The Relationship Between Social Media Use and Critical Thinking Ability to Critical Reading Skills in College Students

Abstract

In the digital era, social media is explored as a potential tool for enhancing academic skills like critical reading. This study investigates the correlation between social media use, critical thinking ability, and critical reading skills among 40 university students in Yogyakarta using a quantitative correlational design. Data collection included questionnaires and assessments, which were validated for reliability and content validity. Results showed a significant correlation between social media usage and critical thinking with reading skills, with critical thinking ability influencing reading skills significantly (β = 0.447, p < 0.05). However, social media's direct effect was weaker (β = 0.189, p > 0.05). Together, both factors were found to improve critical reading skills (R² = 0.334, F = 7.772, p < 0.05). The study emphasizes the dual role of social media as a facilitator and distraction, recommending the integration of media literacy and critical thinking in education to enhance student learning.