WHATSAPP GROUP MANAGEMENT AMONG LECTURERS OF THE FEDERAL POLYTECHNIC BAUCHI

ABSTRACT This study investigates the management of WhatsApp groups among lecturers at the Federal Polytechnic Bauchi, with a focus on their purposes, strategies, and challenges. Adopting a descriptive survey design, the study targeted the entire academic workforce of 605 staff, from which a proportionally allocated sample of 100 respondents was drawn across six faculties. Data were collected through structured questionnaires and analysed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS v.20), employing descriptive statistics such as frequencies, percentages, means, and standard deviations. Findings revealed that WhatsApp groups are primarily utilised for disseminating academic materials (85%), coordinating schedules and meetings (80%), and facilitating departmental or administrative communication (70%). Other uses included monitoring attendance and performance (50%), fostering social interactions (45%), and supporting research collaborations (40%). Daily use of WhatsApp for academic communication was reported by 60% of respondents, highlighting its indispensability in institutional communication. The study concludes that while WhatsApp has become an integral tool for academic engagement and collaboration, its effectiveness depends significantly on structured management practices and the mitigation of identified challenges. The findings underscore the platform’s dual role as both a functional and affective medium, fostering inclusivity and community within academic settings.