Background of the Study
Peer mentoring is an essential component of student development, fostering academic success, emotional support, and social integration. In secondary schools, students often struggle with academic challenges, career uncertainties, and personal development issues, which can be effectively addressed through structured peer mentoring programs (Adebayo & Yusuf, 2023). Traditional mentoring approaches rely on face-to-face interactions, scheduled meetings, and school-based mentorship initiatives. However, these methods often suffer from inconsistencies due to time constraints, lack of mentorship structures, and the absence of effective monitoring mechanisms (Okonkwo & Ibrahim, 2024).
With the rapid growth of digital technology and social media platforms, integrating online communication tools into peer mentoring presents an innovative solution. Social media platforms such as WhatsApp, Facebook, and Telegram have become popular communication tools among students, offering real-time interaction, content sharing, and networking opportunities (Olawale & Musa, 2023). A Student Peer Mentoring System with social media integration can leverage these platforms to create a collaborative learning environment where students can seek guidance, share resources, and engage in academic and personal discussions.
In Makurdi Local Government Area, Benue State, secondary schools face several mentorship challenges, including limited availability of experienced mentors, difficulty in scheduling mentorship sessions, and a lack of structured mentoring programs. Many students require guidance in subject areas, career choices, and personal development, but existing mentorship frameworks are inadequate to meet these needs effectively. Social media integration offers a scalable solution, allowing students to access mentorship support beyond school hours and facilitating communication between mentors and mentees regardless of location (Adebayo & Salisu, 2023).
Despite the increasing adoption of digital tools in education, there is no dedicated Student Peer Mentoring System that integrates social media platforms for secondary schools in Makurdi. This study, therefore, seeks to develop a digital mentoring system that will enable students to connect with their peers, receive guidance, and engage in structured mentorship programs through an online platform integrated with social media functionalities.
Statement of the Problem
The absence of a structured peer mentoring system in secondary schools in Makurdi Local Government Area has resulted in a gap in student guidance and academic support. Traditional mentoring programs, where they exist, are limited by time constraints, insufficient mentor availability, and ineffective communication channels (Adebayo & Salisu, 2024). Many students require academic assistance, career counseling, and emotional support, but the lack of a well-organized mentoring structure makes it difficult for them to receive timely and consistent guidance.
Additionally, the reliance on physical mentorship meetings limits accessibility, as students and mentors may not always be available for face-to-face interactions. Some students are also hesitant to seek help due to social or cultural barriers, making it necessary to explore alternative, less intimidating communication methods (Okonkwo & Musa, 2024). The widespread use of social media among students provides an opportunity to bridge this gap, but there is currently no system in place that harnesses these platforms for structured peer mentoring.
Furthermore, existing mentoring programs in secondary schools do not provide mechanisms for tracking progress, monitoring mentor-mentee interactions, or ensuring accountability in the mentoring process. A digital Student Peer Mentoring System with social media integration can address these challenges by offering a structured, accessible, and interactive platform for student support. This study, therefore, aims to develop a digital mentoring system that integrates social media functionalities to enhance peer mentoring among secondary school students in Makurdi.
Objectives of the Study
To design and develop a Student Peer Mentoring System with social media integration for secondary schools in Makurdi Local Government Area, Benue State.
To assess the impact of the system on student academic performance, engagement, and mentorship accessibility.
To evaluate the usability and effectiveness of the system in facilitating structured peer mentoring relationships.
Research Questions
What are the key challenges faced by secondary school students in Makurdi regarding peer mentoring and academic support?
How can a Student Peer Mentoring System with social media integration improve student engagement and mentorship accessibility?
What impact will the implementation of the system have on students’ academic performance and personal development?
Research Hypotheses
The implementation of a Student Peer Mentoring System will significantly improve mentorship accessibility and student engagement.
There is a positive relationship between social media integration in peer mentoring and improved academic performance.
A digital peer mentoring system will enhance structured mentor-mentee interactions and improve student support mechanisms.
Significance of the Study
This study is significant as it introduces a technology-driven solution to enhance peer mentoring among secondary school students in Makurdi. By integrating social media platforms into the mentoring system, the research promotes interactive and accessible student guidance, allowing mentees to connect with their peers and receive academic and personal support beyond school hours. The system will benefit students by providing a structured platform for mentorship, while school administrators can monitor mentorship interactions and assess their effectiveness. Additionally, the study aligns with modern educational practices that leverage digital tools to improve student engagement and learning outcomes.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study is limited to the development and implementation of a Student Peer Mentoring System with social media integration for secondary schools in Makurdi Local Government Area, Benue State. The research will focus on evaluating the usability, effectiveness, and impact of the system on student mentoring and academic performance. Data collection will be restricted to selected secondary schools within Makurdi. The study will not extend to primary schools, tertiary institutions, or other local government areas outside Makurdi.
Definitions of Terms
Student Peer Mentoring System: A digital platform designed to facilitate mentorship relationships between students, enabling academic and personal guidance.
Social Media Integration: The incorporation of social media platforms such as WhatsApp, Facebook, and Telegram into an online system to enhance communication and engagement.
Mentorship Accessibility: The ease with which students can connect with mentors and access guidance through digital or face-to-face interactions.
Academic Performance: The level of achievement of students in their coursework, assessed through grades, test scores, and overall academic progress.
Student Engagement: The degree to which students actively participate in academic and mentorship activities, influenced by motivation, communication, and support structures.
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