The Effects of Digital Literacy, Creative Self-efficacy and Cognitive Flexibility on Self-directed Learning Ability in College Students

Purpose: This study explored factors that influence self-directed learning ability in college students. Method: Data were collected from 205 college students at a university in Seoul using self-administered questionnaires. Data were collected from August 26 to September 6, 2024. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, t-test, one-way ANOVA, Pearson correlation coefficients, and multiple regression analysis with the SPSS Win 30.0. Results: Self-directed learning ability was positively correlated with digital literacy (r=.54, p<.001), creative self-efficacy (r=.42, p<.001), cognitive flexibility (r=.53, p<.001). Factors that had an influence on self-directed learning ability included digital literacy (β=.31, p<.001), cognitive flexibility (β=.30, p<.001), creative self-efficacy (β =.17, p=.007), previous semester GPA (β=.12, p=.028). These factors explained 43.0% of the variance in college students’ self-directed learning ability. Conclusion: In order to improve college students’ self-directed learning ability, it is necessary to systematically develop and apply a learner-centered curriculum and a program that can cultivate cognitive flexibility and creative self-efficacy based on digital literacy.