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@article{177243,
        author = {VALLEM RANADHEER REDDY and CHIRRA ANIL and RANJITH KUMAR BANDELA and GOUTHAM KUNAMALLA},
        title = {The Impact of Smartphone Usage on Students' Academic Engagement: A Case Study},
        journal = {International Journal of Innovative Research in Technology},
        year = {2025},
        volume = {11},
        number = {12},
        pages = {3061-3071},
        issn = {2349-6002},
        url = {https://ijirt.org/article?manuscript=177243},
        abstract = {The rapid proliferation of smart phones has transformed modern education, offering both opportunities and challenges for students and educators alike. While smart phones provide easy access to information, communication, and educational tools, their pervasive use during instructional time has raised concerns about declining academic interest and focus among students. This case study investigates the influence of smart phone usage on students’ academic engagement at [Insert Institution Name], focusing on behavioural trends, perceived distractions, and the relationship between device usage and academic performance.
Using a mixed-methods approach, the study surveyed 120 undergraduate students and conducted in-depth interviews with 12 participants to gain qualitative insights. Quantitative data were gathered on daily screen time, primary smart phone activities during lectures, and students' self-reported levels of concentration and motivation. The findings revealed a strong correlation between excessive smart phone use—particularly for non-academic purposes such as social media and gaming—and reduced academic engagement. Students frequently reported difficulties in maintaining attention during classes and completing assignments on time. Additionally, 72% of respondents admitted to checking their phones multiple times during lectures, even when not prompted by notifications.
Interviews further highlighted a psychological dependency on smart phones, with some students expressing anxiety or discomfort when disconnected, which further impacted their academic routines. However, the study also identified that when used intentionally for learning (e.g., accessing educational apps, digital note-taking, and research), smart phones can enhance engagement.
The research concludes that while smart phones hold potential as learning tools, their misuse significantly detracts from students’ academic focus and participation. Institutions should consider implementing structured digital policies and promoting digital mindfulness to help students strike a balance between connectivity and concentration. The study recommends further research on intervention strategies, such as app usage monitoring, focused learning apps, and awareness workshops, to mitigate the negative impact of smart phones on academic life.},
        keywords = {Smartphone usage, academic engagement, student behaviour, digital distraction, mobile learning, higher education},
        month = {May},
        }