scholarly journals Measuring the Internet Skills of Gen Z Students in Higher Education: Validation of the Internet Skills Scale in University Settings

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Ourania Miliou ◽  
Charoula Angeli

Abstract Internet technologies have infiltrated higher education institutions around the world. At the same time, the latest generation of students, the so-called Generation Z (Gen Z), are entering higher education. Gen Z is the first generation born in an Internet-connected world, and digital devices are a seamless part of its life. As a result, Gen Z students have already been engaged with informal digital learning via internet-based technologies outside of formalized education settings. However, previous research has shown that their engagement with these technologies is limited and might not sufficiently cover the knowledge and skills needed to perform internet activities effectively in higher education. Additionally, their familiarity with digital devices and tools varies. Consequently, there is a need for higher education institutions to close the skills gap by applying assessment processes that will assist them in forming policies and training resources for undergraduate students. To achieve the above, research efforts need to focus on developing theoretically informed and valid instruments that measure internet skills. This study has contributed to the validation of a self-assessment questionnaire, the Internet Skills Scale, that can be used in university settings. The questionnaire measures five types of internet skills: operational, information-navigation, social, creative, and critical. The results presented herein provide directions for future research in the field. Keywords: Internet Skills; Internet Skills Scale; Validation; Generation Z; Higher Education

2021 ◽  
Vol 18 (Number 1) ◽  
pp. 29-64
Author(s):  
Lilian Anthonysamy ◽  
Koo Ah Choo ◽  
Hew Soon Hin

Purpose – The rise of digital learning and the prevalence of affordable devices are convenient for young adults who are accustomed to using their digital devices for almost everything such as communication, collaboration, and accessing multiple sources of information for solutions. However, the lack of ability to self-regulate learning processes has led to poor learning performance among undergraduates. Therefore, this study examined the effects of self-regulated learning strategies (SRLS) on learning performance among Malaysian IT undergraduates. Methodology – A sample of IT undergraduates from private higher education institutions in Malaysia participated in the study. Quantitative data from a total of 563 respondents was collected through questionnaire surveys and analysed using PLS-SEM. The common method variance was utilized in this paper. Findings – The findings of this study constitute essential results that three out of four SRLS domains (cognitive engagement, resource management, and motivational beliefs) positively influenced the students’ perception of learning performance. Significance – This study provides insight into the best SRLS to excel in digital learning for deeper learning particularly in the Malaysian context. Implications of the findings on higher education institutions as well as recommendations for future research are discussed. Keywords: Self-regulated learning strategies, digital learning, higher education, learning performance, subjective learning outcomes.


Author(s):  
Сергей Александрович Грязнов

Технологии меняют образ жизни и деятельность человека. Глобальная сеть Интернет облегчает быстрый доступ к полезной информации. Социальная, культурная и образовательная конкурентоспособность находятся под влиянием образовательных технологий, которые положительно влияют на стиль, продолжительность и метод обучения в высших учебных заведениях. Дистанционное образование возможно применять и как полноценную самодостаточную форму, и как дополнение к классическому обучению в аудиториях. Автор рассматривает в статье дистанционную форму обучения как альтернативу традиционной форме преподавания в вузах на время периодов самоизоляции (пандемии, сезонные карантины), а также как дополнение к традиционным формам обучения. Анализируются проблемные и положительные аспекты применения данной формы. Указаны возможные форматы обучения в условиях дистанционного образования. Выделены сильные и слабые стороны использования некоторых технологий. Technologies alter the way of living and work of a person. The Internet world network makes it easier to quickly access useful information. Social, cultural and educational competitiveness are influenced by educational technologies that positively influence the style, duration and method of education in higher education institutions. Distance education can be used as a full-fledged self-sufficient form, or as a Supplement to classical training in classrooms. The author considers distance learning as an alternative to the traditional form of teaching in higher education institutions during periods of self-isolation (pandemics, seasonal quarantines), as well as as an addition to traditional forms of education. The problem and positive aspects of using this form are analyzed. Possible formats of training in the conditions of distance education are specified. The strengths and weaknesses of the use of certain technologies are highlighted.


