Development and Validation of a Digital Learning Competence Scale: A Comprehensive Review

Junfeng Yang, Ahmed Tlili, Ronghuai Huang, Rongxia Zhuang and Kaushal Kumar Bhagat
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Junfeng Yang: School of Education, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou 311121, China
Ahmed Tlili: Smart Learning Institute, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China
Ronghuai Huang: Smart Learning Institute, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China
Rongxia Zhuang: Smart Learning Institute, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China
Kaushal Kumar Bhagat: Centre for Educational Technology, Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur, Kharagpur, West Bengal 721302, India

Sustainability, 2021, vol. 13, issue 10, 1-14

Abstract: Digital learning competence (DLC) can help students learn effectively in digital learning environments. However, most of the studies in the literature focused on digital competencies in general without paying specific attention to learning. Therefore, this paper developed a DLC framework based on a comprehensive literature review, which consists of six dimensions, namely technology use, cognitive processing, digital reading skill, time-management, peer management and will management. This study then developed a scale to assess these competencies where 3473 middle school students participated in the scale validation process. Specifically, exploratory factor analysis, confirmatory factor analysis and item discrimination were used to validate this scale. The six dimensions accounted for 58.66% of the total variance of the scale. The overall internal consistency coefficient was 0.94 for the scale. The results showed that the developed DLC scale is a valid and reliable instrument for assessing middle school students’ digital learning competence. The findings of this study can help teachers and specialists to improve the competencies of their learners by providing a new validated scale that could be used to assess learners and identify their DLC weakness, hence provide the needed trainings accordingly.

Keywords: digital natives; digital learning competence; learning competence; scale development (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2021
References: View references in EconPapers View complete reference list from CitEc
Citations: View citations in EconPapers (1)

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