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This research project investigates the impact of social media on student learning in Papua New Guinea using the Big6 Information Literacy Model. It highlights both the benefits and negative effects of platforms like Facebook and WhatsApp on academic performance, emphasizing the need for responsible use. The study incorporates local and international sources to provide a comprehensive analysis of the topic.

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8 views

Assignemnt 3

This research project investigates the impact of social media on student learning in Papua New Guinea using the Big6 Information Literacy Model. It highlights both the benefits and negative effects of platforms like Facebook and WhatsApp on academic performance, emphasizing the need for responsible use. The study incorporates local and international sources to provide a comprehensive analysis of the topic.

Uploaded by

Avese ISO
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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COVER PAGE

UNIVERSITY OF PAPUA NEW GUINEA


School of Humanities and Social Sciences
Course Title: Information Literacy
Course Code:
Assignment Three: Research Project
Student Name:
Student ID:
Date:

RESEARCH TOPIC:
**The Impact of Social Media on Student Learning in Papua New Guinea**

RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
Research Model Used: The Big6 Information Literacy Model

This research project was guided by the Big6 Information Literacy Model, a structured
approach to problem-solving and information gathering developed by Eisenberg and Berkowitz.
Here's how I applied each step:

1. Task Definition
I identified the research topic: understanding how social media impacts student learning
in PNG. The key questions I wanted to answer were: “Does social media help or hinder
student learning?” and “What are PNG students’ experiences with platforms like
Facebook, WhatsApp, and TikTok?”
2. Information Seeking Strategies
I decided to use both local sources (newspapers, academic papers from UPNG and
DWU) and international research to compare PNG's context with global trends. I
prioritized credible news, academic articles, and student-based reports.
3. Location and Access
I used the UPNG Library e-resources, local newspapers like The National and Post-
Courier, the Divine Word University Research Journal, and Google Scholar to find
suitable literature.
4. Use of Information
I extracted key ideas, quotes, and examples that describe how social media is used in
learning environments in PNG, especially among university students in urban and rural
areas.
5. Synthesis
I organized the findings into three main themes: benefits, negative impacts, and possible
solutions. I wrote the essay based on this structure.
6. Evaluation
I reviewed my sources and the essay content to ensure it was relevant, balanced, and met
the assignment requirements. I made sure to include both local realities and academic
perspectives.
LITERATURE REVIEW (4 Abstracts)
Source 1:

Kavanamur, D. (2019). Digital Media Use and Impact Among PNG Youth. Papua New Guinea
National Research Institute (PNGNRI) Occasional Paper No. 46.
This paper examines the growing use of digital media by young people in PNG. It highlights
both the educational and social impacts of platforms like Facebook and WhatsApp, noting that
while access to information is easier, overuse can negatively affect concentration and
productivity. The report is relevant for understanding how PNG’s unique context shapes social
media use.

Source 2:

Yegiora, B. (2020). Digital Learning and the Role of Social Media in PNG Universities. Divine
Word University Research Journal, 22(1), pp. 45–53.
This article discusses how PNG university students use social media for academic purposes. It
identifies WhatsApp and Facebook as key tools for sharing lecture materials, discussing
assignments, and accessing notes. The study also warns about the distraction these tools can
create when used excessively.

Source 3:

The National. (2023). Social media helping students with online learning. The National, March
2, p.7.
This news article shares student and teacher views on the use of social media during COVID-19
lockdowns in PNG. It emphasizes how platforms like WhatsApp groups were used to share
assignments and maintain contact between students and lecturers, especially in rural areas
without stable LMS systems.

Source 4:

Selwyn, N. (2009). Faceworking: Exploring students’ education-related use of Facebook.


Learning, Media and Technology, 34(2), pp.157-174.
Though not PNG-specific, this academic article is relevant because it provides a foundation for
understanding how students globally use social media for academic support and collaboration,
which parallels the experience of PNG university students.
ESSAY DISCUSSION
Title: The Impact of Social Media on Student Learning in Papua New Guinea

Introduction

In Papua New Guinea, social media platforms such as Facebook, WhatsApp, and TikTok have
rapidly grown in popularity, especially among students. With increasing mobile phone
ownership and access to cheaper mobile data plans from providers like Digicel and Telikom,
students now rely on social media for communication, entertainment, and learning. However,
while social media offers advantages in academic collaboration and information access, it also
introduces challenges such as distraction, misinformation, and addiction. This essay explores the
dual impact of social media on student learning in PNG, drawing from both local research and
global studies.

Body

1. Social Media as a Learning Tool in PNG

2. Negative Impacts on Student Focus and Academic Performance

3. Striking a Balance: Responsible Social Media Use

Conclusion

BIBLIOGRAPHY / REFERENCE LIST

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