SOCIAL MEDIA AND STUDENTS’ ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE

Abstrak

This study examines the relationship between social media use and students’ academic performance in higher and secondary education contexts. It explores how different patterns of social media engagement, including entertainment, communication, and educational use, influence students’ grades, concentration, and study habits. The research is based on a review of recent literature and survey data from students across various academic institutions. Findings suggest that moderate and purposeful use of social media can enhance collaborative learning and access to academic resources. However, excessive and unregulated use is associated with distractions, reduced study time, and lower academic achievement. The study concludes that self-regulation and digital literacy are key factors in maximizing the benefits of social media for students’ academic success. Additionally, this paper highlights the importance of guiding students toward responsible social media practices, encouraging educators and parents to integrate digital awareness programs into learning environments, and suggesting that balanced usage policies within academic institutions may help mitigate negative effects while promoting positive educational outcomes in the long term across diverse student populations worldwide. This extension considers socio-cultural differences and technological access disparities influencing academic performance outcomes across higher education settings, providing recommendations for future research and policy development in education sectors globally.