EXAMINING THE RELATIONSHIPS BETWEEN 21ST-CENTURY MEDIA LITERACY SKILLS AND VIRTUAL RECREATION EXPERIENCES OF TOURISM FACULTY STUDENTS

Abstract

This study aims to examine the relationship between 21st-century media literacy skills and virtual recreation experiences among students studying in tourism faculties. The sample of the study, which was conducted with a relational survey model within the framework of a quantitative research approach, consisted of 314 students studying in tourism faculties of eight universities in Türkiye and who had experienced virtual recreation activities. Data were collected in the spring semester of the 2025-2026 academic year through a personal information form, the 21st-Century Media Literacy Skills Scale, and the Virtual Recreation Scale. Descriptive statistics, independent samples t-test, one-way analysis of variance, Pearson correlation analysis, and regression analysis were used in the analysis of the data. The findings show that students' media literacy skills were at a moderate-high level and that their virtual recreation experiences differed significantly according to class level and gender. In addition, 21st-century media literacy skills were found to significantly predict virtual recreation experiences. The results reveal that media literacy and digital competencies in tourism education are an important factor that strengthens the quality of virtual recreation experiences.