A techno-mathematical literacy scale for engineering students: development and validation (E-TmLS)
Frontiers in Education, cilt.11, 2026 (ESCI, Scopus)
- Yayın Türü: Makale / Tam Makale
- Cilt numarası: 11
- Basım Tarihi: 2026
- Doi Numarası: 10.3389/feduc.2026.1930595
- Dergi Adı: Frontiers in Education
- Derginin Tarandığı İndeksler: Emerging Sources Citation Index (ESCI), Scopus, EBSCO Education Source, Directory of Open Access Journals, Education Source Ultimate (EBSCO)
- Anahtar Kelimeler: engineering education, engineering students, PLS-SEM, psychometric validation, scale development, techno-mathematical literacy
- Bursa Uludağ Üniversitesi Adresli: Evet
Özet
Purpose – This study aims to develop and validate the Engineering Techno-Mathematical Literacy Scale (E-TmLS). Although techno-mathematical literacy has attracted increasing attention in engineering education, psychometrically validated instruments specifically designed to assess perceived techno-mathematical literacy among engineering students remain limited. Design/methodology/approach – Data were collected from 360 engineering students enrolled in different engineering programmes in Türkiye. The sample was randomly divided into two independent subsamples. Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) was conducted to identify the underlying factor structure, and Partial Least Squares Confirmatory Composite Analysis (PLS-CCA) was subsequently used to validate the measurement model. PLS-CCA was selected because it was considered appropriate for the prediction-oriented validation strategy and the multidimensional hierarchical structure examined in this study. Reliability, convergent validity, discriminant validity, model fit and test–retest reliability were also examined. Findings – The findings supported a 20-item, six-dimensional structure comprising Data Literacy, Error Analysis and Evaluation, Technology-Supported Processes, Mathematical Representation, Mathematical Communication, and Decision-Making and Justification. The self-report scale demonstrated satisfactory reliability, construct validity, convergent validity, discriminant validity and temporal stability. The results further indicated that perceived techno-mathematical literacy can be conceptualised as a multidimensional second-order reflective construct. Originality/value – This study provides one of the first psychometrically validated multidimensional instruments specifically developed to assess techno-mathematical literacy among engineering students. The E-TmLS offers researchers and educators a standardized tool for assessing self-perceived technology-supported mathematical competencies and may facilitate future research, curriculum evaluation and competency development in engineering education. For higher education institutions, the scale offers a practical basis for evaluating engineering curricula, designing targeted instructional interventions, and monitoring students’ technology-supported mathematical competencies over the course of their studies.