NEWS CONSUMPTION IN THE DIGITAL AGE: AN EXAMINATION OF CROSS-PLATFORMS MEDIA USAGE AMONG OSUN CIVIL SERVANTS
In an environment characterised by fluctuating information dynamics, individuals increasingly opt for a variety of media platforms to get news. Consequently, scholars have adopted a more thorough methodology to assess news consumption across many platforms. This approach involves analysing news media repertoires, as well as investigating the production and dissemination of news content. Internet-based technologies, which mark a revolutionary period in journalism, have revealed new understandings in journalism. The rapid advancement of digital technology has led to a transformation in the way news is consumed, shared, and perceived. This research aims to explore the intricate patterns of news consumption among civil servants in Osun state, Nigeria, with a specific focus on their utilization of various digital platforms. The study seeks to identify the preferred sources of news, the factors influencing platform choices, and the impact of digitalization on news consumption behaviours within this specific demographic. By examining the cross-platform media usage habits of Osun civil servants, this research seeks to contribute to the understanding of how individuals adapt to the digital age’s evolving news landscape. The theoretical foundation of this research rests upon concepts such as media multitasking, selective exposure, and the digital divide. The anticipated findings will shed light on the information-seeking behaviours of Osun civil servants and offer a nuanced understanding of their cross-platform news consumption habits. The research outcomes are expected to have implications for media organizations, policy makers, and public administration, guiding them in tailoring news content delivery and accessibility to suit the preferences and needs of civil servants in the digital age.
Keywords: News consumption, Digital Age, Cross platforms, Media usage and Civil servants.
