The level of computer literacy and its effect on research skills among students in a state college / John Bencent M. Aquino, Mitch Ashley B. Arcilla, and Vincent T. Atante.

Undergraduate Thesis (BSOA)- Office Administration. Camarines Sur Polytechnic Colleges, 2025.

Includes bibliographical references.

This study examined the level of computer literacy and its effect on the research skills of students enrolled in the Bachelor of Science in Office Administration (BSOA) at Camarines Sur Polytechnic Colleges, Buhi Campus during the school year 2025-2026. Specifically, it aimed to determine the respondents' profile in terms of age, sex, year level, availability of learning resources, general weighted average (GWA), and frequency of computer use. It also assessed the students' level of computer literacy in key areas such as word processing, spreadsheet applications, presentation tools, data analysis, and reference and citation management. In addition, the study evaluated their research skills in identifying research problems, reviewing related literature, organizing and analyzing data, and writing research outputs. A descriptive-correlational research design was employed, and data were gathered from 172 BSOA students using a structured questionnaire. The results showed that most respondents were in their early twenties, predominantly female, and had average access to computer resources both at home and within the school environment. Findings further revealed that students demonstrated a moderate level of computer literacy, indicating competence in basic software functions but limited proficiency in advanced features, particularly in data analysis and the use of referencing tools. Similarly, the respondents' research skills were assessed as developing, with noticeable challenges in organizing data and conducting comprehensive literature reviews. Statistical analysis confirmed a significant relationship between computer literacy and research skills, suggesting that higher levels of digital competence contribute to better research performance. Based on these findings, the study recommended the integration of enhanced computer literacy instruction, research-oriented digital workshops, and hands-on training activities into the curriculum to improve students' technical and academic research competencies.