The effect of university students' digital literacy skills on their readiness for online learning

The primary aim of this research is to determine the effect of university students' digital literacy skills on their readiness for online learning. In addition to this main objective, the levels of students' digital literacy and readiness for online learning were identified, the demographic variables affecting these levels were examined, and the quantitative findings were understood in depth by consulting the opinions of the students on this subject. This research, conducted with a mixed-methods research design (explanatory sequential design), was carried out in the Spring Semester of the 2022-2023 Academic Year with the participation of students studying at different grade levels in a state university in the Western Black Sea Region. In the quantitative data collection phase, the Personal Information Form, the Digital Literacy Scale, and the Online Learning Readiness Scale were applied online to 1025 students. The qualitative data were collected from 15 students through 2 online semi-structured focus group interviews. The research findings revealed that university students' digital literacy skills are at a moderate level, and these skills significantly and positively predict their readiness for online learning. Among the sub-dimensions of digital literacy, daily use is at the highest level, while professional production is at the lowest. The level of readiness for online learning is also moderate; motivation for learning is the highest, while learner control is the lowest. When demographic variables were examined, it was determined that factors such as grade level, age, and internet access opportunities created significant differences in the levels of digital literacy and readiness for online learning. The qualitative data support the critical role of digital literacy in online learning and emphasize the need for supportive training to improve these skills. Keywords: Digital Literacy, Mixed Methods, Prediction, Readiness for Online Learning, University Students.