The iPhone Phenomenon, Media Literacy and United Nation’s 2030 Sustainable Developmental Goals in Nigeria

Abstract

In September 2015, the General Assembly adopted the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development which includes 17 interconnected Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) - quality education, reduced inequality, responsible consumption and production, and partnerships to achieve the goals. Smartphones are becoming increasingly prevalent element of the educational experience in classes, from preschool to graduating school level. The iPhone phenomenon makes students' lives easier. They can access their school information on portable devices. This is referred to as electronic learning (e-learning); smartphone is advanced mobile phone device that has improved considerably in the 21st century with the accommodation of features such as accessing emails, biometrics, online shopping, social media, and many more. The question arises whether the iPhone craze is driven by the passion for securing academic excellence, prestige, or social relevance. This author observes that the use of smartphones is gradually becoming an effective and indispensable learning tool used to enhance youths' social engagement. Hence, this study aims to conceptually synthesize existing literature on the iPhone phenomenon using the Marshal McLuhan Theory.