Technological Determinism Theory Research Articles

The Role of Digital Technology in Social Interaction of Manembo-Nembo Village Community, Matuari District, Bitung City

The purpose of this study is to determine the role of digital technology in social interaction in the Manembo-Nembo Village, Matuari District, Bitung City using the technological determinism theory approach, believing that technology has a major influence on various aspects of human interaction, especially social and cultural life, as stated by Marshall McLuhan. Using qualitative methods based on observation and interviews by collecting data from purposive sampling, namely determining competent informants, namely 2 community informants, 2 government informants. The results of the study found that the role of digital technology in social interaction has changed according to current circumstances, such as digitalization, such as in families it is easier and faster to interact via digital media with relatives who are in different places, the quality of relationships is maintained by having direct meetings in family groups (arisan), then digital interaction with the community; the creation of virtual togetherness such as people celebrating happy moments virtually by sharing photos, videos, and stories, and sharing information about sad events experienced and becoming a means of digital marketing that can increase family economic income. Digital interaction with the government; in today's public services digitally, especially in the field of population data management (KTP, Family Card, Certificate management) has been done through applications and can be done anywhere, but if there are people who need help, the local government is ready to serve, in accordance with the policy of the Bitung city government to make the Kelurahan Hebat program (digitalization).

Phenomenon of Phubbing in The Communication Patterns of The Influencer Generation

The rapid development of technology in the modern era triggers new characters in society due to the onslaught of information and communication technology development. This is also close to the influencer generation or Gen Z. One of the new characters is Phubbing, which comes from the words “phone” and “snubbing”, which is meant as the phenomenon of insulting or ignoring someone because they are too focused on the device. Previous studies show that 80.2% of influencers or gen Z have phubbed, and 91.3% admitted to having been phubbed by a phubbee due to excessive device use. One can lose trust, disharmonious interpersonal relationships, and empathy. So, this research aims to look at and study the theory of technological determinism from this point of view. To investigate the phubbing phenomenon, a descriptive qualitative approach was used. In addition, to obtain information about phubbing, the research subject used purposive nonprobability sampling method with 8 participants. The results showed that the presence of new media can cause phubbing to change the communication patterns of the influencer generation or Gen Z. Then, the main component of phubbing is the presence of new media. Then, the main component of phubbing is losing one's control over the use of new media. With most audiences considering phubbing as normal, this leads to a social order system that is plunged by technological determinism. The study of phubbing is reinforced by the theory of technological determinism. Technological advances allow audiences to take direct action. This research hopes to open new insights and perspectives in research and offer solutions for audiences to deal with the phenomenon of phubbing in the digital age.

The Intersection of Intellectual Property and Public Health

Purpose: The general objective of this study was to investigate the intersection of intellectual property and public health. Methodology: The study adopted a desktop research methodology. Desk research refers to secondary data or that which can be collected without fieldwork. Desk research is basically involved in collecting data from existing resources hence it is often considered a low cost technique as compared to field research, as the main cost is involved in executive’s time, telephone charges and directories. Thus, the study relied on already published studies, reports and statistics. This secondary data was easily accessed through the online journals and library. Findings: The findings reveal that there exists a contextual and methodological gap relating to the intersection of intellectual property and public health. Preliminary empirical review revealed that intellectual property laws, while designed to promote innovation, often created barriers to accessing essential medicines and technologies, particularly in low-income regions. It highlighted how patent protections, while incentivizing pharmaceutical development, led to high drug prices that limited access and exacerbated health disparities. The study emphasized the need for a balanced approach to IP regulations that would encourage innovation while ensuring that new treatments are affordable and accessible. It called for a re-evaluation of IP frameworks to align better with public health objectives and promote global health equity. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The Theory of Intellectual Property as a Public Good, Theory of Technological Determinism and the Theory of Access to Medicines and Health Equity may be used to anchor future studies on the intersection of intellectual property and public health. The study recommended several key actions to address the issues identified. It suggested revising IP policies to include more flexibility, such as compulsory licensing and support for generic drug production, to improve access to essential medicines. The study advocated for international collaboration to balance IP protections with health needs and proposed that policymakers craft regulations that support both innovation and accessibility. It also emphasized the importance of ongoing research and evidence-based decision-making to guide IP reforms and promote global health equity. Additionally, it recommended fostering partnerships between governments, international organizations, and pharmaceutical companies to enhance healthcare access and address disparities.

