EFFECTS OF SOCIAL MEDIA (WHATSAPP) ON LANGUAGE USE OF KWARA STATE POLYTECHNIC STUDENTS IN ILORIN
Abstract
This study examines the effect of social media on language use among students of Kwara State Polytechnic, Ilorin. With the widespread adoption of platforms such as WhatsApp, Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook, students’ language habits particularly in English are increasingly shaped by the informal, abbreviated, and often non-standard forms common in online communication. The research focuses on effect of WhatsApp on language use of Kwara State Polytechnic students by observing various group chats of students across various departments. Findings reveal that frequent exposure to social media language has led to the incorporation of slang, acronyms, and unconventional spellings into students’ academic and formal writing, sometimes affecting grammatical accuracy and clarity. However, the study also highlights positive aspects, such as increased creativity and adaptability in language use. The paper concludes by recommending strategies to help students balance digital language trends with the demands of formal communication, especially in academic contexts.
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