Competencies in digital media literacy among undergraduate students using Structural Equation Modelling (SEM)

Abstract

The growth of modern technologies in this digital era plays a great role in society especially for the young generation since they adapt better to this new technology. This became a concern when their privacy is misused and false information unhesitatingly spread which can cause worst cases to happen such as suicide, political chaos, media panic and others. This study is carried out to study the significant effects of roles of media education, critical thinking skills, communication skills and technical skills on competencies in digital media literacy among students. A cross sectional study design was conducted in UiTM Kota Bharu and a random sample of 305 students was selected using the Proportionate Stratified Random Sampling technique. Self-administered questionnaires were distributed to the students. Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) was used to achieve the aim of this study. The findings of this study indicate that the variables of critical thinking skills and communication skills have a significant effect on students’ competencies in digital media literacy since the p-value is less than 0.05. The findings of this study are suitable for the public, institutions or any organizations that are eager to find suitable and effective approaches to reducing the negative influence of using digital media.