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    <journal-meta />
    <article-meta>
      <title-group>
        <article-title>Bridging the Digital Divide: Organisational Digital Competencies in Science and Art Centers⋆</article-title>
      </title-group>
      <contrib-group>
        <contrib contrib-type="author">
          <string-name>Dilek Dede</string-name>
          <email>dilekdede@istanbul.edu.tr</email>
          <xref ref-type="aff" rid="aff1">1</xref>
        </contrib>
        <contrib contrib-type="author">
          <string-name>Mehmet Fatih Erkoç</string-name>
          <xref ref-type="aff" rid="aff2">2</xref>
        </contrib>
        <contrib contrib-type="author">
          <string-name>Dinçer Dede</string-name>
          <xref ref-type="aff" rid="aff0">0</xref>
        </contrib>
        <contrib contrib-type="author">
          <string-name>Bünyamin Bavlı</string-name>
          <xref ref-type="aff" rid="aff2">2</xref>
        </contrib>
        <aff id="aff0">
          <label>0</label>
          <institution>Bağcılar Bilim ve Sanat Merkezi (BİLSEM)</institution>
          ,
          <addr-line>34212, Bağcılar, İstanbul</addr-line>
          ,
          <country country="TR">Türkiye</country>
        </aff>
        <aff id="aff1">
          <label>1</label>
          <institution>İstanbul University, Faculty of Political Sciences</institution>
          ,
          <addr-line>Central Campus, 34116, Beyazıt, Fatih, İstanbul</addr-line>
          ,
          <country country="TR">Türkiye</country>
        </aff>
        <aff id="aff2">
          <label>2</label>
          <institution>Yildiz Technical University, Faculty of Education</institution>
          ,
          <addr-line>Davutpaşa Campus, 34165, Güngören, İstanbul</addr-line>
          ,
          <country country="TR">Türkiye</country>
        </aff>
      </contrib-group>
      <pub-date>
        <year>2025</year>
      </pub-date>
      <abstract>
        <p>In Türkiye, Science and Art Centers (BİLSEM) enhance digital literacy and cultivate the unique talents of gifted students, selected based on exceptional qualities. BİLSEMs are dedicated educational centers focused on enhancing the learning journeys of talented students in the arts and sciences through technology-driven, individualized programs that complement formal education. It is crucial to examine digital competencies and the digital divide relating to these institutions. Researchers observe discrepancies in permanent teacher employment and the availability of technical equipment across BİLSEMs. This inconsistency creates disparities in establishing technology-integrated learning environments. Literature has limited studies on BİLSEMs. It links the digital divide and competencies with a notable absence of studies integrating organisational digital competencies and technology leadership characteristics within specialized educational institutions. In response to this challenge, this project funded by the Scientific and Technological Research Council of Turkey (TUBITAK), titled “The Impact of Digital Competencies for Mitigating the Digital Gap: School Principals' Technology Leadership Competencies and Organisations' Digital Competencies in Science and Art Centers,” runs from 2024-2026. The project team includes practitioners and academics representing the first phase of our research. After completion, we aim to engage in international projects on additional dimensions from literature, like teacher competencies and course content production, collaborating with the existing team and forming new partnerships to cultivate citizens with digital competencies. This project clarifies the technology leadership competencies of BİLSEMs' principals and their organisations' digital competencies through exploratory research. Due to the lack of findings in existing literature, a critical assessment of this research's results is not possible. A mixed-methods approach involves interviewing principals from selected BİLSEMs to evaluate their digital capabilities. Data will be analyzed through phenomenological inquiry and analytical comparison. Furthermore, principals' technology leadership competencies will be assessed using quantitative scales from teachers. Data