A study of factors which influence lecture distraction among college students

Abstract

In the age of fast-paced evolution of information technology and a culture of personal gratification, digital devices can be extremely helpful in the academic environment by enabling the search for educational resources, supporting online communication between colleagues and teachers as well as organizing the core curriculum. However, several recent studies have shown that excessive use of digital technologies can lead to phone addiction and fear of missing out (FOMO) in students and leads to lecture distraction as a consequence. Fear of missing out (FOMO) is a psychological issue that results in a person using their smartphone during the conferences, so as not to miss what is happening on social media. This study aims to investigate how FOMO is associated with phone addiction and social media engagement among students, and whether it is related to attention distraction among undergraduates. Survey responses from 300 college students reveal several explanations for students’ destructive behavior enabled by technology during class. The results suggest some practical guidelines for teachers to find ways to lessen the negative effects of smartphone use and promote responsible smartphone usage in the classroom.