Exploring the Application and Effects of Digital Storytelling Activities Utilizing Metaverse Avatar Customization in Essential Liberal Arts Courses for International Students : Focusing on Digital Competence, Creativity, and Self-Expression

The purpose of this study is to examine the effects on digital competencies (digital literacy, digital self-efficacy, digital mindset), creativity, and self-expression after conducting digital storytelling activities utilizing metaverse avatar customization in a mandatory liberal arts course for international students. To conduct this study, a case from a mandatory liberal arts course based on artistic creation activities at C University was analyzed. To achieve the research objectives, a paired sample t-test was conducted using SPSS 25.0 to verify the pre-post differences, and a correlation analysis was performed to examine the relationships between variables. The study results are as follows: First, the analysis of pre-post differences revealed that all variables showed significantly higher values in the post-test. Second, the correlation analysis between variables showed a positive (+) correlation among digital literacy, digital efficacy, digital mindset, creativity, and self-expression, while self-expression and digital mindset did not show a significant correlation. Third, the analysis of learner perceptions revealed that most learners experienced an improvement in their digital skills through this course. They perceived it as a positive experience that allowed them to discover and develop their creative potential. Additionally, they responded that the process of customizing characters from their stories as metaverse avatars and completing videos using digital tools provided them with a sense of accomplishment. Based on the results of this study, it is hoped that this will serve as a valuable resource for instructors and learners in digital storytelling activities using the metaverse, particularly targeting foreign learners.