PERCEPTION OF DIGITAL MEDIA, CONTENT CREATION AND YOUTH SELF—EXPRESSION AMONG KWARA STATE UNIVERSITY UNDERGRADUATES

Abstract This study examined the perception of digital media, content creation, and youth self-expression among undergraduates at Kwara State University, Malete. The purpose was to investigate the level of exposure to media platforms for content creation, the most frequently used digital media platforms, the perception of the impact of digital media on self-expression, and the relationship between digital media literacy and self-expression. Guided by the Uses and Gratifications Theory (Katz et al., 1973) and Media Ecology Theory (McLuhan, 1964), the study sought to understand both the motivations behind students’ media engagement and the ways media environments shape self-expression. A descriptive survey design was adopted, and data were collected using structured questionnaires administered to 380 undergraduates, selected through multi-stage sampling. Analysis was carried out using descriptive statistics. Findings revealed that TikTok and Instagram were the most frequently used platforms for content creation, with most students engaging in entertainment-driven content. Respondents generally perceived digital media as enhancing their ability to express themselves, though issues such as technological barriers, peer influence, and pressure to conform to trends were reported. The study further established a significant relationship between digital media literacy and self-expression across age and academic level, but no significant difference was observed across gender. The study concluded that digital media plays a vital and positive role in shaping self-expression among undergraduates, with literacy skills serving as a key determinant in enabling meaningful and confident participation in content creation. It recommends the integration of digital media literacy into the university curriculum, the establishment of content creation labs equipped with modern tools, and the promotion of responsible social media practices through training sessions in video editing, photography, and ethical content production.