مجلة الاقتصاد وادارة الاعمال
Volume 10, Numéro 1, Pages 55-69
2026-06-10

The Second-level Digital Divide In Higher Education: Territorial And Material Disparities Among Students At The University Of Oran 2

Authors : Lakahal Farida .

Abstract

This study analyzes the mechanisms of the digital divide at the University of Oran 2 for the 2024-2025 academic cycle. Employs a mixed methodology, combining quantitative data from 116 questionnaires with a qualitative approach through semi-structured interviews (23 interviews). The results establish a direct correlation between residential area and the effectiveness of access to academic resources. Territorial disparities, accentuated by heterogeneous network coverage among mobile operators, penalize students from rural areas (perceived difficulty of 4.1/5 compared to 2.8/5 in urban areas). Material equipment reveals technical precarity, 89% of learners depend exclusively on their mobile phones, limiting the production of complex academic work.This diagnosis reveals insufficient campus infrastructure. The article recommends stronger collaboration with the economic sector to fund adequate technical facilities, aims to ensure a stable digital environment for the entire university community.

Keywords

digital divide ; higher education ; territorial inequalities ; network infrastructure ; university-business partnerships