IMPACT OF MOBILE PHONE FOR ENHANCING TEACHING AND LEARNING OF UNDERGRADUATE CHEMISTRY STUDENTS IN NORTHWEST UNIVERSITY

ABSTRACT Mobile phones have become indispensable tools in modern education, offering unparalleled opportunities to enhance teaching and learning processes. This study examines the impact of mobile phones on the teaching and learning of undergraduate chemistry students at Northwest University Kano. The research explores how mobile technology can address the unique challenges of teaching chemistry, a subject known for its complexity and abstract concepts, by fostering engagement, improving comprehension, and boosting academic outcomes. Quantitative data were collected from 80 undergraduate chemistry students using a structured questionnaire. Findings reveal that mobile phones significantly enhance students' understanding of complex chemistry concepts, with mobile-based simulations and educational apps like ChemDraw and Virtual Lab proving particularly effective. Students reported increased engagement and self-directed learning, attributing their improved performance to the accessibility and interactivity provided by mobile technology. Lecturers acknowledged the potential of mobile phones in addressing resource limitations, although challenges such as distractions and varying levels of digital literacy were noted. This study concludes that integrating mobile phones into chemistry education has the potential to transform traditional teaching practices, making learning more interactive, accessible, and student-centered. It recommends professional development for educators to optimize mobile-assisted learning and calls for institutional policies to mitigate challenges and promote effective use. By addressing critical gaps in teaching resources and student engagement, this research underscores the transformative role of mobile technology in higher education, particularly in complex disciplines like chemistry.