Studying online is often described as flexible and convenient. You can learn from home, fit study around work or family life, and access materials at any time. However, this flexibility can quickly become overwhelming when students are required to navigate digital platforms. Having a computer and an internet connection is not always enough to succeed in online study. Many students struggle not because they lack access to technology, but because they lack the digital skills needed for online higher education.

My research explored tutors’ observations of digital challenges faced by students studying degrees online at The Open University during the 2024–25 academic year. Tutors were asked about the issues they saw among their students. The findings: the digital divide is less about owning digital technologies and more about being able to use them effectively for study (Harrison, 2026).

What do we mean by ‘digital disparities’?

When we talk about digital disparities, we are not just talking about whether someone has internet access or a laptop. Digital disparities describe differences in both access to digital technologies and how well people can use them. My study focused on three main areas:

• Internet access
  This includes whether students have internet at home, and whether it is fast and reliable enough for study. A good connection makes it easier to watch videos, join online tutorials, and use the virtual learning environment without interruptions.
• Device access
  Students need a suitable computer for tasks such as writing assignments, opening multiple documents, and using specialist software. Problems can arise if devices are shared, outdated, slow, or not compatible with required software.
• Digital skills for higher education
  These are the skills needed to study online, such as using learning platforms, managing files, submitting assignments, and taking part in online discussions. These skills are different from everyday digital skills, like using social media or streaming videos.

Tutors reported digital disparities across all three areas (internet access, device access, and digital skills). However, difficulties with digital skills was the most common issue, followed by issues with devices. Slow or unreliable internet was also mentioned, but very few students had no internet access at all (Harrison, 2026).

Who is most affected?

Digital disparities were reported across all subject areas and at all stages of study. However, students who were new to their course were more likely to struggle than those who had already been studying for some time (Harrison, 2026). New students may be unfamiliar with learning platforms. If their digital skills are low at the start, this can make the transition into online study harder.

Why digital skills matter more than access

Having a device and an internet connection does not guarantee that studying online will feel easy. Many students reported struggling because they were unsure how to use digital technologies for learning. When study tasks feel difficult, studying can quickly become stressful. Over time, this can affect confidence, engagement and learning outcomes. Many of these challenges are preventable with preparation.

Preparing for online study

There are simple steps you can take to prepare for online study.

• Check your device to ensure it meets your course requirements.

For example, before starting an OpenLearn course, check the Frequently Asked Questions – Technical questions to make sure your device meets the requirements. This can help you avoid problems later.  

• Test your Internet connection.

Before you begin, take time to test the speed of your internet connection using tools such as Which? Broadband speed test and BT Speed Test.

If it is slow or you find it unreliable (e.g. connection drops regularly) ask yourself these questions:

Can you upgrade to a faster connection? 
Check the Ofcom broadband availability webpage. Struggling financially? If money is tight, you may qualify for a social tariff which offers cheaper broadband for people receiving certain benefits. Some providers also offer student deals such as BT’s student deals.

Can you plan high-bandwidth tasks (such as watching videos) for quieter times, when others in your household are not streaming or gaming?

• Build your digital skills for studying.

Digital skills for study are not the same as everyday digital skills. The good news is that they can be learned and improved. These free courses on OpenLearn can help:

• Am I ready to be a distance learner?
• Building confidence in using online forums.

Additionally, The Open University provides a resource to help you prepare for online study.

Are you ready?

Having a computer and internet is just the start. Getting comfortable with digital tools and building your skills makes all the difference. With a bit of preparation, online learning becomes smoother, less stressful, and much more productive.