The Evolution of Intellectual Property Rights in the Digital Age

Purpose: This study sought to explore the evolution of intellectual property rights in the digital age. Methodology: The study adopted a desktop research methodology. Desk research refers to secondary data or that which can be collected without fieldwork. Desk research is basically involved in collecting data from existing resources hence it is often considered a low cost technique as compared to field research, as the main cost is involved in executive’s time, telephone charges and directories. Thus, the study relied on already published studies, reports and statistics. This secondary data was easily accessed through the online journals and library. Findings: The findings reveal that there exists a contextual and methodological gap relating to the evolution of intellectual property rights in the digital age. Preliminary empirical review revealed that the digital age has significantly transformed the landscape of intellectual property rights, necessitating adaptations to traditional IP frameworks to address new challenges such as digital content piracy and unauthorized distribution. It was found that while digital technologies, like blockchain and NFTs, offer potential solutions for enhanced IP protection, existing laws often fell short of addressing the complexities introduced by these advancements. The study highlighted the need for harmonized international standards and ongoing adaptation to effectively manage and protect intellectual property in the rapidly evolving digital environment. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The Theory of Technological Determinism, Social Construction of Technology (SCOT) Theory and the Theory of Legal Realism may be used to anchor future studies on the evolution of intellectual property. The study recommended several strategies to address the evolving challenges in intellectual property rights due to digital advancements. It suggested the adoption of technologies like blockchain for better IP management and the need for improved international cooperation to address cross-border enforcement issues. Additionally, it advised policymakers to harmonize IP standards globally and support innovations in IP protection technologies. The study also emphasized the importance of education to enhance awareness of digital IP rights and recommended legal reforms to update existing laws to better suit the digital age.

Intellectual Property Rights in the Era of Artificial Intelligence

Purpose: The general objective of this study was to explore Intellectual Property Rights in the era of Artificial Intelligence. Methodology: The study adopted a desktop research methodology. Desk research refers to secondary data or that which can be collected without fieldwork. Desk research is basically involved in collecting data from existing resources hence it is often considered a low cost technique as compared to field research, as the main cost is involved in executive’s time, telephone charges and directories. Thus, the study relied on already published studies, reports and statistics. This secondary data was easily accessed through the online journals and library. Findings: The findings reveal that there exists a contextual and methodological gap relating to Intellectual Property Rights in the era of Artificial Intelligence. Preliminary empirical review revealed that the era of Artificial Intelligence (AI) has significantly transformed the landscape of Intellectual Property Rights (IPR), presenting both opportunities and challenges. It highlighted that traditional IP laws are increasingly inadequate to address the complexities introduced by AI-generated content, necessitating a rethinking of existing frameworks. The study emphasized the need for recognizing AI's role in the creation of new works and inventions and the importance of developing balanced approaches to protect both human and AI contributions. Ethical considerations, such as accountability, transparency, and fairness, were also deemed crucial in ensuring responsible AI use. Overall, the study called for a comprehensive and proactive approach to integrate AI into IPR, ensuring robust protections while fostering innovation. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The Technological Determinism Theory, Innovation Diffusion Theory and Legal Realism Theory may be used to anchor future studies on Intellectual Property Rights in the era of Artificial Intelligence. The study recommended revising existing IP laws to explicitly include AI-generated content and inventions, clarifying criteria for authorship and inventorship. It suggested expanding theoretical frameworks to accommodate AI contributions, emphasizing the collaborative nature of human and AI creativity. Practical measures, such as enhanced cybersecurity and legal safeguards for AI-generated trade secrets, were advised. Policy-wise, the study advocated for international cooperation to harmonize IP laws concerning AI. Developing ethical guidelines for responsible AI use and implementing education programs to inform stakeholders about AI and IP implications were also recommended. These measures aimed to create a balanced IP framework supporting innovation while protecting the rights of all stakeholders.

