Reshaping patterns of mobility and exclusion? Measuring the impact of virtual mobility on the nature and extent of participation amongst key social groups: a methodology

Online activity promises to reshape patterns of mobility and exclusion, by reshaping space and time. ‘Virtual mobility’, via the Internet, could be used to overcome space/time constraints, not only replacing existing travel, but also providing an additional means of access to activities from which people may previously have been excluded. On the other hand, online activity may increase the spatial and temporal diversity of offline activities, increasing space/time barriers to access and further excluding those unable to overcome these barriers.

Discussion of the positive and negative mobility and exclusion impacts of online activity is hampered by lack of data in this area – a data gap which can, in part, be attributed to methodological difficulties. This paper presents an innovative methodology, designed as part of a study which aims to address the data gap. The methodology discussed is for a longitudinal diary study, designed to examine the social and transport effects of Internet use over time. The diary combines activity, communications, time use and travel diary formats. The diary is to be completed by approximately 100 participants, for seven days, four times in a twelve-month period. This paper discusses the diary design, in full, including design of activity categories and strategies for reducing attrition. The paper concludes with a discussion of reliability and fit for purpose.