The effect of new media on social life in Namibia: An academic report on the relationship between students and lecturers at UNAM

Abstract

This research study provides an overview of the effects new media has on social life as well as its impact on academic performance and the relationship between the lecturers and students at the University of Namibia. The study provides insight to future studies to be done. The study aims to explore the influences that new media have on the social life and well being of people and the biases certain cultures have towards way of life and media. What is considered appropriate and what is not? It also aims to explore whether people rely on what they see on the internet or a face to face view of reality. It also reviews the purpose of new media tools such as technology in the form of entertainment and social networks, in particular how these are used on a daily basis both for students and lecturers. A data gathering process in the form of research questionnaires was used to obtain data which helped to draw conclusions for the research questions. 60 Questionnaires were given out of which 45 were students and 15 lecturers to find out students and lecturers' personal opinions about new media. The results serve as evidence for the use and influence of new media towards students' academic performance and relationship with the lecturers. In the analysis the study reveals that more students are efficient on social networks compared to lectures. It also reveals that unlike students, lecturers make use of new media for purpose such as news and research more, Recommendations in the study have been made; students need to have a balance between their academics and new media. Lecturers are recommended to make use of new media facilities such a social networks to communicate with their students academically seeing that most students rely on the internet.