Digital Media Literacy in Africa: Precautionary Principle and Discourse Strategies

Abstract

An active involvement in the digital platform such as Internet immediately suggests a strong sense of connectivity and interactivity with a logic that exposes users to both risks and opportunities. This study therefore argued that risks among digital natives can be curbed and opportunities maximally utilized through digital media literacy. The research employed a social survey method with the instrumentation of questionnaire for data collection and was anchored on media literacy theory and social learning theory as theoretical framework. Taro Yamane’s statistical formula was used while 200 respondents were selected from CRUTECH, Ogoja campus for the study. The research used purposive and non-purposive sample techniques. Simple tables, frequencies and percentages were employed to gather, present and analyse data. The findings revealed that, 77% of the respondents affirmed that Internet promotes risks such as crimes and unethical behavours; 71% of the respondents stated that Internet enhances studies and creates opportunities while 79% said digital media literacy helps in coping with risks and opportunities among users. However, the study concluded that, digital media literacy is quintessential in dealing with risks and opportunities in both virtual and physical life. Among others, the study recommended that digital media literacy is essential, should be promoted by both private and public sectors at all levels and be incorporated into school curriculums.