Internet Usage Trends among Indian College Students: A Comprehensive Review

Abstract

The present study reviews existing research on patterns of internet usage among Indian college students, examining a broad range of factors influencing their online behavior. A total of 191 studies were identified, spanning seventeen areas of usage were identified and grouped into four overarching thematic categories: (a) Demographic and background factors (gender differences, academic discipline/stream of study, urban-rural differences in internet use and proficiency, internet experience, and internet users), (b) Access and usage patterns (devices used and internet access, device ownership, location of internet access, frequency of internet access, and time spent on the internet), (c) Purposes and skills (purposes for using the internet, preferred search engines, methods of obtaining/learning internet skills, and level of knowledge and awareness of internet use), and (d) Attitudes, barriers, and satisfaction (internet attitudes, barriers to using the internet, and satisfaction with the internet). The findings across studies remain mixed, reflecting differences in samples, research methodologies, and variables examined. Notably, since 2013, increased availability and affordability of technology has led to increased internet access, higher smartphone adoption, and stronger digital engagement among college students. Overall, the evidence suggests that internet usage behavior among Indian college students is influenced by technological, geographic, and cultural factors.