Digital Citizenship Education Based on Pancasila Values to Strengthen Student Character and Responsible Social Behavior in the Era of Society 5.0

Abstract

Abstract. The expansion of digital participation in the Society 5.0 era has created opportunities for learning and civic engagement while increasing exposure to misinformation, intolerance, privacy violations, and irresponsible online conduct. This study examined the effects of Pancasila-based digital citizenship education on students’ civic character and responsible digital behavior, including the mediating role of civic character. A quantitative explanatory design was employed involving university students who actively used digital technology for academic, social, and civic activities. Data were collected using a five-point Likert-scale questionnaire and analyzed through partial least squares structural equation modeling. The findings showed that Pancasila-based digital citizenship education positively influenced civic character and responsible digital behavior. Civic character also had a positive effect on responsible digital behavior and partially mediated the relationship between Pancasila-based digital citizenship education and responsible digital behavior. These findings indicate that digital knowledge and skills become more effective when supported by integrity, tolerance, empathy, responsibility, national identity, and commitment to social justice. Universities should therefore integrate digital ethics, critical literacy, Pancasila values, and practical digital participation into citizenship education, digital literacy programs, and campus policies.