ID: 11353152
study Topic:
Exploring the Influence of Social Media Usage on Academic Performance Among University
Students
In recent years, the rise of social media has dramatically changed how individuals, especially
students, communicate, socialize, and engage with information. University students, in particular,
are among the most active users of various social networking platforms such as Facebook,
Instagram, Twitter, TikTok, Snapchat, and others. These platforms have become integral parts of
their daily routines, not only for social interactions but also for accessing academic materials,
participating in study groups, and staying informed.
While social media can serve as a powerful tool for learning and collaboration, excessive or
poorly managed use may lead to distractions, procrastination, and reduced academic
engagement. Given the dual potential of social media to either enhance or hinder student
performance, it becomes important to explore its actual impact on academic outcomes in a
structured and evidence-based manner.
This study aims to investigate the relationship between the time students spend on social media
and how it may influence their academic performance, measured primarily by their Grade Point
Average (GPA). The research further explores patterns of usage, preferred platforms, and
students’ perceptions regarding the influence of social media on their academic success.
Research Objective:
The primary objective of this study is to examine and analyze the correlation between the
amount of time university students dedicate to social media use and their academic
performance. The study aims to:
• Identify the average daily time students spend on various social media platforms.
• Determine which platforms are most commonly used among university students.
• Evaluate students’ academic performance using self-reported GPA as a benchmark.
• Explore students’ personal perceptions of how social media affects their study habits
and academic focus.
• Understand the behavioral patterns related to social media usage during study periods
and class sessions.
By achieving these aims, the research hopes to offer insights that could inform both students and
educators on the effective integration of social media into academic life while minimizing its
negative effects.
Research Questions:
To address the research objective, the following questions will guide the investigation:
1. How many hours per day do you spend on social media?
This question seeks to quantify the average amount of time students allocate to social media
activities each day. The data collected will be used to identify usage trends and serve as a basis
for comparison with academic performance indicators.
2. Which social media platforms do you use most frequently?
This question aims to identify which platforms (e.g., Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, TikTok, etc.)
are the most popular among university students. Knowing which platforms are most used may
help in understanding specific usage habits and their potential academic impact.
3. What is your current cumulative GPA?
This question is used to assess students’ academic performance. GPA is a widely accepted metric
and serves as the dependent variable in this study. By comparing GPA with usage patterns,
correlations and possible impacts can be identified.
4. Do you believe social media usage affects your academic performance?
This subjective question aims to gather students’ personal insights and opinions regarding the
influence of social media. It adds a qualitative dimension to the research, capturing how students
perceive the role of social media in their educational journey.
5. How often do you use social media while studying or attending classes?
This question explores whether students multitask or become distracted by social media during
academic activities. The responses can help determine how often social media interferes with
focused study time or classroom engagement.
Below is an spas table showing five questions addressing the objectives.
significance of the Study:
This study contributes to the growing body of knowledge surrounding technology use and
academic achievement. As social media becomes increasingly integrated into students’ lives,
understanding its real impact—both positive and negative—can help shape educational policies,
promote responsible digital behavior, and guide students toward a balanced approach in
managing their academic and social lives.
The results of this research can be useful for:
• Educators who want to better understand the digital habits of their students.
• University administrators aiming to improve student support services and develop
digital literacy programs.
• Students seeking to improve their study routines and identify habits that may be
affecting their academic performance.
• Researchers interested in the intersection of digital technology and education.
