Bachelor of Arts in Journalism and Communication

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    Assessing Facebook Usage and It’s Influence on Ucu Students’ Mental Health in Uganda a Case on Uganda Christian University Students
    (Uganda Christian University, 2024-10-08) Bridget Komuhimbo
    This research takes a critical look at Facebook usage and its impact on UCU student‘s mental health. It also establishes the challenges have Facebook posed to Uganda Christian University students‘ mental health. Facebook has become a channel through which people share ideas, news, advice and analyses on different ideas and research in the society. Students also use it to share knowledge in one way or another. In Africa, Facebook is now a permanent feature in the media environment as the students‘ performance grows, and at the same time affects their mental health. This study tried to examine the impact of Facebook addiction among students‘ mental health and what can be done to eradicate these challenges. The study also sought to assess the impact of Facebook usage on the mental health of students at Uganda Christian University (UCU). The study aims to identify specific patterns of Facebook usage that may contribute to positive or negative mental health effects and to provide evidence-based recommendations for promoting healthy social media practices among university students. The study was guided by the following questions; what are Facebook usage patterns among UCU students? What are UCU students‘ perceptions and experiences regarding the influence of Facebook on their mental health? Which features or behaviors on Facebook contribute positively or negatively to UCU student mental well-being? To achieve these objectives, the qualitative design used and the Random sampling technique was carried out. The research sampled 10 respondents who were students of Information Technology and third year Journalism students. To put this research in perspective, New Media and media dependency theories were briefly examined. The findings reveal that there are some threats posed by Facebook usage among students, but most of them use it to find information in regards to their education. There are those who study in Facebook groups formed by different students from the different schools. The study concluded that Facebook addiction has negatively affected students‘ performance, led to stress, depression, and other related mental health issues.
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    Assessing Journalism Student Perception of Media Violence on Journalist
    (Uganda Christian University, 2024-09-26) Gum Andrew
    This study investigates the perceptions and experiences of journalism students at Uganda Christian University regarding media violence and its impact on their professional choices. Through a detailed survey of 108 students, the research explores the prevalence of violence against journalists in Uganda, the frequency of related news reports, and how such violence influences students' career decisions. Key findings reveal that a significant majority of respondents have not personally witnessed or experienced violence against journalists, though a notable minority has. The data indicates that violence against journalists is reported infrequently in the media, but a substantial proportion of students believe it adversely affects freedom of speech and expression. Concerns about violence significantly influence career choices, with many students prioritizing safety in their professional decisions.
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    The Role of Print Media in Addressing Mental Health in Uganda: A Case Study of New Vision Newspaper
    (Uganda Christian University, 2024-09-14) Lucy Nuwasasira
    This study investigated the inadequate coverage of mental health issues in Uganda's print media, focusing specifically on “The New Vision" newspaper. Despite the critical public health challenges posed by high rates of mental health disorders, such as depression, anxiety, and PTSD, the representation of these issues in print media remained limited. The research employed a mixed-methods approach, integrating both quantitative and qualitative methods to provide a comprehensive analysis of media coverage and the barriers faced by journalists. In this study, the purposive sampling method was applied to let readers in the contents of articles of “The New Vision” which were published in April and May 2024 by evaluating how often the mental health story was covered, what language and framing fashions were used etc. Also, semi-structured interviews of about 5-10 important stakeholders including journalist, editors, mental health practitioners, and advocates were undertaken to understand the problems faced in the reporting of mental health more clinically reporting. Quantitative data collected through the use of coding and SPSS for statistical analysis were complemented with qualitative data from interviews which were also analyzed thematically. In these studies, it was established that there were indeed gaps in the understanding of issues from a mental health perspective as the coverage was impacted by cultural stereotypes, inadequately trained journalists from newsrooms, and focusing more on news rather than health stories from the editorial considerations. The research pointed out a lack of sufficient training and resources for the journalists and ways to increase the coverage of mental health issues in print media. The study emphasized that print media is more responsible than any other form of media in changing the attitude of the society and argued on the need to take mental health issues more seriously with regard to implementation of the changes that are being sought. The interview analysis confirmed that print media had opportunities that could be optimally utilized in influencing mental health attitudes in Uganda. Although stigma, pertaining to a lack of access to information or the right type of training still hampered advancement in this area, recognition of the importance of mental health reporting was on the rise. Where such opportunities were exploited through proper training, working with mental health professionals, and carefully reporting on the issues at hand, print media had the potential of changing people’s perceptions towards mental health in Uganda.
