuchie, M. (2001). “The Guardian Angel of Cosmo” Thisday Newspaper, March 24, 2001.
INTERNET MATERIALS
Digital Television. Retrieved January 5, 2009 from www.hdtv-source.com/hdtv-terms.php.
Digital Television. Retrieved January 5, 2009 from glossary.asp.
Digital Television. Retrieved January 5, 2009 from www.thesoundcompany.net/ companies
stewart-filmscreenglossary.html.
Digital Television. Retrieved January 5, 2009 from www.sdsdigital.co.uk/jargon-Buster-p-
4.htmls.
Nworah, U.(2001). “The Impact of the Internet on Journalism Practice in Nigeria. Retrieved
January 5, 2009 from Http://www.Com.minit.Com/Africa/strategic thinking.
Wikipedia (2009). Digital Television 05/01/2009 available at: Retrieved January 5, 2009
from en.wikipedia.org/wiki/digitaltelevision.html
UNPUBLISHED MATERIALS
Mbaezue, E. (2006). “New Communication Technologies: Complement or Competitor”. An
Unpublished Project Report. Mass Communication Department, UNN.
Odoemelam, C.C. (2007). An Appraisal of the Impact of ICTs on International
Communication. An Unpublished Project Report. Mass Communication Department
UNN.
84
APPENDIX
Department of Mass Communication
University of Nigeria, Nsukka.
Enugu State.
February, 2009.
Dear Respondent,
I am Nyekwere, Ogedi, a post-graduate student of the above-mentioned department. I
am conducting a research on the topic “Influence of New Media Technologies in
Broadcasting; A Study of Television Stations in Port-Harcourt Metropolis”.
Kindly assist me by providing your honest opinions and views on the various issues
raised in this questionnaire.
Your confidentiality is highly assured as the information given will be used for purely
academic reasons.
Thanking you for the anticipated co-operation.
Yours faithfully
Nyekwere, Ogedi.
85
INSTRUCTIONS
Please ticks (√) in any of the boxes provided and fill in where necessary
SECTION A: DEMOGRAPHIC DATA.
(1) Sex: (a) Male (b) Female
(2) Age : (a) 20 – 30 years (b) 30 – 40 years (c) 40 – 50 years
(d) 50 – 60 years (e) 60 years and above
(3) Educational qualification:
(a) First school leaving certificate
(b) WASC/SSCE/NECO
(c) National Diploma / National Certificate in Education
(d) HND, BA or BSc
(e) Master‟s and above
(4) Marital Status:
(a) Single
(b) Married
(c) Divorced
(d) Widow/Widower
(5) Length of service with your organization:
(a) 0 – 1 year
(b) 1- 5 years
(c) 6 -10 years
(d) 11- 15 years
(e) 16 – 20 years
(f) 21 years and above
(g) None of above
SECTION B: PSYCHOGRAPHIC DATA.
(6) Do you have access to any new media technology in your office?
(a) Yes (b)No (c) No idea
(7) If yes, which of the new media technology do you have access to?
(a) Computer
(b) CD – ROMS
(c) Digital Television
(d) Internet
(e) Satellite Technology
86
(f) Cable System
(g) Digital Camera
(h) All of the above
(i) None of the above
(j) Any other specify -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(8) Which new media technologies do you use in your station? List --------------------------
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(9) How many of these new media technologies can you operate efficiently? List ----------
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(10) How many do you have a little knowledge of their operations? List-----------------
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(11) How has the use of the new media technology contributed to the success of your
job?
(a) It saves time
(b) It makes delivery easy
(c) It increases efficiency
(d) It reduces error
(e) It has cut the barriers of distant
(f) All of the above
(g) None of the above
(12) What type of studio does your station operate with?
(a) Digital (b) Analogue (c) NO Idea
(13) Is your station connected to the internet?
(a) Yes (b) No (c) No Idea
(14) How often do you make use of the internet in your office?
(a) Once a week
(b) Twice a week
(c) Thrice a week
(d) Four times a week
(e) Uncertain
(f) Every day
87
(15) Are all the computers in your station connected to the internet?
(a) Yes (b) No (c) No idea
(16) Are you conversant with the workings and operations of such new media
technologies in your broadcast station?
(a) Yes (b) No (c) Not Sure (d) No Idea
(17) If no to question 16 above, why?----------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(18) What are staff attitude to the use of these new media technologies?
(a) Poor
(b) Receptive
(c) Poorly Receptive
(d) Complacent
(e) None of the above
(f) All of the above
(19) What measures have been put in place by your organization to expose members of
staff to advancements in new media technologies in order to meet the challenges of modern
broadcasting?
(a) Arrangement of in – house training scheme
(b) Arrangement of external training scheme
(c) Advice to staff to be computer literate on a personal level
(d) A and B above
(e) A, B and C above
(f) None of the above
(g) All of the above
(20) In what ways have the new media technologies contributed to your station‟s delivery of
quality programmes generally?
(a) There‟s increase in the number of quality programmes as a result of the speed at
which these machine works.
(b) There‟s clarity in pictures as a result of the use of digital video cameras.
(c) Digital editing of programmes has removed unwanted elements and made
programmes more palatable
(d) As a result of digital editing, sound effects can now be incorporated in
programmes to depict real life experiences.
(e) All of the above
(f) None of the above
(21) What are the difficulties posed by these new technologies to the members of staff?
88
(a) Unstable power supply
(b) High cost accessories
(c) Ignorance / lack of technical know – how about the new technologies
(d) Lack of access
(e) All of the above
(f) None of the above
(g) Any other specify----------------------------------------------------------------------
(22) What influence do you think the sophistication occasioned by new media
technologies; has in the operations of your station?
(a) Remove drudgery
(b) Enhance production/delivery of programme
(c) Reduced human involvement
(d) None of the above
(e) All of the above
(23) What influence has the new media technologies on members of staff?
(a) Positive influence (b) Negative influence (c) No idea
(24) If negative, why? -------------------------------------------------------------------------
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(25) What do you think are the gains of the use of the new media technologies for staff
and the broadcast industry in Nigeria?
(a) Easy switch from one station to another
(b) Continuity in terms of operations
(c) Easy creation and distribution of media contents
(d) Production and post production are less expensive
(e) High sound and picture qualities
(f) All of the above
(g) None of the above