Internet Utilization: A Case of Connected Rural and Urban Secondary Schools in Kenya

Abstract

This paper looks at the utilization of the Internet among teachers and students in connected rural and urban secondary schools in Kenya. A conceptual framework composed of variables which can explain Internet utilization in Kenyan secondary schools is established and measured. Instruments based on this framework were used in the survey and covered 11 schools with school principals, teachers and students as respondents. Findings show that use of the Internet and its integration in teaching and learning in secondary education is increasing with its use more pervasive among students and teachers as a means of communication and for information searching. Internet access rates for teachers and students have been observed to be much higher in educational institutions that have made effective ICT investments in education, translating into better utilization of ICT related technologies. Strategies are suggested on how to utilize the Internet to improve educational outcomes, and recommendations given on issues that touch on ICT access and infrastructure; human resources and training; policy environment; financing and ICT investment; curriculum development and locally relevant content.