Needs Analysis for Gender-Based Digital Literacy Development in Senior High Schools in Medan
Tengku Ratna Soraya, Rita Suswati, Nurenzia Yannuar, Yulianeta

Universitas Negeri Medan, Universitas Negeri Medan, Universitas Negeri Malang, Universitas Pendidikan Indonesia

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the need for gender-equality-based digital literacy development at the senior high school (SMA) level in Medan. Digital literacy is the ability to understand and use information from various digital sources, including the ability to access, evaluate, use, and create digital content effectively and responsibly. It also involves the ability to think critically in the digital world, as well as understanding the ethics and security of online interactions. Digital literacy is a crucial competency in facing the challenges of the 21st-century digital era. However, this literacy needs to be developed in an inclusive and gender-responsive manner to avoid creating new gaps in the use of information technology. This study used a qualitative descriptive approach with data collection techniques through in-depth interviews, observations, and questionnaires distributed to teachers, students, and principals at several public and private high schools in Medan. The analysis results indicate that there are still inequalities in access, participation, and gender perceptions in the use of digital media in the school environment. Of the 300 respondents, 75% stated that there is still a lack of integration of gender equality values in the curriculum and a lack of training that supports fair digital literacy for all genders. Therefore, the development of digital literacy in high schools needs to be designed with attention to the principles of gender equality, both in teaching materials, learning methods, and school policies. These findings provide an important basis for the formulation of teacher training programs and education policies that are more inclusive and equitable.

Keywords: Digital literacy, gender equality, needs analysis, Medan City High School

Topic: Social Science, Linguistics, Foreign Language and Humanities