AMANDA HYNAN FINAL THESIS PDF

is reflexive as it relies on a subjective interpretation of the data which has sought to
explain the connections, context, conditions, interaction and actions within a
theoretical framework symbolic interactionism in order to explore concepts of social
participation and inclusion (Charmaz, 2006).
4.13.2. Central phenomenon
The identified core category was the desire to use the internet and online social media.
Across the interviews the consistent emotion expressed was the happiness and
excitement that using the internet and online social media offered. The desired goal
was often to have independent access but working collaboratively was also
appreciated and desired. The desire for use was perceived to have been generated by
the exposure to a variety of causal conditions.
4.13.3. Causal conditions
This part of the proposed theory explains the variety of conditions which have created
the desire to use the internet and online social media. The first of these is the access
technology that allows the participants to use mainstream computers. Secondly, an
alternative route is the increased opportunities to use mainstream internet and online
social media tools within integrated VOCAs. Human support seen for the introduction
of the internet and online social media through family, friends or educational settings
was also an important causal condition. Some participants requested to use the
internet and online social media and some were supported though collaboration to
create an online social presence. Once online the participants reported using a variety
of internet and social media for a variety of activities which further fuelled the desire
to continue using the internet and online social media.
4.13.4. Limitations for achieving the central phenomenon
The three way arrow within the model expresses how the causal conditions and
central phenomenon are confounded in many ways by limitations for use. Limitations
in terms of technology within VOCAs to interface with mainstream technology and
mainstream technology design flaws can frustrate use in a variety of functional or
operational ways. There is limited evidence within the data for the use of the newly
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