Internet Usage by University Academics: Implications for the 21st Century Teaching and Learning

Information Technology is driving transformative pedagogy in both lower and higher education institutions. This paper discusses internet usage patterns among university academics before advancing to explore how to improve these aspects in the context of education. This descriptive survey collected data from a random sample of 440 university academics in Zimbabwe. Academics use the internet for research more than they did for teaching purposes. Statistical analysis of data revealed gender differences in internet access. Age and experience were found to explain differences in usage among university academics. Educational implications of these findings in relation to advancing development of 21st century skills through Information Technology in tomorrow’s leadership and drivers of country’s economic growth were highlighted. The study recommends a transformation of university teaching practice through technology based holistic models that encompass creative and innovative Webogogy and facilitative content delivery for better performance in higher educational institutions. The paper advocates for university management to promote Technology based teaching practice in universities, fund and develop formal training programmes to upgrade internet search and webagogy skills of academics.