Tuesday 08 April 2025
The relationship between social networks and academic performance has been a topic of interest for educators and researchers alike. A recent study published in the Rangsit Journal of Educational Studies delves into this phenomenon, examining the correlation between students’ social roles and their academic outcomes.
The research focused on undergraduate students at a Thai university, analyzing their social networks through questionnaires and building two types of networks: friend networks and study- helper networks. The results showed that being a central member in these networks positively correlates with academic performance. This is not surprising, as having a strong support system can provide motivation and resources for success.
However, the study also found that isolators – students who have few or no connections to their peers – tend to perform poorly academically. This highlights the importance of social relationships in shaping educational outcomes. The researchers suggest that academic institutions should encourage the development of students’ social networks and strengthen these connections to promote better academic performance.
But what exactly is a central member, and how do they contribute to a student’s success? In the context of this study, being a central member means having a high degree of connectivity within the network. These individuals are often at the hub of social interactions, facilitating communication and collaboration among their peers. They may also be more likely to participate in extracurricular activities or group projects, which can enhance their learning experience.
In contrast, isolators tend to have few connections outside of their immediate circle of friends. This lack of social integration can lead to feelings of loneliness, disconnection, and decreased motivation. The study suggests that educators should strive to create an environment that fosters inclusivity and social cohesion, encouraging students to form meaningful relationships with one another.
The researchers also analyzed the role of clique members and liaisons in the networks. Clique members are students who are part of a close-knit group, while liaisons are individuals who connect different groups or cliques together. While these roles were not found to have a significant impact on academic performance, they do play an important role in shaping social dynamics within the network.
The study’s findings have implications for educational policy and practice. By recognizing the importance of social relationships in shaping student outcomes, educators can develop strategies to promote inclusivity, diversity, and social cohesion in the classroom. This might involve creating opportunities for students to engage in group projects or extracurricular activities, as well as fostering a sense of community and belonging among students.
Cite this article: “Unlocking Academic Success: A Network Analysis of Thai University Students Social Roles and Performance”, The Science Archive, 2025.
Social Networks, Academic Performance, Undergraduate Students, Thai University, Friend Networks, Study-Helpers, Isolators, Central Members, Social Relationships, Educational Outcomes