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    DISSERTATION
    (UGANDA CHRISTIAN UNIVERSITY, 2024-09-06) MIRISIO AGNITIOS PETER
    This study introduce the topic of the study as the impact of the social media on traditional journalism. The main objective is the study is on the impact of social media on traditional journalism and the specific objectives include Challenges of social media on Traditional Journalism, Solutions to impacts of social media to tradition journalism, examples and sources of social media and traditional journalism. These include both positive and negative impacts as follows. The positive impacts include, efficiency and effectiveness in work, motivates readers to search more about the information provided, it promotes spread of more information among the people and creates quick awareness, spread of information among people On the other side, there are also negative impacts of social media to traditional journalism that is to say, it goes further to show the impact of social media on traditional journalism such as Spread of Misinformation and Fake News, erosion of trust, it has promoted yellow journalism as these don’t sort out the information they spread, it has promoted maliciousness and over exaggeration of the information among people creating chaos. This has been controlled via introduction of access of the news reading through the use of social media, video access of the news through the use of capture of captions created in the news by new vision thus this has increased the news reading. Newspapers have created websites for news reading and accessing of magazines via websites.
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    EXPLORING THE INFLUENCE OF NEW MEDIA ON COMMUNICATION AT UNEB, ADDRESSING MISINFORMATION AND CONFIDENTIALITY IN THE DIGITAL ERA IN UGANDA.
    (UGANDA CHRISTIAN UNIVERSITY, 2024-09-25) HANDEHE SHEENA NADINE
    The coming of new media has changed communication dynamics in organizations around the world, not excluding educational institutions. The present dissertation focuses on finding out how new media is affecting communication at the Uganda National Examinations Board, with a focus on the challenges and opportunities presented by misinformation and the requirement for confidentiality in the digital age in Uganda. The study takes a qualitative approach using interviews in particular to elaborate on how digital platforms such as social media and portals have revolutionized both internal and external communication processes at UNEB. This will point out changes in information accuracy, confidentiality and operational efficiency and effectiveness. The findings are intended to offer practical insights to UNEB and institutions of similar standing in Uganda to fashion out a watertight approach for tapping benefits from the new media while warding off its pitfalls, so that the integrity and reliability of information provision in the digital age may be ensured.
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    THE ROLE OF X IN ENHANCING COMMUNICATION AMONG UNIVERSITY STUDENTS. A CASE STUDY OF STUDENTS AT UGANDA CHRISTIAN UNIVERSITY, MAIN CAMPUS MUKONO.
    (UGANDA CHRISTIAN UNIVERSITY, 2024-09-04) TINA ATUHAIRE
    Effective communication is a cornerstone of academic success, and university students' ability to interact with one another is crucial for fostering a collaborative and productive learning environment. This study investigates the role of X in enhancing communication among university students, with a specific focus on the theoretical underpinnings of gratification theory. By employing a mixed-methods approach, this research explores how X influences students' communication patterns, satisfaction, and overall academic experience. Gratification theory, which posits that individuals engage in communication to fulfill their social and psychological needs, serves as the theoretical framework for this study. The research design involves a survey of 200 university students, complemented by in-depth interviews with 20 participants. The findings suggest that X significantly enhances communication among university students by increasing their sense of community, reducing feelings of loneliness, and promoting a sense of belonging. The results of this study have important implications for university administrators, educators, and policymakers seeking to create an environment that fosters effective communication and collaboration among students. The findings highlight the potential of X as a tool for promoting student engagement, improving academic outcomes, and enhancing the overall university experience. This research contributes to the existing body of literature on communication and technology, providing insights into the role of X in facilitating meaningful interactions among university students.
