Evaluation of internet access by students at a federal educational institution in Northern Brazil

Abstract

Objective: This study presents the results of assessing Internet access by students at a federal educational institution in northern Brazil. Theoretical Framework: The study's theoretical framework relates information technologies through Internet access to learning. It shows that the more adequate Internet access is in educational institutions' daily routines, the better the students' performance in learning and its developments in technical, scientific, and technological production. Method: The method used was a survey, the population of which consisted of students who attended classes during the three shifts during which the institution operated. The students were consulted through a questionnaire with multiple-choice questions, the results of which were generated using descriptive statistics and presented in frequency tables. Results and Discussion: The findings showed deficiencies in a) the connection attributes, b) insufficient connection about the types of use by students, c) the connection provided is of low quality, and d) there is excess demand about the low institutional supply, especially in the evening shift.

Research Implications: This study shows that internet services must be the object of multidisciplinary treatment and cannot represent the exclusive view of ICT professionals or education specialists. Unidisciplinary views prevent several fundamental nuances of institutional core activities from being overlooked. Originality/Value: The research's originality lies in the empirical observation that educational institutions must strategically plan long-term internet provision jointly by ICT professionals, education specialists, teachers, and students.