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

Mark 5:21-43 | Sermon