Digital Literacy Skills among Higher Secondary Students: Demographic Differences and Educational Implications

Abstract

This study inquiries about the Digital literacy skills of higher secondary students in relation to demographic variables focusing on gender, locality and academic stream in higher secondary schools of Bargarh district in Odisha. The sample size consists of 300 sample selected through stratified random sampling technique. The investigator administered Digital literacy skills scale to measure Digital literacy skills of higher secondary students. The investigator used a descriptive survey method for the study. Descriptive statistics such as Percentage, Mean, SD and inferential techniques like t-test, One-Way ANOVA for analysing the data. The research findings revealed that most students possess a moderate level of digital literacy, with no significant differences observed based on gender and locality. However, it was reported that there exist significant differences among different academic streams, with science students showing higher proficiency. The current research findings will help policymakers to integrate digital literacy skills into the curricula of higher secondary education institutions and also for teachers to plan various training sessions, seminars and intervention strategies for students. The study findings also have the implication for integrating targeted digital literacy programs in education to bridge skill gaps and enhance student preparedness for the digital era.