Digital information resources: use and perceptions of deaf and hearing students

Abstract

Purpose The purpose of this study is to investigate the use of the internet among deaf and hearing students. The study also explores the perceptions of students toward the internet, online databases and digital libraries. Design/methodology/approach The study uses a survey questionnaire to collect data from the sample. The sample consists of 59 hearing and 53 deaf students studying at Al Ain University of Science and Technology Al Ain University (AAU). Descriptive statistics and t-tests are used to analyze data. Findings Findings of the study show that at least 90 per cent of participants are using the internet for intellectual activities and social communications. In addition, the majority of deaf and hearing students have positive perceptions toward digital information resources. For gender differences, the study found no significant difference between men and women in the use of internet or in their perceptions toward the importance of online databases and digital libraries. However, results of the study confirmed significant difference between deaf and hearing students in relation to internet use, perception toward the importance of online databases and digital libraries. Research limitations/implications The sample of the study are students studying at AAU. Future studies may expend this study by including deaf participants from various institutions in UAE. Originality/value The results of the study could be used in planning and providing digital information resources and services for deaf students.