Examining the Effects of Social Media on University Students' Academic Success: a Focus on South Eastern University of Sri Lanka.

EasyChair Preprint 15112

Abstract

This study investigates the effects of social media on the academic success of university students at the South Eastern University of Sri Lanka. In an increasingly digital world, social media platforms play a significant role in students’ lives, influencing their study habits, time management, and overall academic performance. Utilizing a mixed-methods approach, data were collected through surveys and interviews with students from various disciplines. The findings indicate a complex relationship between social media use and academic outcomes. While social media can enhance collaboration and access to resources, excessive use is correlated with decreased focus and lower academic achievement. Factors such as individual discipline, study environment, and the nature of social media engagement were identified as critical moderators. The study underscores the need for balanced social media usage and the implementation of strategies to leverage its benefits while mitigating adverse effects on academic success. Recommendations for educators and policymakers include integrating digital literacy into curricula and promoting awareness of effective time management techniques among students. This research contributes to the broader discourse on digital behavior in educational contexts and offers insights for improving academic performance in a socially connected world.

Keyphrases: Procrastination, South Eastern University of Sri Lanka, collaboration, digital literacy, educational technology, university students

@booklet{EasyChair:15112,
  author    = {John Owen},
  title     = {Examining the Effects of Social Media on University Students' Academic Success: a Focus on South Eastern University of Sri Lanka.},
  howpublished = {EasyChair Preprint 15112},
  year      = {EasyChair, 2024}}