Social Media Usage in Private Higher Education UK

This study explores the patterns, purposes, and perceived impacts of social media usage among students in Private Higher Education Institutions (PrHEIs) across the UK. As social media becomes increasingly embedded in everyday academic life, understanding its role across different age groups is essential for shaping inclusive and effective digital learning environments. Using a quantitative, questionnaire-based approach, the study examines platform preferences, frequency of academic use, perceived effects on academic performance, levels of technology addiction, and self-regulation strategies. Findings reveal significant age- related trends: students aged 35–44 demonstrate the most consistent academic use and highest concern over digital overuse, while both younger (18–24) and older (55–64) students show lower levels of academic engagement with social media. These insights highlight the need for age-responsive pedagogical strategies and targeted digital support to optimise the educational value of social media within PrHEIs. The study contributes to a growing body of research on digital learning by addressing a gap in knowledge specific to the UK’s private higher education sector.