Usage of WhatsApp Messenger for Learning among Students in Selected Tertiary Institutions in Oyo State

Abstract

This study investigated the usage of WhatsApp mobile applications among students in selected tertiary institutions in Oyo State. The objectives of the study were to establish WhatsApp usage among students; identify the significance of WhatsApp Messenger among students, and determine the challenges students faced in the use of WhatsApp. To achieve these objectives a survey was undertaken in the selected tertiary institutions among students using questionnaires. The results of the study showed that there was widespread use of the WhatsApp application among students in the selected institutions. It was used for learning purposes of conveying academic tasks such as assignment and tutorial questions, time tables and notices The findings also revealed that for academic purposes WhatsApp was mostly used for alerting friends about the absence or presence of lecturers, conveyance of academic tasks such as assignments, tutorial questions, time-tables and notices. It was also established that there was very little communication between students and lecturers using WhatsApp for academic purposes. The study concluded that WhatsApp was a viable delivery of academic material in the teaching and learning environment. It was seen to be a user-friendly, cheap, and effective means of communication among students. However, users also pointed out some challenges they faced in their usage of WhatsApp which included lack of privacy, lack of security of personal information and irregular internet access.