Understanding the Lived Experiences of Female Students in Rural Areas of Balochistan regarding their Academic Aspirations and Access to the Internet: A Phenomenological Study in Turbat, Pakistan

Abstract

This study aims to explore the lived experiences of female students in rural Balochistan, specifically in Turbat, Pakistan, with regard to their academic aspirations and access to the internet. The research adopts a phenomenological approach to gain an in-depth understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities faced by these students in pursuing education and utilizing digital resources. Qualitative methodology, along with in-depth interviews and focus group discussion, were utilized as methods as per the nature of the study. For theoretical underpinning, digital divide theory was used to ensure and clarify the assumptions of the study. It has been found that in Balochistan, not only are there structural flaws, but there are also socio-political and cultural factors behind the digital divides and hurdles for girls in internet accessibility. Therefore, the inevitability of this study is to bridge this gap and ensure digital inclusiveness and digital parity to ensure girls' academic performances.