Abstract

As information and communication technologies approach ubiquity, the need to examine their role in leisure contexts increases. Using data generated with Appalachian Trail (AT) long-distance hikers through semi-structured interviews, this research explored outdoor recreationist views on technology and information use. Participants’ views on technology ranged from unquestioningly pro-technology to technology-resistant. Regarding information sources, hikers generally expressed satisfaction while some communicated instances of information overload. In some cases, participants evaluated uncertainty positively, indicating situations where it is “nice not to know” what lies ahead. These findings shed light on smartphones’ role in leisure and underscore the need to evaluate uncertainty as a component of outdoor recreation. Information availability and the value of uncertainty may become increasingly important topics as leisure continues into the digital age.

摘要

随着信息和通信技术的普及，研究它们在休闲环境中的作用的必要性也随之增加。本研究利用阿巴拉契亚步道 (AT) 长途徒步旅行者通过半结构化访谈生成的数据，探讨了户外休闲主义者对技术和信息使用的看法。参与者对技术的看法从毫无疑问支持技术到反对技术不等。关于信息来源，徒步旅行者普遍表示满意，但也有一些人反映信息过载的情况。在某些情况下，参与者对不确定性做出积极评价，表明“不知道”未来会发生什么是件好事。这些发现揭示了智能手机在休闲中的作用，并强调需要评估作为户外休闲组成部分的不确定性。