University of Twente Student Theses
Where am I? In-between online and offline social infrastructures in everyday life
Sina, S. (2021) Where am I? In-between online and offline social infrastructures in everyday life.
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| Abstract: | The development of smartphones has enabled us to be connected with others at any time, and from wherever we are. Few studies have yet conceptualized what the interplay between online and offline social infrastructures mean for individuals in a social setting. Understanding and directing online interaction is critical to the future of human sociality. For this study, a diary was the main research approach, and a secondary survey provided context. Both studies have been conducted over three days, with 17 participants, who were mostly German and all from the ages 19-25. The results from the diary study established that participants evaluated the aim of their online and offline interactions as both establishing and maintaining social connections. The findings demonstrated that whereas participants' offline connections were viewed as more gratifying and meaningful, their online social interactions were mostly evaluated as distracting during offline social settings. Moreover, the transition of going online and offline, and vice versa, were felt to be unpleasant and stressful. Henceforth, it was impossible for participants to be present in both spheres at the same time, resulting in dissonance and disconnection from both spheres. Understanding and directing online interaction is critical to the future of human sociality. |
| Item Type: | Essay (Bachelor) |
| Faculty: | BMS: Behavioural, Management and Social Sciences |
| Subject: | 05 communication studies |
| Programme: | Communication Studies BSc (56615) |
| Link to this item: | https://purl.utwente.nl/essays/91303 |
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