Effects of Cell phone Use on Study Habits and Academic Performance of Learners

Abstract

The main purpose of this study was to determine the effect of cell phone use on the study habits and academic performance of the Grade 6 and 8 learners. This study utilized a descriptive comparative design of research that examined the extent of cell phone use, study habits and academic performance among the three groups of learners. The following major findings of the study were revealed: All groups got “satisfactory” study habits. Their academic performance, on the other hand, was interpreted as “proficient” with a general weighted average of 85.37.; There is no significant difference between the three groups in terms of their study habits.; However, there exist significant differences between the academic performance of the three groups. With a p-value of 0.013, it was found out that significant differences lie between infrequent users and moderate users as well as infrequent users and frequent users.  Based from the conclusions, the following recommendations are hereby formulated: There is a vital need to sensitize learners and educators about the potential academic risks associated with high cell phone use. It is also recommended for teachers to apply a detailed guidance and explanation on how to use cell phones appropriately in classroom settings. Moreover, the school management must be more alive to their responsibilities by ensuring conformity to the school laid down rules and regulations on student’s use of mobile phone device during class session.