ASSESSMENT OF SOCIAL MEDIA IMPACT ON THE ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE OF EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION PUPILS IN SOME SELECTED SCHOOLS IN AFIJIO LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA, OYO, OYO STATE.

This study examined the impact of social media on the academic performance of Early Childhood Education (ECE) pupils in Afijio Local Government Area, Oyo State. A descriptive survey research design was used, and a structured questionnaire was administered to 50 preschool teachers. The findings revealed that there is no significant correlation between the prevalence of social media and ECE pupils' academic performance. However, the perceived benefits of social media, such as interactive educational resources and facilitation of communication, were found to have a positive impact on pupils' academic performance. The study also found that social media can enhance learning engagement and accessibility among ECE pupils, stimulate learning interest and curiosity, and promote pupils' academic performance. However, excessive use of social media can lead to distractions and addiction, endangering pupils' academic performance. The study recommends that educators and parents educate ECE pupils on responsible social media usage, limit the amount of time spent on social media, foster open communication, promote positive online role models, and encourage ECE pupils to follow age-appropriate and educational content on social media. The findings of this study contribute to the existing body of knowledge on the impact of social media on academic performance, particularly in the context of Early Childhood Education in Nigeria.