collection for both parts will be conducted independently. As an output, a policy brief will address the digital divide in BİLSEMs, focusing on differences in digital competencies and leadership. The portion slated for presentation at this conference will discover the reflections of the interviews conducted with ten (10) principals from BİLSEMs about their institutions' organisational digital competencies within the framework of our integrated project. Methodologically, phenomenological inquiry was conducted. Four key elements concerning the digital divide, particularly within the Turkish context, have been considered: First, campaigns aimed at supporting access to technological devices and providing opportunities for open access to software. Second, government support for disadvantaged groups, particularly concerning digital inclusiveness and access to technology. Third, promoting inclusion regarding access and participation in digital services, specifically within public service sectors. Fourth, the assurance of effective and appropriate usage of digital services. An analytical comparison approach was employed to interpret data, performed using the licensed version of MaxQDA 2024. In line with the nature of the approach, the content analysis method was executed to interpret the data. This study will provide a partial evaluation and open a new avenue for comprehensive discussion. It will clarify the underlying factors causing the digital divide and the organisational digital competency challenges faced by BİLSEMs.</p>
      </abstract>
      <kwd-group>
        <kwd>eol&gt;Digital gap</kwd>
        <kwd>organisational digital competencies</kwd>
        <kwd>science and technology policy</kwd>
        <kwd>science and art centers 1</kwd>
      </kwd-group>
    </article-meta>
  </front>
  <body>
    <sec id="sec-1">
      <title>1. Introduction: Context and Novelty</title>
      <p>
        Advancements in digital technologies have fundamentally transformed public services,
necessitating the extensive adoption of these technologies by local and global policymakers. The
emergence of e-government has mandated the development of digital competencies among
citizens, presenting considerable challenges in public education initiatives [
        <xref ref-type="bibr" rid="ref1 ref2">1, 2</xref>
        ]. Access to and
utilization of Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) vary significantly across social
and demographic factors, which are critical considerations for training both public administrators
and citizens [
        <xref ref-type="bibr" rid="ref3">3</xref>
        ]. It is crucial to develop and continually update digital competence profiles for
educators, as well as to enhance educational environments, thereby fostering improved digital
skills education at all educational levels.
      </p>
      <p>
        The digital divide is a multifaceted issue that encompasses various dimensions—ranging from
access to skills, usage, and outcomes—shaped by social, economic, and infrastructural factors [
        <xref ref-type="bibr" rid="ref4">4</xref>
        ];
[
        <xref ref-type="bibr" rid="ref5">5</xref>
        ]. This project has evolved from a primary focus on access disparities to examining the wider
implications of digital inequality on institutions. Digital competency encompasses the skills,
knowledge, and attitudes necessary for the effective use of digital technologies across workplaces,
educational environments, and vocational settings [
        <xref ref-type="bibr" rid="ref6 ref7">6, 7</xref>
        ]. The project underscores the significance
of digital skills and proficiency at both managerial and institutional levels.
      </p>
      <p>
        The literature identifies two predominant frameworks: (a) individual digital competence and (b)
organisational digital competence, sourced from various international institutions [
        <xref ref-type="bibr" rid="ref8 ref9">8, 9, 10, 11</xref>
        ].
Technological leadership exhibited by institutional managers significantly influences the effective
integration of technology within educational contexts [12]. Research indicates a clear correlation
between the digital divide and digital competencies [13, 14].
