The Canadian Internet Project (CIP)’s report Canada Online! The Internet, Media and Emerging Technologies: Uses, Attitudes, Trends and International Comparisons examines Internet habits based on a 2007 survey of more than 3,100 Canadians (12 years and older) from academic, business and government perspectives.

The longitudinal study arose from a need to understand trends in Internet use given the increase in high-speed broadband and mobile applications and services since 2004, the year of CIP’s first national survey. For the first time this year, 400 participants ages 12 to 17 were included in the survey to gather some of the following highlights:

Internet Penetration and the Digital Divide

Younger individuals are more likely to be online. Internet penetration increased by 6% to 78% and the average number of hours spent online increased from 13 to 17 per week. About 96% of 12- to 17-year-olds are using the Internet, and more than 50% of Canadians over 60 are using social networking sites and posting photos. English speakers are using the Internet more often than French speakers, with English speakers ranking at 82% (15% greater than French speakers).

Traditional Media versus Online Media

The use of traditional media is decreasing, but online activities are not to blame. Canadians are spending 45 or more hours per week absorbing traditional media, including live entertainment activities. And 12- to 17-year-olds are using traditional media 40 hours per week, 15% less than adults.

Multi-tasking and Screen Sharing

More than 50% of Canadians under 30 are using social networking sites, as well as one in five Canadians over 60. One in four Canadian Internet users visits social networking sites once a week. One in four young adults between 18 and 29 visits such sites daily. The most popular sites include Facebook and Hi5. As well, 40% of users engage in social networking sites to communicate with family and friends.

The next survey is planned for 2010.

The full report highlights are available here.