This study explores how people use digital devices and negotiate social presence in everyday public spaces. Four naturalistic observations were conducted in Champaign and Urbana at a fast-food restaurant, two cafés, and a transportation terminal. Using a non-participant observer role and detailed field notes, the study documented patterns of device use, attention, and interaction across diverse settings. Data were analyzed inductively through open coding, which generated categories describing different forms of digital engagement. The findings show that device use was common in all locations but shaped interaction in different ways. At McDonald’s, screens often replaced conversation and contributed to quiet routines. At Espresso Royale, technology supported individual work and quiet coexistence. On the university campus, students integrated laptops and phones into group study, producing flexible patterns of multitasking and shared engagement. At the Illinois Terminal, device use offered comfort during long waits and occasionally created brief shared moments among strangers. These observations suggest that digital disconnection varies across settings and depends on the social expectations and purposes of each environment. The study highlights the value of observing real-world behavior to better understand how technology shapes interaction, presence, and public life.
This is the default collection for all research and scholarship developed by faculty, staff, or students at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Use this login method if you
don't
have an
@illinois.edu
email address.
(Oops, I do have one)
IDEALS migrated to a new platform on June 23, 2022. If you created
your account prior to this date, you will have to reset your password
using the forgot-password link below.
