Assessment of ICT Literacy and Usage among Undergraduates in Yezin Agricultural University, Myanmar

Abstract

The study investigated the accessibility and use of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) among undergraduates at Yezin Agricultural University (YAU) in Myanmar, focusing on their ICT literacy competencies. Utilizing a descriptive survey research design, the study employed stratified random sampling to select 239 students for data collection through structured questionnaires during the first semester of the 2024-2025 academic year, complemented by face-to-face interviews. Findings revealed that students owned an average of two ICT devices and spent over seven hours daily using them, with mobile devices being particularly prominent. Senior students demonstrated more frequent computer use compared to juniors, and over 90% had taken ICT-related courses. Websites were the primary source for information retrieval, while group discussions were preferred for communication. However, the study noted minimal use of multimedia resources and artificial intelligence (AI). Students exhibited competent basic skills in computers and smartphones, but their proficiency in software like Microsoft Office and audio/video editing was only medium, with significant gaps in Learning Management Systems (LMS) and AI technologies. Upper-semester students showed slightly better ICT skills than their lower-semester counterparts. The undergraduates in the YAU were found to have moderate ICT literacy skills (mean = 2.99). The study highlighted the need for enhanced training in multimedia and AI applications to equip students for contemporary digital challenges. It also found a significant correlation between the number of ICT tools used and skill level (r = 0.242, P < 0.01). The insights gained from the study can be applied to refine educational practices, including those related to learning, teaching, and administration, thus supporting the pursuit of quality education in alignment with Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG 4).