INVESTIGATING THE DIGITAL LITERACY GAP AND STRATEGIES TO BRIDGE IT IN LEARNERS, USING UNIVERSITY OF BENIN PART-TIME STUDENTS AS A CASE STUDY

ABSTRACT

This study investigates the perceived literacy gap and strategies to bridge the it in learners using University of Benin part time students as a case study. Three research questions were raised to guide the study. The simple random technique was employed to select the samples for the study. The questionnaire was the major instrument used for the study and was designed and validated by experts in the department of Adult and Nonformal Education , Faculty of Education , University of Benin, Benin City, Nigeria. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistical technique such as tables, and simple percentages. Findings of the study revealed that lack of access to technology and the fact that Uniben part time students are not familiar with digital tools and platforms, and this is mostly due to Digital Divide in forms of economic, society and technological divide. The study shows that the digital literacy gap can be bridged with the increased access to digitals tools like computers and internet both on and off campus, especially on campus, and this would improve the digital literacy of part time students at the University of Benin. It also shows that providing more resources and support for students from low income background will improve the digital literacy of part time students at the University of Benin. All this strategies would also improve the academics of the part time students at University of Benin.