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    EXAMINING THE IMPLICATIONS OF EMERGING TECHNOLOGY ON SOCIETAL CONSUMPTION OF THE MEDIA: A CASE STUDY OF UGANDA CHRISTIAN UNIVERSITY
    (UGANDA CHRISTIAN UNIVERSITY, 2024-09-04) Merinah Martha Mbabazi
    The media landscape is one of the different aspects of society that have undergone radical transformation as a result of the adoption of emerging technologies. This research project examined the implications of emerging technology on societal consumption of the media, focusing on Uganda Christian University (UCU). The objectives were to identify the emerging technologies applicable to the media scope of UCU, to examine the present media consumption trends and patterns among the teachers and students, and to identify the benefits and challenges of emerging technology in media consumption. The research was based on the Uses and Gratifications Theory (UGT) emphasizing that by choosing the content they want to consume, viewers are active participants of the media. It was conducted using qualitative methods with in-depth interviews as the research technique. The study aims to provide insights into the gradually developing media scope within UCU and contribute to more extensive conversations regarding the way technology influences how people consume media. The study revealed both positive and negative implications of using emerging technologies to consume the media. The research is significant as it provides insightful information about how developing technologies shape media consumption in educational environments.
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    Impact of Citizen Journalism on Professionalism in Uganda: A Case Study of Anti Corruption Reports Against Uganda’s Parliament on Social Media
    (Uganda Christian University, 2024-09-19) Mariam Jumane
    This investigation looked at how citizen journalism affected Ugandan journalism's professionalism and moral standards, with a particular focus on anti-corruption reports pertaining to the Ugandan Parliament from January 2023 to June 2024. The study sought to ascertain how the ethical standards and integrity of the journalism profession were impacted by citizen journalism, especially as it related to social media. The study assessed the legitimacy of citizen journalism by contrasting the truthfulness and precision of reports created by citizens with those released by conventional media channels. The study also looked at how these citizen reports affected public opinion and Ugandan journalism's general level of credibility. The results shed light on how the media is changing and what that means for the nation's public perception and journalistic standards. The findings demonstrated the important role that citizen journalism plays in influencing public opinion as well as its possible effects on the legitimacy and moral standards of Uganda's journalism industry
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    Examining the Impact of Community Radio on Addressing Inter-ethnic Conflict in Irumu Territory: A Case Study of Radio Rter in Nyankunde DRC
    (Uganda Christian University, 2024-09-06) Simbilyabo Nathanael Nobamuzi
    With a focus on Radio Tele Evangile et de la Reconciliation (RTER) in Nyankunde, Democratic Republic of the Congo, this study investigates the function of community radio in resolving inter-ethnic conflict in the unstable Irumu region. This study looks at how RTER might help with peacebuilding in the setting of persistent political unrest and ethnic tensions. The research uses qualitative techniques, such as interviews, focus groups, and content analysis, to assess how well RTER can thwart disinformation, encourage civic engagement, and aid in regional development initiatives. By highlighting the unique benefits of community radio in conflict resolution settings and offering strategies to maximize its influence, this study adds to the body of knowledge already available on the subject. The study looks at how RTER affects public discourse and fosters community cohesiveness in a historically contested area using a theoretical framework based on Agenda Setting Theory. It draws attention to the role that media plays in attempts to promote peace and provides information on how community radio might be applied to long-term conflict settlement.
