CHAPTER 1
INTRODUCTION
1.1. Background and rationale
Mobile phones have really become a huge part of students'
everyday lives. At Libertad National High School, most Grade 11
students rely on their phones to chat with friends, scroll through social
media, play games, or even tackle school assignments. Although
smartphones can be beneficial for learning, such as when searching for
information or accessing online materials, they can also lead to
distractions. If students spend too much time on their phones, it could
impact their focus, time management, and even their grades.
Research has shown a slight negative association between
smartphone addiction and academic performance. For instance, a
significant study involving about 150,000 college students found a
correlation of around –0.12, indicating that higher phone addiction often
means lower academic results (Roberts, Yaya, & Manolis, 2014). Other
studies have discovered that using phones during class or multitasking
can result in poor concentration, reduced memory retention, and lower
test scores (Kuznekoff & Titsworth, 2013; Harvard GSE, 2022).
In the Philippines, excessive phone use among high school
students has been linked to increased stress, diminished motivation,
and poorer academic outcomes. A 2021 study by David, Pila, and
Tolentino examined over 3,300 Filipino high school students and found
that patterns of smartphone use, along with factors such as
nomophobia (fear of being without a phone) and smartphone addiction,
were
significant predictors of lower perceived academic performance (David,
Pila, & Tolentino, 2021).
Grade 11 is a crucial year for students, as it sets the stage for their
final year in high school and their future in college or careers. However,
spending too much time on mobile phones, especially for non-
educational purposes, can hinder studying and completing schoolwork.
Therefore, our research is aimed at understanding how mobile phone
use impacts the academic performance of Grade 11 students in
Libertad National High School. This study also hopes to encourage
healthier and more responsible phone habits among students.
1.2. Statement of the problem
This study seeks to investigate the relationship between mobile
phone usage and the academic performance of Grade 11 students in
Libertad National High School. While phones can serve as useful
educational tools, they can also distract students and potentially
negatively affect their academic performance.
The study aims to answer the following questions:
1. How many hours do Grade 11 students spend on their phones
each day?
2. What activities do they mainly engage in on their phones (such
as social media, gaming, studying, etc.)?
3. Is there a significant difference in academic performance
between
4. students who frequently use their phones and those who don’t?
2
5. How does phone use during study time affect their concentration
and ability to complete assignments?
6. What recommendations do students, teachers, and parents
have for managing phone use to enhance academic
performance?
7. What is the impact of mobile phone usage and academic
performance among Grade 11 students in Libertad National
High School?
1.3. Objectives of the study
1.3.1. General objective:
To understand how mobile phone usage influences the academic
performance of Grade 11 students at Libertad National High School.
1.3.2. Specific objectives:
1. To analyze the impact of mobile phone usage and academic
performance among Grade 11 students in Libertad National
High School.
2. To identify the most common activities they engage in on their
phones, such as social media, gaming, chatting, watching
videos, or studying.
3. To compare the academic performance between students who
often use their phones and those who don’t.
4. To assess how phone usage while studying impacts students'
focus and their ability to complete assignments.
5. To gather insights from students, teachers, and parents on
3
managing phone usage more effectively.
6. To examine the effect of late-night phone usage on students’
sleep quality and academic performance.
1.4. Scope and limitations of the study
This study focused on the mobile phone usage and its impact on
the academic performance of the Grade 11 students in Libertad
National High School for the school year 2025–2026. The respondents
of the study were 100 Grade 11 students who were randomly selected
from different sections to fairly represent the population of the grade
level. The study examined the number of hours students spent using
their mobile phones and the common activities they engaged in such
as browsing social media, playing games, chatting, watching videos,
and studying. It further investigated how these habits influenced their
academic performance, particularly in terms of their focus and
concentration during lessons, participation in class discussions,
completion of school requirements, and results in quizzes and
examinations. The study was conducted during the first semester,
second grading period, to provide a clearer picture of students’ mobile
phone practices and their relationship to academic outcomes within a
specific timeframe. The scope of this research was limited only to
Grade 11 students of Libertad National High School and did not include
other grade levels or schools. Furthermore, it focused only on
academic performance and did not consider other possible effects of
mobile phone usage such as emotional well-being, health-related
issues, or behavioral changes.
4
1.5. Significance of the study
This research is significant as it can aid various groups in
understanding how mobile phone use impacts students' academic
performance:
For Students. It encourages them to reflect on their own phone habits
and adopt more responsible usage.
For Teachers. It may provide insights on reducing distractions in class
and fostering better study practices (Kuznekoff & Titsworth, 2013).
For Parents. It can help them establish more effective rules regarding
screen time at home and understand how excessive smartphone use
can affect learning (David, Pila, & Tolentino, 2021).
For School Leaders and Policymakers. It offers valuable information
to inform the development of school policies or programs that balance
technology use with effective learning.
