PERCEIVED INFLUENCES OF VIRTUAL COMMUNICATION ON INTERPERSONAL RELATIONSHIP OF UNDERGRADUATES IN OGUN-STATE, NIGERIA

This study assessed the types and frequency of use of virtual communication tools and its perceived influences on interpersonal relationship of undergraduates of a tertiary institution in Ogun-State, Nigeria. The research adopted a cross-sectional design. A four-stage sampling technique was utilized in selecting a sample size of 325 from a population of approximately 15,000. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. The major types of virtual communication tools used by the respondents were Facebook (99.1%), WhatsApp (98.8%) and Instagram (71.7%). 65.8% of the respondents used at least one form of virtual communication tool every day of the week. Most respondents (92.6%) agreed that virtual communication had a positive influence on their interpersonal relationships. There was a significant association between virtual communication and interpersonal relationship. Further, there was a significant association between the pattern of use and interpersonal relationship. Conclusively, virtual communication had a positive significant association with interpersonal relationship among undergraduates, and can be a progressive tool for their educational development and for communication with their peers and family. Educational policymakers, technocrats and curriculum development should encourage the use of virtual communication in teaching and learning for young adults.