Abuse of smartphones and social media may be responsible for poor attitude of students in Mathematics and Physics across the country, says Prof. Israel Cookey of the Rivers State University.
Cookey, who made the assertion while presenting the 52nd inaugural lecture of the university titled, “Fluids: Essential Ingredients for Life”, posited that constant exposure of teenagers to smartphones and social media reduces time dedicated to studying complex subjects such as Mathematics and Physics.
He said, “The digital landscape of these technologies has put a lot of pressures on our students to the extent that they use these devices in the lecture rooms. This phenomenon called weapons of mathematics and physics destruction should be discouraged, as students who are regularly on social media score lower in Mathematics and Physics and other sciences”.
Cookey, who is professor of Theoretical Physics in the state-owned university, reasoned that the study of Mathematics and Physics requires dedication such that student, would be able to train and speak in scientific language.
He added that, “Physics without Mathematics is mere philosophy”, as he stressed the need for collaborations from different specialisations in science and engineering.
The Head of Department of Mathematics/Computer Science in the Rivers State University also underscored the need for more research to impact on society.
Cookey maintained that scientific research should be able to benefit society, as he called on academics and researches to help bridge the gap between the society and the university.
Recommending the need for a multidisciplinary research involving Mathematics and Physics, he pointed out that such effort will make scientists speak in one language.
In addition, he emphasized importance of effective touching and research, especially in Mathematics and Physics as a way to kick start a fresh scientific rejuvenation in the country.