Typologies of navigation on digital platforms: the case of students from southern Tamaulipas

Abstract

This paper presents the results of research in the southern conurbation of Tamaulipas analyzing the types of internet browsing of some young Mexican students between the age of 15 and 29, to characterize the most significant variables in each type of navigation (such as sociodemographic and access), and contrast, in each one, digital skills, self-perceptions and experiences of using technology that describe each profile. The methodology used is quantitative, using a principal component analysis (PCA) that identified five types of navigation. Subsequently, a regression analysis was applied to present the variables that characterize each type of user. In the results, five types of navigation were identified: information search, collaborative, entertainment, communicative-playful and socializing, where the condition of access continues to be a crucial aspect. Although no differences were identified based on the age, educational level, or occupation of the young people, a strong gender component prevails. This work invites reflection on the importance of exploring and recognizing that not all young people navigate in the same way, and not with the same intensity or skills to face the new capacities that society demands to be functional and competitive in digital environments.