Research skills and digital competence in Huancavelica students during COVID-19
Research skills and digital competence in Huancavelica students during COVID-19
Corresponding Author:
Daker Riveros-Anccasi
Faculty of Social Sciences, Universidad Nacional de Huancavelica (UNH)
Avenida Agricultura 319-321, Paturpampa 09001, Huancavelica, Peru
Email: [email protected]
1. INTRODUCTION
The COVID-19 pandemic has dramatically altered traditional educational models, necessitating a
shift to digital learning environments across the globe [1]. In this evolving landscape, the development of
digital competencies has become increasingly critical, particularly for students in higher education [2].
Digital competencies encompass a wide range of skills, including the ability to effectively navigate, evaluate,
and utilize digital tools, which are essential not only for academic success but also for professional growth
[3]. For teacher education students, the acquisition of digital competencies is vital, as these skills directly
influence their ability to engage with research processes and prepare for their future roles as educators [4].
This study examines teacher training students at the National University of Huancavelica, investigating the
relationship between digital competencies and research skill development during the pandemic. With the
abrupt transition to online education, the research aims to highlight how digital literacy influences students’
ability to conduct research, a critical component of their professional preparation [5]. The integration of
digital tools into the research process, including data collection, analysis, and presentation, has become
increasingly important for students aiming to succeed in this new academic environment. Moreover, research
competencies, which are essential for teachers’ evidence-based practices, can be significantly enhanced by
developing digital literacy [6]. This study addresses a pivotal question: To what extent do digital
competencies impact the research skills of teacher training students?
By exploring this relationship, the research seeks to identify both areas of excellence and
opportunities for improvement in integrating digital skills into teacher education programs [7]. As higher
education continues to adapt to the challenges posed by the pandemic, the importance of fostering both
digital literacy and research skills in teacher training programs cannot be overstated [8]. Through this
investigation, this study aims to contribute to the growing body of literature on digital competencies in
education, shedding light on their role in shaping the future of teacher education [9].
Digital competencies refer to the skills and knowledge needed to use digital technologies
effectively, which include information management, communication, collaboration, and problem-solving
[10]. These competencies are increasingly critical for students in higher education, particularly in research,
where digital tools have become integral for data collection, analysis, and dissemination [11]. The
COVID-19 pandemic has further amplified the need for digital literacy as universities have transitioned to
online learning environments, necessitating new skills for navigating academic tasks remotely [12]. Research
has consistently linked digital competencies with improved academic performance, especially in research
contexts. For instance, Ahmed and Roche [13] demonstrated that students with strong digital literacy are
better equipped to access, evaluate, and synthesize information, leading to enhanced critical thinking and
problem-solving abilities. These skills are crucial for conducting high-quality research, and in the pandemic
era, they have proven essential for adapting to online learning. Amhag et al. [12] noted that students with
high digital literacy adapted more readily to online environments and performed better in research tasks. This
is particularly relevant for teacher education programs, where future educators must not only acquire
theoretical knowledge but also develop practical research skills that will inform their teaching practices [14].
Studies focusing on teacher education during the pandemic have emphasized the importance of
integrating digital competencies into teacher training programs. For example, Almulla et al. [15] found that
students who received instruction in digital tools were more proficient in designing research methodologies
and analyzing data, essential components of effective research. This study builds on existing literature by
examining the relationship between digital competencies and research skills among teacher training students
at the National University of Huancavelica during the COVID-19 pandemic. By doing so, it contributes to a
broader understanding of how digital literacy influences academic success and professional development in
teacher education [16], [17]. Digital competencies also enhance students’ adaptability to new technologies
and foster collaborative learning, which has become vital in the context of remote education [18], [19].
Research shows that when students are well-versed in digital tools, they are better prepared for the challenges
of modern education, including the demands of online research [20], [21]. The present study seeks to explore
how these competencies influence teacher education students’ ability to conduct academic research in an
increasingly digitalized environment [22].
2. METHOD
2.1. Research design
This study adopted a quantitative research approach, specifically utilizing a descriptive correlational
design to investigate the relationship between digital competencies and the development of research skills
among teacher training students at the National University of Huancavelica. The descriptive component
aimed to evaluate the current levels of digital competencies and research skills, while the correlational
analysis sought to determine the strength and direction of the relationship between these two variables.
