A STUDY ON THE INFLUENCE OF SOCIAL MEDIA USAGE ON THE ACADEMIC STUDY PATTERNS OF UNDERGRADUATE STUDENTS IN ENUGU STATE

Abstract

This study investigated the influence of social media on the study habits of undergraduate students in a selected university in Enugu State. While social media has become an essential tool for modern communication, it poses emerging challenges to students’ academic culture and discipline. This research specifically focused on how social media usage affects students’ study habits. A descriptive survey design was adopted, employing a mixed-methods approach that combined both qualitative and quantitative techniques. Data were collected through questionnaires and face-to-face interviews. A total of 15 students were interviewed individually, alongside 10 university lecturers, with responses recorded for detailed analysis. The study was anchored on the Uses and Gratification Theory, which suggests that media users are active participants who selectively engage with media based on specific motivations and needs. Findings revealed that a significant number of students frequently use platforms such as Facebook, WhatsApp, and Twitter, often even during lecture hours. The study concluded that excessive and unregulated use of social media may negatively impact students' study habits and academic performance. It recommends the implementation of time-restrictive software and institutional guidelines to manage social media usage among students. The findings are expected to guide university administrators in formulating effective strategies to mitigate the adverse effects of social media on academic engagement.