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Description

This study examines the validity of digital native and digital immigrant labels by analyzing factors that shape digital identity, including socioeconomic status, ethnicity, financial motivations, and job requirements. We explore how technology integration varies across generations and how access to advanced technology impacts individuals. Our research investigates whether people primarily use their mobile devices for entertainment, skill development, or work-related purposes. We first launched a pilot survey after IRB approval to collect data. Participants uploaded screenshots of their weekly screen time reports to Qualtrics, capturing average screen time, time spent on different app categories (e.g., Social, Utilities, Entertainment, Finance, Games), and their most frequently used apps. Pilot findings indicate that participants averaged 7–8 hours of screen time per week, with social media apps such as TikTok and Instagram accounting for the highest usage, while utilities like Calendar and Mail had the lowest. We anticipate age demographics will influence app usage, with individuals under 30 primarily engaging with entertainment apps and those over 40 prioritizing work-related functions. Screen time and app usage are expected to fluctuate between weekdays and weekends, with productivity apps more active during the week. Some participants over 30 were unfamiliar with screen tracking, highlighting a potential gap in digital awareness. These findings emphasize how individuals prioritize mobile device usage, demonstrating the centrality of leisure and quick interactions in digital behavior. Understanding these patterns contributes to digital literacy discussions and informs conversations on technology’s role in education, work, and personal development.

Publication Date

4-1-2025

Keywords

digital identity, digital natives, digital immigrants, screen time, mobile device usage, generational technology use, app usage patterns, digital literacy, socioeconomic factors, technology access, entertainment apps, productivity apps, qualitative research, digital behavior, age and technology, digital awareness, technology in education, technology in work

Investigation of the Diverse Factors That Shape One's Digital Identity

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