AN ASSESSMENT OF THE EFFECTS OF INTERNET EXPOSURE ON SECONDARY SCHOOL STUDENTS USING TWO SECONDARY SCHOOLS AS CASE STUDIES

ABSTRACT

This research work is focused on the effects of internet exposure on secondary school students using students from College of Education Demonstration Staff School Warri Delta State and Itohan Girls Grammar School Edo Benin City, as case studies. It is aimed at finding out the accessibility and usage level of the internet by secondary school students, the effects of internet exposure on the attitude and behaviour level of secondary school students and finding out the ways the internet can be used by secondary school students for self-empowerment and development. For its theoretical framework, the study adopted The Uses and Gratification Theory to further buttress the point of the study. The survey research method was used to gather the data for the study. Findings from the study revealed that, excess internet exposure can lead to loss of concentration and drop in academic performance. The study further concluded that, when the internet is utilised properly, it can improve the academic performance of students and be a source for self- development. The study however recommended that, parents and Guardians should monitor their children towards the kinds of sites they are exposed to. Also these students should be sanctioned or corrected when they misuse the internet. It also recommended that secondary school students should be taught how to use the internet for self-empowerment and self -development.