1.6. Definition of terms
Academic Performance refers to how well students achieve in their
grades and manage their time, focus, and task completion.
Concentration refers to the ability to maintain focus on schoolwork
without getting distracted.
Gaming refers to playing games on phones, whether they are simple
or complex.
5
Grade 11 Students are students in the second year of Senior High
School, usually aged 16–17.
Mobile Phone Usage refers to the duration of time and types of
activities students engage in on their phones.
Responsible Usage refers to using phones thoughtfully in a way that
enhances learning and limits distractions.
Social Media refers to online platforms like TikTok, Facebook, and
Instagram that enable students to connect, share, and consume
content.
Study Time refers to the period during which students engage in
homework, lesson reviews, and test preparations.
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CHAPTER 2
REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE
Mobile phones are now a regular part of students’ daily lives. They
are used for communication, entertainment, research, and even as
study tools. Because of this, many researchers have studied how
mobile phone usage affects the academic performance of students.
Some results show that phones can support learning, while others
prove that they can be a major source of distraction when not used
responsibly. This section reviews both local and international studies
that are connected to the present research on Grade 11 students of
Libertad National High School.
In the Philippines, Buctot, Kim, and Kim (2021) examined the
relationship between patterns of smartphone use, nomophobia, and
perceived academic performance among high school students. The
findings revealed that those who frequently used their phones for non-
academic activities, such as gaming and social media, reported lower
levels of academic performance. The study emphasized that too much
focus on mobile phones often leads to less time spent on academic
work, which affects concentration and grades.
Furthermore, Dalope and Woods (2021) also conducted a study on
Filipino senior high school students, focusing on how mobile phone use
during study hours affects school performance. They found that
overuse of mobile phones often resulted in procrastination, incomplete
schoolwork, and poor study habits. However, they also pointed out
7
that when phones were used moderately and for academic purposes,
they provided access to useful educational materials and made
communication with teachers easier.
Another study by Buctot, Kim, and Kim (2020) explored the
connection between smartphone addiction and lifestyle profiles among
junior and senior high school students in the Philippines. Their findings
showed that students who were heavy users of mobile phones
experienced greater difficulties in time management, higher stress
levels, and weaker academic focus. This suggests that mobile phone
usage does not only affect academic results but also shapes how
students handle responsibilities and manage their daily routines.
Moreover, Adriano (2019) studied mobile phone dependency
among Filipino college students and discovered that students who
were highly dependent on their phones were more likely to be
distracted during study hours. These students often used their phones
late at night, which affected their sleep schedule and made them less
productive in school. The study concluded that mobile phone
dependency is strongly related to lower academic performance.
Finally, Garcia and Geronimo (2022) investigated how mobile
phone usage affects classroom engagement among high school
students in the Philippines. They found that constant checking of social
networking apps during class distracted students from lessons and
reduced their participation in discussions. The study highlighted that
8
even when teachers were delivering lessons, many students were
tempted to use their phones, leading to weaker academic focus.
International research also supports these findings. Samaha and
Hawi (2016) in Lebanon examined smartphone addiction, stress, and
academic performance among university students. Their study showed
that students with higher levels of phone addiction had higher stress
and lower grades. The researchers emphasized that schools and
universities should help students learn how to control their phone use
during study time to reduce distractions.
Similarly, Lepp, Barkley, and Karpinski (2014) in the United States
studied the relationship between total daily cell phone use and GPA
among college students. They discovered that heavy phone users had
lower GPAs compared to students who used their phones less. In
addition, the study revealed that excessive use of mobile phones often
caused students to multitask, which reduced their ability to study
effectively.
In Europe, Kates, Wu, and Coryn (2018) investigated the effects of
simply having a smartphone nearby during study tasks. They found
that even when phones were not actively used, their presence reduced
students’ memory recall and focus. This study revealed that the
distraction caused by mobile phones goes beyond usage—it can also
affect concentration just by being within reach.
In South Korea, Lee, Kim, and Lee (2017) examined mobile
phone usage among high school students and its link to academic
9
achievement. Their findings showed that students who engaged more
in mobile gaming and social networking performed worse academically
compared to those who used their phones mainly for school-related
purposes. The study recommended that students manage their time
wisely to avoid wasting too much on non-academic phone activities.
Lastly, van der Schuur, Baumgartner, Sumter, and Valkenburg
(2015) in the Netherlands analyzed the effects of media multitasking,
including mobile phone use, on academic performance. They
discovered that students who frequently switched between studying
and checking their phones had weaker comprehension and lower
grades. This study emphasized that multitasking divides attention and
makes it harder for students to retain information.
Taken together, these local and international studies highlight both
the positive and negative effects of mobile phone usage among
students. They show that mobile phones can support learning when
used responsibly for research and communication, but can also harm
academic performance when they are overused for entertainment and
social media. Furthermore, they confirm that issues such as distraction,
time management, stress, and reduced concentration are common
across different contexts.
