IMPACT OF SOCIAL MEDIA ON THE ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT AMONG FULLTIME UNDERGRADUATE STUDENTS

ABSTRACT

This study was aimed at ascertaining the Impact of social media on the academic achievement among full-time undergraduate students in University of Benin. In order to achieve the intended objectives of the study, four research questions were raised and hundred (100) respondents drawn from the students in University of Benin were used. The descriptive survey research design was employed for the study. The tool utilized to collect the data was a self-made questionnaire. Utilizing an expert approach, the instrument was verified. When the instrument's reliability was tested using the Pearson's Product Moment Correlation Coefficient, a reliability coefficient of 0.78 was obtained, indicating that the instrument was trustworthy. Frequency and a straightforward percentage were used to analyze the data. The findings showed that frequent use of social media usage among full-time undergraduate students negatively impact their academic achievement, social media usage have a measurable impact on the academic achievement if used positively, self-regulation strategies can help students to make positive use of social media. Also, WhatsApp, Messenger, Telegram and Google are the most effective social media platforms and tools for facilitating interactive and collaborative learning experiences in classrooms. . The following recommendations amongst others were made; Encourage students to use social media platforms in a positive and productive manner.