Disaster Preparedness: the use of social media for academic information during the COVID-19 pandemic by new entrants of the Faculty of Dental Sciences at the University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka

Abstract

The shift to online education due to the COVID-19 pandemic had a profound impact on educational institutions worldwide, including those in developing countries. In response, many educators and institutions turned to social media sites and other digital tools to continue delivering education and sustaining the learning process. The present study attempts to examine the way of using social media by the new entrants to the Faculty of Dental Sciences of the University of Peradeniya, specifically for the information requirements relating to their academic programs during the COVID-19 Pandemic. The study was undertaken at the Library of the Faculty of Dental Sciences during the orientation program conducted for the new entrants. Even though 117 students registered in the academic year 2022/2023, only 112 students participated in the survey. An online questionnaire was used as the main datagathering tool. Findings indicated that WhatsApp, Facebook, and Research Gate were the widely used social media platforms by Dental Science undergraduates during the COVID-19 Pandemic specifically for academic purposes. Sixty-five percent of them (65%) used social media for searching Scientific and academic information related to their subject matters. The major positive impact perceived by the students was that social media helps them to maintain better relationships with their friends; however, at the same time, they believe social media behavior is quite a time-consuming matter. While social media has the potential for educational purposes, the findings indicate that a significant number of students (35%) are not aware of its importance and potential for educational activities. The majority of responded seem to pripritize the use of social media for entertainment rather than for accessing seem to prioritize the use of social media for entertainment rather than for accessing educational content or features available on these platforms. Based on these findings, it may be beneficial for educational institutions and policymakers in Sri Lanka to explore ways to promote the educational potential of social media platforms among students.