USE OF RESEARCH GATE AS A VERITABLE TOOL FOR EDUCATIONAL DEVELOPMENT AMONG UNDERGRADUATE STUDENTS

Abstract

Social media platforms are increasingly used for communication, entertainment, and information sharing. For researchers to network and discuss their research discoveries, there is a social media platform called ResearchGate. Little attention has been paid to ResearchGate asa tool for educational development among undergraduate students in Nigeria. Therefore, this study intends to narrow the existing knowledge gap by offering valuable insightsinto how ResearchGate can enhance undergraduate students' educational development in Nigeria. Technological determinism theory formed the basis for the study as a convenient sampling technique was used to collect data. A total of 275 copies of the questionnaire were administered randomly to selected participants, who were Redeemers University undergraduates and a sum of 250 usable questionnaires were received. Findings showed that ResearchGate is getting known by students and contributing to the intellectual community. Findings also showed that ResearchGate is a great tool for learning and helps undergraduatesto develop their skills and knowledge in their field of study. Hence, this study concluded that social media can be a valuable tool for enhancing learning and collaboration among students, not just for fun and pleasure. It is recommended that Universities and educational institutions should encourage students to use ResearchGate to share research and collaborate with other students and researchers.