Exploring social media use of Filipino learners

Abstract

Profusely widespread use of social media opened multiple reading opportunities for learners. However, educators have growing concern that excessive use of social media compromises learners’ reading competence and, eventually, academic performance. The current work aimed to examine the extent to which social media use may affect the university students’ (N=101) reading attitudes and competence, which are the backbone of scholastic performance. A mixed-methods approach was applied in the study. The data collected were analyzed using version 26 of the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) software. Interview answers were qualitatively analyzed. Results indicate that social media platforms (SMPs) were least used for educational purposes. Students showed positive reading attitudes emphasizing their accorded importance to reading and finding happiness to learn new things. However, as they managed to read posts daily, lesser inclination was accorded to productive reading attitudes such as finding time to read during vacant hours and having enthusiasm towards advanced reading and reading with friends. Overall, reading competence indicated ineptitude. This study provides insights into the context of social media use in shaping learners’ reading attitudes and affecting their level of reading competence.

Computer Upskilling Trainings and Teachers’ Technological Literacy: Basis for Technological Skills Enhancement Plan

“…Teachers are undoubtedly making concerted efforts to adapt to the rapidly changing technological landscape. The findings align with studies such as those by Albiladi and Abdeen (2021) and Gagalang (2022), which emphasize the pivotal role of technology in modern education and highlight its effectiveness in enhancing instructional strategies and student engagement. The variable, Microsoft Office skills, achieved the highest mean rating of 3.41 (SD = 0.66) interpreted as Highly Literate.…”

“…By leveraging social media effectively, educators can create engaging and innovative learning experiences, ultimately fostering enhanced language proficiency among students. Moreover, the studies by Albiladi and Abdeen (2021) and Gagalang (2022) collectively reinforce the importance of utilizing social media as a strategic tool for language learning and academic success. By harnessing the potential of social media platforms, educators can create a more dynamic and engaging learning environment, ultimately contributing to the holistic development of students' language skills.…”

“…These researchers firmly endorse the effectiveness of social media in markedly improving students' language proficiency, providing unequivocal evidence of its paramount importance in modern education. Furthermore, Gagalang (2022) amplifies the role of social media as a valuable resource for academic success. Respondents in the study acknowledged the instrumental role of social media in their studies, serving as a platform for information dissemination, task completion, and submission of outputs.…”

“…In terms of professional development, the Department of Education typically employs platforms like Zoom or Google Meet for webinars and training sessions. Additionally, Gagalang's (2022) research underscores the significance of social media platforms as indispensable tools for achieving academic excellence.…”

TESL Undergraduates’ Perceptions: Utilizing Social Media to Elevate Speaking Skills

“…For instance, Aloraini and Cardoso (2020) argued in their study that advanced learners were more reluctant to use social media for academic purposes. In line with this, other research mentioned the same result, too (Gagalang, 2022). Next, social media assist language learners in their language mastery journey.…”