Opinions of University Students on Technology Literacy

Abstract

The aim of this study is to evaluate the views of engineering faculty students on technology literacy. This research was conducted using a qualitative research design. In accordance with the structure of the research, the phenomenology design was chosen from the qualitative research designs. The study group of the research consisted of 142 students studying at engineering faculties at various universities in Kazakhstan and who voluntarily agreed to participate in the research. In the study, the opinions of engineering faculty students on technology literacy were collected with a semi-structured interview form developed by the researchers. As a result of the research, students defined technology literacy as knowing the meaning and function of technology and using it effectively. In addition, they associated technology use in the profession with technology competencies and professional competencies. The majority of students put forward the knowledge of technology in technological competencies and being able to follow technological innovations in professional competencies as a prerequisite for the use of technology in the profession. The students participating in the research found themselves moderately competent in being technology literate. Technology literacy should be integrated with all curricula and the content of curricula should be arranged accordingly.