A Comparative Examination of 21st-Century Skills and Academic Achievement Levels among Sports Sciences Students

This study aims to comparatively examine the 21st-century skills and academic achievement levels of students enrolled in sports sciences programs. Within the framework of a quantitative research approach, a descriptive survey design was employed. The study sample consisted of 448 voluntary students selected through convenience sampling from Istanbul Gelisim University School of Physical Education and Sports, including the departments of Coaching Education, Exercise and Sport Sciences for Individuals with Disabilities, Exercise and Sport Sciences, Recreation, and Sport Management. Data were collected using a Personal Information Form and the Comprehensive 21st-Century Skills Scale. In addition, students’ cumulative grade point averages (CGPA) were obtained to determine their academic achievement levels, and all collected data were included in the statistical analysis process. The findings revealed that 21st-century skill levels of sports sciences students did not differ significantly according to gender, department, or purpose of social media use. However, significant differences were identified in the sub-dimensions of collaboration, creativity and innovation with respect to age; collaboration, critical thinking and problem solving, creativity and innovation, information and communication technologies, and leadership skills with respect to grade level; and critical thinking and problem solving, social responsibility and adaptability, and entrepreneurship and self-management with respect to time spent on social media. Overall, the results indicate that certain sub-dimensions of 21st-century skills are sensitive to variables such as age, grade level, and time spent in digital environments.