Analyzing the extent of internet use for political information consumption among pre-service teachers at a South African open distance and e-learning institution

Abstract

This research examines the extent and frequency of Internet use for political information among pre-service teachers at a South African Open Distance and e-Learning (ODeL) institution. Although the use of digital tools in political communication and education is increasing, there is still a lack of empirical studies on how pre-service teachers at ODeL institutions consume political information. The present study fills this gap in the extant literature by examining how pre-service teachers use the internet to access political information at a South African ODeL institution and the implications for civic education, digital inclusion, and teacher education. A total of 2,423 participants completed a structured questionnaire that included Likert-scale items. Results indicate that more than 58% of respondents utilized the Internet at least occasionally for political information, while only 3% to 5% reported daily or near-daily usage. Chi-square tests indicated a statistically significant association between gender and political information consumption (χ² = 13.03, p = 0.0046), with male students exhibiting higher levels of engagement. No significant differences were observed across age groups (p = 0.255). The findings highlight the irregular patterns of online engagement with political information among ODeL students and emphasize the necessity of incorporating digital citizenship education in ODeL modules, enhancing internet access, and tackling gender disparities in digital political participation.