Internet activities and social and community participation among young people with learning disabilities

• Published in: British journal of learning disabilities 2023-06, Vol.51 (2), p.125-134
• Main Authors: Ågren, Kristin Alfredsson, Hemmingsson, Helena, Kjellberg, Anette
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Activities; adaptative methods; Barriers; Citizen participation; Coding; Community Involvement; Community participation; Community Relations; Computer Use; digital divide; digital inclusion; Disabilities; intellectual disability; Internet; Internet access; Interpersonal Relationship; Learning disabilities; Opportunities; Peer Relationship; People with disabilities; Social Life; Social Support Groups; technology; Young adults; Youth
• ISSN: 1354-4187; 1468-3156; 1468-3156
• DOI: 10.1111/bld.12519

Background A digital lag has been reported on access to the internet and performing internet activities for young people with learning disabilities in everyday life. Aim The aim of this study is to explore environmental opportunities and challenges when performing internet activities and how internet use influences social and community participation for young people with learning disabilities from the perspectives of the target group. Methods An inductive design was applied, with focused observations and follow‐up interviews of 15 internet‐using young persons with learning disabilities in their everyday settings. The data was analysed interpretatively using open coding. Findings The environment offered both opportunities and challenges in terms of the design of digital devices and digital support. Support from peers was often preferred. All participants performed internet activities related to social participation although not all used social media. Searching for information was performed, however, finding the information or understanding it was challenging and led to restricted participation in the community. Conclusion More examples of internet use positively influencing social participation were found, contrary to community participation. It is indicated that concrete learning situations when using the internet for social participation were more adapted to the participants and promoted this type of participation, contrary to situations of internet use influencing community participation. Accessible summary Doing activities online is part of everyday life. We explored opportunities and challenges in the environment when performing internet activities and how internet use influence participation for young people with learning disabilities. We observed and interviewed people in their everyday settings of school or activity service and home about their internet use. Young people prefer digital support from peers rather than staff when using the internet. People do internet activities to have contact with others, but it was a challenge to find and understand information online and to take part in activities in the community.