EFFECTS OF EXCESSIVE USE OF SMARTPHONES ON THE TIME MANAGEMENT SKILLS OF GRADE 12 HUMANITIES AND SOCIAL SCIENCES STUDENTS AT IMMACULADA CONCEPCION COLLEGE

Abstract

In today's digital age, students use smartphones for a wide range of social and professional activities, provided they are configured appropriately. These devices enable tasks such as sending and receiving emails, scheduling meetings, completing reports, engaging in social media, and playing online games. This study aims to examine the impact of excessive smartphone use on the time management skills of Grade 12 Humanities and Social Sciences (HUMSS) students at Immaculada Concepcion College. The researchers employed quantitative research methods and a descriptive research design. To determine the appropriate sample size, stratified random sampling was used. A total of 238 respondents were selected from HUMSS Sections 1-16, excluding Section 11. Overall, the data from the survey questionnaire indicate that excessive smartphone use does not significantly affect the respondents' time management skills concerning academic activities, social media, online games, and communication. The findings revealed an average weighted mean of 1.53, indicating that students spend over four hours on their smartphones daily. The majority of respondents reported a "High Extent" of smartphone use for academic purposes, social media, and communication. However, overall time management skills were rated as "fair." The study's correlation analysis produced an r-value of -0.09813 and a p-value of <0.131672, suggesting no significant relationship between smartphone usage and time management skills, leading to the acceptance of the null hypothesis. Based on these findings, the researchers recommend that students maintain effective time management by implementing structured schedules or agendas to prioritize their responsibilities. Establishing clear plans can help students manage tasks, meet deadlines, and stay focused on their academic and personal commitments.