The Complex Influence of Information Communication Technology (ICT) on Students’ Performance in Singapore: Evidence From 2018 PISA Data

Abstract

This study focuses on the effects of negative and non-linear aspects of ICT use and environmental factors on PISA mathematics, science, and reading performance. Data from the 2018 PISA [the OECD’s Programme for International Student Assessment] for 6,297 15-year-old students from Singapore were analyzed. The data analysis used the IDB analyzer to construct a two-step regression model and identified four distinct patterns of how ICT factors affect PISA performance. The “U” shape pattern includes perceived ICT competence which has a significant negative linear coefficient and a positive quadratic coefficient. The “∩” shape pattern includes ICT resources, use of ICT outside of school (for schoolwork activities), ICT use outside of school (leisure) and interest in ICT. This group consists of either a significant positive linear coefficient or a non-significant linear coefficient with a significant negative quadratic coefficient. The strictly negative pattern includes the use of ICT at school in general and ICT as a topic in social interaction. This group consists of only a significant negative linear coefficient. The strictly positive pattern includes perceived autonomy related to ICT use which only has a significant positive linear coefficient. Overall, the impact of ICT factors on the three subjects was similar, with minor differences. Given the complexity of how ICT factors could negatively affect performance, policymakers will need to fine-tune ICT practices to ensure students receive the maximum benefits with optimal ICT resources.

Keywords:

• ICT resources
• ICT use
• ICT engagement
• PISA

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Additional information

Funding

This work was supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China: Research on the Security Management Mechanism of Comprehensive Quality Evaluation Data for the New College Entrance Examination: Blockchain Technology Empowerment Perspective [Grant number: 72204077], the key project of Hubei Provincial Education Science Plan in 2023: Research on Digital Empowering the Diversified Development of Ordinary High Schools in Hubei Province [Grant number: 2023GA025], the key project of Hubei Provincial Education Science Plan in 2023: Evaluation Research on the Construction of Education Consortium with Digital Empowerment [Grant number: 2023GA026] and the National College Students Innovation and Entrepreneurship Training Program: Research on the Problems and Countermeasures of Disciplinary Power in Primary School Education in Practice: in the Case of Dongxihu District Elementary School in Wuhan [Grant number: 202210512020].