Dr Marta Cecchinato is an Assistant Professor (Senior Lecturer) in the Computer and Information Sciences Department at Northumbria University. Her research focuses on understanding the complexities of dealing with multiple technologies in everyday life and how digital experiences can be shaped to support wellbeing at work and in our personal lives.
In part 1 of our conversation, she talks about her digital wellbeing research, the concept of microboundaries, and strategies for taking more control of these microboundaries. You can also download her Digital Wellbeing Strategies Handbook to find more practical strategies.
“It's not about having that equal balance between work and life. As life changes, your responsibilities change, you need to revise things.”
“The way we use technology is different depending on the roles that we are embodying in that specific moment.”
“Micro boundary strategies help limit the negative impact that might arise from constant micro role transitions throughout the day.”
“Empower people…to make the technology to work for them, rather than working for the technology.”
Overview (times approximate): [Full transcript available here]
00:30 Introductions
02:22 Marta’s psychology background and path to her PhD at UCLIC around work life balance in the digital age
05:37 Language and culture differences in terminology eg no WLB term in Italian
09:47 What made her fall in love with research
13:15 Her PhD research journey to a focus on digital wellbeing
17:10 Her issues with the term WLB
19:20 A digital wellbeing approach, empowering people bottom-up, microboundary strategies & making these accessible via a downloadable booklet
23:20 Red thread of improving life, also through impacting EDI issues
28:15 The definition of microboundary supporting micro-role transitions & practical examples from her own life
32:05 The importance of reflection and colleagues to reflect with
38:05 Broad types of microboundary strategies
38:53 End
Related links
Find Marta at:
Digital Wellbeing Strategies Handbook (updated Sept 2023)
2019 Digital Wellbeing workshop: https://digitalwellbeingworkshop.wordpress.com/
Giulio Jacucci, Uni of Helsinki and Eve Hoggan
Abi Sellen, Microsoft Research
UCLIC UCL Interaction Centre, Anna Cox, UCL and Anna’s CAL podcast
EU Erasmus programme
