Gender related differences in the use of the Internet by university academics

Abstract

This paper reports in part some of the findings of a PhD study regarding visibility of gender issues in the use of the internet in university contexts. The study adopted a cross sectional descriptive survey research design and collected data using a structured questionnaire. Data were obtained from 440 full time university academics that were selected using simple random sampling technique. Data were analysed quantitatively using descriptive and inferential statistics using SPSS version 17. This study revealed a significant relationship between gender and internet usage in favour of males. While both male and female academics were not fully utilizing the internet for university teaching, more male academics used the internet for research more than female academics did. The study concluded that gender is a key factor in the discourse concerning internet and university academic practice. Internet usage differences have serious implications on mainstreaming ICT in higher education curricula as both female and male academics are expected to mentor students and participate in virtual co-construction of knowledge. The study recommended that university management should develop gender sensitive information technology learning environments and targeted training programmes. Female lecturers should be encouraged to be proactive and participate in global developmental initiatives.