The Impact Of Social Media Networking(SMN) On Students' Behaviour In Secondary Schools In Antigua And Barbuda

Information Communication Technology(ICT)has become an integral component on modern lifestyles globally.Further,with ICT comes the invasion of Information Technology devices and platforms,and by extension,the use of social media networking in the various sectors of society to include secondary school population.In this regard,small developing states such as Antigua and Barbuda are of no exception.This study addressed the impact of social media on the secondary school population in Antigua and Barbuda.It attempted to explore answers to the following research questions:-the main purposes of use;how they are being used;and their impact on the general behavior of students.The sample consisted of one hundred twenty two(122)Third Form students of a public co-educational school located in the suburban area of the capital St.John.The data was collected on 22nd February 2017 with a structured questionnaire administered by a research assistant from that school.The questions focused on Facebook and WhatsApp.With the aid of the SPSS computer software,the statistical technique mainly of descriptive statistics was used in the data processing and analyses.The results showed a mixture of positive and negative effects whereby secondary school students use social media networking for a variety of purposes including connecting with family and friends,socializing,expressing themselves,sharing information and as a mode of academic support when needed.The negative impact included undesired tendencies indicative of addictive behaviors and lack of self-control.It is posited that the results of the study should prove useful to education officials who recognize the need to develop policies,programs and guidelines that will facilitate and encourage the responsible use of social media among secondary school students.