Analysis of using Smartphone in Learning

: Its Effect on the Academic Performance of Grade 12 STEM Students

A study in Inquiries, Investigations and Immersion (3I’s) Subject

Presented to

The Faculty of the Senior High School Department

Kapatagan National High School

Kapatagan, Lanao del Norte

In Partial Fulfillment

Of the Requirements for the Basic Education

Academic Track

Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) Strand

By
JONNIE A. PATORIO
 CHAPTER 1

Background of the Problem

Nowadays, the widespread use of smartphones among students has raised concerns about

its impact on their academic performance. While many argue that smartphones can enhance

learning by providing easy access to educational materials and digital resources, others are

concerned that excessive smartphone use can lead to distractions, addiction, and negative effects

on academic performance. Despite the potential benefits and drawbacks, there is a lack of

research on the impact of smartphone use on academic performance, particularly in the context

of higher education. This makes it difficult for students who are not informed about how to

integrate smartphones into the learning environment. Therefore, there is a need for a

comprehensive analysis of the use of smartphones in learning and its effect on academic

performance, including the identification of potential factors that influence the relationship

between smartphone use and academic outcomes. Such an analysis would provide valuable

insights into how educators and institutions can best leverage smartphones to enhance learning

while minimizing negative effects on academic performance.

A smartphone is a mobile device that combines the functions of a personal computer and

a mobile phone. It is capable of running a wide range of software applications, connecting to the

internet, and using various communication technologies, such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and cellular

networks. A smartphone typically includes a touch screen display, a high-quality camera, a

speaker, a microphone, and various sensors, such as an accelerometer and a GPS receiver. It also

has a powerful processor, sufficient memory, and storage capacity to run and store a wide range

of applications, including productivity software, social media, entertainment, and games.

Smartphone overuse can impair academic functioning, when students use their phones in class

instead of paying attention, and play on their phones in the evenings instead of studying and

doing homework. For example, frequent interruptions due to excessive smartphone use could be

associated with performance loss (Duke & Montag, 2017).

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.lindif.2021.102035