Author 1 :- kanak lata ( Research Scholar )
Author 2 :- Dr. Meenakshi Sharma ( Professor )
In the modern educational landscape, the internet has become a pervasive tool for learning, communication, and entertainment. While academic-oriented internet use can enhance knowledge acquisition and performance, unregulated or excessive use—especially for recreational purposes—may hinder academic outcomes. Study habits, encompassing organization, time management, concentration, and strategic learning behaviors, play a crucial role in determining how students utilize digital resources. This study investigates the mediating role of study habits in the relationship between internet use and academic performance among senior secondary students. A sample of 500 students from 15 schools was selected using stratified random sampling to ensure representation across gender, socio-economic background, and academic streams. Data were collected through standardized questionnaires assessing internet usage patterns, study habits, and academic performance (grade point averages and examination scores). Data analysis involved descriptive statistics, correlation, regression, and mediation analysis using the PROCESS macro in SPSS. Results indicate that study habits significantly mediate the relationship between internet use and academic performance. Structured internet use combined with strong study habits positively correlates with academic achievement, whereas unstructured or excessive recreational use combined with poor study habits negatively impacts performance. The findings underscore the importance of fostering disciplined study behaviors and guiding responsible digital engagement to optimize academic success in senior secondary education.
