Social Media Impact on Reading Comprehension among Filipino Learners: A Systematic Review

This systematic review explores the impact of social media on reading comprehension
among Filipino learners, addressing a growing concern as social media becomes more integrated
into students' daily lives. With the Philippines ranking among the top countries for social media
usage, this study consolidates findings from various research to understand how these platforms
affect students' ability to comprehend and process text. The review highlights both positive and
negative influences. On one hand, excessive social media use is associated with reduced attention
spans, fragmented reading habits, and cognitive overload, all of which hinder deep reading and
comprehension. On the other hand, when social media is used for educational purposes—such as
online discussions, collaborative learning, and sharing of academic content—it can enhance student
engagement and improve comprehension skills. Despite these findings, the literature is lacking,
particularly regarding the long-term effects of social media on younger learners and the role of
different platforms. This review concludes with recommendations for future research and suggests
strategies for educators to harness social media's educational benefits while mitigating its
distractions.