Millennials, Technology and Perceived Relevance of Community Service Organizations: Is Social Media Replacing Community Service Activities?

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• 作者：August John Hoffman
• 关键词：Social media ; Community service work ; Prosocial attitudes ; Self ; entitlement ; Millennial generation ; Global generation ; “Connectedness” with community
• 刊名：The Urban Review
• 出版年：2017
• 出版时间：March 2017
• 年：2017
• 卷：49
• 期：1
• 页码：140-152
• 全文大小：
• 刊物类别：Humanities, Social Sciences and Law
• 刊物主题：Education, general; Community and Environmental Psychology; Sociology, general;
• 出版者：Springer Netherlands
• ISSN：1573-1960
• 卷排序：49

文摘

This mixed-methods qualitative study examined the relationship between perceptions of the importance of social media (i.e., Facebook, Twitter) with community service projects and volunteerism. Participants (n = 80) were interviewed and surveyed regarding their experiences in participating in a variety of community service work (CSW) projects (i.e., urban forestry, community gardening) with their perceptions of the importance of social media. Results supported the hypothesis that a significant correlation exists (r = .286, p < .05) between perceptions of technology as an important part of my life and reduced importance of CSW activities. A significant correlation (r = 287, p < .001) also developed between perceptions of “connectedness” to one’s community, increased technology use and reduced perceptions of the importance of CSW activities. Additionally, a significant positive correlation (r = .454, p < .001) was found between reports of improved perceptions among ethnically diverse populations and the overall importance of CSW activities within the community. Results and suggestions for further research are offered regarding the application of theory to “real world” perspectives and problems involving education and environmental issues.