Knowledge, Use and Attitude of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) in Graduate Nursing Students: A Correlational Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Education in the XXI century is called to move forward in the right direction and to gain momentum to face diverse challenges and take opportunities offered by the knowledge that is inherent in society. Therefore, it can be postulated that there must be a close relationship between learning, the generation of knowledge, continuous innovation and the use of new technologies. This is a cross-sectional descriptive study conducted among a sample of 242 first year and second year Cadiz University nursing students, using the validated Learning and Study Strategies Inventory questionnaire to assess motivation and the Relationship between Learning Styles and Information and Communication Technologies questionnaire to assess knowledge, use and attitude. The predominant profile type of nursing degree students was women under 21 years old, who were single and exclusively dedicated to their studies. In addition, they showed positive motivation in relation to learning while facing adversity (between 76% and 76.6%). Regarding the level of knowledge, use and attitude towards ICTs, most of the considered items presented high values. For some questions, age was proven to be a sociodemographic variable that influenced both the motivation and attitude of the students. The level of knowledge, use and attitude that students have regarding ICTs are good when we refer to communication technologies, interpersonal relationships or basic programs. However, they are low when considering programs related to education or learning.