A Study into Mobile Phone Usage Patterns among Students of Koforidua Polytechnic

Abstract

The mobile phone is prevalent on campuses and is commonly used in sceneries where learning occurs for both academic and non-academic purposes. This study explored mobile phone usage patterns among students of Koforidua Polytechnic regarding preference for specific mobile handset, precipitators for purchase, how users exploit the functionalities of their mobile phones, perception on the medical side effects, financial strain and privacy concerns. Through a stratified random sampling technique, data was collected by means of a questionnaire from seven hundred and fifty (750) students across all faculties in Koforidua Polytechnic. The study revealed that students’ preference for Samsung handset brands were higher than the other brands. The primary use of mobile phones on campus was for calling friends and family as compared to usage for academic purpose. Students also believe that there is a medical side effect of mobile phones.