DIGITAL LITERACY AND IT'S INFLUENCE ON ACADEMIC SUCCESS OF GRADE 12 HUMMANITIES AND SOCIAL SCIENCES AT BESTLINK COLLEGE OF THE PHILIPPINES

Abstract

This study investigates the relationship between digital literacy and academic success among 212 Grade 12 Humanities and Social Sciences (HUMSS) students at Bestlink College of the Philippines. It focuses on key components of digital literacy, including access to information, information literacy, time management, critical thinking, and communication skills. The study also explores the advantages and challenges associated with digital learning. Anchored on the constructivist learning framework, this research holds relevance for students, educators, and future researchers aiming to enhance academic performance through digital competence. The researchers adopted a descriptive research design and employed convenience sampling to select participants. Data were collected using a standardized survey instrument divided into four sections: digital literacy, academic success, core competencies (time management, critical thinking, and communication), and strategies for enhancement. A four-point Likert scale was used to evaluate responses. The gathered data were analyzed using statistical tools such as frequency, percentage, ranking, and mean. To ensure validity and reliability, the questionnaire was reviewed by a research adviser and a grammarian. The results revealed a significant correlation between digital literacy and academic success. Online education received a weighted mean of 3.53, access to digital tools scored 3.50, and information literacy garnered 3.51, resulting in a composite mean of 3.51, which corresponds to "strongly agree." Similarly, time management scored 3.54, communication 3.50, and critical thinking 3.46, leading to an overall composite mean of 3.50, also interpreted as "strongly agree." Based on the findings, the researchers proposed an action plan aimed at enhancing digital literacy and its influence on academic success among Grade 12 HUMSS students. The discussion highlights the strong connection between digital literacy and academic performance, particularly in relation to time management, communication, and critical thinking. Challenges such as excessive use of social media, technological distractions, and sleep disruption were also noted. The study concludes that improved digital literacy contributes positively to student performance and recommends targeted interventions to address existing barriers.