2019 ◽  
Vol 7 (2) ◽  
Author(s):  
Chien-Hong Chao ◽  
Huey-Wen Chou ◽  
Chih-Hao Tu

With the popularity of the Internet and the development of information technology, digital reading has affected human reading styles. In essence, digital reading is different from conventional reading in many ways. The aim of this research focuses primarily on exploring the differences in reading behaviors among different digital reading devices. Results reveal that the reading experience on the Tablet PC is superior to that on the other two digital devices. Subjects in the Tablet PC group demonstrate the highest preference in terms of depth reading which implies that Tablet PC should be the most appropriate device for digital learning platform in the future. Discussion and suggestions are in the conclusions at the end of this paper. 


2018 ◽  
Vol 1 (1) ◽  
pp. 10-12
Author(s):  
Kamarudin Hussin

The advancement of technology in higher education is always perceived as a valuable innovation that create better impact to the society. The advent of the Internet for instance, has magnificently created important features in learning environment globally. Higher education community optimizes the Internet as an essential resource, communication platforms and dynamic tools in their core teaching-learning, research, consultation activities, entertainment and many others. Moreover, innovations such as mobile technology has successfully broadened access to the Internet and related online services and facilities. Higher education institutions as the hub for technology development and innovation have invested in virtual learning environment to support current needs of global population. Related to this fact, e- learning modules and contents are offered across universities, and interested learners in public communities are benefited by this opportunity. Educators and experts in higher education institutions are delivering their knowledge, discoveries and expertise via e-learning platforms and other supported technology. Equally important, e-learning has successfully expanded opportunities for lifelong and flexible learning, and offered a solution for practical issues and increasing student numbers. As a matter of fact, e-learning has been proposed as a promising way out for many complex issues such asfunding constraints, increasing demand and access to higher education while improving quality and high impact educational provisions in many countries. While addressing these issues, higher education administrators, educators, researchers and policy makers have developed responses in various frameworks. Initiatives such as Competency-Based Online Programs, development of open source materials, flipped classroom and Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) have contributed towards reducing cost of higher education as well as increasing access to higher education. MOOCs technology has proven its capability to reach massive audienceof about 30,000 students at a time. Across the globe, MOOCs offer free access to online course lectures, self- paced lessons, readings, problem sets, blogs, discussion boards, peer assessment and even online discussion group platforms for global students (Leon and Price, 2016). In 2017, MOOCs offered more than 9,400 courses with more than 500 MOOC based credentials according to data gathered by Class Central. Excitingly, MOOC platforms have recorded more than 81 million learners to date (Class Central, 2017).  


2021 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Sudhir Rana ◽  
Shubhangi Verma ◽  
Moon Moon Haque ◽  
Gouher Ahmed

Purpose The manuscript reflects on the future of higher education from an emerging country perspective. The authors specifically answer how new education policies, ranking and accreditation are impacting the current state of Indian higher education institutions (IHEIs) and how IHEIs can cultivate their path towards positioning themselves internationally. This study aims to bring together existing scenarios and to serve as a springboard for future research and applications. Design/methodology/approach The manuscript is designed and executed as a conceptual study exploring the current state and prospects for IHEIs. The study synthesizes the concepts of positioning strategies in context to IHEIs. A conceptual diagram integrating existing concepts from marketing, total quality management and business education is created to understand the phenomenon among the IHEIs stakeholders. Findings The authors found that IHEIs started showing their international presence yet they are facing various challenges (government bureaucracy; international salary standards; global student population; and cultural sensitivity). The authors also found that the positioning problem is not a one-time attempt; the complexity of higher education is a “wicked problem” and, hence needs to be evaluated, changed and executed continuously. The manuscript offers relevant information to IHEIs leaders and stakeholders to improve on their international positioning strategies and proposes avenues for future research. Originality/value The study outlines future development and positioning strategic plans that IHEIs may consider and reflect in their strategic plan. The conceptual diagram on achieving successful international positioning and problem areas is expected to act as a guidebook for the key decision-makers. The focus is on distinguishing the imperatives, creating a key guide for meeting immediate requirements, allotting assets prudently to update their international presence. The study will provide IHEIs with a new lease of life in the future.


