Screen Time: Risks Awareness and Perception of Undergraduates in Northeast Universities, Nigeria

Abstract

This study examines undergraduates awareness and perception of risks associated with the use of screen-based devices like smartphones, laptops and desktop computers. A total of 437 students from Modibbo Adama University of Technology, Yola and Taraba State University Jalingo have been surveyed. Data collected through questionnaire have been analyzed using descriptive statistical tools (frequency and simple percentages). Findings show that students within the surveyed universities are frequently exposed to screen devices and that they are aware that excessive use of screen devices could be risky to their health, social and physical life. However, most of the students do not take proactive measures to mitigate these risks. Therefore, the study calls on university authorities and the mass media to lead a campaign toward enlightening the students on the need to take precautionary measures while using screen-based devices. It also recommends that government agencies and groups like Consumer Protection Council of Nigeria and Standard Organization of Nigeria should compel producers of mobile screen-devices to improve safety measures in their products.