Factors affecting the awareness of internet ethics and the intention to practice internet ethics in dental hygiene students

Yun-Jeong Kim*   

Department of Dental Hygiene, Kwangju Women’s University

Abstract

Objectives: The purpose of the study was to investigate factors affecting the awareness of internet ethics and intention to practice internet ethics in dental hygiene students. Methods: A self-reported questionnaire was completed by 254 dental hygiene students in the Jeonnam area from September 1 to 22, 2017. The data were analyzed by exploratory factor analysis, Pearson’s correlation analysis and multiple regression analysis using the SPSS 12.0 program. Results: Factors affecting the awareness of internet ethics were personal information sensitivity (=0.242, p<0.01) and ethical identity(=0.185, p<0.05) (Adjusted R2=0.143). The factor related with intention to practice internet ethics was personal information sensitivity (=0.464, p<0.001) (Adjusted R2=0.212). Conclusions: To improve the awareness of internet ethics and intention to practice internet ethics in dental hygiene students, it is necessary to promote internet ethics education in as a part of curriculum and develop internet ethics education’s program to enhance personal information sensitivity and ethical identity.

Acknowledgements

본 연구는 2017년도 광주여자대학교 교내연구비 지원에 의하여 연구되었음.

Figures & Tables

Table 1. Exploratory factor analysis of influence factors on the internet ethics