STUDENTS’ PERCEPTION OF RISING DATA TARIFTS AND ITSINFLUENCEON SMARTPHONE USAGE FOR ACADEMIC ACTIVITIES INNIGERIA
Abstract
his This study assessed the perception of rising data tariffs and its influenceonsmartphone usage for academic activities among Mass Communication studentsat theFederal Polytechnic, Bida, Nigeria. Employing a quantitative research design, datawerecollected through a structured questionnaire administered to a sample of 232studentsselected via simple random sampling. The findings reveal a high level of awarenessamong students regarding the increase in data tariffs, with a majority perceivingthemas significant and financially burdensome. The study established that rising datacostshave a direct negative impact on academic smartphone usage, leading toreducedfrequency of use, avoidance of data-intensive resources like educational videos, andalterations in study habits. To mitigate these effects, students have adoptedvariouscoping strategies, including sharing data subscriptions, switching to more affordablenetworks, utilizing offline academic resources, and relying on free Wi-Fi hotspots. Thestudy concludes that the high cost of mobile data poses a significant barrier toeffectivedigital learning. It recommends institutional interventions such as the provisionofreliable campus Wi-Fi, collaboration with telecom providers for student-friendlydataplans, and promoting awareness of data-saving techniques to enhance academic productivity and bridge the digital divide.
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