Journal Article - Abstract

In this research paper I will present the findings of a study conducted to determine the knowledge that young adults possess about the impact of their digital footprint.  In recent years our digital footprints have become even more prominent with the development of Web 2.0 and mobile technologies where by users no longer passively view content, but instead can now generate their own content.  The number of young adult’s now engaging with social media sites has increased dramatically through the use of mobile technologies, which allows access anytime, anyplace and anywhere.  Social media sites provide young adults with entertainment, a way of communicating and connecting with friends and family, which in turn enhances communication skills.  However, these opportunities bring some potential problems.  I have developed a digital resource in response to this issue and it has been piloted in this study.  This is a small scale research project involving six participants who are early school leavers from the South Dublin inner city area.  I have applied an interpretivist perspective and employed pre and post training survey and focus group data collection methods.  Recommendations have been arrived at based on analysis of the findings.  This research should be of interest to both educators and managers working in community settings who are interested in the future development of digital literacy/citizenship skills of young adults.

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Keywords: Digital Footprint, Early School Leavers, Young Adults, Mobile Technology, Social Media, Web  2.0.

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