Impact of mobile phones on education in secondary day schools in Komothai area Githunguri sub-county.

Abstract

Mobile phones are a common sight in the hands of people especially secondary school students. Why teenagers fancy this device is an interesting observation where experts attach its significance to teenagers (students). Mobile social network poses new challenges to the educational sector that needs careful understanding and approach to address. The aim of this project is to assess the trend of mobile social networks usage among secondary schools student within Komothai region and how it affects their academic performance. The research will be conducted in some selected secondary schools consisting of students aged 14 to19 years. Both qualitative and quantitative research methods will be employed as data will be collected from 150 respondents through questionnaires and interviews. The researcher used convenient and purposive sampling techniques. The data was analyzed utilizing frequencies and percentages presented in form of tables. In the findings, the researcher established that mobile phones impacted both positively and negatively on their academic performance. The researcher concluded that in deciding the restriction or allowing use of mobile phones in schools, the stakeholders should look at the positive impact of use of mobile phones instead of banning their use in school without explaining why they banned them. If well used, they can bring good academic performance. Guidance should also be given to learners to avoid wastage of time which should be used to improve academic work. The researcher recommended that value-based control of mobile phones to be used to enhance proper use of mobile phones in academic work. Both advantages and disadvantages of use of mobile s to be discussed through seminars using guest speakers in order to sustain friendly relationship among learners.