Int J Eval & Res Educ, Vol. 14, No. 5, October 2025: 4019-4028
Int J Eval & Res Educ ISSN: 2252-8822 4021
2.3. Instruments
2.3.1. Digital competency questionnaire
This instrument was adapted from the DIGCOMP framework [10] and consisted of 40 Likert-scale
items, ranging from 1 (strongly disagree) to 5 (strongly agree). It evaluated five dimensions of digital
competence: information and data literacy, communication and collaboration, digital content creation, safety,
and problem-solving. The instrument’s internal consistency was measured using Cronbach’s alpha, yielding a
reliability coefficient of 0.89, indicating high reliability.
3. RESULTS
The results of the study are presented in two sections: the descriptive statistics of digital
competencies and research skills, followed by the correlational and regression analyses to evaluate the
relationship between these variables.
Research skills and digital competence in Huancavelica students during … (Daker Riveros-Anccasi)
4022 ISSN: 2252-8822
Rho=0.808, p<0.001. This indicates that as students’ digital competencies increased, their research skills also
improved. At the sub dimensional level, the highest correlation was observed between information and data
literacy and research design (Rho=0.812, p<0.001). This suggests that students who were proficient in
locating and managing digital information were also skilled in designing research methodologies. The lowest
correlation was between problem-solving and data presentation (Rho=0.683, p<0.01), although this still
represents a moderate-to-strong relationship.
Table 2. Spearman’s correlation coefficients between digital competencies and research skills
Variable Rho p-value
Digital competencies vs research skills 0.808 <0.001
Information and data literacy vs research design 0.812 <0.001
Communication and collaboration vs data collection 0.793 <0.001
Digital content creation vs data analysis 0.785 <0.001
Safety vs academic writing 0.764 <0.001
Problem-solving vs data presentation 0.683 <0.01
Int J Eval & Res Educ, Vol. 14, No. 5, October 2025: 4019-4028
Int J Eval & Res Educ ISSN: 2252-8822 4023
In summary, the results across the tables consistently demonstrate a strong and positive relationship
between digital competencies and research skills. Digital literacy, especially in areas such as information
management and communication, plays a critical role in improving the research capacities of future
educators. As digital competencies improve, so do students’ abilities to design research methodologies,
analyze data, and present their findings effectively. These insights emphasize the need for education systems
to foster digital literacy as a fundamental component of research skill development, particularly in response
to the evolving digital landscape in education.
Research skills and digital competence in Huancavelica students during … (Daker Riveros-Anccasi)
4024 ISSN: 2252-8822
careers. These results emphasize the pivotal role digital competencies play in improving research capabilities,
especially in the context of the pandemic-driven shift to digital learning environments.
4. DISCUSSION
The results of this study underscore the strong positive relationship between digital competencies
and research skills, contributing to the growing body of literature that highlights the importance of digital
literacy in modern education [23], [24]. Previous research has identified digital literacy as a crucial
component for educational success, especially post-pandemic [12]. This study adds new evidence by
demonstrating the direct impact of digital competencies on research outcomes within the context of teacher
training, particularly in the areas of information literacy and collaboration [25]. One key ramification of this
study is the potential long-term impact on teacher preparedness. Future educators who develop strong digital
competencies are not only better equipped to conduct high-quality research but are also more prepared to
integrate these skills into their teaching practices. As digital platforms continue to dominate educational
environments, particularly post-pandemic, fostering digital literacy will become essential for both research
and pedagogical success [26]. By equipping teacher training students with these competencies, institutions
can ensure that future educators are adaptable to an evolving digital landscape, ultimately improving teaching
effectiveness and student outcomes [27]. Moreover, the study’s findings suggest that academic institutions
should reconsider their approach to teacher education, emphasizing the development of digital competencies
as part of the core curriculum [28]. Given the strong correlation between digital literacy and research
proficiency, integrating digital tools and methodologies into coursework may yield significant benefits, not
just in research but across various areas of academic and professional development [29]. In the future, the
ability to navigate digital platforms, manage information, and collaborate effectively will be vital for
educators in both traditional and online classrooms [30].
