The Pedagogical Influencers: A Phenomenological Study on the Impact of Teachers’ Social Media Content on Students’ Perspectives and Behaviors
Abstract
This study explored the lived experiences of junior high school students regarding the impact of teachers' social media content on their perspectives and behavior. Specifically, it examined how students experienced and interpreted teachers' social media posts, the influence of such content on their interest in learning, academic engagement, study habits, and behavior, the positive effects and challenges associated with teachers' online presence, students' perceptions of teachers as educators and educational influencers, and their suggestions for the responsible use of social media in education. The study employed a qualitative psychological phenomenological research design using semi-structured interviews with eight purposively selected Junior High School students in one of the School in the Division of Negros Occidental, consisting of two Grade 7, two Grade 8, two Grade 9, and two Grade 10 students. Data were analyzed through thematic analysis to identify significant patterns and meanings from the participants’ lived experiences. The findings revealed that teachers' social media presence generally produced positive educational outcomes by strengthening teacher-student relationships, increasing students' motivation, improving academic engagement, promoting positive study habits, and extending learning beyond the classroom. However, the participants also emphasized the importance of maintaining professionalism, ethical boundaries, privacy, and responsible online behavior to preserve teachers' credibility as role models. The study concluded that teachers' responsible and purposeful use of social media complemented classroom instruction and positively influenced students' perspectives and educational experiences. The findings contributed to a deeper understanding of the educational implications of teachers' digital presence and provided insights that may guide schools and educators in promoting responsible and meaningful social media engagement.