Strengthening digital readiness in the Schools Division Office of Batangas City: An international computer and information literacy anchored study of digital learner competence in grades 6 and 10
Background: Digital competence is increasingly required for learning, work, and participation in society. This study provides a local diagnostic baseline of student digital competencies to guide division improvement planning.
Aim: This study aims to establish an evidence-based baseline of Grade 6 and Grade 10 student digital competence using International Computer and Information Literacy Study (ICILS) aligned domains.
Method/approach: This study employed a mixed-methods design, combining quantitative student survey responses with qualitative teacher focus group discussions to validate and contextualise patterns. A total of 400 students participated, 200 from regular ICT classes and 200 from the Special Science Class Program selected through purposive sampling. Digital competence was assessed using International Computer and Information Literacy Study (ICILS) strands and aspects. Ethical approval was secured, and all participants provided informed consent or assent to ensure voluntary participation and confidentiality.
Results/findings: The findings show strong foundations in Digital Citizenship and Information Literacy, but persistent gaps in Digital Creation/Computational Thinking and Technical Operations (independent troubleshooting). These gaps appear early (Grade 6) and remain significant at Grade 10, raising readiness concerns for advanced ICT learning in Senior High School.
Conclusion: Learners in the Schools Division Office of Batangas City show strong ICT foundations in digital citizenship, information literacy, and academic use of technology, reflecting effective integration. However, confidence in digital creation and computational thinking, such as coding, multimedia production, and problem-solving, remains lower, even with improvements from Grade 6 to Grade 10. These areas require further strengthening to achieve balanced digital literacy.
Implications for children and families: You must adapt by embedding 21st-century skills into learning. To thrive in this digital age, you need to train learners not only to absorb information but to analyse data, evaluate digital sources, and solve real-world problems using technology.
Implications for practitioners: You can empower students to become critical thinkers, effective communicators, and responsible digital citizens who can navigate complex global challenges with confidence.
Keywords: digital readiness, ICT skills, Schools Division Office of Batangas City
This presentation relates to the following United Nations Sustainable Development Goals: