Influence of Social Media on Students’ Academic Performance: A Case Study of Ekiti State University Students
This study examined the influence of social media on students’ academic performance at Ekiti State University, Ado-Ekiti, Nigeria. It investigated students’ usage patterns, preferred platforms, academic benefits, learning opportunities, and challenges associated with social media engagement. A descriptive survey research design was adopted, and a purposive sampling technique was used to select 200 students from different faculties. A structured questionnaire was administered, and 194 completed questionnaires were returned, representing a 97% response rate. Data were analysed using frequencies and percentages. The findings revealed that all respondents had access to internet-enabled mobile phones, while 91.24% reported daily social media communication. WhatsApp (98.45%) and Facebook (97.42%) were the most frequently used platforms. Regarding usage duration, 42.78% spent 1–4 hours daily, while 31.44% spent 5–10 hours. Furthermore, 58.25% reported spending more time on social media than reading. Nevertheless, 68.04% indicated that they acquired new knowledge through social media outside the classroom, while 61.34% reported that such learning contributed positively to their academic activities. Social media was also used to obtain information (96.39%), monitor lecture schedules (98.45%), and participate in academic discussions (89.18%). However, 76.80% reported exposure to sexual material online. The study concludes that social media provides opportunities for academic engagement and learning, although excessive use and exposure to inappropriate content remain concerns. It recommends responsible usage, effective time management, and digital safety education. The findings on academic performance are based on students’ self-reported experiences and opinions rather than objectively measured academic grades.