      </p>
      <p>The connection between e-government, digital competency, and the digital divide is important,
underscoring the requirement for digital skills in government initiatives. The findings indicate
that Digital transformation is essential for public sector reforms [15], and improving digital skills
is crucial for citizen participation [16]. However, significant divides in access to digital
technology reveal a resource gap between larger and smaller administrations. Digital competency
enhances service delivery and citizen engagement, but a skills gap exists between citizens and
public workers, particularly in rural areas. In these conditions, Targeted capacity-building
programs are crucial for equitable access to services [17].</p>
      <p>The digital skills of civil servants significantly impact the quality of services, necessitating
investments in their competencies [18, 19]. Digitalization plays a crucial role in education, with
[20] emphasizing its importance in school administration [21] as well asunderlines the necessity
of developing the skills and leadership of civil servants for effective digital adoption. The National
Educational Technology Plan (NETP) advocates for strategic leadership to promote digital
integration, highlighting the importance of organisational digital competency among educators
and administrators. Effective leadership aligns digital initiatives with organisational goals and
ensures that staff are adequately skilled [22]. A robust digital culture enhances employee
performance, illustrating how leadership can contribute to the advancement of skills in the public
sector [23].</p>
      <p>In Türkiye, the Science and Art Centers (BİLSEM) are institutions designed to enhance digital
literacy and nurture the unique abilities of gifted and talented students, selected according to
specific criteria that reflect their traits. BİLSEMs serve as specialized educational establishments
focused on enriching the learning experiences of talented students in both the sciences and the
arts. Education is provided with an individualized learning program planned outside of formal
education. Therefore, it is essential to explore issues related to digital competencies and the
digital divide as they specifically relate to these institutions. [24]. However, disparities in teacher
employment and the availability of technological resources precipitate inequalities in technology
integration across BİLSEMs.</p>
      <p>
        Literature reviews reveal a scarcity of studies focusing on BİLSEMs, with most research centered
on the perspectives of teachers, students, and administrators [25, 26, 27, 28], the learning
performance of BİLSEM students [29, 30, 31] and the specific needs of gifted students [32, 33];
[34, 35]. Furthermore, studies have established connections between digital competencies and the
digital divide through the lens of digital literacy [36, 37], as well as exploring its interplay with
digital competencies [
        <xref ref-type="bibr" rid="ref1">1, 38</xref>
        ]. Nonetheless, there remains a significant research gap concerning
educational institutions that integrate organisational digital competencies with the technology
leadership exercised by their administrators.
      </p>
      <p>The researchers note inconsistencies in the number of permanent teachers and technical
resources across BİLSEMs, affecting their ability to implement tech-enabled learning. Literature
on Science and Art centers is scarce, and studies linking the digital divide to digital competencies
often overlook how organisational digital skills integrate with leadership traits in specialized
educational institutions.</p>
      <p>To address the gap in existing literature, this project examines reasons for differences noted by
researchers, especially disparities among BİLSEM institutions in developing
technologyintegrated environments and the relationship between digital competencies and the digital divide.
The project aims to investigate the relationship between the technology leadership characteristics
of administrators [39, 40] within BİLSEM institutions and the institutional-level characteristics of
the organisations in which they operate [41]. Furthermore, it seeks to assess the organisational
digital competency levels of BİLSEM institutions [42, 43] as understanding these dynamics is
critical for mitigating the digital gap among BİLSEM institutions, prioritizing
technologyenhanced education.</p>
      <p>The methodological innovation of the project is articulated as follows: The project employs an
exploratory design employing a "Parallel mixed method" approach to evaluate the impact of
digital competencies on bridging the digital divide. Given the limited existing literature, a
comprehensive assessment of results is not feasible. The applied research during the data
integration phase concentrates on specific issues, gathering data from primary sources through
field and survey research [44].</p>
      <p>In the qualitative component, assessments have been made regarding the digital competence
levels of the institutions presided over by the principals. The literature review revealed a lack of
quantitative scales that concurrently measure technology integration and organisational digital
competence within educational institutions. Therefore, various organisational digital competence
frameworks designed for educational settings were scrutinized, and a semi-structured interview
questionnaire featuring open-ended inquiries was formulated based on the stages outlined in the
organisational digital competence frameworks [42, 43].</p>
      <p>The selected frameworks are combined with key themes regarding practical approaches to
addressing the digital divide, particularly in Turkey [45]. Using the digital competency
framework for educational organisations, along with the framework focused on factors that
mitigate the digital divide, facilitates a comprehensive assessment of BİLSEM institutions' digital
competencies and their role in bridging this divide. This conference presentation will share
insights gathered from interviews with ten BİLSEM principals concerning their institutions'
digital competencies within our integrated project. It will discover the reflections of the
interviews conducted with ten (10) principals from BİLSEMs about their institutions'
organisational digital competencies within the framework of our integrated project.
