INFLUENCE OF SOCIAL MEDIA ON THE ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE OF STUDENTS AT KOGI STATE COLLEGE OF EDUCATION, ANKPA, KOGI STATE NIGERIA

Abstract

The present study examined the impact of social media on the academic achievement of students enrolled at Kogi State College of Education, Ankpa. The primary aims of this study were to examine the impact of social media on students' attendance and involvement in class. The study utilised a descriptive survey research approach, and data were gathered by the administration of a self-structured questionnaire called the "Social Media and Academic Performance Questionnaire" (SMAAPQ). The study's population consisted of 5,347 students enrolled at Kogi State College of Education, Ankpa. A sample of 388 individuals was selected using a multi-stage selection technique and the Glen Formula for determining the sample size. The reliability of the research instrument was determined through a trial. The study issues were addressed using descriptive statistics, specifically the mean and standard deviation. Additionally, the hypotheses were tested using the Chi-square (χ2) test of goodness of fit, with a significance level of 0.05. The results of the study indicated a noteworthy adverse impact of social media usage on the attendance and participation of students at Kogi State College of Education, Ankpa. Based on the findings, the study proposed the incorporation of digital literacy education into the academic syllabus with the objective of promoting conscientious utilisation of social media platforms. The training programme should prioritise the development of a harmonious equilibrium between online engagements and academic responsibilities. It should underscore the significance of in-person interactions and foster the cultivation of critical thinking skills while engaging with material on social media platforms.