THE PERCEIVED GAINS AND PAINS OF RESTRICTED ACCESS TO SOCIAL MEDIA FOR TERTIARY INSTITUTION STUDENTS ON CAMPUS

Abstract

This study investigates the perceived gains and pains of restricted access to social media for tertiary institution students on campus. The aim of the study was to compare both the advantages and disadvantages of restricted access to social media as perceived by the students. To achieve the objectives of this research, the instrument of data collection used was the structured questionnaire, distributed to a sample size of 314 out of the 1,468 students of the school. The data gathered was thereafter analyzed, presented and interpreted using the descriptive data analysis technique; and then presented in tables. The results of the data analysis showed that the audience agree that through access to social media, students are enlightened and educated about the new happenings outside the premises, also agree that the restriction of social media has made students more productive with their time but strongly agree it has made students concentrate strictly on their academics. They gather more facts and information for assignments and projects on social media but also in support of its restriction, that it has helped them gain full concentration in their studies. This project therefore recommended that students should be allowed to make use of social media to some extent with limited duration as it allows them interact and socialize with friends and peer outside the school premises. Keywords: Social media, Social networking sites, Restriction, Access, Gains, Pains and Students.