Effectiveness of Wireless Internet in Promoting Students’ Access to Learning Resources in Higher Learning Institutions: Evidence from Morogoro, Tanzania

Abstract

This study investigated the effectiveness of wireless internet in promoting students’ access to learning materials in selected higher learning institutions in Morogoro Municipality. The study examined students’ perceptions of the availability of wireless internet services in Jordan University College. Assessed the impacts of wireless internet services on the learning of students in Jordan University College and explored challenges hindering students’ access to wireless internet at Jordan University College. The study employed mixed-method approach with a sample size of 150 students, 3 ICT staff and 3 Heads of departments. Data were collected using questionnaires and interviews. Data were analyzed together, where quantitative data were analyzed descriptively and qualitative data were analyzed thematically. The findings of the study revealed that wireless internet accessibility faces various challenges that affect its effectiveness, such as inconsistent internet connections, low speed internet connections, and the use of the internet for non-academic purposes among students. The study suggested that government and educational stakeholders should participate in ensuring active and effective wireless internet availability in universities. Conclusively, the study recommends further studies on the same problem to bridge the revealed research gaps.