THE IMPACT OF SMARTPHONES ON THE ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE OF GRADE 12 HUMANITIES AND SOCIAL SCIENCES STUDENTS AT IMMACULADA CONCEPCION COLLEGE

Abstract

Modern technology has significantly transformed people's lives, with smartphones emerging as one of the most influential innovations of the 21st century. Among teenagers, smartphones have become essential tools for communication, education, and entertainment. While these devices offer a wide range of functionalities, excessive smartphone use may negatively impact academic performance. Encouraging responsible technology use among younger generations can enhance learning by leveraging digital tools, software, and other technical resources. This study aims to examine the impact of smartphone usage on the academic performance of Grade 12 HUMSS students at Immaculada Concepcion College. This study employs a quantitative research method with a descriptive design. To determine the appropriate sample size, the researchers utilized stratified random sampling. Data was collected from 238 Grade 12 HUMSS students across sections 1 to 16 (excluding section 11). The findings indicate that the majority of respondents perceive smartphone usage as having a significant positive impact on their academic performance and social interactions. The computed r-value for this study is +0.5351, with a p-value of 0.976166, indicating that smartphone usage has a significant impact on the academic performance of the respondents. This result led to the rejection of the null hypothesis. The researchers recommend that students practice responsible smartphone usage by learning to balance their time effectively. They should aim to use their smartphones for both academic and non-academic purposes in a way that minimizes potential negative impacts on their academic performance.