Effectiveness of social media-based collaborative learning on student engagement and learning outcomes: a field study

Abstract

This study aims to analyze how social media-based collaborative learning affects learning outcomes and student involvement in higher education in Odisha, India. Using a mixed-methods approach, 200 undergraduate students from four different colleges were selected randomly. Over the course of a semester, participants used well-known social media platforms for collaborative learning activities. Semi-structured interviews, academic performance records, social media activity logs, and pre- and post-intervention questionnaires were used to collect data. The findings revealed a strong positive association (r = 0.68, p < 0.001) between student engagement and social media-based collaborative learning. In addition, compared to a control group, students who engaged in social media-based collaborative learning shown a 15% increase in their academic performance. Qualitative data showed that students were more motivated, had better digital literacy, and engaged with social media activity. Challenges including possible distractions and privacy issues were also noted by the research. These results imply that, with the right policies and support systems in place, incorporating social media-based collaborative learning into Odisha's higher education might enhance student engagement and learning outcomes.