An investigation of cyberbullying incidents among learners in institutions of higher learning in Gaborone, Botswana.

The study sought to investigate the prevalence of cyberbullying incidents among learners in institutions of higher learning in Gaborone, Botswana. The study explored the prevalence of cyberbullying, cyber stalking, impersonation and the use of technology. The mixed methods explanatory research design was adopted in this study. This design involved the use of qualitative and quantitative data collection and analysis techniques to establish the extent of cyberbullying in institutions of higher learning in Gaborone. Questionnaires were distributed to 150 learners at the institutions of higher learning in Gaborone main campuses. Both institutions of learning were selected because of their intensive use of technology for teaching and learning. Of the 150 questionnaires that were distributed, 115 were completed and returned culminating in a 77% response rate. The research findings revealed the prevalence of cyberbullying in institutions of learning. The results also demonstrated that technological platforms through the use of the internet facilitated cyberbullying in learning institutions. The findings of the study are significant as they will enable the leaders of the institutions to promulgate effective policies that will help curb the prevalence cyberbullying incidences. To augment knowledge sharing in the education fraternity, the study makes a recommendation to the Ministry of Education, together with other institutions of learning, that a specific cyberbullying policy should be promulgated and implemented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]