Impact of Social Media Use on Students' Learning Outcomes, Attention Span and Social Development

Mr Victor Lye asked the Minister for Education (a) what trends have schools observed regarding social media usage among students; and (b) whether excessive use affects learning outcomes, attention span or social development.

During curriculum time, there are limited opportunities for students to access social media. However, we know that they are spending time online after school. A local survey by CNA and the Institute of Policy Studies in 2024 found our youths spending an average of 1.5 hours daily on social networking activities. Anecdotally, we would all know students who spend way more than that amount of time on online games and social media sites.

The potential harms of social media on youth have been studied by many international researchers. Notably, excessive use of social media has been linked to poorer student well-being, affecting their attention span, learning outcomes and social development negatively. Algorithms on social media sites not only lengthen dwell time but can also lead to echo chambers and repeated exposure to negative content.

This is why the Ministry of Education (MOE) has introduced Cyber Wellness lessons in Character and Citizenship Education for primary, secondary and pre-university students to teach them how to maintain a healthy balance of online and offline activities, including managing the use of social media. Students also learn how to recognise risks online, identify negative influences and avoid excessive use of social media as these have an impact on their well-being. In addition, the Ministry of Digital Development and Information, MOE and the Ministry of Social and Family Development have also jointly developed the Positive Use Guide on Technology and Social Media, which provides youths with practical tips on building healthy and balanced relationships with technology. Relevant portions have been incorporated into Cyber Wellness lessons.

The Positive Use Guide is also useful for parents, who play a key role in guiding and monitoring their child's online activities. Schools will continue to work with parents by sharing resources, expert insights and strategies through relevant platforms, including Parents Gateway, to help parents guide their child in the use of technology and devices.