Dissertation Research Project

When I look around me, more and more people are frequently using the Internet and Cell Phones as technologically mediated ways of complementing their daily, physical interactions. Stationary (primarily computer systems) and increasingly mobile & wireless technologies (e.g., Blackberry, Tech-Wristwatches, Cell Phones, Laptops) are situating individuals in connected environments that reach into networks far beyond their physical boundaries. The online world as well as geographically separated communities are perceived to be just a Short Messaging System (SMS) away: people "feel connected".

Research Questions

What I am specifically interested in exploring is how "being (technologically) connected" is perceived by young people. Questions central to exploring this interest are:

• How are young people growing up immersed in a culture of connectivity experiencing these (technologically mediated) connections?
• How are these experiences made meaning of and conceptualized?
• What do youth identify as the issues of (technologically mediated) connectivity?

For more resources, publications and other information please see the Internet and Youth Resource Site.