Internet Use and Cybersecurity Concerns of Individuals with Visual Impairments

International Forum of Educational Technology & Society. Athabasca University, School of Computing & Information Systems, 1 University Drive, Athabasca, AB T9S 3A3, Canada. Tel: 780-675-6812; Fax: 780-675-6973; Web site: http://www.ifets.info

Y

13

National Science Foundation (NSF)

1347521

Internet; Computer Use; Computer Security; Visual Impairments; Information Seeking; Computer Mediated Communication; Interpersonal Communication; Purchasing; Socialization; Peer Relationship; Education; Knowledge Level; Use Studies; Access to Information; Accessibility (for Disabled); Assistive Technology; Questionnaires; Social Media; Adults

1436-4522

Twenty individuals with visual impairments were surveyed in order to (a) understand their Internet use and (b) examine relations between metrics related to Internet use and cybersecurity-related knowledge, skills, confidence, and attitudes. Participants used the Internet for various purposes, including information search, communication, chatting, shopping, socialization, and education. The latter was more prevalent than in past research. Participants who were more knowledgeable and skilled regarding cybersecurity tended to be more concerned about it and to use the Internet less than those who were less knowledgeable about cybersecurity. Thus, cybersecurity concerns may lead individuals with visual impairments to decrease their Internet use, which could widen the digital divide.

As Provided

49

2016

EJ1087123