Overall, these studies provide a strong foundation for the present
research on Grade 11 students at Libertad National High School. Just
like in the reviewed studies, this research will investigate how much
time students spend on their phones, what activities they engage in,
10
and how these habits affect their academic performance in terms of
class participation, assignments, and test results. By connecting these
findings to the local setting of Libertad National High School, this study
aims to give a clearer understanding of the role mobile phones play in
the lives of senior high school students. Thus, these studies serve as a
basis and inspiration for the present research.
11
CHAPTER 3
THEORETICAL AND CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK
3.1. Theoretical framework
This study is anchored on three modern theories that explain the
possible effects of mobile phone usage on the academic performance
of students. These theories are important because they provide a
deeper understanding of why students rely heavily on their phones,
how excessive use can interfere with their focus, and how these
patterns of behavior may influence their school performance. By
grounding the study in these theories, the research gains a clearer
direction in analyzing the connection between mobile phone usage and
the academic experiences of Grade 11 students at Libertad National
High School.
The first is the Self-Determination Theory by Deci and Ryan (2000).
According to this theory, human motivation is driven by three basic
needs: autonomy (the need to have control over one’s choices),
competence (the need to feel capable and successful), and
relatedness (the need to connect with others). In the context of mobile
phone use, students often fulfill these needs through activities such as
chatting with friends, playing online games, or browsing social media.
While these behaviors satisfy personal desires, they may also distract
from academic responsibilities. Furthermore, when the motivation for
entertainment outweighs the motivation for schoolwork, students are
12
more likely to prioritize phone activities over studying or completing
assignments. This theory is important because it explains why students
continuously return to their phones even when they know it may harm
their academic performance.
The second is the Media Multitasking Theory by Ophir, Nass, and
Wagner (2009). Based on this theory, people who engage in multiple
media activities at the same time, such as studying while scrolling
through TikTok or messaging, struggle with maintaining focus and
retaining information. According to Ophir and his colleagues, frequent
switching of attention creates cognitive overload, making it harder for
the brain to process information effectively. For students, this means
that using mobile phones during study sessions weakens their
concentration, reduces memory retention, and lowers the quality of
their schoolwork. Moreover, this theory directly supports the concern of
this study since many Grade 11 students may attempt to juggle
academic tasks with constant phone usage, leading to poor
performance in class participation, assignments, and tests.
The third is the Conservation of Resources (COR) Theory by
Hobfoll (2001). According to this theory, individuals have limited
resources such as time, energy, and attention, and they strive to
protect and manage these resources. However, when resources are
overused in one area, less is available for other important tasks. In the
case of students, spending long hour on mobile phones, whether for
gaming, social media, or late-night chatting, consumes much of their
time and energy, leaving fewer resources for studying, preparing for
13
exams, or resting. Furthermore, constant phone use may drain their
mental energy, which could result in weaker academic performance
and reduced classroom engagement. This theory is very relevant to
this research since it highlights how the overuse of mobile phones can
lead to a loss of resources that are essential for academic success.
Taken together, these three theories provide a strong foundation
for understanding the relationship between mobile phone usage and
academic performance. The Self-Determination Theory explains why
students are motivated to use their phones, the Media Multitasking
Theory shows how divided attention affects concentration and learning,
and the Conservation of Resources Theory highlights how excessive
phone use consumes the time and energy students need for
academics. By using these theories as a guide, this study examines
not only how much time Grade 11 students spend on their phones but
also how these habits connect to their overall performance in class
participation, assignments, and examinations. These theories therefore
provide a solid basis for exploring the role of mobile phone usage in the
academic lives of students at Libertad National High School.
3.2. Conceptual framework
Figure 1 shows the relationship of the independent variable (Mobile
Phone Usage) and the dependent variable with is the academic
performance.
Mobile Phone Usage Academic Performance
14
Fig.1. Conceptual framework of the stu
CHAPTER 4
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
4.1. Research design
This study used a descriptive-correlational research design to
examine the relationship between mobile phone usage and the
academic performance of Grade 11 students at Libertad National High
School. The descriptive part of the study focused on identifying and
describing how often students use their mobile phones and what
activities they usually do with them. The correlational part, on the other
hand, aimed to find out whether there is a connection between how
much students use their phones and how well they perform in their
studies. This design was chosen because it helps the researchers
gather factual information about the current situation of students and
determine if one variable (mobile phone usage) has a relationship with
another (academic performance). Through this design, the researchers
were able to collect numerical data, analyze patterns, and interpret
whether frequent use of mobile phones affects students’ grades, focus,
and productivity in school.
