Digital Media Interaction and Indigenous Language Preservation in Delta State Tertiary Institutions

Abstract

This study investigated the extent of use of indigenous languages for digital media interaction and its impact on the preservation of indigenous languages among tertiary institution students in Delta State. The study utilized a descriptive cross-sectional survey design, targeting a population of 65,752 students from nine tertiary institutions in Delta State. A sample of 3,288 students were selected through multistage sampling procedure. Data collection was conducted with a structured questionnaire titled "Digital Media and Indigenous Language Preservation" (DMILP), which had a reliability index of 0.93. Analysis was performed using SPSS statistical tools such as percentage, mean, and standard deviation. The study revealed that English is the predominant language used on digital media, with 98.70% of students using it, followed by slangs/shorthand (88.20%) and Nigerian Pidgin (69.50%). Among indigenous languages, Urhobo (21.30%), Isoko (17.16%), and Ijaw (9.52%) were the most used. The overall use of indigenous languages on digital media was low, with a mean score of 2.29 ± 1.38. Students reported moderate comfort using indigenous languages on digital media (mean = 2.50 ± 0.70) but found it challenging to express ideas and emotions in these languages (mean = 1.86 ± 1.41). The impact of digital media on indigenous language preservation was mixed, with general agreement that digital media does not significantly help maintain inter-generational transmission or provide adequate educational resources (overall mean = 2.60 ± 1.03). It was concluded that digital media interaction though expected to increase the promotion of indigenous language have rather deteriorated the preservation of indigenous languages in Delta State with English, Nigerian pidgin and slangs overshadowing the students use of indigenous languages in communication. Hence, among other recommendations, tertiary institutions and government must develop and implement digital resources and educational programs that encourage the use of indigenous languages on digital media.

Keywords: Digital media, indigenous language preservation, Interactions, Tertiary Institutions, Students, Delta State