Community Shared Connectivity Theory (CSCT): A Framework for Sustainable Free Internet Access and Digital Inclusion in Underserved Communities
Description
The study will employ a mixed-methods research design, integrating both quantitative and qualitative approaches to provide a comprehensive analysis of the Community Shared Connectivity Theory (CSCT). The quantitative component will be used to measure the relationships among key variables such as community participation, institutional support, government policy, and levels of internet accessibility and digital inclusion. This will allow for statistical analysis of patterns, correlations, and potential predictive relationships within the proposed theoretical framework. Complementing this, the qualitative component will explore the lived experiences, perceptions, and insights of community members, educators, and local stakeholders regarding shared connectivity systems. Through interviews and focus group discussions, the study will capture contextual and explanatory data that cannot be fully represented through numerical analysis alone. By combining both approaches, the mixed-methods design ensures methodological triangulation, strengthens the validity of findings, and provides a more holistic understanding of how shared internet systems operate and sustain digital inclusion in real-world community settings.
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Steps to reproduce
This study followed a systematic mixed-methods workflow to ensure that the data could be replicated and validated in similar research settings. The process began with the development of the research design, which combined quantitative and qualitative approaches to capture both measurable indicators and contextual insights related to the Community Shared Connectivity Theory (CSCT). A structured survey questionnaire was first developed based on the key constructs of the CSCT framework, including community participation, institutional support, government policy, internet accessibility, and digital inclusion. The instrument underwent content validation through expert review and was pilot-tested to ensure clarity, reliability, and appropriateness for the target respondents. In parallel, interview and focus group discussion (FGD) guides were prepared to collect qualitative data on lived experiences and stakeholder perspectives regarding shared internet connectivity systems. Data were gathered from purposively and/or randomly selected respondents, including community residents, teachers, students, local government officials, and ICT coordinators. Survey questionnaires were administered either face-to-face or electronically, depending on accessibility and availability. Interviews and FGDs were conducted using semi-structured protocols, recorded with consent, and later transcribed for analysis. Quantitative data were encoded and analyzed using statistical software such as SPSS (or equivalent tools). Descriptive statistics (frequency, percentage, and weighted mean) were used to summarize responses, while inferential statistics such as correlation and regression analysis were applied to examine relationships among variables within the CSCT framework. Qualitative data were analyzed using thematic analysis, involving coding, categorization, and interpretation of emerging patterns. Finally, findings from both quantitative and qualitative components were integrated through methodological triangulation to strengthen validity and ensure a comprehensive interpretation of results. This structured workflow provides a clear protocol that allows other researchers to replicate the study in similar community-based digital connectivity contexts.
Institutions
- Biliran Province State UniversityEastern Visayas, Naval