Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on IT competencies of students

Abstract

In the current COVID-19 pandemic era, computer skills have become essential for students and academic staff who participate in remote learning or work on online projects, research, and analysis. Due to the need to shift many activities and projects to the virtual world, having computer skills has become critical for effective functioning in the current situation. The aim of the article was to investigate the level of computer competencies of students in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. The hypothesis was that most respondents have basic computer skills, but they may have varying levels of proficiency in specific computer competencies, such as the use of new software. To achieve this goal, the authors presented empirical research results conducted in February 2021. The study sample included 649 respondents.The research show that the majority of the respondents declared possessing computer competencies such as the use of computers, smartphones/phones, technical internet support, and mobile devices and applications. However, there were some individuals who faced difficulties in operating new software. Therefore, it was recommended to focus on developing computer competencies in the area of new software use through training or courses that will assist those who have difficulty in this area. It is also important to continue monitoring progress and the effectiveness of such actions. This will increase the level of computer competencies in the whole group of respondents, which may contribute to improving work efficiency and increasing job market opportunities. The conducted Pearson correlation allowed us to draw the following conclusions: there are strong positive correlations between all pairs of IT skills, which suggests a mutual relationship.