Digitization of the Broadcast Industry in Nigeria: An Appraisal of the Broadcasting Corporation of Abia State

Media Practitioners view the concept of new advancement in the industry from different lenses, thus, it may be as a result of how they perceive development in the society, which involves negative or positive aspects. Since the partial introduction of digitisation in 2012 in Nigeria, broadcast media organisations have been witnessing changes in their organisations both in texts, pictures and in sound. Impressingly, the sort of timely information that is being found in the public domain today for the satisfaction of people can't be over-emphasised which is termed as a precursor of digitisation. digitisation of media organisations entails the concept of converting texts, pictures or sounds in a computerised form which would be processed faster than the analogue method. Transmission to digitisation by many media organisations which the Broadcasting Corporation of Abia State is involved with, gives room for quick generation of data, fast delivery and quality sound and picture presentations as well as multi participation in the Communication flow. The major objectives of this study would be to determine the extent of digitisation of the Broadcasting Corporation of Abia State and examine the level of exposure of the Broadcasting Corporation of Abia people towards digitisation. The study would also aim at ascertaining the effects of digitisation of Broadcasting Corporation of Abia. Hence, to unravel the challenges that are associated with the digitisation of the organisation, preferable ways of redressing the challenges would also be considered pertinent. Thus, the study would be anchored on the technological determinism theory. However, the study shall adopt the survey design and also select 10 Staff from BCA in order to get their responses on the subject matter when it is the right time to get to the field for data collection.

Assessment of Tiktok Trends and Teens’ Drug Abuse in Anambra State

This study investigated the connection between Tiktok trends and drug abuse among teens in Anambra state, Nigeria. Three research questions guided this study. The theoretical framework is based on social learning theory and technological determinism theory. The study adopted survey method of research. The target population of this study comprises of all public secondary schools in the twenty one (21) local government area of Anambra state with a sample size of 300 students drawn from three public secondary schools in three senatorial zones in Anambra state using purposive sampling technique.. The instrument used for data collection is the questionnaire. The findings of the study revealed that there is a significant relationship between Tiktok trends and drug abuse among teenage students. The study also found that there is a very high rate of exposure of teens to Tiktok contents. The paper recommended that the government should put in place, policies that reduces drug availability especially to the minor both online and offline. The study also recommended that parents should monitor their children/wards’ online activities by making use of parental guide app on their children’s phones and laptops.

Artificial intelligence development and dissemination impact on the sports industry labor market.

The objective of this study is to explore the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) development on the sports industry labor market, the ways in which AI has influenced the demand for labor, created new job opportunities, and impacted existing job roles. It refers to the inductive approach in the spirit technological determinism theory. It is based on the literature review and written qualitative, semi-structured interviews (N = 14) with sports human resources, management, and technology professionals (purposive sampling). Analysis involved inductive coding and line-by-line analytics of the data. The labor market implications of AI in the sports industry are multifaceted. New job roles are likely to emerge, demanding a blend of AI expertise, data-analysis skills, and sports domain knowledge. Professionals in roles such as sports data analysts and marketing experts may find increasing opportunities. However, certain jobs undergo transformation as AI automates routine tasks. It requires individuals to upskill or transition to roles that require a deeper understanding of AI. This necessitates the creation of responsibilities focused on ethical AI governance and oversight. It is important to research the impact of AI dissemination on the sports industry labor market in a holistic manner because the effects of AI are complex and far-reaching. While there are potential benefits to the implementation of AI, there are also potential risks and challenges that need to be addressed, the implementation of AI in the sports industry could have broader social and ethical implications that need to be considered.

