A Research on Factors Affecting College Students' Digital Citizenship

Abstract

This Paper aims to research whether the three factors (computer experience, Internet attitude, and computer self-efficacy) can affect digital citizenship among college students. A quantitative approach was implemented, the objects were 115 undergraduate students from Huang Gang Normal University (HGNU) in China. The results show that the college students approximately have good level of digital citizenship and perceived Internet attitude, however, students' computer self-efficacy is at a moderate level. Further, the computer experience has no effect on the level of college students' digital citizenship, however, Internet attitudes and computer self-efficacy have a significant impact on college students' digital citizenship. College students who have learned computer related courses or possessed a relevant certificate tend to participate in activities related to educating oneself and connecting with others online. And positive Internet attitudes cause the high level of digital citizenship related to the dimension of "respect yourself and respect others" and "educate yourself and connecting with others". Moreover, higher levels of computer self-efficacy are associated with higher levels of digital citizenship. Finally, several recommendations are conducted for cultivating college students' digital citizenship.