Abstract
It is imperative to recognize the importance of ICT in the learning process, particularly in the context of the digital divide spectrum. The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the need for academes to adopt digital technologies in providing quality education to students. Thus, it is crucial to investigate the current state of ICT competencies in Masbate’s Higher Education Institutions (HEI) learning programs and identify strategies to level up these competencies across the digital divide spectrum. The study used a semi-structured questionnaire to collect data of respondents from three (3) districts of HEI in Masbate where an Email Blast/Group Chat was used to provide links to the google form questionnaire. Mixed-Methods Research (MMR) where both Statistical Methods and thematic analysis approaches were used to analyze the data. Frequency and Percentage, Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) was used to determine differences in the perceived ICT competency among students according to demographic and study related factor using the Statistical Analysis System (SAS) software. The study revealed that there was a significant difference in competency between students using computers with home-based internet service with other respondents that differ in gadget used and mode of access, with the former having the highest competency score. Development of policies and programs that supports the implementation of effective ICT initiative is recommended. This study contributes to the discussion on the role of ICT in education and the need for equitable access to digital technologies across the digital divide spectrum as we empower students through equitable access to ICT in education.
Author Information
Novy Clores, DEBESMSCAT, Philippines
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