Exploring the Impact of Demographic Factors on Digital Access and Competence: A Cross-Sectional Study

Friday, 11 July 2025: 00:45
Location: SJES014 (Faculty of Legal, Economic, and Social Sciences (JES))
Oral Presentation
Glenn MUSCHERT, Khalifa University of Science and Technology, Abu Dhabi, Abu Zaby, United Arab Emirates
Aizhan SHOMOTOVA, Zayed University , United Arab Emirates
This study investigates the relationship between demographic and socioeconomic factors (gender, age, education, income, employment status, field of work, device type, and religion) and two critical dimensions of digital inclusion: Digital Access and Digital Competence. Using survey data, we explore how these variables influence individuals' ability to access digital resources and develop competence in using digital tools. The study hypothesizes that younger, more educated, and higher-income individuals will exhibit greater digital access and competence. The findings of this cross-sectional study will contribute to the understanding of digital inequalities and offer insights for developing targeted interventions to promote digital literacy and inclusion across different population groups. This research will be presented in the context of digital capital frameworks and aims to inform future digital equity policies.