Factors influencing eHealth literacy among Korean nursing students: A cross-sectional study

Abstract

Successful online learning depends on the supported learner's attitude, motivation, and self-efficacy, along with their ability to use the flexibility and convenience of digital technology. As information and communications technology is introduced in healthcare, eHealth literacy (eHL) is becoming increasingly essential in nursing education. This study aimed to identify the eHL levels and the factors affecting eHL among nursing students. A survey was conducted among 205 nursing students from two colleges in Korea. The collected data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, and the factors associated with the eHL of nursing students were examined using multiple regression analysis. The eHL of nursing students, measured using the eHealth literacy scale, was found to be higher than in previous studies. Factors affecting eHL of nursing students were academic level, digital literacy toward information and communications technology for learning, and self-efficacy for online education. These factors accounted for 38.8% of the variability in eHL among nursing students. In order to improve the eHL of nursing students, nursing education should consider a multidimensional approach toward developing digital literacy and self-efficacy among them.