DEVELOPMENT OF AN INNOVATIVE DIGITAL LEARNING MANAGEMENT APPROACH TO ENHANCE 21ST-CENTURY SKILLS OF HIGHER EDUCATION STUDENTS

Abstract

This study aimed :1) To examine the current conditions of digital learning management in higher education institutions; 2) To develop a digital learning management innovation that enhances 21st-century skills in higher education; and 3) To assess the appropriateness and feasibility of the developed innovation. Mixed methods of research design were employed. The quantitative sample consisted of 400 students and instructors from universities in Chonburi Province, determined using Krejcie and Morgan’s formula and selected through stratified random sampling. The research instrument was a questionnaire, and the data was analyzed using descriptive statistics. The qualitative component involved focus group discussions with 10 experts and specialists, and data were analyzed using content analysis. The findings revealed that the overall condition of digital learning management in higher education was at a high level (𝑥̄ = 4.27) The highest-rated dimension was assessment and evaluation (𝑥̄ = 4.45) while teaching and instructional practices received the lowest mean score (𝑥̄ = 4.03) Furthermore, the development of digital learning management innovation to promote 21st-century skills indicated that learners possessed these skills at a high level (𝑥̄ = 4.32) Among the skill dimensions, learning and innovation skills scored the highest (𝑥̄ = 4.41), whereas life and career skills received the lowest mean score (𝑥̄ = 4.25) The focus group results confirmed that the proposed innovation was highly appropriate and feasible, with an overall suitability rating of 85 percent, which exceeds the established standard criteria. Key components of innovation include continuous policy development, digital activity design that fosters learner engagement, competency-based assessment, and the establishment of collaborative networks with industry partners.