Empowering ESL Students: Harnessing the Potential of Social Media to Enhance Academic Motivation in Higher Education

Abstract

Numerous studies have been conducted to determine how social media usage affects students' academic motivation as a result of its extensive use around the world. However, it has largely gone unnoticed when it comes to learning English as a second language (ESL). Thereby, this study examines the influence of social media usage on the academic motivation of ESL students. Conducted among 353 participants in Karachi's higher education institutions, which employed quantitative research methods. Findings showed substantial social media usage and its significant contribution to boosting the students' academic motivation. This study highlights the overlooked potential of social media as an instrument to boost ESL students' engagement and performance. Recognizing this impact can guide educators and policymakers to harness social media's benefits. This area merits further research to abundantly comprehend the relationship between social media use and academic motivation, enhancing the educational experiences of ESL students.