THE EFFECTS OF SOCIAL MEDIA USAGE ON THE ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE OF STUDENTS OF NNAMDI AZIKIWE UNIVERSITY AWKA

Abstract

This study investigated the relationship between social media use and academic performance among undergraduates of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka. The Uses and Gratifications Theory was adopted as the theoretical framework. A mixed methods research design was employed, along with a multistage sampling procedure. The target population consisted of undergraduate students of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, and a sample size of 200 respondents was statistically determined using the Taro Yamane formula. A questionnaire and an In-Depth Interview (IDI) guide served as instruments for data collection. Quantitative data were coded and analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 25. Frequency tables were used to describe and present the quantitative data, while qualitative data were transcribed manually and analyzed using thematic analysis. Two research hypotheses were formulated and tested using Chi-square inferential statistics. The study found that students use social media very frequently. It also found that social media use negatively affects students’ academic performance. Based on these findings, the study recommended that the university implement educational programs focused on digital literacy, emphasizing the responsible use of social media. It also recommended that the university establish clear policies regulating social media use during school hours.