Chapter 1

Background of the Study

In today’s digital era, computer literacy play’s a crucial role in shaping the educational landscape with the
increasing integration of technology in various fields. It is essential to understand the impact of
computer literacy on the academic achievements of students, particularly in the context of Information
and Communication Technology (ICT) education.

According to Cohen (2010), computer literacy is imperative for every individual, particularly for the
students. Reynolds (2008) defined computer literacy as being knowledgeable about hardware and
software capabilities and understanding how computers and the internet can enhance students’
educational experiences. It is the basic understanding of operating computers and similar technology,
such as tablets and smartphones. Hence, being computer literate gives a learner an opportunity to cope
up with the rapidly changing environment in technology.

Many people, especially those who did not grow up immersed in technology, have trouble understanding
the systems necessary for computer literacy. Though not always obvious to people with an intuitive
understanding of how to use computers, computer usage requires problem-solving skills, the ability to
process text and symbols, and the development of various technical and cognitive skills. There was once
a time when computer skills were an optional skill set. Computer literacy is a mandatory skill for success
in school, the job force, and everyday life (Math Genie, 2018).

There are many levels of computer literacy, ranging from basic computer usage to advanced
programming, and one may not realize that his child has fallen behind. To ensure one has a grasp of basic
computer literacy, ensure that he is capable of the following: turning a computer on and off, using an
operating system, operating software applications, using the internet, and navigating a computer using
menus and search functionality (Leonard, 2019). Accordingly, computer competency is a process
whereby a student demonstrates his ability to perform school-level basic computing work. In order to
prove basic computer competence, a student must demonstrate proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel,
PowerPoint and basic computing.

In support to this, the Department of Education (DepEd) implements the DepEd Internet Connectivity
Project (DICP) pursuant to DepEd Order Number 50, series of 2009, first among secondary schools and,
later on, extended to the elementary level in consonance with the DepEd Computerization Program
(DCP) of DepEd Order No. 78, s. 2010 (Department of Education, 2011).Through this program and the
combined efforts of both government and private agencies, e-classrooms had been provided to
elementary schools and integrated Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in the school
system to raise the ICT literacy of learners and reduce the computer backlog in public schools. Therefore,
this demands computer literacy among students.

A person is called computer literate if one has the knowledge and ability to use computers and related
technology efficiently, with a range of skills covering levels from elementary use to programming and
advanced problem solving. According to Tobin (1983) as cited by Igenewari (2015) computer literacy can
also refer to the comfort level someone has with using computer programs and other applications that
are associated with computers. Another valuable component of computer literacy is knowing how
computers work and operate. Having basic computer skills is a significant asset in the developed
countries.

Another common definition of computer literacy is the knowledge and skills required for basic use of
computer hardware, software and the Internet. Basic computer skills are no longer an option, they are
mandatory. It is used for school, work and even in our personal lives. We shop with them, we
communicate with them (Parus, 2014).

Computer literacy is a necessity especially to senior high school. Minimal usage of books has been
implemented. It is a requirement for the senior high school students to have and access a computer or
tablet for browsing, searching and serve as an eBook. (Staff Writer, 2018)

Computers and the internet help students to discover creativity and imagination. Understanding
technologies is one of the many uses of computers. There is a saying that students are future leaders for
any nation. For the advancement of education, it is really important to teach students in schools about
computers, the internet, and its benefits (Sharma, 2016).

Here, It is aimed to determine the relationship of computer literacy to the academic achievements of the
grade 11 ICT students.

So, to achieve these aims, it was asked the following questions below:

-What do you feel about the use of computer literacy in your academic achievement?

- How often do you use computer literacy for academic achievement?

-Is there a significant relationship between the computer literacy and their academic achievement?

Statements of the Problem

This study aims to determine the relationship of computer literacy to the academic achievements of
grade 11 ICT students.

Specifically, it well seek to answer the following questions below;

1. What do you feel about the use of computer literacy in your academic achievements?
2. How often do you use computer literacy for academic achievement?
3. Is there a significant relationship between the computer literacy and their academic
achievement?

Conceptual Framework

This study emphasizes the computer literacy which is the independent variable and the academic
achievements of grade 11 ICT students serve as the dependent variable.

Independent Variable Dependent Variable

Scope and Delimitation

The primary focus of this study is to determine the Computer Literacy and the Academic Achievements
of grade 11 ICT students of Midsalip National High School. This study discusses the computer literacy and
academic achievements of the grade 11 ICT students.

Significance of the Study

This study will aim at finding any significant relationship between the computer literacy of Senior High
School students and their academic achievements. The findings of this study could be of great
significance to the following:

The students, especially senior high school students, would immensely benefit with this study, for it
could give them valuable information related to the computer literacy of their fellow students and if it
positively correlates to their academic achievements.

The teachers may also find this study useful for observing their fellow students inside and outside the
classroom. This study would also help teachers give their students extra treatment regarding their
computer literacy as this study could also have a significant relationship in regard to their such literacy
and their academic achievements.

The findings may also help future researchers as they may gain inspiration or ideas on this study
regarding the relationship between a student’s computer literacy and his/her academic achievements.

Definition of Terms

To fully understand the key terms that are used in the study, the following terms were conceptually and
operationally defined:

1.Computer Literacy:

Computer literacy refers to the foundational knowledge and skills required to use a computer effectively.

2.Academic Achievements:

Academic achievements in the context of Grade 11 ICT students typically refer to the measurable
outcomes of students’ performance in their ICT-related studies.

3.Information and Communication Technology (ICT):

ICT is a broad term encompassing technologies and methods for the storage, retrieval, manipulation,
transmission, and reception of data electronically.