Perceptions of Mobile Phone Use Among School Children

The integration of mobile phones into educational settings has sparked significant debate, particularly concerning their impact on students’ academic performance and well-being. This study examines the perceptions of teachers and the general public in Sri Lanka regarding the use of mobile phones by school children. Utilizing a Chi-Square analysis and standardized residuals, the study compares the views of four distinct groups: male teachers, female teachers, male members of the general public, and female members of the general public. The results reveal a significant divergence in opinions, with teachers predominantly viewing mobile phones as harmful, while the general public perceives them as beneficial. These findings underscore the need for a balanced approach that addresses educators’ concerns while recognizing the potential advantages of mobile phone use in schools. Future research should focus on strategies to mitigate the perceived negative impacts of mobile phones, ensuring that their use in educational environments enhances learning outcomes