Item: Presence of social media use and smart phone technology among backcountry skiers and snowboarders, Hatcher Pass, Alaska
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Title: Presence of social media use and smart phone technology among backcountry skiers and snowboarders, Hatcher Pass, Alaska
Proceedings: International Snow Science Workshop Proceedings 2018, Innsbruck, Austria
Authors:
- Cristian Ortega [ Alaska Pacific University ]
- Roy Wollgast [ Alaska Pacific University ]
- Eeva Latosuo [ Alaska Pacific University ]
Date: 2018-10-07
Abstract: Popularity of backcountry skiing and snowboarding contines to grow in the United States. Simultaneously, there is an increase in both smartphones and social media usage within the population. Social media in the winter backcountry use has recently been explored by several researchers (Tremper et al 2014; Isaak 2016; Rheam 2016; Mann 2018). In order to find out if social media, smart phones and other forms of technology have a presence in the Alaskan backcountry skiing community, 65 people were interviewed at the popular Hatcher Pass area on four separate days. The interviews were conducted in person and included two separate themes; the first section focused on individuals’ background, pre-trip practices and avalanche training while the second part focused on smart phone and social media use. The data collected was analyzed for common responses and relationships between variables. The results confirmed that all the participants carry smartphones and the vast majority of people use social media accounts. The most popular way to check the forecast and avalanche information was reading the Hatcher Pass Avalanche Center (HPAC) website (72% of participants), but 12% of people used social media accounts, either friends’ or HPAC’s Facebook page. 45% of people who use social media have posted on social media about their backcountry travel. Some individuals post every trip while others posted at least about one trip a season. Additionally, 46% of participants liked the idea of having a specific smartphone application for avalanche information. Social media can be beneficial for users and avalanche forecasters, but the same technology can also cause problems by creating distractions in the real world environment and heuristic traps, as many risk their safety to become an "Instagram Hero". Presence of social media and smart phone technology have already changed the habits of backcountry travelers, even in Alaska.
Language of Article: English
Presenters:
Keywords: Social Media, Smart Phone, Technology, Avalanche information, Alaska
Page Number(s): 1583-1587
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Digital Abstract Not Available
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