Benefits and Challenges Associated with the Use of Social Media Applications in Education at the Basic Education Level in the Bolga–East District of Ghana, West Africa

Abstract

Social Media has taken over the globe by storm. Its effects cut across all facets of humankind. This is especially so in the area of education. Depending on how managers of the education sectors apply it, Social Media has advantages and disadvantages. This study is a case study of the qualitative approach to research. The study sought to explore the benefits and challenges associated with the use of Social Media and its applications at the basic level of education in the Bolga- East District of the Upper East Region of Ghana, West Africa. In view of this objective, ten (10) participants, thus two (2) each from the five junior high schools from the district capital, Zuarungu, who had been teaching Information, Communication and Technology (ICT) were purposely selected through the intensity case sampling technique to constitute the sample size. An in-depth interview guide was employed in collecting data from the participants. The study revealed that benefits or opportunities concerning Social Media usage in education include the crucial role it plays in the search for information for research and collaborations, the sharing of information and other relevant educational materials to group members among others. However, the challenges associated with its usage include exposing young learners to uneducated and morally bankrupt materials, making students and teachers miss instructional hours through its addiction and the spread of fictitious information. Additionally, the study revealed that there are no specific and district- wide guidelines concerning the use of Social Media tools at the basic education level. The study thus recommends that educational authorities of the Ghana Education Service publish specific guidelines regulating its usage to the benefit of students’ education. Parents and guardians should also monitor the activities of their wards at home to ensure that Social Media tools are used solely for academic work.