However, while digital competencies were found to significantly enhance research skills, the role of
problem-solving in this context requires further examination. Although it was the least significant predictor
of research success, it still plays a supportive role, especially in addressing challenges encountered during the
research process. Future studies could explore how problem-solving skills interact with digital competencies
to support more complex research tasks [23]. Additionally, given that this study was conducted during the
COVID-19 pandemic, when digital platforms became essential for academic continuity, future research could
assess whether the relationship between digital competencies and research skills changes in a post-pandemic
environment [25]. The implications of these findings are far-reaching. They suggest that teacher education
programs must not only foster traditional pedagogical skills but also emphasize the cultivation of digital
literacy. This will be crucial in shaping educators who are capable of conducting rigorous research and
integrating digital tools into their teaching practice, thus enhancing the overall quality of education in the
long term. Furthermore, institutions should explore ways to better support students with lower levels of
digital literacy, ensuring equitable access to the skills needed to succeed in both research and teaching. This
study highlights the critical role of digital competencies in research proficiency and suggests that the
integration of digital literacy into teacher education programs is essential. As education continues to evolve
in an increasingly digital world, these findings offer valuable insights into how institutions can better prepare
future educators for success in both research and teaching [30]. Addressing the digital divide in teacher
education will be key to ensuring that all students, regardless of their digital proficiency, are equipped with
the tools they need to thrive in a modern educational landscape [27].
The COVID-19 pandemic acted as a significant catalyst for advancing digital competencies among
students at the National University of Huancavelica. During this period, the rapid shift to online education
exposed gaps in digital literacy and research skills, particularly in underprivileged regions. However, it also
showcased the resilience of educational institutions and their ability to adapt through innovative solutions.
Now that the pandemic has subsided, the emphasis on digital competencies and research skills remains
essential as they are critical for academic success and employability in a rapidly evolving digital world.
In the post-pandemic era, higher education institutions must sustain and expand the integration of
digital tools and platforms into teaching and learning processes. Hybrid learning models, combining face-to-
face and online instruction, can bridge gaps in accessibility while fostering a flexible learning environment.
Furthermore, targeted training programs in advanced research methodologies and digital tools should be
offered to ensure students remain competitive in academic and professional settings. Investments in digital
infrastructure, particularly in rural or underserved areas, are vital to reducing the digital divide and ensuring
equitable access to quality education. Looking to the future, universities should prioritize fostering lifelong
learning attitudes among students by embedding digital literacy and research skills into all disciplines.
Collaboration with industry stakeholders can help align curricula with emerging technological trends and
labor market demands. Additionally, developing policies and strategies for the ethical use of technology in
Int J Eval & Res Educ, Vol. 14, No. 5, October 2025: 4019-4028
Int J Eval & Res Educ ISSN: 2252-8822 4025
research and education is crucial to addressing challenges such as data security and misinformation. By
building on the progress made during the pandemic, educational institutions can not only enhance their
students’ skills but also prepare them to thrive in an increasingly complex and interconnected world.
5. CONCLUSION
The results of this study clearly demonstrate the significant role digital competencies play in
enhancing the research skills of teacher training students at the National University of Huancavelica. The
evidence is drawn from a strong positive correlation (Rho=0.808) between digital literacy and research
proficiency, based on data from 180 students across four professional education programs. Key digital
competencies such as information and data literacy, along with communication and collaboration, emerged as
the most influential predictors of research skills, particularly in designing methodologies, analyzing data, and
presenting findings. This quantitative evidence supports the conclusion that digital literacy is a critical factor
in research success. These findings align with broader research that emphasizes the importance of digital
competencies in academic achievement, particularly in research-intensive tasks. The ability to manage and
utilize digital tools has become increasingly essential, especially in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic,
where education has shifted towards digital platforms. The data from this study provide clear evidence that
students with higher levels of digital literacy are better equipped to perform well in research tasks, as
demonstrated by the significant proportion of students with “excellent” digital skills who also exhibited
“excellent” research proficiency.
In conclusion, the quantitative evidence gathered in this study underscores the critical need for
academic institutions to prioritize digital literacy in their curricula. By integrating digital competencies into
teacher education programs, institutions can equip future educators with the tools necessary for both
academic and professional success. This proactive approach will prepare students to navigate and excel in an
increasingly digital world, ensuring a more effective, research-driven education system capable of addressing
the challenges posed by a digitally connected society. The strong correlation between digital skills and
research proficiency highlighted in this study provides robust evidence for the integration of these
competencies into educational frameworks, making it clear that digital literacy is not only beneficial but
essential for the future of education.
Despite the compelling findings, this study has certain limitations that should be acknowledged.
