An Investigation of Digital Language Change in Nigerian Social Media: A Comparative Analysis of Facebook and Instagram
- Project Research
- 1-5 Chapters
- Abstract : Available
- Table of Content: Available
- Reference Style:
- Recommended for :
- NGN 5000
Background of the study
Digital language change is a dynamic process shaped by the affordances of social media platforms. In Nigeria, Facebook and Instagram are critical in fostering linguistic innovation. Facebook, with its long‑form posts and interactive comment sections, encourages elaborate language use and gradual evolution in syntax and vocabulary. Instagram, on the other hand, relies on concise captions and visual storytelling, leading to rapid, often radical, lexical adaptations (Ibrahim, 2023). This study investigates how language change occurs on these platforms by comparing the linguistic practices of Nigerian users. It examines the influence of digital affordances, audience engagement, and cultural trends on language evolution. Through comparative analysis, the research aims to identify patterns of digital language change, such as neologism formation, syntactic shifts, and semantic shifts. This inquiry contributes to our understanding of how social media drives linguistic transformation and informs broader models of digital communication in multilingual societies (Okafor, 2024).
Statement of the problem
Although evidence of digital language change is abundant on social media, there is limited comparative research on how platforms like Facebook and Instagram differentially influence this process in Nigeria. Many studies focus on single platforms, neglecting the interplay between various digital environments and language evolution, which restricts a comprehensive understanding of digital linguistic change (Chukwu, 2023).
Objectives of the study
- To compare language use on Nigerian Facebook and Instagram.
- To identify patterns of lexical, syntactic, and semantic change.
- To assess the role of digital affordances in driving language evolution.
Research questions
- How does language change differ between Facebook and Instagram?
- What are the key linguistic innovations observed?
- How do platform features influence these changes?
Significance of the study
This study is significant as it provides a comparative perspective on digital language change, enhancing our understanding of how social media shapes language in Nigeria. Its findings will inform digital communication models and language policy development (Ibrahim, 2023).
Scope and limitations of the study
The study focuses on Nigerian Facebook and Instagram posts and does not cover other digital platforms or offline language.
Definitions of terms
• Language Change: The evolution of linguistic forms over time.
• Digital Affordances: Features of online platforms that influence language use.
• Comparative Analysis: A method of contrasting language use across different media.
Related Project Materials
An Evaluation of Nurse-Led Interventions in Reducing Maternal Mortality Rates in Kaduna State
Background of the Study
Maternal mortality remains a major public health challenge in Nigeria, and Kaduna State is no exception. Despite...
The Impact of Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) Systems on Financial Management: A Study of Manufacturing Firms in Kaduna State
Background of the Study
Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems are integrated soft...
AN INVESTIGATION INTO THE PRINCIPLE AND PRACTICE OF SELF-DEFENCE IN INTERNATIONAL LAW
ABSTRACT
This dissertation employs the doctrinal method of research to appraise the doctrine of Self defence as one...
An evaluation of software development methodologies and project success rates: A study of IT firms in Kogi State
Background of the Study
In the information technology (IT) industry, the success of software development projects is often influenced by...
The Effect of Land Disputes on Political Relations in Makurdi LGA, Benue State: A Case Study of Tiv-Fulani Conflicts
Background of the Study
Land disputes have been a major source of conflict in many parts of Nigeria, particularly betwee...
An empirical study of the effectiveness of total quality management strategies: A case study of auto manufacturers in Niger State.
Background of the Study: Total Quality Management (TQM) is a management approach that aims to improve the quality of products and services through...
An investigation of students' perception of the effectiveness of online feedback from teachers in Jos Central LGA, Plateau State
Background of the Study
Online feedback from teachers plays a pivotal role in shaping students’ learning experiences...
An Examination of Morphological Innovation in Nigerian Social Media Posts: A Case Study of Twitter Captions
Background of the study
In the dynamic landscape of digital communication, Twitter serves as a fertile ground for linguisti...
Implementation of Automated Speech Recognition for Enhancing Learning in Universities: A Case Study of Modibbo Adama University, Yola (Yola North LGA, Adamawa State)
Background of the Study
Automated Speech Recognition (ASR) is a technology that converts spoken language into text, enabling more interactiv...
Optimization of AI-Based Automated Class Scheduling in Kogi State Polytechnic, Lokoja, Kogi State
Background of the study
Class scheduling is a crucial aspect of academic administration, and in large educational institutions like Kogi...
