Work

Impact of social media platforms excessive use on students performance in higher education institutions: A mathematical model approach

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: This article develops a compartmental mathematical model to investigate the impact of excessive social media use on the academic performance of higher education students. Students who are heavily subscribed are classified 'infected or addicted' individuals. Their influence on the other naive non-subscribers leading them to become one and by self-curiosity are defined as direct and indirect transmission routes, respectively. The model incorporates two primary control interventions: early awareness programs and continuous regulation of accessibility. Qualitative and numerical analyses of the model dynamics are thus carried out investigating the effectiveness and the benefits of these control measures. The results suggest that a combined strategy, implementing both control interventions at optimal efficacy levels, significantly reduces the 'addiction' rate, thereby fostering a healthier academic environment and promising a prospective academic performance from the students.

Source: PLoS ONE

DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0359301

Authors: Komi Afassinou, Narcisse Roland Loufouma Makala, Ousmane Koutou, Richard O. Ocaya, Maba Boniface Matadi

Institutions: University of the Free State, Université Joseph Ki-Zerbo, University of Zululand

Language: English

Topic: Impact of Technology on Adolescents

Subfield: Sociology and Political Science

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Quality education, Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,382