Understanding the Media and Information Literacy Experiences of Children in Ghana

The media and information literacy experiences of children growing up in digitally mediated environments remain underresearched in developing countries. This study examined the media usage patterns and digital literacy skills of children in Ghana. Using a survey design, primary data were collected from 400 schoolchildren in Accra. Descriptive analysis revealed that children showed a strong preference for the Internet over traditional media such as radio and television, with access occurring primarily through mobile devices at home. The findings indicate that while children demonstrate relatively high informational and social and mobile skills, significant gaps exist in their critical evaluation and creative competencies. Notably, one in three children is unable to determine the accuracy of information encountered online. The study also highlights limited understanding of information disorder concepts, with most children familiar only with the term “fake news” and demonstrating low awareness of “disinformation” and “fact-checking”. These gaps suggest that children’s digital literacy remains uneven, leaving them vulnerable to online risks. The study underscores the need for strengthened media and information literacy education to enhance children’s critical engagement with digital media.