The study examines and describes the impact of the Ohio University Residence Halls Computer project on first-year students' academic work and social lives. The study investigates students' perceptions and attitudes towards the Ohio University computer project, and how they use computers in their dormitory rooms for their academic work and in their social activities. The study also, examines faculty members' perceptions on the computer project at OU and describes their point of view of its impact on teaching and learning process.
A qualitative research methodology was employed and an in-depth interview technique was used to collect data from participants. In this study a total of twenty four interviewees were participated: sixteen first-year students, four faculty members and four staff members. Whereas the main target group for this study was first-year students from the University College, the study included faculty and staff members to triangulate students' perceptions.
The findings presented in this study show that the OU residence halls computer project is impacting students' academic work and social lives in a positive manner. Concepts of computer ownership, computer privacy, immediate access, and convenience are behind the students' positive attitude towards the OU computer project. While men were found to be using computers more than women in playing games, the study finds that both men and women are equally using computers with the same intensity for academic work.
However, there is unanimous agreement among students that the OU computer project provides all students with equal access to computers on Ohio University main campus.
This study presents strong evidence that an informal learning community is developing as the result of the SCE in Ohio University's residence halls. A enriched-computer environment is not only providing opportunities for online interactions between students, but also is found to be promoting face-to-face meetings. Accordingly, new forms of learning are taking shape in OU residence halls, presenting new opportunities and challenges to faculty members.