This study sought to investigate nomophobia (the irrational fear of not having access to mobile devices) as a possible mental disorder in the Gauteng education sector. To address nomophobia as a possible mental health disorder in Gauteng schools, one needs to understand the usage of these devices by both educators and learners in the classroom context. A mixed methods single case research study (MMSCR) was adopted with two phases. In the quantitative phase data was collected using a close-ended questionnaire, while in the qualitative phase data was collected using open-ended questions during face-to-face semistructured interviews. The data obtained revealed that respondents displayed mild to severe nomophobia; in some cases, educators displayed even higher levels of nomophobia as compared to learners. The findings of the study indicate, inter alia, that educators feel uncomfortable without access to their mobile devices while learners admit being addicted to play games and spend time on social media on their mobile devices. Although both educators and learners use their mobile phones to access resources for schoolwork and to keep in touch with family and friends, they also agree that they use their mobile devices constantly for other, non-education purposes.

Author: Renier Jacobus Botha

Published in: Ireland International Conference on Education (IICE-2023)

• Date of Conference: 24-26 October, 2023
• DOI: 10.20533/IICE.2023.10.0027
• ISBN: 978-1-913572-68-6
• Conference Location: Dún Laoghaire, Ireland