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Abstract

The ubiquitous nature of electronic communication technology has enabled
Australian youth to readily adopt such communication devices as mobile
phones and the Internet. Relatively little research has been conducted into the
ways in which these youth use this technology, and more specifically how
this technology has framed their social perceptions. This research seeks to
explore the impact of this technological usage has upon the social structures
and interaction style of regional Australian youth. A series of four focus
groups, selected from a range of socio economic backgrounds from a regional
city in Tasmania, have been analysed qualitatively in order to gain insight
into the participants' perceptions regarding electronic communications.
The results surprisingly indicate a disparity across the socio economic
groupings, and a sense that the socially constructive worlds in which these
youth exist, varies noticeably from that which is characterised in the mass
media, and is commonly understood by later generations. The implications of
this research will impact upon the decision and policy makers, for controllers
of mass communication and for provides of communication services.

Item Type:	Thesis - Unspecified
Authors/Creators:	Rawlings, Brigid
Keywords:	Technology and youth, Internet and teenagers
Copyright Holders:	The Author
Additional Information:	Thesis (MIS)--University of Tasmania, 2004. Includes bibliographical references
Item Statistics:	View statistics for this item

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