The Influence of Social Media on the Academic Performance of BS-Level Students in Lower Dir

Abstract

Over the past two decades, the use of social media has increased rapidly, becoming a social norm around the world, including Pakistan. Social media platforms such as TikTok, Linkedin, Instagram, YouTube, Snapchat, Facebook and Twitter provide opportunities for knowledge sharing and communication, their excessive use distracts students from academic activities, reduces focus on learning, and raises concerns about privacy and security. This research study examines the influence of social media on the academic performance of students at the Government Postgraduate College Timergara in Dir, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The data were collected from 341 students of Government Postgraduate College, Timergara through a structured questionnaire by using a quantitative research design. The variables included social media influence and academic performance. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and chi-square tests in SPSS 21. The results indicate a significant association of social media with students’ academic performance. The study concluded that although social media has the potential to transform, its excessive use negatively affects academic performance of students. Therefore, educational institutions should guide students towards the constructive use of social media for educational purposes.