Date of Award

5-2024

Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science

Department

Health and Human Performance

Program

Administration of Outdoor Recreation and Nature-based Tourism (MS)

First Advisor/Chairperson

DR. Ryan Hines

Abstract

Generation Z (Gen Z), individuals born between 1997 and 2012, are often defined by their relationship to technology, specifically smartphones. Gen Z is defined as the first digital natives, those who grew up with and had early access to smartphones. As Gen Z comes into adulthood, they represent the largest demographic of those who participate in nature-based recreation (NBR), and are the future of NBR participation. Purpose: The purpose of this study was to investigate how prevalent smartphone use is amongst Gen Z individuals while participating in NBR and how smartphone use potentially enhances or diminishes ones’ NBR experience. This study investigated how likely an individual was to carry and use a smartphone while participating in NBR, how smartphones were being used, and how smartphone use potentially enhances or diminishes the recreational experience. Methods: Data was collected through surveys distributed to college age Gen Z individuals over a one-month period. Data was analyzed using descriptive statistics to determine use type and perception of use. Results: This study found that 95.7% of participants carried a smartphone on their last NBR experience, 91.3% claiming they are likely to carry a smartphone and 60.5% saying they are likely to use them. Photography, navigation and safety were the top three uses of smartphones while participating in NBR. The majority of those surveyed claimed personal use of smartphones enhanced their NBR experience, while others’ use diminished their NBR experience.

Access Type

Open Access

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