Table 7 SDiCoS instrument: components of the students’ digital competence scale (SDiCoS) and measured items

1. Search, Find, Access

SFA

I can search and find a specific object or similar objects using various search engines (e.g., Google, Yahoo, Bing) and databases, using appropriate keywords and advanced criteria and filters

SFA1

I can search and find a specific person on various social networks using various techniques and filters (e.g., various formats of name, photo, email address, school, company, etc.)

SFA2

I can search and find groups on a specific topic (e.g., hobby, profession, artist, science, historical event, travel destination) on various social media

SFA3

I can navigate in the real-world using the advanced features of a navigator

SFA4

I can watch (read, listen, view) content in various formats on various smart devices

SFA5

2. Develop, Apply, Modify

DAM

I can create an event and set notifications using a digital calendar (e.g., Google Calendar, Apple Calendar, Microsoft Outlook Calendar)

DAM1

I can creatively design and/or develop a website using various digital tools (e.g., Wix, WordPress)

DAM2

I can create a document with text, diagrams, tables, reports, and advanced formatting

DAM3

I can apply Creative Commons licenses to content or software that I have created

DAM4

I can apply statistical techniques using appropriate software (e.g., SPSS, R, MS Excel, Google Sheets) to make forecasting or predictions

DAM5

I can convert content from one format to another format

DAM6

3. Communicate, Collaborate, Share

CCS

Ι can collaborate with people using various smart devices, platforms, and digital tools

CCS1

Ι can teach an e-course or an e-seminar, give a lecture or make a presentation using various digital tools

CCS2

I can upload and share software or app that I have developed on various social media

CCS3

4. Store, Manage, Delete

SMD

I can take a photo or a video and save it in various formats (mp4, wmv, avi, qt, gif, jpg, etc.) using various smart devices and digital recording tools

SMD1

I can download content and save it directly to the relevant folder

SMD2

I can copy and save the screenshot from various smart devices

SMD3

I can delete some of my connections/friends in various social networks

SMD4

I can organize the files on my computer into a hierarchical folder structure

SMD5

5. Evaluate

EV

I can evaluate an object and/or a smart device using appropriate quality criteria (e.g., authenticity, utility, easy to use, appearance, functionality, enjoyment)

EV1

I can critique an object and/or a smart device on relevant social media (e.g., TripAdvisor, YouTube, Amazon)

EV2

I can evaluate whether some information is hoax, fake, scam, or fraud

EV3

I can evaluate whether a website is secure and trusted

EV4

I can identify the intellectual property rights (IPRs) of content that I have found on Internet

EV5

I can evaluate whether an email is spam, adware, phishing, or fraud

EV6

6. Protect

PR

I can regularly change my passwords and settings of my smart devices and Internet accounts

PR1

I can protect various smart devices and e-accounts using different passwords and frequently changing them

PR2

I can protect myself and others against identity theft, harassment, bulling, or slander

PR3