An Investigation of Graduate Students’ Internet Attitudes and Their Feelings of Connectedness

Abstract

This study investigated students’ Internet attitudes and feelings of connectedness in their graduate programs using a quantitative survey design approach. Two modified instruments were administered to students in graduate programs at a small, land-grant university. One hundred forty-three graduate students completed the online survey. Findings indicate participants had moderately positive Internet attitudes, but their feelings of connectedness overall were mixed. Internet attitudes did not impact connectedness; however, general Internet use impacted feelings of comfort and facilitation. Answers to open-ended questions showed that the use of a variety of tools made participants feel more connected to others. Participants shared how their attitudes about Internet use influenced their feelings of connectedness. Gender and age did not yield significant differences in responses. A significant difference between academic programs pertaining to connectedness was found. The findings are discussed in the context of the literature.

Keywords:

• higher education
• Internet attitudes
• connectedness
• graduate students
• graduate programs

Additional information

Notes on contributors

David Des Armier

David Des Armier, Jr., PhD, is an Instructional Designer at the University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT.

Doris U. Bolliger

Doris U. Bolliger, EdD, is an Associate Professor at Old Dominion University, Norfolk, VA.