Internet access and security in Kitinga primary school in Mwingi central, Kenya

Abstract

In order to cope with Information Communication Technology in the contemporary society and school in particular, all stake holders must be involved in this noble exercise. But, a pupil who brings a phone to Kitinga primary school has it confiscated and appropriate disciplinary action is taken against the culprits. These are among the current school policies and regulations which outlaw the use of mobile phones or internet services in the school. This article examines the extent to which teachers and pupils access the internet in school and at their homes. Second, it underscores the nature and type of information that pupils and teachers access on the internet using their computers, laptops or mobile phones. Third, it analyzes the internet security measures that are undertaken in the use of internet in Kitinga primary school. A survey strategy was adopted and interviews were conducted to elicit information for our study. Fifty questionnaires were distributed to capture information from both teachers and pupils which were augmented by interviews and observations. From the interviews conducted, it was evident that a few teachers did not own smart phones or even a lap top for personal use in school or at their homes. Most pupils own smart phones which they only use out of school. But, some poor parents were unable to buy smart phones for their children, let alone providing them with their basic needs.