Counselling on Social Media Utilization and Its Effect on Academic Performance of Secondary School Students in Calabar Municipality Local Government in Cross River State

Egbe G, Ekwok L, Effiom BE, Ubi MG, Okpon ES and Kingsley AJ

Published on: 2024-02-29

Abstract

The main purpose of this study was to assess counseling on social media utilization and its effect on the academic performance of secondary school students in Calabar Municipality Local Government in Cross River State. The investigator used the data carefully gathered from the questionnaire administered to students and teachers from four randomly selected senior secondary schools in the local government. Responses of 200 students and 30 teachers in the selected school were analyzed employing the descriptive statistical instrument of frequency count and percentage. The analysis revealed that above 90 percent of students engaged on one social media networking site or another, with the majority of them predominately belonging to Facebook, WhatsApp, Instagram, and other social media communities. However, most students failed to utilize these sites for academic-related purposes but for relational and romantic purposes, among others. The researcher equally found out that students unguarded exposure to social networking sites makes them wild, aggressive, bullying language, conduct, and character. Although social networking sites have a negative effect on teenagers, this site also has benefits if students use them appropriately. The result of the analysis showed a significant relationship between the dependent and independent variables. Based on the findings, the study recommended that students should be better educated on the use of social media, how to effectively use it, and their ability to strike a balance between the use of social media and their academics. The study suggested that similar studies be carried out in private schools and other states in the country.