Methodologically, this part adopts an inductive phenomenological inquiry in qualitative research
methods.</p>
    </sec>
    <sec id="sec-2">
      <title>2. Research Design and Method</title>
      <p>The section designated for presentation at this conference will delve into the insights gleaned
from interviews conducted with ten (10) principals from BİLSEMs regarding their institutions'
organisational digital competencies, framed within the context of our integrated project. The
methodology of sampling employed in the project can be articulated as follows:
The universe includes Science and Art Centers in Turkiye. The project sample features elements
relevant to the research. Due to limited time and resources, the goal is to find a representative
sample from the population. This sample targets explicitly BİLSEMs established before the
COVID-19 pandemic. The pandemic hindered BİLSEMs' effectiveness, causing technical and
administrative issues. Although many BİLSEMs have been launched post-pandemic due to the
MEB education strategy, they currently lack sufficient teachers, students, and infrastructure,
which is expected to improve. Thus, the sample was narrowed to 184 BİLSEMs established before
2021. The selection used a multi-stage sampling technique to explore the leadership and digital
competencies of BİLSEM managers across 184 BİLSEMs. Initially, purposive sampling narrowed
the sample from 184 to 85 using four criteria: 1. At least 20 students per level per MEB BİLSEM
directive. 2. A permanent principal and two assistant principals. 3. Past participation in a
TÜBİTAK regional exhibition final. 4. Engagement in TÜBİTAK Science and Society Projects.
A stratified sampling method divided samples into 12 regions per TÜBİTAK's framework to
improve representativeness. Then, 24 BİLSEMs were randomly selected based on regional
institution counts, prioritizing higher concentrations. Two provinces from each region were
chosen, excluding Istanbul and Ankara, considering accessibility and disaster recovery, totaling
20 provinces. This ensured balanced regional representation.</p>
      <p>To assess the digital competence of organisations within BİLSEM institutions, researchers will use
an interview protocol aligned with qualitative, phenomenological approaches. This method aims
to uncover realities by exploring individuals' interpretations based on their lived experiences. The
study seeks to describe the organisational digital skills in BİLSEM institutions in Türkiye through
an inductive phenomenological framework. Initially, the researchers examined observations and
influential factors related to the digital divide in Turkey,[32] including four components described
in [45]. These include: campaigns promoting access to devices and open-source software;
government support for marginalized populations; fostering access to and engagement with
digital services; and ensuring proper use of digital services. Then, two distinct frameworks for
organisational digital competence [42, 43] were adopted as thematic focus points to explore
BİLSEM's organisational digital skills, providing insights and perceptions regarding the principles
of specific BİLSEM institutions.</p>
      <p>The fundamental principle of phenomenological research is that truth is accessible through
experience. Here, individuals serve as data sources, with their experiences as data [46]. BİLSEMs'
principals, as technology leaders and data sources, align with the phenomenological pattern and
research focus, sharing experiences and observations. The interview form was based on
categories from digital competence frameworks in [42, 43]. The interview is particularly suitable
as it resonates with the nature of phenomenological inquiry. The interviews will proceed
face-toface with approximately 24 BİLSEM directors, utilizing a one-on-one interview technique. The
segment designated for presentation at the conference will examine the insights garnered from
interviews with ten (10) principals from BİLSEMs regarding their institutions' organisational
digital competencies within the context of this integrated project. The research data will be
categorized by attributes and analyzed using MAXQDA 2024 for semi-structured interviews. The
qualitative analysis method is analytical comparison analysis, which identifies commonalities
among situations with similar outcomes [47]. The method is detailed as follows:
BİLSEMs within the research sample will be classified based on their establishment years.