Structural capital: essence and role in ensuring technical and technological development

Methods. The research is based on the use of such methods as: abstraction – when establishing the essence of the category of «structural capital», logical and historical – when researching the origins of theories of technological determinism, grouping – when classifying theories of technological determinism and components of structural capital, structural-functional – when determining the influence of each of the components of structural capital on the technical and technological development of society. Results. The work defines the methodological origins of the theories of technological determinism and evolutionary concepts of technological changes. Within the theories of technological determinism, two groups of conceptual approaches to the study of technical and technological development are distinguished, namely: theories of economic futurology and transformation of the economy. The second group of theories is recognized as the most constructive in the study of the factors of technical and technological development, since it is in them that changes in structural and organizational and legal factors are considered. Different essential content of the «structural capital» category has been demonstrated. It is proposed to consider the components of structural capital in view of its material and immaterial characteristics. Material assets include the results of human activity that can be codified, documented and legally protected. Intangible assets include elements that reflect the intangible side of production processes and combine all those elements that cannot be codified, documented and legally protected. Novelty. Taking into account the nature of changes caused by the action of technical and technological factors, the theory of technological determinism is divided into the concept of economic futurology and the theory of transformation of the economy. The use of the methodological potential of the latter made it possible to distinguish material and immaterial components of structural capital and establish the role of organizational factors in the technical and technological development of society. Practical value. Improved methodological approaches to the classification of theories of technological determinism and the grouping of elements of structural capital allow to more accurately identify the factors influencing technical and technological development and predict the consequences for the functioning of the economic system of society.

Politicization of Hate and Weaponization of Twitter/X in a Polarized Digital Space in Nigeria

Hate speech on social media platforms during electioneering campaign has been institutionalized. The campaign hate-filled rhetoric continues unabated. Some have attributed this phenomenon to access to social media. This study therefore investigates the prevalence of hate speech on Twitter in Nigeria. Twitter API was used to generate data that was later content analyzed. Anchored on the technological determinism theory, the study revealed political periods saw the prevalence of hate speech and political, ethnic, religion and regional-based hate speech are the dominant themes on hate discourse on Twitter. Some regions in Nigeria weaponized Twitter to denigrate others while others used it to promote their agitation but in the process also resort to hate speech. The study argued that Twitter is just a technology in the hand of hate-filled people who used it to promote their bigotry and bile. This study recommends the development of a legal framework for the regulation of hate speech on social media. Also, the utterance of politicians must be guarded, and the electoral acts must be fully implemented.

THE USE OF VISUAL CONTENT AND AUGMENTED REALITY FOR PUBLIC RELATIONS CAMPAIGN ON SOCIAL MEDIA IN ANAMBRA STATE

Social Media and Public Relations have been intertwined for a number of years. Social Media is a significant part of any PR strategy, it has a much faster response time and a wider audience engagement than PR techniques of old. Social Media affords individuals an opportunity to show a different side of themselves and allows a brand to show more of its personality. With this shift, PR- enabling phenomena such as selfies, Instagram and Snapchat filters, Facebook Live and Periscope, have become completely ingrained into our day-to-day lives. The rising trend of visual content in Social Media means that PR will not only have to adapt to a new type of content but also a new format for successfully delivering brand messages. The study examined the Use of Visual Content and Augmented Reality for Public Relations Campaigns on Social Media in Anambra State. The study anchored on Grunig and Hunt's Public Relations Model and Technological Determinism Theory. The population comprises Public Relations professionals in Anambra State. Survey Research Method was used to solicit information. The purposive sampling method was used to gather data for the study. The study revealed that social media has already adapted visual content with the successes of Facebook Live and Instagram stories. The study revealed that by utilising visual content on social media, brands can engage in a more direct way with the audience. The study recommends that organizations, businesses and parastatals should adapt visual content and augmented reality format for successfully delivering brand messages and that there is a need for PR professionals to have new skill sets, to be able to effectively film and edit visual content.

