Disparities in Online Use Behaviours and Chinese Digital Inclusion: A 10-Year Comparison

Abstract

This study focuses on the disparities in Chinese online use behaviours (frequency and diversity) based on educational background and socioeconomic status over 10 years to reveal the Chinese digital inclusion process. We used the China Family Panel Studies (CFPS) 2010 and 2018 panels and considered the time and cohort effects separately. Ordinary least squares analysis revealed usage frequency. The generalized partial proportional odds model demonstrated participants’ prioritization of online study, work, entertainment, and social activity. The results show that the profile of the individuals with the most time spent online has changed from those with high education and income levels to mid-range education and income levels. Individuals with high education and income levels prefer to use the internet for studying and working. There are no clear preference differences between entertainment and social activities amongst most educational backgrounds and socioeconomic statuses. Regarding frequency of internet use, digital inclusion has spread downwards from the upper to the middle classes. Regarding diverse internet uses, upper-class individuals prefer to conduct capital-enhancing activities, and youth remain the main force for diverse online activities; however, over time, middle-aged groups have increased their capital-enhancing activities, and older adults have increased their digital social activities.