First, the sample is limited to students from the National University of Huancavelica, which may limit the
generalizability of results to other institutions or educational settings. Additionally, the study focuses only on
a quantitative analysis, which, while robust, does not capture qualitative insights into how digital literacy
skills impact students’ experiences and perceptions in real research scenarios.
Future research could explore a broader sample across multiple universities to validate these
findings across diverse educational contexts. Furthermore, a mixed-methods approach involving interviews
or focus groups could yield a richer understanding of the specific ways digital competencies influence
various stages of the research process. Research could also examine how specific training programs in digital
literacy impact long-term research skill development, extending beyond the context of initial teacher training
to inform continuous professional development for educators.
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
Authors are highly thankful to the Faculty of Social Sciences, Universidad Nacional de
Huancavelica (UNH), Huancavelica, Perú for their moral support.
FUNDING INFORMATION
Authors state no funding involved.
Research skills and digital competence in Huancavelica students during … (Daker Riveros-Anccasi)
4026 ISSN: 2252-8822
Name of Author C M So Va Fo I R D O E Vi Su P Fu
Daker Riveros-Anccasi ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Lizeth Karina Riveros- ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Terrazo
Ubaldo Cayllahua- ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Yarasca
Charapaqui Anccasi- ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Juan
Angel Epifanio ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Rojas-Quispe
Christian Luis ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Torres-Acevedo
Carlos Laurente- ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Chahuayo
INFORMED CONSENT
We have obtained informed consent from all individuals included in this study.
ETHICAL APPROVAL
The study adhered to ethical standards in research involving human participants. Approval was
granted by the university’s Ethics Committee prior to the commencement of the study. The study also
complied with the general data protection regulation (GDPR) guidelines, ensuring secure handling of digital
data throughout the research process.
DATA AVAILABILITY
Data availability is not applicable to this paper as no new data were created or analyzed in this
study.
REFERENCES
[1] S. Dhawan, “Online learning: a panacea in the time of COVID-19 crisis,” Journal of Educational Technology Systems, vol. 49,
no. 1, pp. 5–22, Sep. 2020, doi: 10.1177/0047239520934018.
[2] Y. Malchenko, M. Gogua, K. Golovacheva, M. Smirnova, and O. Alkanova, “A critical review of digital capability frameworks: a
consumer perspective,” Digital Policy, Regulation and Governance, vol. 22, no. 4, pp. 269–288, 2020.
[3] A.W. (Tony) Bates, Teaching in a digital age: general: guidelines for designing, teaching and learning, 2nd ed. Victoria:
BCcampus, 2019.
[4] C. Redecker and Y. Punie, European framework for the digital competence of educators: DigCompEdu. Luxembourg:
Publications Office of the European Union, 2017.
[5] T. Anderson, “Online learning and COVID-19: digital competencies in a changing world,” International Review of Research in
Open and Distributed Learning, vol. 21, no. 2, pp. 86–104, 2020.
[6] S. Carretero, R. Vuorikari, and Y. Punie, DigComp 2.1: The Digital Competence Framework for Citizens with eight proficiency
levels and examples of use. Luxembourg: Publications Office of the European Union, 2017.
[7] N. Selwyn, Digital technology and the contemporary university: Degrees of digitization, 1st ed. London: Routledge, 2014,
doi: 10.4324/9781315768656.
[8] J. L. Ainley and Enger, “Assessing digital literacy and competency in higher education,” Journal of Educational Technology
Research, vol. 26, no. 3, pp. 178–196, 2018.
[9] K. McKnight, K. O’Malley, R. Ruzic, M. Horsley, J. J. Franey, and K. Bassett, “Teaching in a digital age: How educators use
technology to improve student learning,” Journal of Research on Technology in Education, vol. 48, no. 3, pp. 194–211, 2016,
doi: 10.1080/15391523.2016.1175856.
[10] A. Ferrari, DIGCOMP: a framework for developing and understanding digital competence in Europe. Luxembourg: Publications
Int J Eval & Res Educ, Vol. 14, No. 5, October 2025: 4019-4028
Int J Eval & Res Educ ISSN: 2252-8822 4027
BIOGRAPHIES OF AUTHORS
Research skills and digital competence in Huancavelica students during … (Daker Riveros-Anccasi)
4028 ISSN: 2252-8822
Int J Eval & Res Educ, Vol. 14, No. 5, October 2025: 4019-4028