Author(s):  
Bruno Barbosa Sousa ◽  
Filipa Costa Magalhães

In the recent years, the educational market has become more dynamic and complex. There are many market forces that are trying to shape the educational environment. The competition between universities is increasing. Public marketing is a fundamental tool in the promotion of places, one that must be present in the strategies of local government representatives, helping and promoting a sustainable economic and social development of the regions and universities. The prupose of this chapter is to analyze, measure, and perceive the impact of brand attachment on consumer behavior in the specific context of higher education in Portugal, based on the affective and emotional relationship between students and the higher education institutions. The results allowed us to conclude that the brand attachment has a preponderant role and impact in the relationship between the student and the institution of higher education. This chapter aims to further develop the understanding of the educational marketing for higher education institutions. Implications for future research are also presented.


Author(s):  
Steve Mahaley ◽  
Robin Teigland

Higher education institutions and corporations are increasingly exploring new pedagogical methods to align with learning styles of incoming students and employees, who are amazingly adept at using Web 2.0 applications. This chapter explores the use of virtual worlds, in particular that of Second Life, in educational activities by organizations such as higher education institutions or corporations. We begin by introducing virtual worlds with a particular focus on Second Life. We then provide an overview of the benefits of this environment for learning activities before presenting a set of potential learning activities that can be conducted within Second Life. We then discuss an in-depth example of 3D teaming-one learning activity within Second Life conducted by the authors. After a discussion of implementation challenges, we then present areas for future research.


2012 ◽  
Vol 37 (3) ◽  
pp. 20-27
Author(s):  
Victoria Brown ◽  
Catherine Worrall

Love it or loathe it, digital is here to stay. This article explores the enormous effect that digital visual media and the ubiquity of the internet have had on the supply and delivery of images at higher education institutions, on both sides of the Atlantic. It observes the levels at which regulated digital visual resources have been adopted and looks at the problems inherent in rapidly evolving technology and the demands of the ‘millennials’ and ‘digital natives’. It also examines the barriers preventing a more fluid adoption of legal, good quality resources and the role that image specialists bring to the mix.


10.28945/4567 ◽  
2020 ◽  
Vol 15 ◽  
pp. 285-304
Author(s):  
Ali Shafiq ◽  
Saeed Pahlevan Sharif ◽  
Anbareen Jan

Aim/Purpose: This paper found some factors which influence research supervisees’ selection of their research supervisors. Background: Research on supervisor-supervisee relationship is mostly conducted when research students have already initiated their studies. Research on how a supervisor is selected before the research begins is researched less. How do supervisees select their supervisors? Which factors do they consider important? These questions were not clearly answered in the literature so far. Methodology: A scale was developed to measure factors which influence the selection of research supervisors. Using an online survey, data was collected from 315 research students in Malaysia between August and October 2018. Psychometric properties of the scale were assessed using exploratory factor analysis followed by confirmatory factor analysis. Construct reliability, convergent validity, and discriminant validity of the scale were assessed using composite reliability, maximal reliability, average variance extracted, and maximum shared variance. Contribution: How research supervisees select their supervisors is an understudied area. Most of the research on supervisor selection is done after the research journey has begun. This research focuses on the thought processes before supervisor selection. Findings: Demographics, expertise, and physical appearance emerge as important constructs that influence the thought process of a research supervisee. Each of these constructs is composed of several dimensions, each with its own weight and importance. Recommendations for Practitioners: Research supervision is an integral part of contemporary teaching profession. To develop this important dimension of an academic’s career, this research holds high significance. The emerging factors will help researcher supervisors enhance their profiles and become more visible. This has practical implications for higher education institutions as well. Recommendation for Researchers: Further studies in this area can explore these factors across different cultures, distinction between undergraduate and postgraduate students, public and private higher education institutions, and scholarship or self-funded students. Impact on Society: Attracting better and relevant research students will result in a better match between researcher’s capability and supervisor’s expertise leading to high impact research. Future Research: This research was done on only 315 respondents. More respondents from diverse population might influence the outcome.


Author(s):  
Radojka Krneta

<p class="0abstract">The opportunity for networking of higher education institutions (HEIs) by networking of their remote laboratories (RLs) is considered in this paper. Several important issues regarding successful HEIs networking by networking of their RLs are highlighted and resulted from a round table discussion during Experiment@ International Workshop 2016 “The Emerging Technologies on the Internet of Everything “ -ETIoE’16.</p>


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