Examining online learning motivations of university students studying via distance education in the Covid-19 pandemic by digital literacy variable

Abstract

Purpose: A total of 422 university students participates in this study where the digital literacy of university students studying via distance education in the Covid-19 pandemic by online learning motivation variable is examined. Methodology: In the study, Personal Information Form, Digital Literacy Scale (DLS) and Online Learning Motivation Scale (OLMS) are used. The research is structured in descriptive and relational scanning models. Findings: According to the data obtained, it is stated that the digital literacy and online learning motivation of the students within the scope of the research is at medium level; digital literacy levels do not differ by gender and grade level; there is a statistically significant difference in online learning motivation level of students in favor of female students; on the other hand, in the score of the whole online learning motivation scale, there is a significant difference between 2nd and 4th grade students in favor of 2nd grade students and between 3rd and 4th grade students in favor of 3rd grade students; there is a moderately positive and statistically significant relationship between students’ digital literacy and online learning motivation levels and their online learning motivation and digital literacy predict each other by 21.8 %. Highlights: Given that 21.8 % of students’ online learning motivation is interpreted by their digital literacy or vice versa, increasing the development of students’ both digital literacy and online learning motivation levels with in-school and out-of-school trainings is suggested.