The Study on Information Technology Skills for Learning in the New Normal Era of Junior High School Students in Municipal Schools Ratchaburi Province

Abstract

Due to the prolonged COVID-19 pandemic which lasts more than a year, it resulted in a change in instructional methods, particularly through online platforms. The big challenge in current situation is students' adaptation to the use of information technology for learning which indicates a major shift in education. This study employed a quantitative approach using survey design. The aims of this research are: 1) to investigate students' information technology skills for learning; and 2) to compare their grade levels and genders that affect their information technology skills for learning in the New Normal era in junior high schools. The sample group consisted of 573 junior high school students of the municipality in Ratchaburi Province, selected using a simple random sampling. Online questionnaires were used to obtain the data. The mean, standard deviation, percentage, and two-way MANOVA were used to analyze the data. It was revealed that 1) overall, the students' opinions of their knowledge of information technology, media, and technology was at high level. Students who lacked communication devices or were unable to access to the Internet from their homes or accommodations had their knowledge of information, media, and technology only at a moderate level. While students who possessed communication devices or were able to connect to the internet from home had their knowledge at a high level. In terms of knowing technology, the two groups exhibited at high level. 2) When students at grade 9 were classified according to their grade level and gender, it was discovered that female students had the highest level of knowledge in terms of information technology. Male students of the same level possessed the highest level of knowledge regarding media and technology. In general, educational level and gender affect their knowledge in information technology, media and technology differently at .05 level of statistical significance. Taking each variable into consideration, it was found that differences in grade levels affect the differences of knowing information technology, media, and technology, with a statistical significance level of .05. Students in grade 9 demonstrated significantly better knowledge of information technology, media, and technology than students in grade 7 and grade 8. However, there was no statistical difference between students at grade 7 and grade 8. Meanwhile, gender differences had a statistically significant effect on media and technology knowledge, but had no effect on knowledge of information technology. Suggestions obtained from the research include the followings: Students should receive appropriate advice from instructors, relatives, and parents regarding how to properly consume media and information. Furthermore, the use of computers or other communication devices should be limited in time. This allows students to engage in other activities such as playing, exercising, or participating in family activities. The findings can be used as information or guidance for resolving challenges in instructional management in the future.