Social Interaction of Students with Gadget: Patterns and Experiences during School Time

Airlangga Auliarachman Diadi; Muhamad Fadhil  Nurdin; Wahyu  Gunawan

doi:10.31849/utamax.v5i2.13763

Airlangga Auliarachman Diadi Universitas Padjajaran, Bandung, Indonesia
Muhamad Fadhil Nurdin Universitas Padjajaran, Bandung, Indonesia
Wahyu Gunawan Universitas Padjajaran, Bandung, Indonesia

DOI: https://doi.org/10.31849/utamax.v5i2.13763

Keywords: Communication, Experiences, Gadget, Patterns, School time, Social interaction

Abstract

Technological advancements have rapidly impacted society, transforming the way gadgets are utilized for social interaction. Among students, the use of gadgets for socializing has been on the rise. However, differences in interaction patterns between gadget-mediated and face-to-face interactions have yet to be fully understood. Therefore, this study aims to investigate student social interaction activities through gadgets and in real-life settings. Additionally, the research explores social interaction patterns and experiences among students at SMA IT Plus Bina Bangsa Sejahtera Bogor, a high school that initially prohibited smartphone use during learning but later modified their policy prior to the Covid-19 pandemic. A descriptive qualitative approach was employed, utilizing observation, documentation, and interviews with 30 randomly selected respondents. The study was conducted over a two-month period, from January to February 2023, at SMA IT Plus Bina Bangsa Sejahtera Bogor. The analysis reveals that gadget-mediated interaction patterns involve cooperation, accommodation, assimilation, acculturation, competition, and opposition. Prolonged gadget usage for extended hours was observed, emphasizing their significance in students' lives. Interpretation of gadget-mediated text messages sometimes leads to misunderstandings. However, communication differences between virtual and face-to-face interactions were minimal, as both modes effectively addressed problems. This research deepens our understanding of student social interaction dynamics and highlights the impact of gadget usage on interpersonal communication. It provides insights for schools, families, and policymakers to enhance positive gadget usage and improve the quality of student interactions.

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Author Biographies

Airlangga Auliarachman Diadi, Universitas Padjajaran, Bandung, Indonesia

Airlangga Auliarachman Diadi is a diligent and passionate final-year graduate student who is currently pursuing a Master's degree in Sociology at Padjadjaran University in Bandung. Through his rigorous investigations, he aspires to enrich the existing body of sociological knowledge and bring about meaningful advancements in the field. With his unwavering commitment and determination, Airlangga is poised to become a valuable asset to the academic community, making notable contributions to the realm of sociology.

Muhamad Fadhil Nurdin, Universitas Padjajaran, Bandung, Indonesia

Muhamad Fadhil Nurdin is a distinguished professor in the Sociology department at Padjadjaran University. With extensive expertise in his field, Muhamad Fadhil Nurdin's contributions to the program have been invaluable. His exceptional teaching abilities, coupled with his passion for sociology, have inspired countless students to explore the complexities of society. His research focuses on diverse social phenomena, shedding light on the intricacies of human interactions.

Wahyu Gunawan, Universitas Padjajaran, Bandung, Indonesia

Wahyu Gunawan is a highly esteemed Sociology lecturer at Padjajaran University. With extensive expertise in the field, Dr. Wahyu has made significant contributions to the study of society and its dynamics. His research focuses on various aspects of sociological phenomena, shedding light on social structures, relationships, and the interplay between individuals and society. His expertise and dedication have earned them recognition as a distinguished scholar in the field of Sociology.