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    The Role of Community Radios in Promoting Security in Uganda. A Case of Mukono Municipality
    (Uganda Christian University, 2024-09-28) Onesmus Joyce Lomoro
    The promotion of security is a critical aspect of ensuring the well-being of individuals and communities. In Uganda, community radios have emerged as a vital tool in promoting security, particularly in local communities. This study examines the status of community radios in promoting security in Mukono Municipality, analyzes their contribution to security efforts, and identifies strategies employed by these radios to curb insecurity. The theoretical framework adopted was the agenda setting theory. This theory was relevant because it explained the role of community radios in the security sector therefore these radios (C.R) contribute to Uganda’s national security by setting an agenda on security issues. In doing so , they raise the consciousness of the people and influence them to taking precautionary measures that will engender peace and stability in the country. The study reveals that community radios in Mukono Municipality have made significant contributions to security efforts. They have created platforms for community engagement, providing a means for citizens to report incidents and concerns, and disseminating important information to the public. These radios have also played a crucial role in generating awareness campaigns, educating listeners on security-related issues such as crime prevention and emergency preparedness. The study found that community radios in Mukono Municipality have employed various strategies to curb insecurity. These include partnering with local authorities to provide real-time updates on security incidents, conducting town hall meetings to engage with community members, and broadcasting emergency messages during times of crisis. Additionally, the radios have provided a platform for community members to share their concerns and suggestions, fostering a sense of ownership and participation in security efforts. The findings of this study provide a unique platform for community engagement, awareness campaigns, and emergency response. The study recommends that community radios should be supported and empowered to continue their efforts, and that local authorities should consider incorporating them into their security strategies and collaborative strategies. By harnessing the power of communication and unity, these radios not only report on security matters but actively work towards preventing incidents and fostering a culture of safety and vigilance among residents. In conclusion, this study demonstrates the significance of community radios in promoting security in Mukono Municipality. By examining the status, contribution, and strategies employed by these radios, this study provides valuable insights into the role they play in curbing insecurity and promoting a sense of security among community members. Their efforts serve as a beacon of hope and resilience in the face of security challenges, making them indispensable allies in the quest for a safer and more secure Uganda.
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    THE IMPACT OF MEDIA ON CULTURE: ACASE STUDY OF SALT TELEVISION IN RUBAGA DIVISION KAMPALA DISTRICT
    (Uganda Christian University, 2024) Nassozi Hudah
    This study examined “the effects of media on culture using Salt TV as a case study located in Kampala City's Rubaga Division.” Thirteen parishes were included in the study: Busega, Lubaga, Lugala, Namirembe, Kasubi, Kawala, Mutundwe, Nateete, Ndeeba, Kabowa, Najjanankumbi, Lungujja, and Kawala. Through an analysis of media consumption trends, cultural transformations, and interpersonal relationships among parishioners, the study sought to determine the ways in which Salt TV affected regional cultural dynamics. Surveys, interviews, and content analysis were used in the data collection process to get information from locals and media sources. Significant cultural effects linked to Salt TV were found, including modifications to social norms, community involvement, and cultural behaviors. The study emphasized how media plays a significant role in forming cultural identity and promoting social cohesiveness in Rubaga. The study found that Salt TV had both beneficial and detrimental effects on Rubaga Division's cultural fabric. The enhancement of regional customs and the creation of a forum for cross-cultural communication and expression were two positive effects. On the other hand, detrimental outcomes like cultural homogenization and the possible deterioration of traditional values were observed. These results highlight the intricate connection between culture and media, pointing to the necessity of a reasonable approach to media regulation and consumption in order to protect cultural heritage while embracing modernity.
