The Digital Literacy of Business Students with Evidence from Poland and Slovenia

Abstract

The purpose of this article is to explore digital literacy levels and better understand the main differences in ICT competences among business students from Slovenia (n = 229) and Poland (n = 258). Our research was divided into three steps: a literature review, quantitative research based on an online survey for young business students and a statistical analysis in SPSS. In exploring ICT literacy, we identified the types of IT tools used, the frequency of their use, and the main differences in ICT literacy between Polish and Slovenian business students. We also investigated the relationships between time spent online, one’s study year and the level of competencies in the area of using basic tools (text editors, spreadsheets, presentation tools) and more advanced computer applications used for business purposes like database management systems and graphics editors. Our analysis shows that business students mainly use their mobile devices for education and communication. The developed normalized index of usage skills (NIUS) indicates that the students involved had the highest level of knowledge and skills in the area of using word processors, business presentation tools and mail services. The lowest index value was measured for database management systems, photo editors and spreadsheet applications. In our opinion, growing up with ICT is not enough to develop the digital skills necessary for the digital economy in the field of business and, therefore, the ICT curricula (even basic level courses) offered by business schools should be revised in order to better prepare future business graduates for the needs of a digital society.