Relationship Between Digital Literacy And Academic Performance Among Secondary School Students

Abstract

The study titled Relationship between Digital Literacy and Academic Performance among Secondary School Students examines the role of digital competencies in shaping students’ academic outcomes in contemporary educational settings. In the context of increasing technological integration in education, the study highlights how digital literacy serves as a critical factor influencing students’ learning effectiveness and achievement. The objectives of the study were to examine the level of digital literacy among secondary school students, to determine their academic performance, to investigate the relationship between digital literacy and academic performance, and to assess the predictive effect of digital literacy on academic achievement. The study adopted a quantitative research design with a correlational and predictive approach under the positivist research philosophy. The population comprised approximately 120 secondary schools with nearly 6,000 students in District Rawalpindi, Pakistan. A sample of 300 students was selected using a stratified random sampling technique based on school type and gender to ensure representativeness. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire consisting of digital literacy and academic performance sections measured on a Likert scale. The validity of the instrument was ensured through expert review and factor analysis, while reliability was established using Cronbach’s Alpha (α = 0.87), indicating high internal consistency. Data analysis involved descriptive statistics (mean and standard deviation) and inferential statistics including Pearson correlation and simple linear regression at a 0.05 level of significance. The findings of the first objective revealed that students possess a moderate to high level of digital literacy (M = 3.68), indicating familiarity with digital tools but a need for advanced skill development; therefore, it is recommended that schools introduce structured digital literacy training programs to enhance higher-order digital competencies. The study is significant as it provides empirical evidence for students, teachers, policymakers, and curriculum developers regarding the importance of integrating digital literacy into educational practices to improve academic outcomes and bridge the digital divide in secondary education.

Keywords: digital literacy, academic performance, secondary school students, correlation, regression analysis, Rawalpindi district.