EFFECTS OF MOBILE COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY ON UNIVERSITY LECTURERS’
WORK-LIFE BALANCE

EFFECTS OF MOBILE COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY ON UNIVERSITY LECTURERS’
WORK-LIFE BALANCE

ALLEN MUTUMWA

COLLEN KAJONGWE

MARTIN CHIKOZHO

MICHELLE PHIRI

Communication technology is advancing on a daily basis bringing efficiency and flexibility in
the workplace. However, literature on its effect on work life balance among lecturers is blurred.
Overuse of mobile communication devices for work-related tasks outside designated hours can
disrupt the equilibrium between professional and personal lives. This study investigates the
effects of mobile communication technology on work-life balance among university lecturers
in Zimbabwe. Employing a qualitative research paradigm and an interpretive philosophy, the
study facilitates an in-depth exploration of lecturers’ perceptions regarding the effects of
mobile communication on their work-life balance. A hybrid methodology combining case
study and phenomenological designs was utilised, involving 21 lecturers selected from various
departments across the selected state university through criterion purposive sampling. The
findings revealled significant insights into this pressing issue. It was revealed that the effects
of mobile communication technology on the work-life balance of lecturers are multifaceted,
with both positive and negative effects found depending on how its use is regulated. When
utilised randomly without guiding institutional policies and practices, it is more likely to impact
negatively on the work-life balance of lecturers. This study recommended a careful and
judicious use of mobile communication technologies within faculties and departments to
facilitate work while preserving work-life equilibrium. The establishment of a policy
framework and communication of such a policy, which guide mobile communication in the
workplace, was recommended

ZJBEM

2025