Generational and Gender Differences in Digital Literacy among Adults in Pakistan: A Cross-Sectional Comparative Study

Abstract

This article examined the gaps in digital literacy between Generations Y and Z, concentrating specifically on gender and generational differences. A quantitative research design was used with the sample of individuals (N=200) including Generation Z (n=100) aged 18 to 30 years and Generation Y (n=100) aged 31-45 years were recruited through purposive sampling technique. The study sampled were chosen based on predetermined criteria in terms of inclusion and exclusion. The Digital Literacy Scale was used to gather data. Digital literacy was accessed by using six sub dimension Ethics and Responsibility, General Knowledge and Functional Skills, Daily Use, Professional Production, Privacy and Security, and Social Dimension. Data was analyzed through SPSS (Version 27). Independent-sample t -tests were used to investigate the digital literacy differences per generation and gender. The findings have shown there were significant differences in digital literacy based on generational differences, with younger participants showing higher levels in Ethics and Responsibility, General Knowledge and Functional Skills, Professional Production, Privacy and Security, and Social Dimension. Moreover, there were no differences in the overall digital literacy by gender, but females had a higher score on certain aspects of ethics, responsibility, and privacy. These findings suggest the necessity of creating specific digital literacy initiatives to fill the generational and gender-related gaps and promote the responsible and efficient use of technology in an increasingly digitalized world.