Date of Award

Spring 2020

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department

Higher Education Policy and Student Affairs

Committee Chairperson

Matthew Kruger-Ross, Ph.D.

Committee Member

James Tweedy, Ed.D.

Committee Member

Jacqueline Hodes, Ed.D.

Abstract

In this thesis, I will be examining the impact social media has on student success. I do not define success as only academic success. I believe success is a combination of mental and physical well-being, academic success, and the opportunities available to students during their time at the institution as well as after. The guiding question for my research is: how is social media negating students to reach their full potential? I will use the works of John Dewy, Paulo Friere, Arthur Chickering and others in hopes to address this question of concern. My overarching thesis is social media is negatively impacting student development and future success. To combat this concern, I have created a program that addresses how social media negates student success. The PAUSE program is a four-session workshop offered to first year and transfer students. The PAUSE program challenges students to pause before they post and ask themselves: is the post positive, authentic, unique, supportive or empathetic. The success of this program will be determined by the dedication of the advisor and mentors. The sessions will tackle stress, procrastination, and carelessness. Each of these adjectives negates the three aspects of success that I am trying to improve. Lastly, I will discuss what limitations and improvements could be made in the future to improve my intervention.

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