Abstract:
The aim of this study is to examine the digital footprint awareness of
middle school students according to grade level, gender, time spent on
electronic devices and media. First of all, the digital footprint scale
developed for secondary school students was evaluated in terms of its
psychometric properties. Then, the digital footprint awareness of the
participants was examined according to the variables mentioned above.
Participants consisted of 204 female and 189 male students. In addition
to the Digital Footprint Scale, participants were given a form containing
questions about students' gender, age, grade levels, and time spent
with a mobile phone, internet, social media, and online game playing.
The results indicated that the Digital Footprint Scale is a valid and
reliable tool for the use of researchers, educators, administrators, and
parents.
