Nursing students' access to technological devices in nursing education: A quantitative study in Namibia.

Background:  Technology integration in higher education is a critical aspect of the 21st century, as it enhances student learning.

Objectives:  This study aimed to assess students' access to and utilisation of technological devices, as well as the integration of technology in nursing education at a higher education institution.

Method:  A quantitative approach with a descriptive, cross-sectional study design was used. The study was conducted at a public university in Windhoek. Data were collected via a self-administered questionnaire among 70 third-year nursing students pursuing a bachelor's degree. The data were analysed using SPSS version 26.

Results:  Majority (74.2%) of the participants were aged 20-25 years, 82.9% were female, and 98.6% were single. More than half (58.6%) were Oshiwambo-speaking. Most participants (47.1%) owned technological devices. The majority (60.0%) preferred laptop computers, and the majority used cell phones, messaging apps, social media and WhatsApp daily for learning and communication. Most participants used technological devices to download learning materials, submit online assessments and contact lecturers and classmates. Most preferred a blended mode of learning, online formative assessments and face-to-face examinations.

Conclusion:  The study found that most students owned and utilised technological devices, which facilitated blended learning during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Technology integration improved access to learning, as students were able to attend classes from locations with Internet access.Contribution: The study contributes to the body of knowledge on technology integration in higher education and highlights the importance of transforming higher education through the effective use of technology.