Digital Competencies among Generation Z: Comparison between Countries

Abstract

This study explores digital competencies among gen Z in two countries; Malaysia and
Bangladesh. As every generation has its own characteristics and use of digital devices varies, it
is the interest of the research to assess how gen Z equip themselves with digital competencies,
and whether country background plays a significant difference in the relationship between
attitude, computer self-efficacy, information literacy and digital competency. Drawing from the
lens of Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) and the self-efficacy theory, the surveys were
conducted within almost the same time frame. The samples were drawn from users of digital
devices aged between 18 to 24 at the time of the survey. The results of the structural model
suggest attitude, computer self-efficacy and information literacy explain for digital competencies
in Malaysia, whereas only attitude and information literacy explain for digital competencies in
Bangladesh. The PLS Multi Group Analysis (MLA) for the country comparison show there is a
significant difference in the relationship between information literacy and digital competency.
The findings suggest event though many claim gen Z is digital savvy, diversities in the
demographic background would make a difference in one’s ability in utilising technology.
Hence, focus and intervention programs must be introduced for ensuring digital equality.