An investigation of secondary school students 'financial literacy skills in terms of various variables

Individuals' knowledge of budget control, savings, investment, credit and similar issues, their ability to make correct and effective decisions in financial matters, and their correct behavior depend on their level of financial literacy. In this context, financial literacy is a concept that concerns all age groups of the society and it is considered important to gain financial awareness at a young age. Along with this need, financial literacy is among the skills aimed to be gained within the scope of the social studies curriculum included in the education program updated by the Ministry of National Education in 2018. Thus, it is aimed that secondary school students have a certain awareness and attitude on issues such as investment, money management, savings and budget. In this study, it was aimed to determine the financial literacy skills, saving, saving, spending and investment approaches and financial attitudes of secondary school students; In addition, it was aimed to statistically evaluate the differentiation status of socio-demographic characteristics in terms of financial attitudes. Within the scope of this purpose, data were obtained from 978 students studying in the 5th and 8th grades of Central, Village and Private secondary schools operating in Nazilli District of Aydın Province, based on the quantitative research method. The data were analyzed in the SPSS 24 programme. The results showed that students were more knowledgeable about money and spending in general, but were confused about the financial system, macroeconomics, investment, and savings. However, when evaluated in terms of financial literacy and positive financial attitudes, it was determined that 8th grade students exhibited a more positive situation compared to 5th grade students. While this situation reveals the importance of financial literacy education, results shows that students need more development.