The Impact of Digital Technology Usage on Enhancing the Continuity of Higher Education During War:
An Applied Study on Postgraduate Students at the Faculty of Economics at the I.U.G.
Abstract
The study aimed to identify the Impact of Digital Technology Usage on Enhancing the Continuity of Higher Education During War: An Applied Study on Students at the Faculty of Economics at the I.U.G. The study adopted a quantitative approach by randomly distributing questionnaires to a sample of 242 students, of which 104 responses were retrieved. In addition, secondary data was collected through books, previous studies, and other literatures related to similar topics. Data analysis was conducted using the (SPSS 31).
Findings include, there is a statistically significant positive correlation and impact between digital technology usage and the continuity of higher education. Furthermore, no statistically significant differences were found between males and females regarding " digital technology usage" while significant differences were found in the variable "continuity of higher education" in favor of females.
There are no statistically significant differences between master's and PhD students in "digital technology usage" but significant differences in the "continuity of higher education," in favor of PhD students. There are no strong statistically significant differences in either variable based on the current place of residence or age, while significant differences were found based on the level of internet availability in students’ residences.
The study presented several recommendations, including the need to provide designated study spaces with internet access, rather than public places like cafés that may distract students and hinder their ability to focus during lectures and exams. Also, it is important to offer a psychological support to help students cope with the stress and challenges that affect their ability to continue their education. Furthermore, it recommended organizing training courses to enhance students’ digital technology skills, particularly in using university platforms in Gaza. It is important to adopt digital technology as an integral part of the educational process, not only in the crisis.
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