4.2. Subjects of the study
The subjects of this study were 100 Grade 11 students from
Libertad National High School. They came from three different strands,
namely HUMSS A, HUMSS B, and TVL-HE. These students were
15
chosen because they represent a diverse group of senior high school
learners who differ in study habits, learning styles, and daily phone
usage. Grade 11 students were selected as the focus of this study
since they are in a crucial stage of adapting to the academic demands
of senior high school while also being highly engaged with mobile
phones for both educational and personal use. Their experiences
provide valuable insights into how mobile phone usage influences
academic performance, classroom focus, and study efficiency. By
including students from various strands, the study was able to gather a
complete and balanced understanding of how mobile phone usage
affects academic performance among senior high school students at
Libertad National High School.
4.3. Data gathering procedure
Before conducting the research, the researchers wrote a formal
letter to the school principal and class advisers asking for permission to
carry out the study. Once approval was granted, the researchers
personally distributed the survey questionnaires to the selected
respondents during their free time to avoid interrupting classes. Before
answering, the purpose of the study was clearly explained to the
students, and they were assured that all their answers would be kept
confidential and used only for research purposes. The respondents
were given enough time to read and answer each question honestly.
After all the questionnaires were completed, the researchers collected
them, checked for completeness, and organized the responses
carefully. The data gathering process was completed within one week
16
during the second grading period of the school year 2025–2026. This
step-by-step process ensured that the information collected was
accurate, reliable, and ready for analysis. A map of Libertad National
High School will be used to show the location and distribution of
respondent
17
Fig.2. Map showing the location of Libertad National High School,
Poblacion, Libertad Misamis Oriental
4.4. Instruments used in the study
The main instrument used in this study was a survey questionnaire
that the researchers created to collect data about the mobile phone
usage and academic performance of Grade 11 students at Libertad
National High School. The questionnaire was made simple and easy to
understand so that students could answer it clearly and honestly. It was
checked and approved by the research adviser to make sure that all
questions were related to the study’s objectives. The questionnaire had
two parts. The first part asked for the respondent’s basic information
such as name (optional), age, gender, and strand. The second part
contained ten questions that focused on how often students use their
phones, what activities they do on them, and how these habits affect
their studies, focus, and sleep. It also included questions about how
students respond to advice from teachers or parents about managing
their phone use. Each question had choices that helped students pick
the answer that best described their situation. The survey was
distributed personally by the researchers to 100 Grade 11 students
from HUMSS A, HUMSS B, and TVL-HE during their free time. The
purpose of the study was explained clearly, and the students were
assured that their answers would be kept confidential and used only for
research.
18
4.5. Data analysis
The data gathered from the survey questionnaires were collected,
organized, and analyzed to determine how mobile phone usage affects
the academic performance of Grade 11 students at Libertad National
High School. The researchers used simple descriptive statistics such
as frequency, percentage, and mean to summarize the responses of
100 students. Each item in the questionnaire was tallied, and the
number of responses for each choice was converted into percentages.
The mean was also computed to find the overall level of mobile phone
usage and academic performance.
The formulas used were:
f
Percentage = × 100
N
Where:
f = frequency of each response
N = total number of respondents
The mean was also computed using this formula:
Mean =
∑X
N
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CHAPTER 5
RESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS
5.1. The number of hours Grade 11 students spend on their
phones each day
Table 1. Time Spent on Phones Per Day
Time Spent on TVL-HE HUMSS A HUMSS B Total
Phones Per Day
Less than 1 Hour 4 2 3 9
1 to 3 Hours 12 14 18 44
4 to 6 Hours 7 11 12 30
More than 6 Hours 5 9 10 24
The survey results indicate that 44 students (44%) spend 1 to 3
hours per day on their phones, the largest group. This is followed by 30
students (30%) who use their phones for 4 to 6 hours, and 24 students
(24%) who use them for more than 6 hours. Only 9 students (9%)
manage to keep usage under an hour. These figures show that a
significant portion of students are moderate to heavy users. According
to Buctot, Kim, and Kim (2021), high levels of smartphone use,
particularly for non-academic activities, are associated with lower
academic performance. The smaller group with minimal phone use
may have more time for studying and rest, which can positively impact
academic outcomes.
20
5.2. The main activities students engage in while using their
phones
Table 2. Main Activity on Phone
Main Activity on
TVL-HE HUMSS A HUMSS B Total
Phone
Social Media 8 13 17 38
Gaming 4 5 14 23
Chatting/Messaging 8 9 19 36
Watching Videos 7 16 7 30
Studying Research 3 14 14 31
The most common activities among students are social media
(38%), chatting or messaging (36%), and watching videos (30%). While
31 students (31%) use their phones for studying or research, they
remain in the minority. This reflects findings by Buctot, Kim, and Kim
(2021), who reported that academic performance declines when
smartphone use is dominated by entertainment rather than educational
purposes. Similarly, Adriano (2019) emphasized that entertainment
use, especially at night, reduces time for learning and rest.
