Students’ Perceptions regarding Social Media as a Tool for Academic Learning and Building Social Capital

Abstract

The research study was carried out under the positivist paradigm to evaluate the perceptions of university students regarding social media as a tool for academic learning and building social capital. A sample of 280 students comprising male and female, from a public University i.e. University of the Punjab, Lahore-Pakistan was taken through cluster sampling method. A Five Point Likert’s Scale consisting of 36 items ranging from “Strongly Disagreed” to “Strongly Agreed” was developed and data was collected by using this scale. Data was analyzed by measuring the mean and standard deviation of the responses. T-test was also applied to identify the difference between the male and female students’ perceptions regarding social media as a tool for academic learning and building social capital. The study findings showed a strong consensus that social media enhances self-directed learning by offering access to valuable educational resources. The study also confirmed that social media can cultivate a sense of community and improve interactive learning experiences. However, the study revealed mixed opinions regarding social media's effectiveness in building social capital, particularly in providing practical advice and support. In conclusion, while social media is generally viewed positively as a tool for academic purposes and community building among university students, its effectiveness in fostering social capital is more complex and varies by context.