ICT use patterns, mental health symptoms and the well-being of the open distance learning student: a replication study with historically advantaged students

Abstract

In addressing an area of research that has not received any attention, a recent study conducted in the South African context of disparities concluded that medium ICT use patterns hold no risk factors for the mental health and well-being of the historically disadvantaged open distance learning student. To determine if the basic findings can be applied to a different subgroup of students who are known to have better access to ICT resources, a replication study with historically advantaged students was done. Key findings from data collected from 699 students revealed no significant relationships between total ICT use scores, mental health and psychological and emotional well-being. Other than facets of social well-being, results were relatively consistent with the original study. In the context studied, it was concluded that ICT use patterns hold no risk factors for the mental health and well-being of the open distance learning student in general.