A new survey of 500 students by McGraw-Hill found that
nearly 40% used their smartphones to study, while just 22% turned to their
tablet or computer. The results were similar to a Wakefield Research report from
last summer that showed 53% of respondents would be more likely to complete a
reading assignment if it were available on a mobile device and 83% used a
mobile device for last-minute studying.
“Studying effectively—and with the right type of
technology—is one of the best ways to ensure that students succeed in class,”
said Brian Kibby, president of McGraw-Hill Education, in a report by eCampus News. “But focus is the
key.”
It can also be a problem since there are just as many
studies that show smartphones are a distraction, and that students know it.
Nearly half of the students in the McGraw-Hill research admitted using their
phones to text friends while studying. A similar number admitted to switching
between schoolwork and nonstudy activities while on their tablet or laptop.
At the same time, nearly 70% of the students reported
that the tools available through their mobile devices can save them up to five
hours each week when studying.