NAVIGATING THE DIGITAL DIVIDE: AN IN-DEPTH ANALYSIS OF THE IMPACT OF PRIOR COMPUTER EXPERIENCE ON UNIVERSITY STUDENTS' ADOPTION OF INTERNET RESOURCES IN UGANDA

Abstract

In the evolving landscape of higher education, the shift from traditional pedagogical tools to digital resources has been significant. This study delves into the transformation experienced by university students in Uganda, with the introduction of Internet services. The focus is on understanding the influence of students' prior computer experience on their utilization of Internet resources for academic purposes. Employing a stratified random sampling technique, a sample of 280 university students participated in the study. The research employs a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative data collected through a questionnaire and qualitative insights gathered through interviews. Descriptive analysis using SPSS highlights the frequencies, means, standard deviation, and cross-tabulation of quantitative data, while thematic analysis is applied to qualitative findings. The results reveal a significant relationship between students' previous computer experience and their engagement with Internet resources. The study recommends incentivizing students to foster positive attitudes towards e-technology and advocates for the early introduction of ICT education at primary and secondary levels to better prepare learners for the digital demands of higher education. This research contributes valuable insights into enhancing the effectiveness of educational technology provision in institutions of higher learning.