As technology continues to advance, smartphones have become an integral part of our daily lives. It’s hard to imagine going a day without checking our phones. However, excessive use of mobile phones can hinder one’s academic progress, and that’s why students should limit their phone usage while in college.
Distraction and decreased productivity are among the significant impacts of mobile phone usage. A study conducted by the University of California, Irvine, found that it takes almost 23 minutes for a distracted person to resume a task. Imagine how much work a student could achieve within that span of time. With regular phone notifications, students lose concentration and fail to keep up with their academic requirements.
Additionally, mobile phones have been identified as a source of stress, which is common among college students. Most students feel the need to stay connected to their friends and family, and they constantly check their phones for updates. It’s not surprising that students are often anxious and stressed, which negatively impacts their academic performance.
Social media platforms such as TikTok, Instagram, and others can be a great source of entertainment, but they can also distract students from studying. A study showed that students are more likely to use social media when they are supposed to be studying. Social media consumption is a time-waster, and students could use that time to study, prepare for exams or engage in productive activities like sports.
Lastly, mobile phones have been linked to poor mental health outcomes among college students. Students who spend more time on their phones are at a higher risk of developing depression, anxiety, and stress. These mental disorders can cause poor academic performance, difficulty in staying focused, and decreased motivation.
In conclusion, students should limit their mobile phone usage while in college. Constant phone notifications cause distraction, reduce productivity, and hinder academic success. Social media is also a significant predictor of academic performance, and students should avoid it and focus on their studies. Lastly, excessive phone usage can lead to poor mental health, which negatively impacts one’s academic progress. Thus, it’s important for students to minimize phone usage and instead channel their energy into their coursework, social interactions, and self-care activities.
