Utilization of internet by health colleges students at the University of Dammam

ObjectivesThis study aimed to explore students' attitudes towards using the Internet and various search engines, social media websites, usage purposes, and the barriers faced by students while using Internet in five health colleges at the University of Dammam, Saudi Arabia.MethodsAn online survey was administered to all 2nd year students in the five health colleges. The questionnaire included details about demographics, 13 questions with five Likert-scale responses, and some open-ended questions.ResultsOf the 231 students, 138 responded (response rate; 59.7%). The health colleges' students perceived that using the Internet was very crucial for their academic success. Google and Facebook were the most visited sites by the participants. The students' responses were not significantly different across the five health colleges at the University of Dammam.ConclusionHealth colleges' students at the University of Dammam showed a positive attitude towards using the Internet for academic purposes. There is a need to provide wireless facilities on campus which will enhance the usage of Internet for educational purposes. Training courses about the appropriate usage of Internet sources are also emphasized.