Social Media Usage Pattern and Trend Among Polytechnic Student

This study focused on the social media usage patterns and trends among polytechnic students. The study considered students of in Federal Polytechnic Ede, 0sun State and the data was obtain through primary data (questionnaire) and 200 respondents was retrieved from the online questionnaire. Multiple regression was the statistical tool employed for the analysis. The primary data was collected through the use of well-structured questionnaire and analysed using SPSS IBM Version 26.0. The data collected were analyzed using descriptive statistics (frequency and percentage).The research explored students' time spent on social media, preferred platforms, and the impact of social media on academic performance. Findings revealed that 32.5% of students spent 1–2 hours daily on social media, while 40% engaged for more than five hours. The primary reasons for social media usage included educational purposes (46%), entertainment (24%), and news updates (17%). The statistical analysis using ANOVA indicated a significant relationship between social media usage and academic performance, with a p-value of 0.001. The model summary showed that social media usage, time spent, and social networking platforms explained 74.4% of variations in academic performance. Coefficient analysis identified hours spent on social media as having the highest positive impact (0.426). While most students acknowledged the positive influence of social media on academic performance, others recognized its potential distractions. The study recommends the incorporation of digital literacy modules in the curriculum, formulation of comprehensive social media policies, and provision of Wi-Fi services with access restrictions during academic hours to promote responsible usage. The findings revealed the need for a balanced approach to social media engagement among students.