SayPro supports Erasmus+ research initiatives that explore how social media affects student learning in South African universities. This collaborative project brings together researchers from South Africa and Europe to study patterns, behaviors, and outcomes associated with digital engagement. SayPro’s role is to ensure that findings are used to develop evidence-based strategies for improving teaching and learning. The project investigates both the benefits and challenges of using platforms like YouTube, TikTok, WhatsApp, and Instagram in academic settings. SayPro promotes a balanced approach that leverages social media to enhance, not distract from, learning.
Researchers involved in the Erasmus+ program examine how students use social media to access study materials, communicate with peers, and participate in academic discussions. SayPro facilitates surveys, focus groups, and digital diaries to gather real-time insights. The research also explores how social media affects student motivation, time management, and mental well-being. SayPro works closely with universities to identify best practices for integrating social media into the curriculum in a structured and pedagogically sound way. This includes developing guidelines for ethical use, information verification, and content creation.
SayPro’s Erasmus+ research extends to faculty engagement, examining how instructors can use social media to reach students more effectively. It looks at strategies for using platforms for announcements, reminders, and micro-learning content. SayPro also considers how social media can be used to foster inclusivity and promote student voice. Training modules are developed to help educators create engaging content and maintain professional boundaries online. The aim is to make social media a constructive part of the digital learning environment, supporting academic performance and student satisfaction.
This Erasmus+ initiative empowers universities to make informed decisions about the role of social media in education. SayPro ensures that research findings are translated into practical tools, workshops, and policy recommendations. The project also creates opportunities for South African institutions to collaborate with international experts and develop long-term research partnerships. SayPro’s commitment to innovation and evidence-based practices is clear in this program, which is shaping how universities approach digital engagement. The outcomes will help ensure that social media supports—not hinders—student learning outcomes in today’s connected world.