Technology and its impact on face-to-face communication: Does it bring us together or tear us apart?

Abstract

This study assessed the use of technology and its impact on face-to-face communication among college students and adults. The researcher utilized a selfdesigned questionnaire to ascertain usage patterns and teclmological devices used by participants in their daily communication with family, friends, and co-workers. A total of 673 respondents participated in the study, consisting of 334 college students (undergraduate and graduate students), and 339 adults (administration, faculty, administrative & professional, and civil service employees) from Eastern Illinois University.

Significant differences were found regarding levels of technology usage and faceto- face communication among college students and adults. Both students and adults used technology extensively when communicating with their family, friends, and co-workers, however, the most common types of communication methods varied in order of preference among respondents. Students reported using the following media most frequently: (1) cell phone, (2) face-to-face communication (3) text messaging, and (4) social networking. The most common types of communication methods used among adults were (1) face-to-face communication, (2) e-mail, (3) cell-phone, and (4) text messaging. Both students and employees reported using face-to-face communication less presently than compared to five years ago, with the student population indicating lesser use of face-to-face communication than adults. Further studies on the impact of technology on face-to-face communication should be conducted at different sites. Since this study was limited to a small Midwestern university, the results may not be a true reflection of generational differences in technology use and socialization.

Date of Award	2009
Original language	American English
Awarding Institution	Eastern Illinois University
Supervisor	Charles G Eberly (Supervisor)