EVALUATING PREFERENCE OF ONLINE NEWS CHANNELS AND CONTENT CREDIBILITY AMONG STAFF OF FEDERAL POLYTECHNIC OFFA
Abstract
ABSTRACT
The rapid proliferation of online news channels has significantly transformed how individuals access and consume news. This study evaluates the preferences of online news channels and the perceived content credibility among staff of Federal Polytechnic Offa. The research adopts a survey design, with a structured questionnaire administered to collect data from the institution's academic and non-academic staff. Findings reveal that while convenience, timeliness, and ease of access drive preference for online news, skepticism about the credibility of content persists. Respondents frequently rely on social media platforms like Facebook and Twitter for updates, followed by dedicated news websites such as Premium Times and Punch Online. However, concerns about misinformation, bias, and the lack of verifiable sources were cited as significant barriers to trusting online news. The study concludes that while online news channels are indispensable for timely information, improving transparency, accountability, and fact-checking processes is crucial to enhancing their credibility. Recommendations include implementing digital literacy programs to equip users with the skills to critically evaluate online content and urging news outlets to adopt stringent editorial standards to build trust.
Keywords: Online News Channels, Content Credibility, Digital Literacy, News Consumption, Federal Polytechnic Offa, Media Trust.
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