The Impact of Social Media Use on Time Management Effectiveness: A Field Study on Students of the Faculty of Economics and Political Science, University of Tripoli

Abstract

This study aims to determine the impact of social media use on time management among university students at the Faculty of Economics and Political Science, University of Tripoli. The study focused primarily on social media use, specifically the duration of use and use during the study period (as independent variables), and its impact on time management, represented by planning, prioritization, task commitment, and distraction control (as dependent variables). The study adopted a descriptive-analytical approach and used a questionnaire developed based on previous studies and in accordance with the study objectives, while verifying its validity and reliability. The study population included students from all academic departments at the Faculty of Economics and Political Science, University of Tripoli. A random sample of (232) students was selected, which is considered statistically acceptable using SPSS. The questionnaire was distributed electronically via academic email. The results showed that the study instrument has a very high degree of reliability (Cronbach's alpha = 0.924), and that students demonstrate a high level of planning, organization, and prioritization, as well as a clear awareness of the academic benefits of social media (highest mean among dimensions, 4.12). However, the ability to control distractions and wasted time was only average (3.35), revealing a gap between the perceived value of time and the actual ability to manage digital distractions. The problem isn't the existence or use of social media platforms themselves, but rather the pattern of use and the degree of control it exerts. A student might use the same platform to access information or complete a coursework assignment, then instantly switch to entertainment content or be bombarded with notifications and interruptions. This blurring of lines between academic and leisure activities drains study time and weakens mental continuity. Furthermore, knowing what to do doesn't necessarily translate into the ability to consistently resist digital stimuli, which opens the door to practical interventions focused on managing the digital environment, not just teaching time management principles.