Visual Elements in Digital Technology Platforms and Visualized Communication in Spreading of False Information

Digital technology has demonstrated humongous benefits in spreading of information and awareness creation. Digital media platforms are observable facts that have turned out to be pervasive as the presence and use of digital platforms by netizens. Even more puzzling in several discourses is the near absence of the cultural strengthening and self-motivated of existence, particularly in Nigeria. This represents a new boundary of challenge. The use of visual elements in digital technology platforms and visualized communication in spreading of false information in Nigeria should be regulated. Its format is most used in promoting this practice. The major platforms used are WhatsApp, Facebook, YouTube and Instagram. This study utilized Survey design to obtain secondary data in literature and descriptive statistics were adopted using a self-structured questionnaire. The study adopts Technological Determinism theory and Disruptive Technology theory in observation of distinctiveness submissions to better knowledge of netizens behavioural pattern. Findings reveal that that digital technology user’s spread false information to gain attention, although significant confidence is placed on digital media platforms; many netizens hide their real identities. The study found out that false information spread through it creates panic and tension, pseudo identities dictate because sharing personal information violates long-standing culture of social identity secrecy entrenched in customary traditions in many parts of Nigeria. It was also found that emergence and continual spreading of false information need to be dealt with by imbibing societal value re-orientation for digital technology users; building their understanding and educating the masses. Spreading of false information has given rise to insecurity in Nigerian. Several unknown armed groups, tribal mercenaries and religious fundamentalist are proof of banditry and insecurity in Nigeria. Aside explaining themselves with overt and covert cultural distinctions of digital technology users, the study concludes that software engineers in Nigeria require developing modified software and re-categorizing bots accounts, and chat-bots especially into algorithmic template because of the socio-psychological peculiarities of the clime. The paper recommends the potential valuing and strengthening of digital technology platforms in ensuring reduction of spreading of false information in Nigeria.

E-recruitment and organizational performance of deposit money banks in Katsina State: A moderating role of information and communication technology

This study examined the moderating role of information and communication technology in the relationship between e-recruitment and organizational performance. On the grounds of Technological Determinism theory, a cross- sectional survey was used to collect data from the respondents. The study's target population consists of three hundred (300) employees from ten banks in the Katsina metropolis. Random sampling was used to select the ten (10) bank employees; out of them, one hundred and sixty-nine (169) respondents were obtained as the representative sample. A PLS-SEM approach was used with the aid of Smart PLS 4.1 to analyze the data. The result found that information communication technology and job boards have a significant and strong positive effect on organizational performance. The interaction between information communication technology and job boards has a negative effect on organizational performance. Also, information communication technology and the company website do not significantly influence organizational performance. In order to improve organizational performance, the research recommended that banks leverage online and internet platforms in their recruiting process to bring in competent and dependable employees.

Moving with the Trend: the Impact of Digital Technologies on Journalism Practice in Imo State, Nigeria

The integration of digital technology into the field of journalism in Nigeria has en-gendered both obstacles and prospects, hence fostering advancements in the in-dustry. As a result of this, the study assessed the impact of digital technologies application on mainstream journalism practice among journalists in Imo State. The research was grounded in the theoretical frameworks of technological determinism and new media theory. The study employed a survey research approach, utilising a census principle to sample a population of 200 registered journalists. Questionnaire was the instrument for data collection. Results showed that majority of the respond-ents have access to digital technologies in the discharge of their duties to a large extent at 66% and they use digital technologies often. The respondents have a posi-tive perception towards the application of digital technologies in journalism practice with the believe that digital technology is a blessing to journalism profession at an average mean of 3.6. Result also revealed that digital/computer illiteracy, lack of the requisite knowledge to operate digital technologies gadgets, high cost of acquiring digital technologies gadgets by the media organisation etc. are the challenges faced by the respondents while using digital technologies to carry out their reportorial du-ties at an average mean of 3.7. The result further revealed that digital technologies application in journalism practice has influenced journalism by improving the profes-sional process of news gathering, production and dissemination at an average mean of 3.6. The study concluded that digital technology has improved the professional process of news gathering, production and dissemination, thus, has significantly influenced journalism practice. The study recommended for the acceptance of digital switchover by media organisations and its embrace among the journalists.

