Social Media Applications and their Effect on Undergraduate Students’ Learning in Higher Education

Abstract

The development of social media has significantly impacted education, with institutions striving to use these tools to foster critical thinking, collaboration, and knowledge creation among students. This study investigates the effects of social media on student learning in higher education through the lived experiences of six participants using a qualitative methodology. Interviews were conducted to explore the impact of social media on academic performance, its use for learning assistance, academic goals, and perceived benefits. The findings show that social media is widely used by college students, who believe it plays a significant role in their academic growth. Social media facilitates interactions with educational content outside traditional classroom settings, peer collaboration, and access to quality educational resources. Additionally, participants emphasized that social media helps connect people globally, providing access to diverse learning opportunities and perspectives. This study suggests that incorporating social media into teaching strategies can drastically alter students' learning experiences, boosting engagement and preparing them for success in a technology-driven world.