A Corresponding Fields Model for the Links Between Social and Digital Exclusion

TLDR

Digital exclusion is a growing concern in communications research yet remains poorly theorized. The article introduces a theoretical model that explains how specific domains of digital and social exclusion mutually influence one another. The model posits that digital and offline exclusion fields align along similar resource dimensions, with offline exclusion affecting digital exclusion through access, skills, and motivation, while digital engagement influences offline exclusion via relevance, quality, ownership, and sustainability. Empirical evidence supporting the model and suggestions for operationalizing it in research and interventions are provided.

Abstract

The notion of digital exclusion has become important in communications research but remains undertheorized. This article proposes a theoretical model that hypothesizes how specific areas of digital and social exclusion influence each other. In this corresponding fields model, it is argued that they relate mostly for similar (economic, cultural, social, personal) fields of resources. The model further proposes that the influence of offline exclusion fields on digital exclusion fields is mediated by access, skills, and attitudinal or motivational aspects. On the other hand, the relevance, quality, ownership, and sustainability of engagement with different digital resources is said to mediate the influence of engagement on offline exclusion. Research supporting this model and possible operationalizations in empirical research and interventions are presented.