Notably, the 2007 BİLSEM directive introduced new criteria for teacher selection to enhance
qualifications [11]. Hence, the classification will distinguish between BİLSEMs established prior
to 2008 and post-2008. Furthermore, concerning the level of digitalization within BİLSEMs, the
mean values of numerical criteria delineated specifically, 1) the number of accessible computers,
2) the number of 3D printers available, and 3) the number of smart boards in use—has been
utilized for data aggregation. [28]
A subsequent categorization was conducted based on each BİLSEM's average relative to the
overall mean, resulting in a four-category framework: (1) high digitalization BİLSEMs established
in 2008 or earlier, (2) low digitalization BİLSEMs established in 2008 or earlier, (3) high
digitalization BİLSEMs established after 2008, and (4) low digitalization BİLSEMs established after
2008. The final analysis will compare interview data within this schema (see Appendices A).
This approach provides the space to investigate the factors underlying the digital divide in
BİLSEM institutions and the role of organisational digital competencies in mitigating this
disparity.</p>
    </sec>
    <sec id="sec-3">
      <title>3. Preliminary Results</title>
      <p>Four key dimensions concerning the digital divide, particularly within the Turkish context, have
been considered in the interview stage. 1. Campaigns aimed at supporting access to technological
devices and providing opportunities for open access to software. 2. Government support for
disadvantaged groups, particularly concerning digital inclusiveness and access to technology. 3.
promoting inclusion regarding access and participation in digital services, specifically within
public service sectors. 4. the assurance of effective and appropriate usage of digital services [45].
Institutions with a high ratio of devices to students, established prior to 2008, are categorized as
IST-2 and Balıkesir. The findings related to IST-2 are as follows: “Our district boasts a strong
socio-economic status. Generally, students utilize the institution's devices, although some may
opt to use their devices instead. Istanbul is abundant in digital technology investment firms and
network operators, which allows for numerous collaboration opportunities and partnerships;
some of these involve our own students' parents “(dimension 1).
“Our Ministry actively supports open-source software like Pardus. As you know, any software
and educational materials must receive Ministry approval. We incorporate software deemed
suitable by our Ministry” (dimension 3). “Given our district's affluent socio-economic
background, we do not have any students from economically disadvantaged families. Should we
identify any such students, we are prepared to offer support within our institution's capabilities”
(dimension 2).
“We uphold a strong commitment to software copyright compliance, ensuring that all our
software is appropriately licensed, as we are a public institution. If we discover students using
unlicensed software, we initiate the necessary procedures, as there are significant penalties for
such usage. Most licensed software is produced by foreign companies, thus requiring caution in
our approach as an institution. As an institution manager with a doctorate, I have observed
similar practices abroad and believe that implementing a comprehensive institutional technology
plan is imperative for Turkey” (dimension 4).The findings related to Balıkesir are as follows: “We
discuss various workshop opportunities and use the MEDI application with national education
platforms. Course content develops through collaboration between students and teachers,
considering individual abilities. Programs include outdoor lessons through camps” (dimension 3).
“Calibration may be necessary for devices used by visually impaired students, and we receive
technical support for this” (dimension 1). “We have built an infrastructure for disadvantaged
students with over 90% vision loss, ensuring relevant information synchronizes with their tablets.
We have collaborated here and with the institution where the student receives formal education,
incurring approximately 100,000 in expenses with Ministry support. We utilize family networks
and institutional resources for students on our risk map with low socio-economic backgrounds”
(dimension 2).
“We procured ten Minecraft licenses for our students, supported by family networks. We
diligently obtain licenses and stress their significance, issuing warnings to both teachers and
students. As an educational institution, we are dedicated to continuous improvement. A thorough
technology plan is crucial. It should detail present opportunities, create forecasts, set future goals,
and define objectives for enhancement. Moreover, we strive to improve the technological skills
within our community” (dimension 4).</p>
      <p>Institutions with a high rate of devices per student established after 2008 include İzmir and
Mardin (See Appendices A). Key issues from the interview in İzmir include: “Students create
online environments using VR glasses to access international museums. They engaged with VR
during their recent project. We leverage governmental support for our educational efforts”
(dimension 1). “The curriculum is independent. No support measures are in place due to the
absence of disadvantaged students. Institutional support is available from 8:00 to 9:00 PM.
