Students are more into social media—is it good or bad?

Social media is the new way of communication and it is everywhere; its influence is far-reaching and deep. While adults still have control over the use of social media, young minds find it more captivating. Let us look into the impact it has been showing on the students.

Positive

1. More learning than ever: Students have taken to social media as a platform for fun and entertainment along with sharing views, opinions, and learning about what’s going on in the world. Students are more informed and aware than before when watching news and reading newspaper sitting at home was the only source of information. With the mobility option, students learn on the go.
2. Improved communication: Gone are the days when meeting and socializing were the only ways to keep in touch. Now students are able to keep in touch with their seniors, teachers, and family even when they are away. This keeps the their social connections intact.
3. Online classes: Students can now sit in the comfort of their homes to learn from teachers and online tutors from anywhere. This has made the students’ learning process a global one.
4. Increased productivity: With information being shared and received instantly through social media platforms, students have been able to improve their efficiency and productivity. Improved productivity leads to more work accomplished in less time.
5. Website knowledge: Websites provide information and insight not found in books and syllabi. Internet and social media open doors to different career opportunities.
6. Technologically sound: With the use of computers, smartphones, and smart gadgets, students are more technologically knowledgeable and this is a skill that is needed later, especially for further studies and jobs.

Negative

1. Reduced concentration: Students try to multitask and switch between study and social media activities. This reduces their concentration levels, which is directly proportional to the academic performance.
2. Less socializing: With students socializing online, they have no time to socialize in person. Some might even find it difficult to get things done properly in any social gathering.
3. Relying on internet: With complete reliability on the internet and social media sites for every bit of information, students lack the ability to do proper research of various subjects required to their assignments.
4. Unfiltered content: Not all content on the internet is appropriate for students. The impact of inappropriate content can be adverse.

Overall, one has to be very careful about how and when to use social media. Parents can use filter on the content and keep an eye on the students as and when required. This will help you learn the behavior of the students and if there is any change, steps can be taken to improve the situation. Regular feedback to the students can also be helpful for both the parties.

Social media is like an open field where everyone and anyone can pass. There needs to be a self-imposed limit. You should know what your level is.