Mainstream mobile messaging for youth with complex communication needs : a South African case study exploring interactional aspects

Abstract

Mainstream mobile messaging is a widely researched theme as it is a favoured means of interaction by youth who are the so-called digital natives. To limit marginalisation and promote inclusion, it is essential for youth with complex communication needs to participate in the same activities as their peers without disabilities. However, there is a paucity of research regarding the use of messaging by youth with complex communication needs in both the disability literature and in the information and communication technology literature. Therefore, the main aim of this study was to explore and describe the interactional aspects of mainstream mobile messaging (related to the why, who, what, when, where and how of communication) for youth with complex communication needs. These aspects were considered in terms of the enduring Human Activity Assistive Technology model, which was supplemented in the current study to include a communication partner (or group of partners) using the same type of technology (smartphones) to engage in the same activity (messaging). A qualitative case study design was used to gather data from three sources using four data collection methods: (i) face-to-face participant interviews using WhatsApp (n=7); (ii) WhatsApp communication partner interviews (n=7); (iii) an asynchronous WhatsApp focus group; and (iv) observations of youth interacting on WhatsApp. All data was analysed using thematic analysis. The results showed that messaging afforded the participants new communication possibilities despite certain limitations. These affordances included a degree of interaction symmetry; the possibility to interact with a wide range of partners including groups; interaction with others outside their often-restricted environments (absent presence); privacy; a measure of anonymity and control over interactions; a means of expressing themselves that was easier than face-to-face interactions; and the ability to meaningfully connect with others. Future research should explore these affordances in more detail and consider the impact of limited literacy skills and the expressive use of pictures in mainstream mobile messaging.