5.3. The difference in academic performance between students
who
frequently use their phones and those who don’t
Table 3. Perceived Impact of Phone Use
Perceived Impact TVL-HE HUMSS A HUMSS B Total
of Phone Use
Improves 7 11 8 26
Performance
No difference 7 8 9 24
Slightly lowers my 11 14 18 43
performance
Greatly lowers my 2 3 1 6
21
performance
A total of 49 students (49%) feel that phone use lowers their
academic performance (43 slightly, 6 greatly). In contrast, 26 students
(26%) believe it improves performance, and 24 students (24%) see no
impact. These findings align with Buctot, Kim, and Kim (2021), who
found that smartphone addiction and non-academic use reduce
perceived academic ability. Similarly, David, Pila, and Tolentino (2021)
showed that smartphone addiction and nomophobia negatively
influence academic outcomes among Filipino students.
5.4. The effects of phone use during study time on concentration
and assignment completion
Table 4. Effect on Concentration During Study
Effect on
Concentration TVL-HE HUMSS A HUMSS B Total
During Study
Improve Focus 3 8 7 18
No effect 4 3 3 10
Sometimes 21 22 22 65
distracts
Greatly distracts 0 3 3 6
65 students (65%) said phone use sometimes distracts them while
studying, and 6 students (6%) said it greatly distracts them. Only 18
students (18%) felt that phones improve their focus, and 10 students
(10%) reported no effect. These findings support Dalope and Woods
(2021), who found that phone use during study time often leads to poor
concentration and procrastination. Likewise, Garcia and Geronimo
(2022) observed decreased classroom engagement when students
were distracted by social media and messaging apps.
Table 5. Assignment Completion While Using Phone
22
Assignment
Completion TVL-HE HUMSS A HUMSS B Total
While Using
Phone
Always 2 2 10 14
Often 5 11 10 26
Sometimes 21 20 18 59
Never 0 0 2 2
Regarding assignment completion, 59 students (59%) said they
sometimes complete assignments when using phones, 26 (26%) said
often, 14 (14%) said always, and 2 (2%) said never. These results
reflect the same concerns raised by Dalope and Woods (2021), who
emphasized how excessive phone use can interfere with productivity.
Garcia and Geronimo (2022) also found that distractions from digital
devices reduce the quality and consistency of academic task
completion.
5.5. The recommendations given by students, teachers, and
parents to improve academic performance by managing
phone use
Table 6. Frequency of Advice from Adults
Frequency of
Advice from TVL-HE HUMSS A HUMSS B Total
Adults
Always 19 13 22 54
Often 1 1 3 5
Sometimes 8 15 11 34
Never 0 2 0 2
Table 7. Helpfulness of Advice or Rules
Helpfulness of TVL-HE HUMSS A HUMSS B Total
Advice or Rules
Very helpful 14 23 25 62
23
Somewhat helpful 13 22 10 45
Not helpful 0 1 1 2
54 students (54%) always receive advice from adults about
managing phone use, 34 (34%) sometimes do, 5 (5%) often do, and
only 2 (2%) never receive any advice. Most students—62 (62%)—
found the advice to be very helpful, 45 (45%) found it somewhat
helpful, and only 2 (2%) said it was not helpful. These findings reinforce
the conclusions of Buctot, Kim, and Kim (2021), who emphasized the
role of family and teacher support in reducing smartphone addiction.
Similarly, David, Pila, and Tolentino (2021) highlighted that adult
interventions play a key role in guiding students toward healthier phone
habits and better academic performance.
5.6. The impact of late-night phone usage on students’ sleep and
academic performance
Table 8. Late-Night Use Frequency
Late-Night
Phone Use TVL-HE HUMSS A HUMSS B Total
Frequency
Never 4 1 0 5
Rarely 4 6 9 19
Sometimes 19 13 20 52
Often 1 11 7 19
Table 9. Effect on Sleep Quality
Effect on sleep
quality TVL-HE HUMSS A HUMSS B Total
No effect 2 6 3 11
Sometimes 21 17 24 62
affects sleep
Often affects 2 5 5 12
sleep
Always affects 2 8 4 14
sleep
24
52 students (52%) said they sometimes use their phones late at
night, and 19 (19%) said they often do. Only 5 (5%) never use their
phones at night. In terms of sleep impact, 62 students (62%) said
phone use sometimes affects their sleep, 12 (12%) said it often does,
and 14 (14%) said it always does. These results support the findings of
Adriano (2019), who observed that nighttime smartphone use causes
poor sleep, leading to fatigue and reduced academic performance.
Likewise, Buctot, Kim, and Kim (2021) included “nomophobia” and
nighttime usage as contributors to poor sleep and concentration issues,
both of which are reflected in the survey results from this study.
