Does digital competence really matter? The impact of attitude and ICT on research performance

Purpose This study assesses the effect of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) usage, knowledge and attitude on Digital Competence (DC). It further explores the role of DC in enhancing research and innovation performance in higher education. Design/methodology/approach A survey involving faculties and full-time research scholars from different institutes and universities was conducted. The study utilized Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) and Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM) to analyse the data and test the hypotheses. The study used Smart PLS 4.0 software to employ the PLS-SEM approach. Findings The study found that the attitudes of researchers and ICT usage positively affect their DC. Moreover, DC significantly mediates the relationship between researchers’ attitudes, ICT and research performance, demonstrating that improved DC can enhance research outcomes among faculties and research scholars. Originality/value This research contributes to the limited literature on DC among faculties and research scholars. It provides valuable insights into how attitudes and ICT usage can influence DC and research performance. The findings emphasize the need for Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) to develop robust digital infrastructures and training programs to support the DC of their faculties and scholars.