Examining the Relationship between Students' Utilization of Technology and Self-Directed Learning: A Research in Pakistan

Abstract

The aim of this research is to investigate the correlation between students' use of technology and self-directed learning. The study intends to explore whether there are any variations in the level of self-directed learning between students in public and private sector universities. The research employed a correlation design using a quantitative approach. The study population comprised students enrolled in social science BS (Hons), Master, and M. Phil programs at public and private universities in Lahore. The sample was selected using a multistage sampling technique, consisting of 150 male and 150 female students from three public and three private universities. Data was collected using adapted scales, including the MTUAS (media and technology usage and attitude scale) to measure students' use of technology and the SRSSDL (self-rating scale of self-directed learning) to measure the level of self-directed learning. The collected data was analyzed using descriptive statistics (frequencies, percentages, mean score, and standard deviation) and inferential statistics (independent sample t-test and Pearson correlation). The results showed a moderate positive relationship between students' use of technology and their self-directed learning. Moreover, the study found that the level of self-directed learning was higher among students in both public and private sector universities.