Digital ‘Visitors’ VS ‘Residents’

The above video clip prefaces the reasons behind development of Digital ‘Visitors’ and ‘Residents’ theory (White, Visitors and Residents, 2014)

In the recent years, the theory of “Digital Natives and Immigrants” theory has gained suspicion in its validity in terms of technology engagement of the web. Many studies have shown that it is not evident that younger students pick up skills faster. Moreover, youths who are active users of technology may not be effectively using it to support and enhance their learning. (White & Cornu, 2011)

In 2011, a new typology was developed to categorize the types of online technology engagement – Digital Visitors and Residents.

The term “Visitors” refers to functional users of online technology. These users only seek for the benefits in attaining information to fulfill their goal through using the platforms. Most of them do not create online profiles and prefer to remain anonymous due to security and privacy threats. They hold strong beliefs in physical interaction and socialization rather than maintaining relationships via internet because they perceived that social networking is conventional and users of it are often self-centered. Therefore, they will only utilize these platforms if there is a need to.

“Residents”, on the other hand, refers to active users of technology platforms. Unlike the visitors, these users will develop and maintain their digital profiles on social media platforms, in order to maintain interpersonal relationships. Also, they frequently express themselves by posting videos, images and daily reflections about their life. Subconsciously, technology has been integrated into part of their daily life.

This new typology suggests that different life stages may lead to different usage of technology. Users may take on different roles (Visitor/Resident) depending on the context of their situation of need. Motivation is a determination of these roles. Moreover, categorization is useful to determine the most effective technology for online learners.

Based on my online experiences, I’m not in support of “Digital Natives and Immigrants” theory as not all youths know the effective ways of using technology to aid in their education. For example, the existence and functions of Google Docs and etc. In this digital age, the older generation are perhaps more updated and well-informed about the online tools. However, I absolutely agree with the new typology that the adoption of roles is contextual. Personally, when I’m studying, I will adopt the “Visitor” role by using technology for the sole purpose of obtaining information that will aid in my revision. Whereas, in my own time, I would frequently update my online profiles and participate in social networking.

References

White, D., & Cornu, A. L. (2011). Prensky’s Digital Natives, Digital Immigrants: A critique. Visitors and Residents: A new typology for online engagement .

White, D. (Writer), & White, D. (Director). (2014). Visitors and Residents [Motion Picture].