Keywords
Digital Literac
Online Learning Attitudes
Academic Performance
Medical Students
How to Cite
Abstract
Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the impact of digital literacy and attitudes toward online learning on the academic achievement of medical students. It specifically sought to determine the individual and combined predictive effects of these variables on academic performance in a digitally evolving medical education environment.
Methodology: A quantitative, cross-sectional design was adopted, involving 300 MBBS students from 1st to 4th year at Wah Medical College, Pakistan. Proportionate stratified random sampling ensured balanced representation. Data were collected through a self-administered questionnaire assessing three domains: academic achievement (self-reported CGPA or exam percentage), digital literacy (via a validated Digital Literacy Scale), and online learning attitudes (via an Online Learning Attitude Scale). Data were analyzed using SPSS 26.0, employing Pearson correlation, chi-square tests, and multiple regression analysis. Ethical approval was secured from the Institutional Review Board of Wah Medical College.
Results: Digital literacy showed a strong positive correlation with academic achievement (r = 0.55, p < .01), while online learning attitudes were also positively associated (r = 0.42, p < .01). Multiple regression analysis demonstrated that digital literacy (β = 0.41, p < .001) was a stronger predictor of academic success than online learning attitudes (β = 0.28, p < .001), with the model explaining 47% of the variance in academic achievement (R² = 0.47). Cross-tabulation revealed that students with higher digital literacy consistently performed better academically.
Conclusion: The findings underscore the critical role of both digital literacy and online learning attitudes in shaping medical students’ academic achievement. As digital education becomes integral to medical training, institutions must actively promote technological proficiency and cultivate positive learning attitudes to enhance educational outcomes and prepare students for the digital demands of clinical practice.