The Internet – Support or Threat to Learning Habits of the Younger Generation?

Abstract

I've often heard young students say, "Let me check on the internet," when they're unsure of an answer. It's also evident that traditional paper dictionaries are rarely used nowadays, with foreign language words being automatically translated online. While the internet provides quick access to information, the accuracy of these answers needs research on sources and may require deep reading of different materials. This raises questions about the internet's role as a learning tool and how it's shaping our learning habits. Conducted in February 2024, a survey among 35 Romanian high school students aged 15-19 serves as the basis for this paper, which seeks to delve into students' internet usage for learning, their platform preferences, and their perceptions of how internet usage affects their learning styles. In conclusion, the paper will underscore the evolving learning needs identified and suggest ways educators can adapt to maintain students' interest in learning, guiding them towards focused research topics that align with their passions and future career aspirations.