Abstract:
This study sought to investigate the digital divide, from
an access perspective, of dental students at the University
of Pretoria. Second to final year students (n=
218 (87.2% response rate) completed a custom-designed
survey at the end of 2017.
The investigation enquired about the digital devices
and infra-structure they owned and used for study
purposes. They were also asked to reveal the networks
and resources they used to access online platforms
and to comment on any other related access
issues such as the quality of the Internet, speed and
reliability, as well as cost and personal implications
related to usage.
A clear divide could be detected for a minority of students
(±1/7). Individually targeted interventions will be required
to ensure an equitable and fair online learning experience.