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    The Impact of Podcasting on Mental Health Among Youth in Kampala Mainly at Uganda Christian University Main Campus and the Media Challenge Initiative Community
    (Uganda Christian University, 2024-08-23) Michael Ainomugisha
    This research examined the impact of podcasting on mental health among youth in Kampala, specifically at Uganda Christian University and the Media Challenge Initiative community. The study aimed to address the gap in understanding how mental health podcasts influence the well-being of young listeners. A qualitative research design was employed, utilising interviews and surveys to gather data from podcasters, mental health professionals, and youth participants. The findings revealed that podcasts serve as a valuable resource for mental health support, providing accessible information and fostering community engagement. Participants reported improved mental health awareness and coping strategies as a result of their podcast consumption. The study concluded that podcasting can play a significant role in addressing mental health issues among youth, suggesting that mental health professionals and content creators should collaborate to enhance the effectiveness of these digital platforms in promoting mental well-being.
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    Unveiling the Ethical Dilemmas of Investigative Journalism: A Case Study of the New Vision Uganda
    (Uganda Christian University, 2024-08-22) Pauline Luba
    This study explores the ethical dilemmas faced by investigative journalists in Uganda and focuses on the potential harm this reporting can cause to individuals as well as how these ethical challenges are reconciled. Through a case study of the New Vision, a prominent media house in Uganda, this study examines the extent to which journalists risk infringing on privacy of persons as well as causing harm in their pursuit of public interest stories.It investigatives which strategies are used by investigative journalists to mitigate these harms and the justifications they have to balance these ethical dilemmas with the goal of informing the public. Qualitative methods are used in this research including interviews with some of New Vision's prominent investigative journalists, analysis of published stories and a review of general ethical guidelines. The findings reveal the complexities between the responsibilities of investigative journalists and the reality of exposing wrongdoing, highlighting the difficult decisions these journalists must take in navigating ethical dilemmas. This study contributes to an understanding of the difficulties investigative journalist face in carrying out their work, a broader discourse in media ethics, and an overview of the opportunities, challenges, responsibilities and ways to grow investigative journalism in this era.
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    The Impact of Television on Academic Performance of University Students: A Case of Ucu School of Journalism, Media and Communication
    (2024-08-27) Charity James Kide
    This research investigates the impact of television on the academic performance of university student. A case of the school of journalism, media and communication, an area of increasing relevance in the digital age where media consumption patterns are rapidly evolving. The study was guided by the research objectives which; examine the role of television in shaping media literacy, analyze how Television viewing influences the development of journalism skills, explore the television viewing habits of journalism students. The theoretical framework used was the uses and gratification theory. This theory was relevant for the study because it will explore the motivations and gratifications university students derive from television viewing and understand how these factors relate to their academic performance. The study employed an in-depth interview guide as a method of data collection. The findings indicate a nuanced relationship between television viewing habits and academic outcomes, revealing the moderate consumption of educational programming can enhance students’ knowledge and critical thinking skills. Recommendations are provided to foster a balanced approached.
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    Examining the Impact of Instagram on Male Youth Self-Esteem in Uganda. A Case Study of Uganda Christian University Students
    (Uganda Christian University, 2024-08-15) Glory Payesu Chimwemwe
    This study investigates the impact of Instagram on the self-esteem of young men with a focus on the specific forms of content consumed and their effects on the self-esteem. Instagram, as a platform based on visual content, promotes exposure to different luxurious displays of lifestyles in terms of video reels and images. This continuous exposure encourages comparison among its users. This research explores the different categories of Instagram content and how each of them affect self-esteem of young male youth. By using qualitative research methods such as interviews, questionnaires, the study examines the effects of the different forms of content on the self-perception of young males. The findings aim to contribute to a broader understanding of how social media, Instagram, plays a role in shaping the perception of young males in this digital era.
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    Ethical Challenges of Using X to University Students
    (Uganda Christian University, 2024-08-14) Christine Mugalu Nakato
    The study examined the ethical challenges that university students face while using X. in this case, Uganda Christian University was used as the case study. The study specifically looked at students at university that use X. The study used a case study and interviews for finding. The research shows the ethical challenges university students face when using X, the impact if using X and othe social media platforms and also some if the solutions to the challenges. The study enhances that univesity students should be careful with what they post on there social media platforms. In this case, this can help to protect there privacy and many other things. And this will help in creating job opportunities for the students and improve there communication levels.In the same case,according to the study it is seen that violent and pornographic content is now allowed on X. And students are hence advised to block this content from appearing on there social media platforms and also they can go ahead and also report such content. This will hence reduce on the ethical challenges that students face while using X and other social media platforms.
