Staying Active in the Digital Age: The Relationship Between Digital Leisure Time Preferences and Motivation to Participate in Physical Activity Among Sports Science Students

Digital Leisure and Motivation for Physical Activity in Sports Science Students

Abstract

The main objective of this study was to examine the relationship between the digital leisure time orientations of students at the Faculty of Sports Sciences and their motivation to participate in physical activity. In this study, a correlational survey model was used as a quantitative research method to explain the problem        situation, and the sample was determined using simple random sampling. The data collection tools used were the “Physical Activity Participation Motivation Scale” and the “Digital Leisure Time Orientation Scale.” The obtained data were analyzed using the Jamovi statistical program; during the analysis process, the      assumptions of normality and homogeneity were tested. When the data showed a normal distribution,         parametric tests such as the t-test and Pearson correlation analysis were used; when the assumption of normal distribution was not met, the Kruskal-Wallis test was used. The findings revealed that some trends related to digital leisure time use (particularly psychological reasons and app usage) differed by gender, but overall trends were similar. Furthermore, no significant difference was found based on monthly income level.       However, a moderate, positive, and significant relationship was found between students' digital leisure time orientations and their motivation to participate in physical activity. In conclusion, although partial differences were observed based on the gender variable, it was determined that students' general tendencies were    similar and that there was a significant relationship between their digital leisure time orientations and their motivation to participate in physical activity.