Research Proposal
Title:
“The Impact of Mobile Phone Usage on Academic Performance of Secondary School Students”
1. Introduction
With the widespread availability of smartphones and mobile internet, students are increasingly dependent on mobile phones not just for communication but also for learning and entertainment. However, excessive or improper use may negatively affect study habits and academic achievement. This study aims to explore the relationship between mobile phone usage and academic performance among secondary school students.
2. Statement of the Problem
Despite mobile phones being used as educational tools, concerns are rising about their misuse for non-academic purposes like social media, gaming, and video streaming. This research seeks to understand whether mobile phone use is helping or hindering students in their academic success.
3. Objectives of the Study
- To examine the extent and purpose of mobile phone usage among secondary students
- To study the academic performance of students with high and low mobile phone usage
- To identify the relationship between mobile phone use and academic achievement
- To suggest strategies for balanced use of mobile phones for educational purposes
4. Research Questions
- How frequently do secondary school students use mobile phones?
- What are the primary purposes of their mobile phone usage (educational or non-educational)?
- Is there a significant difference in academic performance between students with high and low mobile usage?
- What guidelines can help promote healthy digital habits among students?
5. Hypothesis
- Null Hypothesis (H0): There is no significant relationship between mobile phone usage and academic performance of secondary school students.
- Alternative Hypothesis (H1): There is a significant negative relationship between excessive mobile phone usage and academic performance of students.
6. Methodology
Research Design: Descriptive and correlational study
Population: Secondary school students from Classes 9 and 10
Sample: 100 students selected through stratified random sampling from two government and two private schools
Tools for Data Collection:
- Structured questionnaire on mobile phone usage patterns
- Academic records (previous term’s marks)
- Interviews with teachers and parents (optional)
7. Data Analysis
- Frequency analysis to understand usage patterns
- Mean and standard deviation to compare performance
- Pearson correlation to examine relationship between mobile use and academic scores
8. Limitations
- The study may be limited to urban or semi-urban students
- Responses may be biased due to self-reporting by students
9. Expected Outcomes
- Understanding how mobile usage patterns influence academic performance
- Providing evidence for creating school policies on digital device usage
- Promoting awareness among students, teachers, and parents about balanced mobile use
10. Conclusion
This research will contribute to educational planning by offering insights into how modern digital habits intersect with academic success. The findings can help develop effective strategies for guiding students to use mobile technology in a productive and balanced manner.