The relationship between the technology needs of the youth and institutional resource provision

Abstract

This survey explored the relationship between students' technological needs and the availability of resources in Ethiopia, emphasizing the role of educational stakeholders in promoting the productive and ethical use of technology in youth education. Focusing on secondary school and university levels, the study examined how the age and level of students influence their selection and use of technology, noting both benefits and challenges. Through a desk review of current research, the study revisited gaps between students' technological needs and institutional provisions in Ethiopia. A situational discourse analysis, using criterion sampling, was employed to assess students' needs against institutional provisions. Findings revealed that key challenges in meeting youth learning needs included issues with infrastructure, internet connectivity, and technology preparedness. Additional barriers included pedagogical misalignment of ICT resources, inconsistent access to electricity, weak managerial support, and limited collegiality among staff. These factors were identified as significant obstacles to the effective implementation of instructional technology in Ethiopia.

Keywords: Resource provision; students; technology; technology needs