The effects of smartphone addiction on learning: A meta-analysis

• Published in: Computers in human behavior reports Vol. 4; p. 100114
• Main Authors: Sunday, Oluwafemi J., Adesope, Olusola O., Maarhuis, Patricia L.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Elsevier Ltd 01.08.2021; Elsevier
• Subjects: Learning; Mental health; Meta-analysis; Smartphone addiction; Technology addiction; Learning; Technology addiction; Smartphone addiction; Mental health; Meta-analysis
• ISSN: 2451-9588; 2451-9588
• DOI: 10.1016/j.chbr.2021.100114

Research on smartphone use among college students is extensive. Although numerous studies have examined the relationships between mobile phone use and academic achievements, many such studies have yielded mixed findings. Hence, the overarching goal of this meta-analysis was to comprehensively synthesize existing research to investigate the effects of smartphone addiction on learning. The authors included 44 studies (45 effects) in the analysis yielding a sample size of N ​= ​147,943 college students from 16 countries. The results show that smartphone addiction negatively impacts students' learning and overall academic performance (Q (43) ​= ​711.87, p ​< ​.001, r ​= ​−0.12). Further, findings suggest that the greater the use of a phone while studying, the greater the negative impact on learning and academic achievement. Additionally, the results suggest that skills and cognitive abilities needed for students’ academic success and learning are negatively impacted. Implications of these findings are discussed, and recommendations for future research are delineated. •Smartphone addiction has negative impacts on student learning and overall academic performance.•The greater the use of a phone while studying, the greater the negative impact on learning.•The skills and cognitive abilities students needed for academic success are negatively affected by excessive phone use.•The results of this meta-analysis implied that addicted users show a diminished level in learning.