Abstract:

Today, individuals communicate easier and faster due to accessibility of the Internet. However, students are distracted with social media, it can became a concern for institutions. Social media are computer-mediated technologies that facilitate the creation and sharing of information, ideas, career interests and other forms of expression via virtual communities and networks.

Social media diminishes the problem of communication with other over long distances and expedites the ability for people to communicate at any time (Hantula, Kock, D’Arcy & DeRosa, 2011). Some of the most popular platforms in social media are Twitter, LinkedIn, and Facebook, which give people the ability to easily connect with friends, classmates, academics and relatives (Bennett, 2010).

The study draws literature heavily from secondary data and provides recommendations using Adam’s equity theory.

The main aim of the study was to ascertain the impact of social media on teaching and learning. Quantitative technique was also used to collect data. Questionnaires were handed to lecturers (20), second (150) and third (130) year students, administrators (two) in the department of Information and Corporate Management at Durban University of Technology (DUT). The sample was 302 participants.

The conclusion of the study was that, Firstly, by mapping social media network spaces, students, researchers and lecturers can learn about the most common and best uses of these communication services. Secondly, social media can have negativity, for instance, it can affect productivity if it is not used for the right purpose.

The findings of the student indicated that social media can have a meaning impact on Teaching and Learning. The study of outlined several recommendations for example, Outlining a policy to all staff and students for using social media account for personal capacity. Holding periodic update and training sessions on social media usage.

Keywords:

Social Media, Teaching and Learning, Internet and Accessibility.