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CHAPTER 6
SUMMARY AND CONCLUSION
1. This study focused on examining the effects of mobile phone
usage on the academic performance of Grade 11 students from
TVL-HE, HUMSS A, and HUMSS B at [Your School Name]. The
primary goal was to explore how the frequency, duration, and
type of mobile phone use influenced their study habits,
concentration, sleep quality, and perceived academic outcomes.
The study was grounded in existing literature, including works by
Buctot, Kim, and Kim (2021), Adriano (2019), and David, Pila,
and Tolentino (2021), who emphasized that smartphone use—
especially for non-academic purposes—can negatively impact
student performance. The data was collected through a survey
questionnaire with structured and relevant questions related to
the objectives of the research.
2. Results showed that mobile phone usage is a common part of
students’ daily lives, with 44 out of 100 respondents reporting
that they use their phones between 1 to 3 hours per day.
26
Additionally, 30 students reported 4 to 6 hours of daily use, and
24 students reported more than 6 hours. Only 9 students stated
they use their phones for less than an hour daily. These figures
suggest that a majority of students fall within moderate to high
levels of phone use, which may affect the time they allocate for
studying, resting, or other academic-related tasks.
3. Results revealed that the most frequent activities students
engaged in while using their phones were related to
entertainment and communication. Specifically, 38 students
mainly used their phones for social media, 36 for chatting or
messaging, and 30 for watching videos. In contrast, only 31
students reported using their phones primarily for studying or
academic research. These findings highlight that while some
students do take advantage of their phones for educational
purposes, a larger portion are focused on activities that are
more likely to distract them from their academic responsibilities.
This supports Buctot, Kim, and Kim’s (2021) claim that non-
academic use of smartphones can reduce productivity and
hinder academic focus.
4. Results showed that nearly half of the respondents believed
their academic performance was negatively affected by mobile
phone use. Specifically, 43 students said it slightly lowers their
performance, and 6 said it greatly lowers it. In contrast, only 26
students believed it improved their performance, and 24 felt it
27
had no impact. These self-assessments indicate that a
significant number of students are aware of the possible
negative effects of their phone usage. The perception of lowered
performance aligns with David, Pila, and Tolentino’s (2021)
research on nomophobia and digital dependency, which points
to increased screen time as a contributor to reduced academic
outcomes.
5. Results revealed that phone usage during study time had a clear
effect on students’ concentration. A total of 65 students said
using their phones while studying sometimes distracts them,
while 6 said it often distracts them. Only 18 students reported
improved focus, and 10 said there was no effect. Regarding
assignment completion, 59 students stated they only sometimes
complete tasks while using phones, 26 said they often do, and
only 14 said they always do. These findings reflect what Dalope
and Woods (2021) noted about the impact of digital distractions:
students may feel productive while multitasking with their
phones, but their output and quality of focus often decrease.
6. Results showed that late-night phone usage is also a
contributing factor to poor academic performance. The survey
revealed that 52 students sometimes use their phones late at
night, while 19 often do. Only 5 students reported never using
their phones at night. Regarding sleep quality, 62 students said
phone use sometimes affects their sleep, 12 said it often does,
28
and 14 stated it always affects their sleep. Poor sleep can cause
lack of energy, poor concentration in class, and incomplete
assignments. These outcomes are consistent with Adriano’s
(2019) findings, which emphasized that night-time phone usage
reduces students’ rest and mental alertness, negatively
influencing their learning ability the following day.
7. Results revealed that while phone usage can be harmful,
guidance and intervention from teachers and adults play a
helpful role. A total of 54 students said they always receive
advice on managing their phone usage, and 34 sometimes do.
Only 2 said they never receive advice. When asked how helpful
this advice is, 62 students responded that it is very helpful, while
45 said it is somewhat helpful. This aligns with Buctot, Kim, and
Kim (2021), who emphasized the positive impact of structured
guidance in reducing the negative effects of excessive phone
use. This also highlights the importance of schools and teachers
in promoting digital discipline and balanced use.
8. Results showed that students who are conscious of their phone
usage and receive frequent advice or apply rules tend to
manage their time better. Students who mainly use phones for
studying or who limit their late-night phone habits appear to
experience fewer distractions and report better concentration.
These behaviors contribute positively to their academic
performance. On the other hand, students who overuse phones
29
for entertainment, especially during study time or before sleep,
experience lowered productivity, sleep deprivation, and more
academic struggles.
9. Therefore, the study concludes that while mobile phones are
important tools for communication and even for studying, their
misuse, especially for social media, gaming, and entertainment,
can significantly affect students’ academic performance. Proper
usage, time management, and guidance from adults can help
reduce negative impacts. It is important for students to be aware
of how their mobile habits influence their schoolwork, and for
schools to implement programs or policies that encourage
responsible digital behavior. Promoting balance and discipline in
phone usage is essential for improving students' focus,
academic engagement, and overall performance.
