International Journal of Research Studies in Management
Divine Word College of San Jose Special Issue
2026 Volume 14 Issue 2
Available Online: 2 April 2026
Author/s:
Valdez, Lance Vincent V.*
Divine Word College of San Jose, Philippines (lancevincentvaldez4@gmail.com)
Del Rosario, Careixtian Faith J.
Pamaran, Aliyah Wayne C.
Ydel, Princess Jennyvee G.
Lahip, Anne Judiel S.
Labrador, Frank Erick G.
Rodil, Maria Victoria B.
Abstract:
Social media has become a primary source of information among students, especially in shaping their political awareness. Because of this, it is important to understand how social media use affects students’ political awareness, as their engagement with digital platforms may shape their understanding of current events, political issues, and democratic participation. This study aimed to determine the effect of social media usage on the political awareness of students at Divine Word College of San Jose. This study utilized a descriptive-correlational research design and a validated researcher-made instrument. 67 randomly selected first-year college students participated in this study. The findings revealed that students are frequently exposed to political content, including memes, infographics, short-form videos, and text posts, which significantly influence their political awareness. The results also indicated that while social media increases political awareness, it may also contribute to biased perspectives depending on the type of content viewed. Overall, the findings highlight that social media plays a significant role in shaping students’ political views. Thus, teachers may include in their discussions the responsible use of social media, critical thinking, and political awareness. Especially in subjects related to communication, social science, and ethics, this may help students gain a clearer understanding of political memes, infographics, short videos, and text posts before forming their own opinions. This study recommends that the guidance and counseling office implement programs that promote respectful discussion, responsible use of digital media, and awareness of misinformation and online division of opinion. Since social media significantly influences students’ political views, these programs may help maintain orderly, positive discourse.
Keywords: social media, political views, political memes, social media usage, political awareness
DOI: https://doi.org/10.5861/ijrsm.2026.26017
Cite this article:
Valdez, L. V. V., Del Rosario, C. F. J., Pamaran, A. W. C., Ydel, P. J. G., Lahip, A. J. S., Labrador, F. E. G., & Rodil, M. V. B. (2026). Social media usage and political awareness of the students. International Journal of Research Studies in Management, 14(2), 73-82. https://doi.org/10.5861/ijrsm.2026.26017
* Corresponding Author