Impact of Social Media Use on Students' Engagement, Academic Performance and Collaboration in ESL Classroom at University Level

Abstract

With the rapid rise of digital technology, university students' academic and social lives are shaped by social media, offering new language learning opportunities. Social media use in university ESL classrooms affects student participation, academic performance, and collaboration, according to this qualitative study. Semi-structured interviews with eight undergraduate ESL students who use WhatsApp, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and Twitter for academic and personal purposes were conducted. Thematic analysis of interview data showed that social media's participatory, informal, and accessible learning environments outside the classroom boost student involvement. Further research shows that deliberate social media use improves academic achievement, notably vocabulary, listening, reading, and speaking skills and confidence. Social media platforms can enable peer connection, resource sharing, and group work through online debates, shared documents, and voice or video communication. The report also notes that excessive and unregulated use might distract and decrease attention. The findings imply that structured and guided social media use can enhance ESL training. The study suggests ESL teachers strategically use social media and encourage responsible use to maximise learning outcomes