Peer Reviewed Open Access Journal
ISSN: 3139-3349
Rapid advancement happening information and communication technology, it has transformed the academic, economic, and social experiences of students globally. This research work investigates the influence of Internet on students at Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH), focusing on its role in academic performance, income generation, and social interactions. While the Internet provides numerous opportunities for research, online learning, and communication, challenges such as misinformation, unstable electricity, and high costs of access continue to hinder its effective utilization. Descriptive survey was employed for data collection among 71 undergraduate students across different levels at LAUTECH through a structured questionnaire. The results revealed that 90.1% of the respondents use the Internet daily, with smartphones being the most common access device (45.1%). Academically, 92.3% of students used the Internet for research, and 67.7% reported great improvement in performance due to online resources. Economically, 91.7% of students engaged in income-generating activities online, with 51.5% earning between ₦10,000 – ₦50,000 monthly, and 27.3% earning above ₦50,000. Socially, 81.4% agreed that the Internet enhanced their interactions, with WhatsApp being the most widely used platform (84.3%). However, barriers such as slow Internet speed (73.2%) and power failures (47.9%) were identified as major obstacles. The study concludes that the Internet serves as a multifaceted tool for LAUTECH students that will help them positively academically, socially and economic development.
impact, internet, student, transformation, Nigeria
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