Characteristics and factors that discriminate internet users from non-users information seekers: the case of rural women in Tanzania

Abstract

The study determined the information needs and information-seeking patterns of rural women living in communities surrounding telecentres in Tanzania. The study used a questionnaire survey to collect data from users and non-users of Internet in three rural districts in Tanzania that have telecentres: Sengerema, Kongwa and Kilosa districts. The study findings showed that information needs of both users and non-users were location-specific. Although there were similarities in the major information needs and information-seeking patterns of both users and non-users of Internet, some variations were noted. Education level, income and number of information sources used played a key role in discriminating users and non-users in online information seeking. The study recommends that telecentres should conduct regular user studies, create awareness, disseminate information in local languages and multiple formats, collaborate with other local stakeholders, and provide educational programmes and information services relevant to socio-economic activities of the communities.