If there is one thing common between two family members today, other than being related, it is the ‘smartphone’. One of the most used and abused gadgets in recent times, it has made its way from the list of “one of the things you cannot leave your house without” to “what I am lost without” list. Its uses are multi-faceted and there are no two ways about the fact that Smart Phones are here to stay. But what makes them tick and what do we use them for?
The TCS conducted a nationwide survey to understand the paradigm shift in the attitude of youngsters towards technology and the Internet, especially while making decisions. The objective was to capture how students are interested in gadgets and track their digital habits. The survey collected data from 17,500 high school students across 14 cities and has revealed that this generation is the most connected one yet. Their complex behaviour in information gathering and sharing, and perceiving the world is impacting their academic and social life
Findings reveal:
The ownership of Smart phones is similar in various economic segments.
The consumption of Internet has grown due to accessibility on the smart phones and student-friendly Internet data plans.
Three out of four students continuously take the help of the Internet for school-related work, projects and assignments.
84 per cent of urban students have Internet facility at home, making them more connected than ever as they spend nearly 2–3 hours online.
Social networks like Facebook and Twitter are the coolest modes of communication, taking over voice calls and mails.
With more than 92 per cent of students using social networking sites to stay connected with family and friends, Facebook remains the undisputed favourite. Tweeting as a medium of communication is fast catching up. With students adopting the latest technology, social networking and instant messaging has made them more aware of the surroundings. They meaningfully use this awareness to collaborate with global and virtual communities based on shared interests and likes. They are more focused and goal-oriented and make more informed choices.
A research tool
Other than for research and socialising, students use the Internet to chat/connect/blog/ email and for downloading music. One of the most interesting trends that has caught up is online shopping. Students tend to shop online for accessories, clothes, movie tickets, books/DVDs/ music and airline/train tickets.
Students are inspired by digital media. The Internet has opened a vast range of options for the students to explore in terms of careers and academics. With Smart phones on the go, no query now remains unanswered. Professional websites help them make informed decisions about their careers and future opportunities and at the same time, help them connect appropriately. They are clear about what they would look for in their future jobs.
IT still remains the most preferred choice followed by medicine and media/entertainment. However, the biggest gainer has been banks and financial services due to easy accessibility of the Internet.
So, is the smart phone the smart way to stay connected? The accessibility of Internet on phones would certainly make it seem so.
