An examination of the correlation between science and technology attitudes scale, frequency of smartphone usage scale and lifelong learning scale scores using the structural equation model

Abstract

Lifelong learning can be defined as all of the activities which aim to develop an individual's skills, knowledge and abilities, socially, individually and professionally. Previous research on lifelong learning has been about using computers, digital competence and the correlation between demographic characteristics and intelligence. However, only one scale was used in this research, and, in general, only scores for demographic characteristics and lifelong learning were compared. In this research, the correlation between distance-learning students' attitudes to technology, their frequency of use of smartphones and their attitudes to lifelong learning were examined. Reliability studies were carried out prior to the study and the Turkish adaptations of the scales published in international journals were administered with permission. The study sample consisted of 881 students studying in 12 different units of Hitit University: six Vocational Schools, four Faculties and two Graduate Schools. The data were analysed by creating a structural equation model on the open source R analysis program. According to the research results, there was a significant correlation between the three scales, and the correlation between the 'lifelong learning' scores and the 'frequency of of smartphone usage' scores was greater than the 'technology attitudes' scores.