THE IMPACT OF SOCIAL MEDIA SYNDROME ON SAFETY PRACTICES AND ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE OF UNDERGRADUATE STUDENTS AT IGNATIUS AJURU UNIVERSITY OF EDUCATION, NIGERIA

Authors

  • Ejiroghene Catherine Eboh PhD, Department of Guidance and Counselling, Delta State University of Abraka, Delta State, Nigeria
  • Kate Ekedama PhD, Department of Guidance and Counselling, Delta State University of Abraka, Delta State, Nigeria

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.46827/ejes.v11i2.5185

Abstract

This study employs a mixed-methods research design to investigate the relationships between Social Media Syndrome (SMS), safety practices, and academic performance among undergraduate students at Ignatius Ajuru University of Education. The study's population comprises 2,500 undergraduate students, and a sample of 393 respondents was selected using the Taro Yamane formula and a stratified random sampling technique, representing diverse academic disciplines and levels of study. Data was collected through a structured survey questionnaire, incorporating standardized scales to assess SMS, safety practices, and academic performance. The findings revealed a moderate level of SMS awareness among respondents, with an acknowledgement of potential negative consequences. Weak positive correlations were observed between SMS and both safety awareness and academic performance. The study underscores the importance of balanced social media use, digital literacy education, and mental health support for students. Recommendations are provided for educational institutions to implement strategies promoting mindful social media engagement and academic success.

 

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Author Biographies

  • Ejiroghene Catherine Eboh, PhD, Department of Guidance and Counselling, Delta State University of Abraka, Delta State, Nigeria

    Ejiroghene Catherine Eboh (PhD) is a seasoned lecturer of counsellor education in the Department of Guidance and Counselling, Delta State University, Abraka, Nigeria. She loves scholarly articles and research. She can be contacted at email: ejirogheneee37@delsu.edu.ng, ORCID: orcid.org/0000-0002-0652-1670

  • Kate Ekedama, PhD, Department of Guidance and Counselling, Delta State University of Abraka, Delta State, Nigeria

    Ekedama Kate (PhD) is an assistant lecturer in the Department of Guidance and Counselling (Educational Psychology), Faculty of Education, Delta State University, Abraka, Nigeria. She can be contacted at email: kateekedama@delsu.edu.ng
    ORCID: orcid.org/0009-0004-1535-6242

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Published

2024-01-28

Issue

Vol. 11 No. 2 (2024)

Section

Articles

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