Comparative analysis of digital literacy and 21st-century skills among university graduates in Malaysia and Indonesia: The role of collaboration, critical thinking, communication, and creativity

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Background and Purpose: Digital literacy and 21st-century skills are increasingly needed to navigate today's globalized society. Recent study emphasises the necessity of these abilities for youngsters to actively participate in digital societies, civic and political affairs, and digital identity exploration. This study aims to compare the digital literacy and 21st-century skills of university graduates in Malaysia and Indonesia, and to examine how these skills shape digital literacy in both countries. Methodology: 113 Malaysian and 271 Indonesian graduates participated in the online survey. The questionnaire was developed to measure the four determinants of digital literacy: Critical Thinking, Collaboration, Communication, and Creativity & Innovation. The core analysis assessed levels of each determinant using mean scores from survey responses. One-sample T-test and ANOVA test determined the significance of each determinant with relation to digital literacy. This methodology combined quantitative survey data with statistical analysis to gain insights into the digital literacy competencies of university students in both countries. Findings: Findings indicate both countries' graduates possess strong digital competencies, with variations in skill proficiency and technology use reflecting socio-economic and educational factors. Collaboration skills notably exceed digital literacy expectations, highlighting cultural or educational emphases on teamwork. The study suggests enhancing digital infrastructure and educational programs to address identified gaps, advocating for tailored approaches to improve digital literacy and skill development. Contributions: This research contributes to understanding digital literacy in the digital age, emphasizing the necessity of 21st-century skills for academic and professional success. Keywords: Digital literacy and 21st-century skills, collaboration, critical thinking, communication, creativity.