THE GUIDELINES TO DEVELOP THE DIGITAL LITERACY OF PHARMACY STUDENTS IN SCHOOL OF PHARMACY, JIANGSU FOOD & PHARMACEUTICAL SCIENCE COLLEGE

Abstract

This study investigates the current state of digital literacy among pharmacy students at Jiangsu Food & Pharmaceutical Science College and develops an evidence-based enhancement guide aligned with China’s digital transformation agenda and the pharmaceutical industry’s evolving demands. Using a two-phase mixed-methods design, Phase I surveyed 306 students to assess five dimensions of digital literacy: information management, technical proficiency, digital security awareness, digital communication and collaboration, and content creation and knowledge building. Findings revealed a moderate overall level, with the highest performance in technical proficiency and digital communication, but persistent weaknesses in digital security awareness and information management. Significant positive correlations were found among all five dimensions, indicating that improvement in one area may foster growth in others. Qualitative responses highlighted insufficient digital training, limited access to digital resources, and low confidence in applying digital tools in pharmacy practice. In Phase II, expert focus groups synthesized these findings into a Digital Literacy Enhancement Guide that emphasizes curriculum integration, targeted cybersecurity training, collaborative learning, and institutional support. The study provides both theoretical and practical contributions, advancing the understanding of digital competence in vocational pharmacy education and offering actionable pathways to strengthen students’ employability and readiness for the data-driven healthcare environment.-