Settling Digital Divide on Students of Ebonyi State University, Abakaliki-Nigeria

The study on the implications of digital divide on Students of Ebonyi State University, Abakaliki, was carried out to determine the level of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) knowledge and access among the students in the system. Previous studies carried out in the developed nations such as United States of American, United Kingdom, and Canada and alike had shown that innovative use of ICT facilities has the potentials to effect students teaching/learning. However, literature search of similar studies in the developing nations of the world seems scanty. In order to have a good foundation upon which the study rests, technological determinism theory as propounded by Lievrouw and Livingstone (2006) was adopted. The major interest of the theory is to elucidate the irresistible power of ICT to propel human actions socially and economically for development. Flowing from the assumption of the theory and its focus, the implication of digital divide on students in Nigerian University emerged. The study adopted content analysis approach and reviewing of extent literature. Consequently, the study recommended repositioning the online teaching/learning among students of Ebonyi State University should be made a priority to increase ICT knowledge and access

Information and Communication Technology (ICT) and Recruitment Process in Public Organizations: A Study of Nigeria Police Force, Ebonyi State Command

The importance of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in the recruitment process cannot be underestimated. That explains why organizational human resources managers, the Nigeria Police Force inclusive, have integrated it into the all-important exercise. Therefore, this study examined the effect of application of ICT on recruitment process in the public sector organizations with particular reference to the Nigeria Police Force, Ebonyi State Command. The study was anchored on Technological Determinism theory espoused by Thorstein Veblen (1857-1929). The study adopted descriptive survey design with a sample size of 400. Data were generated through structured questionnaire designed in 5 Likert scale. Chi-square inferential statistics were used to test the formulated hypotheses. The study revealed among others – that the use of online recruitment platform has significantly facilitated teeming qualified citizens’ access to job openings in the Nigeria Police Force, Ebonyi State Command; that the use of online recruitment portal has significantly enhanced appointment of competent staff in the Nigeria Police Force, Ebonyi State Command. The implication of the findings is that the adoption of ICT without human manipulations is key to institutionalization of meritocracy in the exercise. The study recommended as follows among others – that the Nigeria Police Force should ensure sustenance of the use of ICT in the recruitment process so as to attract qualified candidates to the security outfit; that the use of ICT should be given free hand during the recruitment exercise in order to facilitate emergence of most competent and skillful candidates.

USE OF RESEARCH GATE AS A VERITABLE TOOL FOR EDUCATIONAL DEVELOPMENT AMONG UNDERGRADUATE STUDENTS

Social media platforms are increasingly used for communication, entertainment, and information sharing. For researchers to network and discuss their research discoveries, there is a social media platform called ResearchGate. Little attention has been paid to ResearchGate asa tool for educational development among undergraduate students in Nigeria. Therefore, this study intends to narrow the existing knowledge gap by offering valuable insightsinto how ResearchGate can enhance undergraduate students' educational development in Nigeria. Technological determinism theory formed the basis for the study as a convenient sampling technique was used to collect data. A total of 275 copies of the questionnaire were administered randomly to selected participants, who were Redeemers University undergraduates and a sum of 250 usable questionnaires were received. Findings showed that ResearchGate is getting known by students and contributing to the intellectual community. Findings also showed that ResearchGate is a great tool for learning and helps undergraduatesto develop their skills and knowledge in their field of study. Hence, this study concluded that social media can be a valuable tool for enhancing learning and collaboration among students, not just for fun and pleasure. It is recommended that Universities and educational institutions should encourage students to use ResearchGate to share research and collaborate with other students and researchers.