Students can access labs and classrooms, but no additional services are offered” (dimension
2dimension 3). Licenses from device purchases are available to students and teachers, with IT
educators being the primary users. Without dedicated IT instructors, teacher utilization is limited,
preventing the use of open-source software like Pardus” (dimension 4).</p>
      <p>The key findings from the interview conducted in Mardin are as follows: “This is a small city. The
use of an artificial intelligence-supported learning environment among IT teachers is limited by
our internet infrastructure” (dimension 3). “Accessing support or software campaigns is
challenging here. There are only a few companies available for technical assistance, and we are
working with them to address these issues” (dimension1). “I cannot comment on software as we
do not have a budget for it” (dimension 4). “We do not have any initiatives aimed at supporting
disadvantaged students. We rely solely on the resources provided by the state, and there are very
few students in any case” (dimension 2).</p>
      <p>Institutions with a low ratio of devices per student, established prior to 2008, are categorized as
Ankara, İST-1, and Konya. The prominent issues in the interview conducted in Ankara are as
follows: We do not actively utilize artificial intelligence tools for learning. We mainly use web
tools for communication in student projects. Our institution's outdated devices do not align with
the latest advancements in technology. The TL/Dollar balance limits our access to better
technology. The age of our institution is reflected in our equipment. We use the EBA platform for
online learning and have a limited number of virtual reality glasses that are used sparingly
(dimension 1). Hyperactive and talented students support their disadvantaged peers. Ankara is a
neighborhood of significant wealth. (dimension 2) We are a BİLSEM with inadequate
infrastructure. Technological investments should consider the available space and environment,
requiring substantial materials and alternative designs. (dimension 3) Our outdated equipment
necessitates updating licenses. We must develop new undergraduate programs and create a
comprehensive technology plan to enhance our institutional capacity (dimension 4).
The significant issues identified during the interview conducted in IST-1 are as follows: “At
present, all training sessions are conducted in person. One of our parents was employed at
Microsoft and aided us during the pandemic” (dimension 1). “Laboratories, resources, and
experimental materials are utilized. We do not possess a simulator; however, we utilize virtual
reality (VR) glasses. I requested their support for the newly established BİLSEMs as we are a
longstanding institution” (dimension 3). “We identify individuals in need and help. Parental
sponsorship is a key resource. Last year, we provided aid to three individuals. Furthermore,
parents exhibit notable generosity regarding donations” (dimension 2). “We encounter no issues
concerning licensing, as we do not purchase licenses. The smart boards utilized are Pardus, and
we employ software made available by the Ministry of National Education. Appropriate warnings
are issued concerning copyright infringement. I do not consider a technology plan to be
necessary” (dimension 4).</p>
      <p>The key findings from the interview conducted in Konya are as follows: “My information
technologies teacher, face recognition systems and algorithms are working. There is no paid
purchase from teachers. Our infrastructure is low. There is no interactive board in every
classroom. It is provided with copper cable and ADSL. There is no fiber infrastructure. This is a
serious obstacle. We offer workshops in airplane design, digital design, informatics, and language,
as well as laboratories established with parental support. We get our glider from a district”
(dimension 1). “We do not have an Active online program. We hold administrative meetings with
Zoom. Teknofest software lessons are held. We do not charge a fee for purchase. They sometimes
take lessons with physics students in California state” (dimension 3). “We support students with
disabilities and low socioeconomic status. We provide access to the school. We have created
summer schools” (dimension 2). “We use the software that comes pre-installed on the computers
we purchase. There is open-source code software. Our teachers use open-source or limited
licenses” (dimension 4).</p>
      <p>Institutions with a low ratio of devices per student and established posts prior to 2008 are
classified as Mersin, IST -3, and IST -4. The primary issues identified in the interview conducted
in Mersin include the following: “We lack a sound recording studio and have no technological
devices aside from computers” (dimension 1). “BİLSEMs are recognized as the leading institutions
in distance education. During the pandemic, we had a teacher who designed activities in the
Minecraft universe, enabling students to create their games. This initiative continued afterward,
and digital game competitions played a significant role. The provincial and national education
initiatives are important here” (dimension 3). “BİLSEMs provide a space for disadvantaged
