Application of social networks in shaping student opinion at universities in Vietnam

Abstract

     Social media has become an indispensable part of today's youth. However, relevant studies were still scarce and inconsistent. This study aims to analyze and evaluate the status of awareness, opinion and public opinion among students when using social networks. The study was randomly surveyed on 1,300 students at 5 universities in Ho Chi Minh City through online and face-to-face questionnaires. Descriptive statistics were used to present, analyze and evaluate the collected data. The results of this study show that social networks have both positive and negative sides. The use of social media has various impacts on learning and affects student learning outcomes through the reception, exchange of information, and interaction with faculty. The study proposes some solutions to orient the public opinion among students in a positive direction at universities in  Vietnam and to handle negative information or communication crises on social networks related to students of the university.