Surfing for knowledge : how undergraduate students use the internet for research and study purposes.
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Date
2013
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Abstract
The developments in technology and concomitant access to the Internet have reshaped the
way people research in their personal and academic lives. The ever-expanding amount of
information on the Internet is creating an environment where users are able to find what they
seek for or add to the body of knowledge or both. Researching, especially for academic
purposes, has been greatly impacted by the Internet’s rapid growth and expansion. This
project stemmed from a desire to understand how student’s research methods have evolved
when taking into account their busy schedules and needs. The availability and accessibility of
the Internet has increased its use considerably as a straightforward medium from which users
obtain desired information. This thesis was to ascertain in what manner senior undergraduate
students at the University of Kwa-Zulu Natal Pietermaritzburg campus use the Internet for
academic research purposes which is largely determined by the individual’s personal
preference and access to the Internet. Through the relevant literature review there arose
pertinent questions that required answers. Students were interviewed to determine when, why
and how they began using the Internet, and how this usage contributes to their academic
work; whether it aids or inhibits student’s research. Through collection and analysis of data,
evidence emerged that students followed contemporary research methods, making extensive
use of the Internet, while a few use both forms of resources, unless compelled by lecturers
when following assignment requirements. As a secondary phase, from the results received
from the students, lecturers were interviewed. Differing levels of restrictions on students were
evident; they themselves use the Internet for academic research purposes. Lecturers were
convinced they had the understanding and experience to discern what was relevant and factual. Referring to the Internet for research is becoming more popular. This should continue
to increase as the student’s lives become more complex. A suggestion offered by this
research project is to academic staff. Equip students from their early University years on
standards they should follow in order to research correctly, as opposed to limiting their use of
the Internet leading in part to students committing plagiarism being unaware of the wealth of
reputable resources available for their use and benefit on the Internet.
Description
Thesis (M.A.)-University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg, 2013.
Keywords
Internet searching--KwaZulu-Natal., Web search engines., Internet in education., Students--KwaZulu-Natal., Theses--Culture, communication and media studies.