30
LITERATURE CITED
Adrianao, R. (2019). Mobile phone dependency and its effect on
academic performance among Filipino college students. Philippine
Journal of Educational Research, 12(1), 45-58.
Buctot, M. D., Kim, H., & Kim, J. (2020). Smartphone addiction and
lifestyle profiles among junior and senior high school students in the
Philippines. International Journal of Mental Health and Addiction, 18(3),
760–772. [Link]
Buctot, M. D., Kim, H., & Kim, J. (2021). Patterns of smartphone use,
nomophobia, and perceived academic performance among Filipino
high school students. Asian Journal of Psychiatry, 61, 102683.
[Link]
Dalope, A., & Woods, M. (2021). The impact of mobile phone use
during study hours on school performance of Filipino senior high school
students. Philippine Educational Review, 15(2), 112-129.
David, C., Pila, A., & Tolentino, R. (2021). Smartphone addiction,
nomophobia, and academic performance among Filipino high school
students. Journal of Educational Psychology and Research, 13(4), 210-
225.
Garcia, L., & Geronimo, F. (2022). Effects of mobile phone usage on
classroom engagement among high school students in the Philippines.
Philippine Journal of Education, 18(1), 33-47.
Harvard Graduate School of Education. (2022). The impact of mobile
phone use on student learning and classroom engagement. Retrieved
from [Link]
31
Kates, A., Wu, M., & Coryn, C. (2018). The effect of the presence of
smartphones on memory recall and focus in students. Computers in
Human Behavior, 86, 82–87. [Link]
Kuznekoff, J. H., & Titsworth, S. (2013). The impact of mobile phone
usage on student learning. Communication Education, 62(3), 233–252.
[Link]
Lee, J., Kim, M., & Lee, H. (2017). Mobile phone usage patterns and
academic achievement among Korean high school students. Journal of
Educational Technology, 14(2), 67-79.
Lepp, A., Barkley, J. E., & Karpinski, A. C. (2014). The relationship
between cell phone use, academic performance, anxiety, and
satisfaction with life in college students. Computers in Human
Behavior, 31, 343–350. [Link]
Ophir, E., Nass, C., & Wagner, A. D. (2009). Cognitive control in media
multitaskers. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences,
106(37), 15583–15587. [Link]
Roberts, J. A., Yaya, L. H., & Manolis, C. (2014). The invisible
addiction: Cell-phone activities and addiction among male and female
college students. Journal of Behavioral Addictions, 3(4), 254-265.
[Link]
Samaha, M., & Hawi, N. S. (2016). Relationships among smartphone
addiction, stress, and academic performance. Computers in Human
Behavior, 57, 321–325. [Link]
van der Schuur, W. A., Baumgartner, S. E., Sumter, S. R., &
Valkenburg, P. M. (2015). The consequences of media multitasking for
youth: A review. Computers in Human Behavior, 53, 204–215.
[Link]
32
Appendix 1. Letter of request to the principal of Libertad National
High School to conduct the study
33
Republic of the Philippines
Department of Education
Region X- Northern Mindanao
Division of Misamis Oriental
Libertad District
LIBERTAD NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL
HUMANITIES AND SOCIAL SCIENCES
SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL
OCTOBER 6, 2025
ANALIZA N. CHU
Secondary School Principal I
Libertad National High School
Dear Ma’am Chu,
Good day!
The researchers, respectfully request your permission to conduct a survey
entitled “The Impact of Mobile Phone Usage on the Academic
Performance Among Grade 11 Students in Libertad National High
School.”
The survey will be conducted among selected students from Grade 11
HUMSS A, HUMSS B and TVL-HE. All information gathered will be treated
with confidentiality and used only for academic purposes.
Thank you for your support and positive response.
Respectfully yours,
KEISHA NAILAH S. GILE
ANGELEAH Y. BACAN
Researchers
Noted by:
GLADEN SHELLEY A. BILLIONES
Practical Research 2, Adviser, Grade 12 HUMSS B
Approved by:
ANALIZA N. CHU
Secondary School Principal I
Appendix 2. Letter of request to the adviser of Grade 11 HUMSS A
of Libertad National High School to conduct the
study
34
Republic of the Philippines
Department of Education
Region X- Northern Mindanao
Division of Misamis Oriental
Libertad District
LIBERTAD NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL
HUMANITIES AND SOCIAL SCIENCES
SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL
OCTOBER 6, 2025
MENCHILOU D. DENIHAY
Grade 11 HUMSS A, Adviser
Dear Ma’am/Sir,
Good day!
The researchers of Grade 12 HUMSS A students conducting a research
entitled “The Impact of Mobile Phone Usage on the Academic
Performance Among Grade 11 Students in Libertad National High
School.”
