An Empirical Study of Social Media Effects on University Students in Sultanate of Oman

Abstract

The usage of social networking sites such as WhatsApp, YouTube, Twitter, Instagram, Snapchat and Pinterest has brought many opportunities, changes and challenges. The impact of this type of media can be social, psychological, and economic. The social impact is a major concern since these technologies with their rapid spread have succeeded in influencing the attitudes of various groups of individuals. Among all other age groups in Oman, teenagers make up a major segment in the demographic structure of the country. The present research aimed to contribute to this understanding by investigating the impact of social networking media on academic performance, health and social interactions in Oman. A sample of 242 students from University of Technology and Applied Sciences, Nizwa were selected for the study. The findings of the study revealed that 55% of the students in University of Technology and Applied Sciences, Nizwa use Instagram. 25% of the students use WhatsApp. 30% of the students in University of Technology and Applied Sciences, Nizwa use three social media platforms. 32% of the students spend 3 to 5 hours daily on social media. 45% of the University students stated that they are attracted towards social media.