The Smart Phone Is a Need Or Status Symbol Among The University Students At Sarhad University Of Science & Technology, Peshawar

Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to investigate whether students at Sarhad University of Science and Technology, Peshawar use the smart mobile phones as a need or as a status symbol? It also focuses on determining the reasons for owning a high-end smartphone as a status symbol and to find the uses of smart mobile phone for academic needs.  Research Design and Methodology: This research is conducted while using a descriptive research design using a questionnaire-based survey to collect data from respondents of the study. The total population in this study are BS university students in five departments; Education, Urdu, sports sciences, library science and computer science at Sarhad University of Science and technology. Total population in these departments is 468. The calculated sample size through Roasoft sample size calculator is 212, convenient sampling technique applied to reach to the targeted sample. In addition, a self-designed questionnaire is prepared keeping in view the previous questions and queries which have been asked to accomplish such goals. For validation purposes the tool is peer reviewed by two experts in the field and was pre tested by some ten members which were not part of the sample. After validation the tools was ready for data collection. A total of 212 questionnaires were disseminated among students from the aforementioned four universities. Of these, 150 were returned, yielding a response rate of 71% (150/212). Subsequent data analysis employed descriptive and non-parametric statistical techniques using SPSS. Results: This study investigates the usage and perceptions of smartphones among distance learning students. The response rate was satisfactory, with a higher representation of male participants (59%) compared to female (41%). Most respondents hold BSLIS degrees (57.14%), and the most common smartphone brands owned are Samsung (24%) and Infinix (28.6%). Usage frequency indicates that 52% of students use smartphones most frequently, with 43% citing academic needs and 57% viewing smartphones as status symbols. Smartphones are perceived as highly useful for academic purposes, particularly for sharing resources (mean score: 4.78) and improving performance (mean score: 4.43). However, creating personal academic schedules was viewed as less beneficial (mean score: 2.90). Social pressure and fashion trends significantly influence the perception of smartphones as status symbols among students, highlighting the dual role of these devices in academic and social contexts.

Implications: The findings imply a need for educational institutions to promote the academic use of smartphones while addressing the social pressures associated with high-end devices. Enhancing digital literacy among students can improve their ability to use smartphones for organizational and study purposes. Additionally, libraries should develop mobile-friendly resources to support academic engagement. Fostering a culture that values academic success over material possessions can alleviate anxiety related to smartphone ownership. Future research should explore the long-term effects of smartphones as both academic tools and status symbols on student outcomes.