Assessment of Prevalence of Information Disorders among Undergraduates of Kwara State University, Malete, Nigeria

Abstract

Information disorder is becoming a scourge affecting the authenticity and integrity of information among the populace, particularly undergraduates. This study assessed the prevalence of information disorders among undergraduates of Kwara State University, Malete. The study adopted the descriptive survey design. The study population consisted of 25,277 Kwara State University undergraduate students in Malete. A multi-stage sampling technique was used to select respondents from the population. The questionnaire was the instrument used to collect data. The study's findings revealed that lack of awareness of information disorders and the desire to be respected by colleagues were the major causes of information disorders among students. The prevalent information disorders among students were clickbaits, hoaxes, biases and imposter websites. Fake reviews, rumours, hoaxes, and propaganda were the highest information disorders rampant among students, and some of the strategies to reduce the prevalence of information disorders are identifying the sources of information and those that can be victimised by such information. The study concluded that information disorders are prevalent among the undergraduates of Kwara State University and recommends, among others, that the management of Kwara State University and other stakeholders should orientate undergraduates on information disorders and their challenges.