Policy analysis of using smartphones as learning media at senior high schools

Abstract

This study aims to examine the concept of using smartphones in school. This is because so many schools still prohibit carrying/using smartphones in school, and there is a need to consider smartphones as a learning medium for improving the quality of learning. This study is a qualitative research model with a stage application approach of the Policy Analysis Process developed by Brewer. It was conducted at Senior High Schools in Medan City, from June to September, 2020.  The first analysis process carried out was an initial survey of the need for smartphones as learning media. The analysis results in each stage proved that positive impacts are made when smartphones are used as a learning medium, since the technology that has been most mastered by students is the smartphone. Completion is reached through the stages of initiation, estimation, selection, implementation, evaluation, and follow-up. Results show that smartphones could be accepted as learning media in high schools in Medan at the selection stage, adding that policy makers should supervise the use of smartphones in school by establishing supervisory rules. Nevertheless, one of the factors that contributed significantly to this conclusion is the menace of the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic. The analysis results are expected to be accepted by all stakeholders in the society and be used as basis for making policies that accept smartphones as a learning medium. However, further analyses are required so that the established rules can be made to conform to standard educational procedures.