Use of Social Media Tools in Literacy Uplift of Youngsters

Abstract

Media literacy is a growing concern now a days. Social media tools are found everywhere in educational institutions. It is important for students to have knowledge and use of different social media platforms for acquisition of literacy and academic excellence. The purpose of this study was to explore the effects of the use of social media tools in literacy uplift of youngsters. The major objective of the study was to analyze the role of social media tools (WhatsApp, Facebook, and YouTube) in improving literacy skills of youngsters. The population for this study was postgraduate students of AIOU Spring 2023. Sample comprised of randomly selected 100 students who were using social media in their studies. Research design was quantitative in which survey was used. Data collection was done online through a self-developed questionnaire. Results indicated that most of the respondents used phones for knowledge sharing, academic purposes, group discussions etc. Different social media tools WhatsApp, YouTube, Facebook etc. help students to solve their study related problems. Students get assistance in their exams, different videos, online study groups on WhatsApp assist students to improve their literacy skills. Social media allows students to work together globally to solve problems affecting the whole world. It is recommended that educational institutions may focus on the creation of online groups for students to easily communicate and work together, especially using smartphones. Moreover, educational institutes may provide students guidance on how to use social media tools for educational and career advantages.