OBJECTION TO GENERATIONAL RESEARCH IN COMMUNICATION STUDIES: A THEORETICAL CRITIQUE

Introduction: In recent years, the characterization of the X/Y/Z generation has been used almost continuously in both popular thought and discourse and in academic literature. According to this conceptualization, generational difference is accepted as the primary determinant of social and political transformation. Theoretically and methodologically, studies that focus on the ways in which generations use communication technologies should be seen in relation to the American positivist research tradition that began and grew in the 1930s. The other pillar of these studies can be seen as based on the work of Marshall McLuhan, which came to the fore in the late 1950s. Another cornerstone of these studies should not be overlooked in relation to the arguments of postmodern theory, which proclaims the death of class, based on the assumption that it is not possible to perceive and change the world holistically in the 1960s. Methodology: This study presents a theoretical and methodological critique of studies that focus on the relationship between society/youth segments defined as Generation X/Y/Z and digital communication technologies. As a qualitative and explanatory research, this study has tried to prove that the dominant communication research/microscopic research, technological determinism, and postmodern theory are grounded on the same level. Results: The results of this study demonstrate that the characterization of the X/Y/Z generations as the primary determinants of social and political transformation should be viewed in the context of the American positivist research tradition, the work of Marshall McLuhan, and the arguments of postmodern theory. Furthermore, it is argued that these approaches share similar methodological and theoretical foundations in relation to communication research and digital communication technologies. Conclusions: In conclusion, this study highlights the importance of considering the historical and theoretical context in which the characterization of the X/Y/Z generations is situated. It is evident that the relationship between these generations and digital communication technologies is complex and cannot be understood solely through a deterministic lens. Moreover, the need for methodological critique in communication research to avoid oversimplifications and excessive generalizations is underscored. Ultimately, it is suggested that future research should take a more nuanced and contextualized perspective on the relationship between generations and communication technology.

Use of Biotechnology in Improving Crop Yields and Sustainability in South Africa

Purpose: The aim of the study was to investigate the use of biotechnology in improving crop yields and sustainability in south Africa.
 Methodology: The study adopted a desktop methodology. Desk research refers to secondary data or that which can be collected without fieldwork. Desk research is basically involved in collecting data from existing resources hence it is often considered a low cost technique as compared to field research, as the main cost is involved in executive’s time, telephone charges and directories. Thus, the study relied on already published studies, reports and statistics. This secondary data was easily accessed through the online journals and library
 Findings: The use of biotechnology in South Africa to improve crop yields and sustainability has yielded significant positive outcomes. Biotech crops, including drought-tolerant varieties and genetically modified maize, have been widely adopted by smallholder farmers, particularly in drought-prone areas. These crops have contributed to enhanced food security and increased resilience in the face of climate variability. Furthermore, studies have demonstrated that the adoption of biotech crops is associated with higher yields and reduced production costs, making farming more profitable. Overall, biotechnology plays a pivotal role in South Africa's agriculture, fostering both increased productivity and sustainability.
 Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Theory of Green Revolution, Theory of Technological Determinism, Theory of Innovation Diffusion may be used to anchor future studies on use of biotechnology in improving crop yields and sustainability in south Africa. Findings can prioritize the development of drought-resistant crop varieties using biotechnology. Public-private partnerships can accelerate technology adoption and promote sustainable agriculture practices.

Influence of Social Media on the Behavioral Formation of Digital Natives: a Moderation Approach

Purpose: This study examined the influence of social media on the behavioural formation of digital natives in Lagos, Nigeria, with a specific focus on the accessibility and pattern of social media usage, the online experience, and the influence of social media on the behavioural formation of digital natives. Design/Methodology/Approach: Using a stratified proportionate sample strategy, 450 social media users who grew up in the digital age across 10 local government areas in Lagos, Nigeria, provided the data for this quantitative study, where the heuristic model for the relationship was subjected to a string of tests using the partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) technique. Findings: Discovery revealed that social media has a favourable impact on the behavioural formation of digital natives, whereby digital natives’ nature moderates the structural relationship between social media and behavioural formation. Original/Value: The study novelty appears on the side of Technological Determinism Theory postulated on social media as extremely popular among Nigerian digital natives and is one of the key contributors to the deterioration of digital natives’ behavioural formation in terms of morality, secretive information accessing, online insecurity, as well as the propagation of rumor and propaganda. Practical implications: Because of the established dialectical connection between society and technology, widespread social media literacy is now possible, even among the humblest of households.