students to relax and thrive. Quick learners find support here without needing additional
resources” (dimension 2). “I believe a technology plan is necessary, potentially facilitated through
the ministry” (dimension 4).</p>
      <p>The interview conducted at IST-3 revealed the following: “We are well-equipped in terms of
technology and have strong parental support” (dimension 1). “We acquire professional software
as much as our institution's resources allow” (dimension 3). “While we do not have any
disadvantaged students, we do conduct technology projects for individuals with disabilities”
(dimension 2). “As an institution, we endorse licensed software and open-source solutions. A
technology plan is certainly worth considering, although it will require time to implement”
(dimension 4).</p>
      <p>Finally, the interview conducted at IST-4 revealed the following: “Our institution is recognized as
one of those utilizing technology at a high level. It would be advisable to interview teachers
specializing in technology and computer sciences” (dimension 1). “We do not have any students
classified as being from disadvantaged groups. If deemed necessary, appropriate measures are
taken” (dimension 2). “Are you referring to patent utility models in the context of licensing
rights? My knowledge of this subject is limited. It would be prudent to consult technology
educators” (dimension 4). “We provide a comprehensive range of learning environments for
students, which includes research projects, utility models, and brand registrations” (dimension 3).
“I am uncertain whether a technology plan exists in Turkey. If such a plan were in place, we
would undoubtedly implement it” (dimension 4).</p>
    </sec>
    <sec id="sec-4">
      <title>4. Discussion and Conclusion</title>
      <p>In the context of this project, a semi-structured interview protocol was formulated, drawing upon
the stages delineated in the Organisational Digital Competence frameworks proposed in [29, 30].
This protocol aims to assess the digital competence status of BİLSEMs. The comprehensive
average of the establishment years of BİLSEMs, along with the quantitative criteria established
[28]—which include (1) the number of accessible computers in the institution, (2) the number of
3D printers available for institutional use, and (3) the number of smart boards in use—was
calculated. Then, the rate of digital devices per student for each BİLSEM has been calculated.
Subsequently, a secondary categorization was conducted based on whether the calculated average
value for each BİLSEM met or exceeded the overall value determined by the criteria (See
Appendices A).</p>
      <p>The analysis of ten BİLSEMs revealed that five, founded before 2008, and five, founded after 2008,
were examined. Mardin (0.19; 0.08) and İzmir (0.11; 0.08), which were founded post-2008,
demonstrate high device rates. Similarly, İST-2 (0.10; 0.08) and Balıkesir (0.15; 0.08), founded in or
prior to 2008, also present elevated rates. Conversely, Ankara (0.05; 0.08), İST-1 (0.06; 0.08), and
Konya (0.07; 0.08), founded before 2008, display lower device rates. Additionally, Mersin (0.06;
0.08), IST-3 (0.07; 0.08), and IST-4 (0.07; 0.08), established after 2008, likewise demonstrate lower
rates.</p>
      <p>General fiindings on current interview data and comparison fiindings: The analysis of interview
data and comparative findings is still in progress. The literature on strategies to reduce the digital
divide in Türkiye [45] reveals significant variations in institutional support and the availability of
digital learning tools, specifically in "Provision of Open Access Opportunities to Technological
Device Support Campaigns and Software," (dimension 1) which largely depends on the
institutional) interest in technology. There was an apparent lack of responses concerning
opensource software and copyright issues. In the category of "Support for Disadvantaged Groups in
Digital Inclusivity and Access" (dimension 2), only a few projects were aimed at individuals with
special needs, underscoring a notable gap in tangible institutional support attributed to
socioeconomic disparities and access challenges.</p>
      <p>Concerning ensuring inclusiveness in access and participation in digital educational services
within public service sectors" (dimension 3), it is noted that the curriculum implemented in
BİLSEM institutions adopts personalized frameworks tailored to the unique abilities and
requirements of exceptionally talented students. “Ensuring effective and appropriate utilization of
digital services" (dimension 4) encompasses various subcategories. Predominantly, inquiries about
copyright matters and technology planning garnered significant attention from interview
respondents. A significant point to note in this area is the shortage of dedicated technology
support personnel and the lack of a specific budget allocated for tech-related requirements. The
analytical comparison of the interviews has yet to be conducted.</p>
      <p>However, a preliminary evaluation indicates notable differences in the approaches and knowledge
levels of institutional managers regarding "technological device support campaigns and open
access” (dimension 1). There is limited information regarding copyright and open-source issues.