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    The Computer Misuse (Amendment) Act 2022: Impact on Digital Journalism Practices: A Case Study of Uganda Christian University
    (Uganda Christian University, 0024-09-10) Ronald Ocweo
    This study Assesses the Impact of the Computer Misuse (Amendment Act) 2022 on the practice of digital journalism a case study of Uganda Christian University. This study seeks to establish the loopholes within the Computer Misuse (Amendment Act) 2022 which are liable for exploitation by narrow interest groups, it further addresses how these loopholes have hindered the advancement of digital journalism and how the loopholes found can be bridged. The study employs qualitative methods, including questionnaires, and content analysis, to assess the impact of the Computer Misuse (Amendment Act) 2022 on digital journalism practices. This study contributes to the existing literature on digital journalism by establishing their channels or mode of operation in the digital world, it further elaborates in-depth on the origins and provisions of the Computer Misuse (Amendment Act) 2022. Using a theoretical framework based on Authoritative theory, the study assesses how the Act is a tool for the suppression of digital press freedom in their quest to collect, gather, produce, and share content online. It also highlights the significance of media freedom in a bid for nation-building, accountability, and having an informed society.
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    Examining the Ethical Use of Artificial Intelligence by Journalists. A Case Study of the Standard, UCU
    (Uganda Christian University, 2024-08-16) Aldrine Adson Aine
    This study examines the ethical use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) by journalists at The Standard, the official student newspaper of Uganda Christian University (UCU). The research aims to investigate the current practices and attitudes of journalists regarding AI use in news production, analyze the ethical implications of AI applications in journalism, and explore the need for ethical guidelines to ensure responsible AI use by journalists. The study employs a qualitative case study design, conducting in-depth interviews with six journalists from The Standard. The findings reveal that journalists are using various AI tools, primarily for research and data analysis, but they express concerns about the potential impact of AI on accuracy, reliability, transparency, and accountability in journalism. The journalists emphasize the need for human oversight, fact-checking, and diverse perspectives in the deployment of AI, as well as the development of ethical guidelines and regulations to govern the responsible use of AI in the newsroom. The study's findings contribute to the limited existing research on the ethical use of AI in journalism, particularly within the Ugandan context. The insights gained from this research can inform strategies for promoting responsible AI use, ensuring accountability and transparency in the media, and developing targeted training programs for journalists on ethical AI practices. The study's implications extend beyond the journalism industry, providing valuable insights for the broader discussion on AI ethics and its responsible integration across various sectors.
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    Examining Media’s Role in Curbing Environmental Issues in Uganda: A Case Study of Mukono Municipality
    (Uganda Christian University, 2024-08-15) Petite Kiconco
    This study examines the role of the Ugandan media in addressing the country’s pressing environmental challenges and promoting sustainable development, focusing on Mukono Municipality as a case study. This research intends to examine the extent and quality of environmental coverage in Ugandan media. It will evaluate the effectiveness of environmental reporting and identify important challenges and opportunities that the media faces in communicating environmental issues effectively. The study will look into how often, prominently, and diversely various stakeholder perspectives are represented in environmental reporting by both national and local media in Mukono. Also, it will explore the media's role in influencing policymaking and its impact on public awareness and collaboration among stakeholders regarding environmental protection in the area. The results of this study will provide useful insight for policymakers and environmentalists, governance agencies, as well as civil society organizations dealing with the conservation of the environment and Sustainable development in Uganda. The following section considers in detail the relationship between media, environmental governance, and sustainable development in rapidly urbanizing regions of developing countries.