Investigating the integration of digital devices to enhance learning material accessibility in higher education: An experience from Jordan University College students, Tanzania

An Experience from Jordan University College Students

Resumo

This paper investigates the integration of digital devices to enhance access to learning materials in Tanzanian higher education, focusing on students' experiences. Many universities have been equipping their students with digital devices; however, there is little documentation on their use. While this study was guided by the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT), it employed a mixed-methods approach. Using questionnaires, interviews, and observations, rich data were collected and analyzed from a sample of 359 students, calculated using Yamane’s formula, from a total of 3500 students at Jordan University College (JUCo). The data analysis used SPSS to assess the impact of digital device integration on the accessibility of learning materials and to understand the mediating roles of technological proficiency and learning style. The findings showed that about 45% of the students in the selected sample have access to digital Materials using Smartphones, and the remaining percentage use other digital devices. Also, about 36% of students rely heavily on traditional hard-copy materials for learning, and the remainder is due to other challenges. Furthermore, about 75% of students have positive attitudes toward using digital devices for Learning and global connectivity, while 25% have negative attitudes. About 56% of students have 1 to 3 years of experience using digital devices for learning. Overall, this research illuminates the complex dynamics of using digital devices to improve access to learning materials in Tanzanian higher education. Technological integration can improve accessibility and student experiences, but financial and digital literacy issues must be addressed. To maximize the use of digital devices in education, several issues must be addressed. Policymakers and educators should work together to promote digital literacy and equal access to digital resources. To ensure that all students benefit from educational technology, the digital divide must be bridged, especially in financially disadvantaged areas. This research adds useful insights to the ongoing conversation on the integration of digital devices in education, presenting practical recommendations to better the learning experience for Tanzanian Higher students. According to the study's findings, the government of Tanzania should strongly consider strengthening information and communication technology (ICT) infrastructure in its public institutions and equipping universities with more ICT workers. It is recommended that students make excellent use of the resources available to them at their respective educational institutions.