The Effect of Technology on Student Behavior in Kenya Universities

Abstract

Technology is part of human day-to-day life; its presence in the education sector no exception. Thus teaching and learning have become digital. We live in a digital world of technology, and we are part of the Net Generation. The percentage of people who have smartphones and computers is very high and students in universities use technology to acquire and receive information, do research, conduct online business, and manage boredom. Behaviour is how human beings act or respond to a particular stimulus and behaviour change takes place in the physical, mental, and social phases of human life from infancy through childhood, adolescence t adulthood.  In this paper, we focus on the effect of technology on students’ behaviour in Kenyan universities. The paper is based on a theoretical review of the literature. We start with a conceptual definition of terms such as "technology" and "technology in education" and then move on to define "behaviour change." After the definitions, we discuss the uses of technology in universities in Kenya and its effects on the behaviour of students. Behaviour change is discussed about teaching and learning, academic integrity, academic performance and social interaction. The positive and negative effects of technology on student behaviour are highlighted and we make suggestions on how technology can be used in universities for positive behaviour change among students.