Evaluation of the use of internet in students' : case study of hostels around Strathmore University

Abstract

The research investigates the use of Internet by undergraduate students in Strathmore University with a specific look at availability and use of Internet in their halls of residence.A questionnaire survey is the research method that was used for data collection. Questionnaires were distributed to undergraduate students in six hostels around Strathmore University.The findings of the study reveal that the Internet is not extensively used by undergraduate students in their halls of residence. Students prefer using modems to connect to the Internet since the hostels rarely provide the services. The research also examines the equitable access to the Internet, as students mostly rely on private/commercial Internet cybercafés – both on and off campus – for their access and use. The findings of the research also reveal the need for having Internet services in student’s hostels and the use of the Internet in university for optimal utilization of electronic information sources.The research is useful for those in decision-making roles as it reveals the need for the provision of relevant Internet infrastructural facilities in Kenyan hostels around institutions of higher learning and sustainable access to the Internet by the students to support their academic activities.