The effects of social networks on the academic performance of the Ghanaian student

The proliferation of Social Networking Sites (SNSs) has obviously had an effect on the academic performance of students. Historically, social network sites have progressed from the days of telegraphs to the current age of mobile devices. SNSs have taken the world and by extension Ghana by storm and are in no doubt becoming part and parcel of our everyday life. They are not only used purposely for communication but can also be used for other purposes such as education and finance. The main objective of this research paper is to analyze the effects of SNSs on the academic performance of students. In order to fulfill this objective and pursue the right information needed for an effective analysis, the researcher adopted quantitative research methodologies involving administration of questionnaires to (210) student of various university students using random sampling. The research study revealed that 54.8% of respondent agreed that social networking site has affected them since it has decreased their GPA. Secondly it revealed that 55.2% of respondent used more than three (3) social network sites. The researcher recommends that since social network has come to stay, it is prudent for student to use it judiciously.