INTERNET AS AN INFORMATION SOURCE: ATTITUDES AND USAGE OF STUDENTS ENROLLED IN A COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE COURSE

Abstract

With Internet usage in the United States at an all-time high, information technology use in education has continued to increase. Research has shown that many students are utilizing these materials to search out information and assist with completing class assignments. Many college students have described the Internet as a functional tool that helps them to communicate with professors, conduct research, and access library materials. As more and more students and educators use the Internet as a source for information in the classroom, it is important to monitor students’ attitudes and usage to ensure students know how to use technology effectively by recognizing credible sources and utilizing the correct technology for each situation. This study utilizes a descriptive survey to explore the current usage and attitudes toward the Internet by students enrolled in college of agriculture courses at the University of Florida. Findings indicate that these students are substantial users of the Internet and programs like Facebook, MySpace, and search engines. Students indicate believing that the Internet is easy to understand, important, beneficial, believable, and accurate. Recommendations are offered as to what these findings mean for instructors in the classroom.