Postgraduate Students’ Perceptions of WhatsApp Groups as a Learning Support Tool in Online Education

Source abstract

With the growing integration of digital communication platforms in education, WhatsApp has emerged as a widely used tool for academic interaction among postgraduate students. This study explores the perceptions of postgraduate students in the Computer Science Department at Modibbo Adama University, Yola, Adamawa State, Nigeria, regarding the use of WhatsApp groups as a learning support tool in online education. The research adopts a descriptive survey design to assess the frequency of use, perceived benefits, challenges, and overall impact on student engagement and collaboration. The findings indicate that WhatsApp groups facilitate real-time communication, enhance peer-to-peer learning, and improve access to study materials and academic discussions. However, students also report challenges such as information overload, privacy concerns, and difficulties in organizing discussions. Despite these limitations, the majority of respondents agree that WhatsApp groups contribute positively to their learning experience by fostering interactive and flexible academic discussions. To enhance its effectiveness, the study recommends institutional support, structured moderation of discussions, and increased awareness of digital privacy and security measures.