Digital Literacy Skill Development of Chiang Mai Rajabhat University Students for improving learning Quality

Abstract

Purpose of the study:  This study examines the digital literacy capabilities and proposes a digital literacy skill model for Chiangmai Rajabhat university students.

Methodology:  This R & D study is undertaken in two parts.  Part one describes the digital literacy testing of 745 freshmen sample who have been taking the digital literacy course GE 1402 offered in 2020 using digital literacy assessment forms.  Part two is a focus group comprising digital literacy experts who provide recommendations for developing the digital literacy development model for Chiangmai Rajabhat University students   

Main findings:  The majority of research participants are found to be digital literates.  Their highest test scores and mean fall on digital skills component 4 - the cognitive skills, followed by skill component 2 -  thinking skill, and 3 - collaborative skills.  However, their skill component 1 – practical skills is found to be at the moderate level.  Moreover, the digital literacy development model of Rajabaht University students comprises 4 elements:  1) digital literacy skill development process 2) instructional media for digital skill development 3) learning opportunity for improving their digital literacy skills and 4) learning environment within the university.

Application of the study:  Findings of this research could help the administrators, chairmen of the study programs and instructors of Chiangmai Rajabhat University in formulating digital literacy skill development plan for improving their students’ digital literacy competencies.  In addition, the literacy skill development planners should pay more attention on component 1 – practical skills, from which the students obtain the lowest test scores and mean.