Predicting Web 2.0 use among US teens—Expanding the power of the skill, will and tool model

Abstract

AbstractThere is a need to understand antecedents to US teens’ use of information and communication technology (ICT). Research on the “digital divide” for access to ICT reports conflicting findings based on gender and demographic factors of parent income and education. This study expanded the “tool‐will‐skill” framework to examine how demographic factors, access to ICT tools, teen will factors and social networking skill explain variation in Internet use among US teens. The study analyzed national data from Pew Research Center’s survey of 1,060 US teens. Principal component analysis (PCA) identified six latent variables for teen will. A pre‐diagram depicts a conceptual framework and causal assumption of relationships between demographic factors, tool factors (ie, Internet access, smartphone access and tablet access), will factors (from PCA) and skill factors (Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat and Twitter). Multiple linear path analysis was conducted, and results reported. Recommendations are suggested for instructional practice, educational policy and future research.