Answer to Question 1
Research results examining social media are mixed. For instance, some research suggests that its extensive use may hinder academic adjustment and be an indicator of lowered self-esteem in undergraduate college students. Extensive use of social media has been linked to narcissism and jealousy, particularly in romantic relationships. Research has also identified phenomena such as Internet addiction disorder or problematic Internet use, with people having this disorder being unable to function normally without the Internet and particularly social media.
On the other hand, people have strong social needs, and social media, used properly, can be a tool that can help meet this need. And, social media now results in the virtually instantaneous spread of information that can be a social force impossible even as recently as 10 to 15 years ago.
Answer to Question 2
With respect to gender, some evidence indicates that girls tend to be more metacognitive than boys in their approaches to learning. This is likely consistent with girls' generally more conscientious approaches to their study. With respect to linguistic diversity, the cognitive load on second language learners' working memories is often high because they are dealing with both language and the topic they're studying, so metacognitive monitoring is often difficult for them. With respect to cultural diversity, beliefs are important factors. For instance, Asian students tend to believe that learning is a demanding process that requires a great deal of effort and perseverance, so Asian parents and teachers often emphasize memorization and rote learning to a greater extent than do teachers from mainstream Western cultures, such as the United States. And, finally, learners with exceptionalities, and particularly those with learning disabilities and behavior disorders don't acquire metacognitive strategies through the normal course of development in the same way as do their peers. However, with effort and practice they can be taught to be metacognitive, and promoting the development of these abilities represents one of the most promising educational trends in working with students having exceptionalities.