THE POWER OF FIVE: IDENTIFYING SMCIQC COLLEGE STUDENTS' MOST VISITED WEBSITES FOR ACADEMIC AND PROFESSIONAL GROWTH

Abstract

This research investigates the top five websites most frequently used by SMCIQC college students and examines their impact on academic and professional development in the digital age. Employing a descriptive quantitative approach through surveys, the study aims to identify the key digital tools and strategies students use to support their learning and career objectives. It analyzes how these websites facilitate research, collaboration, communication, and time management, as well as their role in enhancing professional skills and networking opportunities. Ultimately, the study seeks to understand the digital habits that shape the academic and professional growth of these students. This study employs a descriptive quantitative approach to examine the digital habits of SMCIQC students using survey questionnaires. It aims to identify measurable trends in website usage, highlighting key behaviors and their impacts. The use of quantitative data analysis ensures objective results, enhancing the reliability and generalizability of the findings. SMCIQC college students primarily use Google, Gizmo, YouTube, Britannica, and Wikipedia for both academic and personal purposes, with Google being the most frequently accessed. Google Scholar and YouTube are particularly recognized for their positive impact on academic performance, providing access to scholarly articles and educational tutorials. These platforms offer tools and features that support research, problem-solving, and the development of professional skills. However, challenges such as questionable credibility and potential distractions remain. To address these issues, institutions can offer workshops and provide curated content to help students maximize the benefits of these platforms for academic and professional growth. This research emphasizes the importance of strategically integrating digital tools to support the academic and professional development of SMCIQC college students. Educators are encouraged to implement workshops and training programs, while institutions should collaborate with digital platforms and address accessibility challenges. Policymakers are urged to incorporate digital tools into curricula and promote inclusivity by leveraging emerging technologies. Addressing issues such as information overload and financial barriers is essential and can be achieved through the creation of resource hubs and the integration of student feedback mechanisms. The study highlights students’ strategic use of platforms like Google Scholar and LinkedIn, paving the way for targeted interventions to optimize the digital learning environment.