A strategy to enhance e‑safety among first‑year students at Zimbabwean universities: an action research

Abstract

The widespread use of ICT offers considerable opportunities to society. However, there is ample evidence that students are exposed to various e-Safety challenges and risks through the use of ICT. Most Zimbabwean students who are not adequately prepared for e-Safety are now entering universities and are thus exposed to the risks posed by ICT. Therefore, this action research developed a strategy to enhance e-Safety among first-year students in Zimbabwean universities. The overarching research strategy was action research, which used qualitative research methods to collect information on e-Safety, usage and risks students face, and how these risks can be mitigated. Data was collected using an online questionnaire, interviews, observation and netnography. The results showed that the under- standing of e-safety issues is still in its infancy. Therefore, an e-safety strategy was formu- lated to clearly indicate what to report, to whom and how concerning safety. This strategy was based on the overall reflection of the research, which recommended that education plays a central role in e-safety, as perpetrators or victims may not be aware of the chal- lenges of e-safety. Thus, this research contributes to the existing body of knowledge by providing a clear strategy for dealing with e-safety challenges in Zimbabwean universities. Furthermore, this research is important in understanding the future of ICT use in develop- ing countries like Zimbabwe.