International Research Journal of Education and Technology

This study investigates YouTube usage patterns among college students in Coimbatore, a prominent educational hub in Tamil Nadu, India. With YouTube’s growing influence as a platform for education, entertainment, and skill development, the research examines its impact on students’ academic performance, time management, and social behaviour. Utilizing a quantitative approach, data was collected from 112 respondents through structured questionnaires, focusing on frequency, duration, content preferences, and purposes of use. Findings reveal that 89% of students use YouTube, primarily for entertainment (31%) and education (26%), with 52% spending less than an hour daily, mostly via smartphones (41%). The platform supports academic learning for 38% of students, though only 32% find it somewhat helpful. Fitness content (36%) and YouTube Shorts (63%) are highly popular, but 45% perceive YouTube as addictive, raising concerns about distraction and procrastination. The study highlights YouTube’s dual role as a valuable learning tool and a potential source of time mismanagement. Recommendations include integrating YouTube into curricula, promoting digital well-being, and enhancing affordable internet access to optimize its benefits while mitigating drawbacks for students’ academic and personal growth.