Empowering Thinkers: Unlocking the Potential of Digital Learning Efficacy in Fostering Critical Thinking Skills

Abstract

This research examines the impact of digital learning efficacy on students’ critical
thinking skills. As digital platforms increasingly shape modern classrooms, students’
ability to effectively engage with these tools plays a key role in developing their capacity to
analyse information, assess credibility, and make informed decisions in an increasingly
complex digital landscape. Differences in digital learning efficacy are associated with
how students interact with digital content, influencing their ability to think critically in a
digital learning environment. Using a quantitative methodology, the research surveyed
440 students, assessing their digital learning efficacy with a self-constructed tool and
examining critical thinking competencies using the Critical Thinking Scale by Hemant
Lata Sharma and Priyamvada (2012). ANOVA and Post Hoc tests were used to analyse
differences in critical thinking across varying levels of digital learning efficacy. The results
indicated that students with higher efficacy in using digital learning tools demonstrated
significantly stronger critical thinking skills. These findings highlight the importance of
enhancing digital learning efficacy to improve critical thinking, offering valuable insights
for educators and policymakers.