Advantages and Disadvantages of Social Media for Students

Social Media Advantages and Disadvantages for Students

Social media has completely changed the way we live our lives. We are more connected than ever before. Social media websites like Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat are quite popular with younger generations these days. Social media is not limited to communication any more. It is a source of entertainment, advertising, promotions, creating awareness, and performing many such functions. However, just like any online media, social media also has its share of pros and cons. Here we are going to discuss some of the advantages and disadvantages of social media, especially for students.

Social Media Advantages:

1. Communication: Social media provides an excellent opportunity to stay connected with each other and their teachers.
2. Sharing Ideas: Groups made on social media also helps in sharing ideas for the projects. Learning videos on YouTube channels has proven to be a great source of learning and receiving new ideas.
3. Benefits for Introvert Students: Students who otherwise have difficulty in opening up and expressing their thoughts can get involved in learning activities.
4. Global Connections: Social media also opens the door for students to get connected to student fraternity globally. Student can know about international curriculum and educational practices.
5. Instant Help: You can share your issues and problems with the online community and can seek guidance and support. Connect with TutorReal Facebook Group for CBSE, ICSE, ISC, IB, IGCSE, SAT, GMAT and other exam preparation.
   Apart from all the above advantages, social media networking sites are not just used for sharing images and videos. Social media has played a vital role in promoting campus drive and creating awareness about education.

Social Media Disadvantages :

1. Distraction: Social media is undoubtedly one of the most significant distractions of modern days. We are sure that most of the parents and teachers will also agree to it. There is always a possibility that students will not use social media for constructive reasons.
2. Detached with the Real World: Students who spend too much time in the virtual world interacting with unknown faces might have difficulty in communicating with people in the real world.
3. Cyber Bullying: Social media websites have been notorious when it comes to crime like cyberbullying and suicidal games. The games like blue whale challenge and momo challenge had claimed the life of several students internationally. Cyberbullying is an alarming trend where students write hurtful messages to scar their fellow students.
4. Glamourizing Drugs and Alcohol: Social media is not the only source which shows drugs and alcohol in a glamourized form. Social media platforms pose a threat if students start following kids who use drugs and alcohol. Which eventually inspires other students to follow the same.
   The major problem with social media is that it is very hard to identify whether the student is constructively using it or not.

   Final Thought:

   Social media has played a significant role in acting as a great source of communication exchange. If a student uses it cautiously, social media platforms can be a great source of entertainment and learning. However, one must remain alert that they don’t become an addict to these, which is a common scenario these days.