Today's kids taught by the internet

17:34 19 March 2010

Nearly half of Brit parents say a fast internet connection offers better value for money for childrenÂ’s learning than a personal tutor, new research reveals.

Around one in two (45%) say home broadband is more cost effective and has a greater impact on their childÂ’s education than a maths or science tutor.

Websites like Google, Wikipedia and Wolfram Alpha have become so effective in providing easy access to essential resources that personal tutors, which are often expensive, are becoming less popular.

The majority of Brits say children with home internet access have an academic advantage over children who do not (51%).

Meanwhile, two thirds of parents of 11-18 year olds believe familiarity with internet search engines will help give schoolchildren an advantage when they leave school.

A further one in four say access to home internet at a young age will influence their childÂ’s future career and one in three also believe it gives them a social advantage over those without it.

Craig Roberts, broadband services manager at Avonline, who commissioned the research said: "Undoubtedly internet access is integral to a childÂ’s development, when used as an effective educational tool.

"When asked to look back on their educational process, many British adults believe having home internet access at a young age would have helped them academically. 93% say they did not have access in the home but would have achieved better grades and learnt more if they did."

With almost one million young people currently not in work or training, the job market is fiercely competitive and parents are keen to give their children the best possible start.