African American Social Networking Online: Applying a Digital Practice Approach to Understanding Digital Inequalities

Abstract

This study develops a framework for systematic examination of information and communication technologies (ICTs) usage differences within a group. This framework situates the digital divide and digital inequalities model within a broader conceptual model of digital practice, exemplified by how groups of people use ICTs. I use nationally representative data to examine online activities on social networking sites (SNS) for African Americans and other ethnoracial groups. The data for this research comes from the Pew Internet and American Life’s “Spring Tracking Survey 2008”. The results from regression analyses support the digital practice framework which moves discussions of ICT usage beyond social and economic advantages or disadvantages, and addresses individual and group needs in using these technologies.

Keywords

• digital divide
• digital practice
• internet
• social networking
• African American