Factors Influencing Social Networks Usage among University Students: A Case of Mzumbe University, Morogoro, Tanzania

Abstract

The integration of the social networks in educational practices may bring increased student engagement and may promote collaboration and lead to improved learning outcomes. However, previous studies have primarily focused on the impact of social networks on the academic performance, neglecting to explore the factors influencing social networks usage among university students in Tanzania. This study evaluates factors influencing social networks usage among university students in Tanzania, providing insights for educators, policymakers, and students to enhance its productive application, by informing policy making, curriculum design, and training programs in Tanzanian higher learning institutions. Using a descriptive research design and a mixed research approach, data were collected through questionnaires and interviews from a randomly selected sample of 122 undergraduate students in human resource management at Mzumbe University, while valid responses were 100. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics, while qualitative data were analysed through thematic analysis. The study revealed university students in Tanzania, particularly at Mzumbe University, are motivated using social networks by several factors, including education, interaction, information, and refreshments. It was also noted that 66% of university students use social networks as a tool or instrument to remove stress and boredom on a daily basis, while others use them to pass time. Based on the findings, it is recommended that universities in Tanzania should encourage their students to properly use social networks to increase leadership skills, build networks to socialise with different groups of people, and interact with people of the same profession to share professionalism and Professional opportunities. Universities also should incorporate social networking tools in academic practices using official sites where students can meet and share educational content apart from holding discussions; in this way, the students will still be connected with social networks for the appropriate academic purposes without the risk of the nonessential applications.