Open Journal of Educational Research

Volume 5, Number 3, 2025

Open Access May 24, 2025 Endnote/Zotero/Mendeley (RIS) BibTeX

Exploring Smartphone Use and Learning Behaviors among Senior High School Students: Insights from a Developing Region in Indonesia

Open Journal of Educational Research 2025, 5(3), 103-110. DOI: 10.31586/ojer.2025.6099
Abstract
Smartphone use among adolescents has surged globally, reshaping communication and learning patterns, especially in developing countries. However, the implications of such digital habits on students in rural or under-resourced areas remain underexplored. This study aims to examine the patterns of smartphone usage and its effects on learning among high school
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Smartphone use among adolescents has surged globally, reshaping communication and learning patterns, especially in developing countries. However, the implications of such digital habits on students in rural or under-resourced areas remain underexplored. This study aims to examine the patterns of smartphone usage and its effects on learning among high school students in Tarutung, a developing region of North Sumatra, Indonesia. Utilizing a quantitative descriptive approach, data were collected from 358 students using structured questionnaires. The results show that 96.05% of students own personal smartphones regardless of socioeconomic background, with an average daily usage of 4 hours and 45 minutes. While 91.81% believe smartphones support their learning, 25.99% report declining academic performance. Alarmingly, 20.62% of students admitted involvement in cyberbullying activities, highlighting a critical digital risk impacting the school environment and student well-being. The study concludes that although smartphones offer educational benefits, their misuse can lead to negative academic, social, and psychological outcomes. This study recommends digital literacy curricula and structured cooperation between parents and educators to prevent risks while optimizing educational opportunities in smartphone use.Full article
Article
ISSN: 2770-5552
DOI prefix: 10.31586/ojer
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