Background of the Study
The use of mobile applications in education has revolutionized the way students learn and retain information. In nursing education, mobile apps provide interactive learning platforms, access to medical references, and simulation-based training, enhancing students' knowledge and retention of complex concepts (Brown & Ahmed, 2024). With the advancement of technology, nursing students can now use mobile applications for self-paced learning, clinical skill development, and real-time access to educational materials, which significantly improves academic performance (Wang et al., 2023).
At the University of Abuja College of Nursing, mobile applications are increasingly being adopted as supplementary learning tools. Apps such as Medscape, Nursing Central, and Anatomy 3D Atlas allow students to visualize medical concepts, practice case-based learning, and receive instant feedback on quizzes and exercises (Patel et al., 2023). Despite these advancements, concerns exist regarding the effectiveness of mobile apps in improving learning outcomes and information retention among nursing students. Some students may become overly dependent on technology, neglect traditional study methods, or experience distractions from non-educational apps. This study aims to evaluate the effect of mobile applications on nursing students’ learning experiences and their ability to retain information over time.
Statement of the Problem
With the growing reliance on mobile applications in education, it is crucial to assess their effectiveness in nursing training. While some studies suggest that mobile learning enhances students’ engagement and knowledge retention, others argue that excessive dependence on mobile applications may negatively affect critical thinking and problem-solving skills. At the University of Abuja College of Nursing, there is no clear data on how mobile applications influence students’ learning processes and retention of medical knowledge.
Additionally, concerns exist regarding students' ability to differentiate between credible and non-credible sources of information available on mobile platforms. If mobile applications are not effectively integrated into the nursing curriculum, they may not contribute meaningfully to students' academic success. This study seeks to critically examine the advantages, limitations, and overall impact of mobile applications on nursing students’ learning and retention at the University of Abuja College of Nursing.
Objectives of the Study
Research Questions
Research Hypotheses
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study focuses on nursing students at the University of Abuja College of Nursing. It examines their use of mobile applications for learning and retention of nursing concepts. Limitations include the variability in students’ access to smartphones and internet connectivity, differences in individual learning preferences, and the potential for distractions from non-educational applications.
Definitions of Terms