The internet as a source of information in the secondary school : a case study

Abstract

The aim of this long essay will be that of analyzing and evaluating the role of the internet as a source of information in a secondary school. The research carried out will be qualitative in the sense that it be based on data acquired from one particular source: St. Paul's Missionary College, which will be used as a case study. The reason behind choosing this school is because it's a secondary school which provides students with internet access, and thus offers ample scope for analysis in this particular sector. Methodology: I propose to start by evaluating the role and function of internet in education, as well as the steps taken to introduce internet access to school, with references to sources and standards (both foreign and local where available). An important point which will be taken into consideration is the setting out and implementation of an ICT user policy within the school framework. A comparison of the role of the internet in relation to printed books in the school library will also be attempted. The methodology will consist of the analysis of data collected through questionnaires distributed to one hundred and fifty students. Its purpose will be that of analyzing students' perceptions and use of the internet and the role it plays as a medium of information in a secondary school.