The researchers request your approval to conduct a survey with your
Grade 11 HUMSS A students to gather necessary data for the study.
Thank you for your support and positive response.
Respectfully yours,
KEISHA NAILAH S. GILE
ANGELEAH Y. BACAN
Researchers
Noted by:
GLADEN SHELLEY A. BILLIONES
Practical Research 2, Adviser, Grade 12 HUMSS B
Approved by:
MENCHILOU D. DENIHAY
Grade 11 HUMSS A, Adviser
Appendix 3. Letter of request to the adviser of Grade 11 HUMSS B
of Libertad National High School to conduct the study
35
Republic of the Philippines
Department of Education
Region X- Northern Mindanao
Division of Misamis Oriental
Libertad District
LIBERTAD NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL
HUMANITIES AND SOCIAL SCIENCES
SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL
OCTOBER 6, 2025
GLICHELLE MAE B. BUNTAG
Grade 11 HUMSS B, Adviser
Dear Ma’am/Sir,
Good day!
The researchers of Grade 12 HUMSS B students conducting a research
entitled “The Impact of Mobile Phone Usage on the Academic
Performance Among Grade 11 Students in Libertad National High
School.”
The researchers request your approval to conduct a survey with your
Grade 11 HUMSS B students to gather necessary data for the study.
Thank you for your support and positive response.
Respectfully yours,
KEISHA NAILAH S. GILE
ANGELEAH Y. BACAN
Researchers
Noted by:
GLADEN SHELLEY A. BILLIONES
Practical Research 2, Adviser, Grade 12 HUMSS B
Approved by:
GLICHELLE MAE B. BUNTAG
Grade 11 HUMSS B, Adviser
Appendix 4. Letter of request to the adviser of Grade 11 TVL-HE
36
of Libertad National High School to conduct the
survey
Republic of the Philippines
Department of Education
Region X- Northern Mindanao
Division of Misamis Oriental
Libertad District
LIBERTAD NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL
HUMANITIES AND SOCIAL SCIENCES
SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL
OCTOBER 6, 2025
AGAPITO L. ESPINOSA, JR.
Grade 11 TVL-HE, Adviser
Dear Ma’am/Sir,
Good day!
The researchers of Grade 12 HUMSS B students conducting a research
entitled “The Impact of Mobile Phone Usage on the Academic
Performance Among Grade 11 Students in Libertad National High
School.”
The researchers request your approval to conduct a survey with your
Grade 11 TVL-HE students to gather necessary data for the study.
Thank you for your support and positive response.
Respectfully yours,
KEISHA NAILAH S. GILE
ANGELEAH Y. BACAN
Researchers
Noted by:
GLADEN SHELLEY A. BILLIONES
Practical Research 2, Adviser, Grade 12 HUMSS B
Approved by:
AGAPITO L. ESPINOSA, JR.
Grade 11 TVL-HE, Adviser
37
Appendix 5. Survey questionnaire
Instructions:
This survey aims to understand how Grade 11 students use their
mobile phones and how it affects their academic performance. Please
answer the questions honestly and choose the option that best
describes your situation. Your responses will be kept confidential and
used only for research purposes. This survey will take just a few
minutes to complete.
Please fill out the following information:
Name (Optional): ___________________________
Age: __________
Gender:
Male
Female
Prefer not to say
Strand: __________
1. How many hours do you spend on your mobile phone each day?
Less than 1 hour
1 to 3 hours
4 to 6 hours
More than 6 hours
2. What activity do you spend the most time doing on your phone?
Social media
Gaming
Chatting/Messaging
Watching videos
Studying/Research
3. How often do you use your phone during study time?
Always
Often
Sometimes
Never
4. When you use your phone while studying, how does it affect your
concentration?
It improves my focus
No effect on my focus
Sometimes distracts me
Often distracts me
5. How often do you complete your assignments on time when you
use your phone during study?
Always
Often
Sometimes
38
Never
Appendix 5. Survey questionnaire (continued)
6. Compared to when you use your phone less, how does heavy
phone use affect your academic performance?
Improves my performance
No difference
Slightly lowers my performance
Greatly lowers my performance
7. How often do you use your phone late at night?
Never
Rarely
Sometimes
Often
8. How does using your phone late at night affect your sleep?
No effect
Sometimes affects sleep
Often affects sleep
Always affects sleep
9. How often do teachers or parents advise you to manage your
phone use?
Always
Often
Sometimes
Never
10. How helpful do you find these advice or rules in managing your
phone use for better school performance?
Very helpful
Somewhat helpful
Not helpful
No advice given
39
Appendix 6. Documentation of the study (HUMSS A)
40
Appendix 7. Documentation of the study (HUMSS B)
41
Appendix 8. Documentation of the study (TVL-HE)
42