Digital native & Digital immigrant

 Digital Native a term that was coined by Marc Prensky in 2001

 Digital natives are individuals who have grown up during the age of digital technology and are naturally immersed in a world surrounded by smartphones, computers, the internet, and other forms of digital communication.

Digital natives are typically comfortable using digital tools from a young age. They are highly familiar with online platforms, social media, instant messaging, and mobile apps, and they often pick up new technologies quickly and intuitively. Being born into a world where technology is deeply integrated into daily life, digital natives tend to use it for learning, communication, entertainment, and social interaction. Their constant exposure to digital environments shapes the way they think, learn, and engage with the world around them.

Digital immigrants are individuals who were not born into the digital world but began using technology later in life, typically during adulthood. Unlike digital natives, they did not grow up with smartphones, the internet, or social media and often had to adapt to these advancements as they emerged. 

While many digital immigrants have successfully integrated technology into their personal and professional lives, they may still prefer traditional methods of communication and learning, and sometimes face challenges in keeping up with rapidly evolving digital tools.

Differences

Referencing

(2022, July 19). What is the Difference Between Digital Natives and Digital Immigrants. PEDIAA. Retrieved June 30, 2025, from https://pediaa.com/what-is-the-difference-between-digital-natives-and-digital-immigrants/

(2011, October 4). Digital natives and digital immigrants: Getting to know each other. Emrald.com. Retrieved June 30, 2025, from https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/00197851111171890/full/html