Internet Via Mobile Devices Among Graduate Students of the University of Ghana

Abstract

This study focused on the use of the Internet via mobile devices among graduate students of the University of Ghana. The survey methodology was used to analyze the perceived use, attitude of graduate students of the University of Ghana (UG) towards the use of the Internet via mobile devices. The respondents numbering 244 answered questions on attitude, perceived ease of use, actual use and challenges of the Internet via mobile devices among graduate students of UG. Responses were analyzed to ascertain the use of the Internet via mobile devices among graduate students in the University. The study revealed that graduate students of UG used mobile phones in accessing the Internet for their information needs due to its portability, easy use, faster and convenience. Additionally the students used MTN as their core telecom network service to access the Internet. Besides, mobile devices were used for academic purposes especially for research work. The benefits obtained by the students in accessing the Internet via mobile devices included broadening of knowledge, convenience of search and wider access to information. Major limitations however were small screen size, low memory capacity, slow transmission speed and lack of skill to operate the mobile device. In conclusion, the Technology Acceptance Model via Wireless Internet should be used for all graduate students’ programmes, because Internet via mobile devices has a unique role in UG. The study recommended a partnership between Internet Service Providers (ISPs) and Technology Manufacturers to tailor made mobile devices that support Internet access and also meet the desired needs of students whilst ISPs and UG management respectively improve on Internet services and integrate mobile devices to teaching, learning and research activities.

Keywords: Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), Ease of Use (EOU) and Information Communication Technology (ICT)

DOI: 10.7176/JEP/11-6-14

Publication date: February 29^th 2020