P.O.V. on the Contested Identity between Contexts: Alienation in the Construction of Identity between School and Digital Media

The communicative, relational, and informational processes of Generation Z are marked by an "onlife" dimension (Floridi, 2018) and a continuous interaction between physical and digital environments, often referred to as 'phygital' (Andreula, 2020). This generation is recognized as hyperconnected (Twenge, 2018) or digitarian (Apuzzo, 2015), especially in the post-pandemic landscape (Ferrazzoli & Maga, 2021). The acronym P.O.V. (Point of View) is frequently used by young people in social media videos to indicate the perspective from which they narrate their experiences. This raises questions about how young individuals perceive the connection between reality and media, specifically examining the role of digital technologies in shaping their understanding. The digital sphere encompasses various actors, spaces, and relationships, necessitating adaptation to the expectations arising within this context. Such dynamics are pivotal in shaping personal identity and meaning while introducing risks and challenges associated with feelings of alienation. This alienation can lead to disconnection from one’s offline self, particularly in the increasingly digital realm (Turkle, 1995). These platforms can be viewed as reflective environments that facilitate self-examination (Cooley, 1902). Additionally, advancements in digital technology enable the creation of a ‘hyper-creative Other’ through artificial intelligence, while posing challenges such as misinformation and fake news that can exacerbate feelings of alienation.

From 2020 to 2024, 40 classes from 12 secondary schools in Florence are engaged in a course aimed at developing digital and communication skills. Approximately 600 students, aged 14 to 18, are participating in this ongoing project. The research specifically focuses on how these interactions influence identity construction, media literacy, and the overall engagement of Generation Z with digital realities.