RESIDENTS’ PERCEPTION OF THE CREDIBILITY OF SELECT ONLINE NEWSPAPERS

ABSTRACT

This research was carried out to ascertain Uyo resident’s perception of the credibility of select online newspapers (PUNCH and Vanguard). The main objective of the study was to find out their perception of the credibility of select online newspapers. The survey method was adopted for the study. The population of the study was 427,436 being the population of the residents of Uyo and the sample size of 400 was reached using the Taro Yamane formula for determining sample size and the research instrument used was the questionnaire. After the analysis of the data gathered from the study, the findings revealed that majority of Uyo residents perceive PUNCH and Vanguard online newspapers to be credible and do not have doubts about what they read on these papers online. Majority ofUyo residents believe PUNCH and Vanguard online newspapers ensure objectivity in their reportage and are free of bias. Majority of Uyo residents also believe that PUNCH and Vanguard online newspapers report balanced news with all sides of the story duely reported and containing all the information/details it should. Majority of Uyo residents consider PUNCH and Vanguard online newspapers to be competent and trustworthy. The study therefore recommended that PUNCH and Vanguard online newspapers should put in more efforts to ensure that facts are presented accurately in their reports. PUNCH and Vanguard online newspapers should make sure facts in their reports are always verified to avoid discrepancies when compared with those of other newspapers online and lastly, PUNCH and Vanguard online newspapers should update their website/app regularly to enable prompt update of breaking news.

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1        Background to the Study

With the significant proliferation of Information and Communication Technology (ICTs), it is not very surprising how the internet has become integrated into our lives as an important, if not indispensable tool for information and communication.

The internet continues to evolve into a major source of information, including news. This, of course among other issues gave rise to newspapers opting to have an online presence. (Shor, 2005).

On a typical day, millions log onto news websites to obtain news from the web. As a matter of fact, more news sites are becoming profitable and news organizations are investing more money in online journalism. (Project for Excellence in Journalism, 2006).