Abstract
Introduction: The COVID-19 pandemic has changed many aspects of daily life. Studying, working, even traveling or spending the free time, have taken on new forms and meanings. In this scenario, information and communication technologies have played a central role. They have made possible the realization of distance learning, remote working and virtual travels. Furthermore, the Internet has been considered by many people the main source for learning about the evolution of the pandemic.
Aim: From a sociological point of view, it is important to underline that in this already complex situation, new possible risks of exclusion are also emerging, which concern, in particular, the use of ITCs. Thus, the paper aims to investigate the question of the digital divide in the Italian context amongst Millennial people.
Methodology: The paper illustrates the main results of a quantitative survey that involved 500 interviews via CAWI aimed at detecting knowledge and ITCs skills of young Italians, belonging to the Millennial generation, but also their fears and concerns. In addition, to provide an overview of the data collected, the analysis privileged the gender dimension, in order to underline differences amongst Italian men and women.
Results and conclusions: The survey has highlighted that the group of Italian Millennials is not homogeneous but contains within it different profiles related to the age and gender of its members. In the pandemic era, having a kit of skills relevant to select, manage and use the information present on the web, as well as being able to distinguish reliable sources from those that are not, creates a real split between part of the competent population and those who access the network in an unconscious way.