Disadvantaged groups-oriented projects and individuals with special needs fall under the
“inclusiveness and access” (dimension 2), but they currently lack specific measures to enhance
educational experiences. The personalized education program is crucial for facilitating access to
digital services (dimension 3) and may provide valuable insights into curriculum outcomes and
the impact on access. Effective utilization of digital services (dimension 4), along with strategic
technology planning and awareness of copyright issues, is critical. The forthcoming comparison
based on the analytical matrix should illuminate these insights. Ensuring data integrity
contributes to a more meaningful assessment. The forthcoming comparison based on the
analytical matrix should illuminate these insights. Ensuring data integrity contributes to a more
meaningful assessment.</p>
    </sec>
    <sec id="sec-5">
      <title>Acknowledgements</title>
      <p>*“This study was supported by Scientific and Technological Research Council of Turkey
(TUBITAK) under the Grant Number 223K219. The authors thank TUBITAK for their support”.
** We inform you that data permissions were approved by Istanbul University's Social and Human
Sciences Ethics Committee in meeting 10 on 30/10/2023. All ethical considerations were addressed.
This Word template was created by Tiago Prince Sales (University of Twente, NL) in collaboration
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under a Creative Commons License Attribution-ShareAlike 4.0 International (CC BY-SA 4.0).</p>
    </sec>
    <sec id="sec-6">
      <title>Declaration on Generative AI</title>
      <p>During the preparation of this work, the author(s) used specifiic formatting guıdelines required by
EGOV-CeDEM-ePart Conference. MAXQDA version 2024 licensed software used for data analysis.
After using these tool(s)/service(s), the author(s) reviewed and edited the content as needed and
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      <p>1995
1414
3
55
22
80
items</p>
      <p>A-1</p>
      <p>IST1
device
numbers
Device per
student
Average</p>
      <p>value
2008 and</p>
      <p>prior
0,05
0,06
0,07
0,10
0,07
0,07
0,19
0,06
0,11
The score of 0,08 and below indicates a low level of digital devices per student."</p>
      <p>A score of 0,08 above indicates a high level of digital devices per student.</p>
      <p>Digital device per student Levels: Analytical Comparison Matrix for BİLSEMS</p>
      <p>High level
İST-2</p>
      <p>Mardin
*The grouping above has been formulated for ten (10) BİLSEM. As
additional data is incorporated, the average value determining the extent of digitalization
will undergo modifications. Consequently, this grouping will be revised accordingly.</p>
      <p>IST3
2013
1300
8
47
43
98
2015
1095
5
50
26
81
2015
271
6
28
19
53
Ankara
Konya
Mersin
İST-3
İST-4
2010
1300
1
72
14
87
İzmir
2011
600
6
48
16
70</p>
    </sec>
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