Effect of Smartphone Usage on the Academic Performance of Students in Tertiary Institution

ABSTRACT

The use of smartphone is gradually becoming a compelling learning tool used to enhance teaching and learning in education. Its usage ensures flexible course delivery, makes it possible for learners to access online learning platforms, access course resources and interact digitally. The purpose of this study was to examine the use effects of the smartphone as a learning tool and also the solutions to it, at IBBUL University, Lapai. The study was based on the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) and included 100 total respondents. The survey research design and questionnaires were employed for the study. The major objectives of the study were: to determine the perceived usefulness of smartphone in students’ academic performance, to investigate the effect of the use of the smartphone in students’ academic performance, to investigate the factors that inhibit the use of a smartphone in student academic performance and also find the solution to the problem of smartphone in academic performance. The findings revealed that IBBUL students find it easier to use a smartphone in their learning activities. The findings also revealed that the use of smartphones performed remarkable roles among the students of IBBUL University, Niger state in their academic activities. However, the findings found a negative effect on the students use of phone and revealed some inhibiting factors in the use of smartphones which included smartphones freezing during important learning moments, unstable internet connectivity, intruding calls during class hours, and constant power cut, which made the smartphone uncomfortable for learning.