Analyzing the Information-Seeking Behavior of Management Students: A Smartphone- Centric Study

Abstract

This study explores how postgraduate management students seek and gather academic information in a world where smart devices like smartphones dominate learning. Since smartphones have become integral part in higher education, especially in business programs, the study looks at how these devices affect students’ research habits, platform choices, and overall learning effectiveness. A survey of 73 management students from Mumbai was conducted using structured questionnaire. The survey focused on how students use smartphones for learning, their preferred digital platforms, how they check information accuracy, and their perceived learning outcomes. The results show that students widely use smartphones for tasks such as completing assignments, preparing for tests, and engaging in online learning. Platforms like YouTube, ChatGPT, and Google Scholar were the most popular platforms, reflecting a shift toward interactive and AI-powered tools. While many students verify the authenticity of information, some do not, this increases the risk of misinformation. Common challenges included distractions, eye strain, and difficulties in verifying the credibility of sources. The study concludes that although smartphones provide flexibility and easy access to information, their effectiveness depends on how well students apply critical thinking and digital literacy. These findings emphasize the need for institutions to provide better support and targeted digital education to maximize the benefits of smartphone-assisted learning.