INTEGRACIJA DIGITALNIH I STATISTIČKIH METODA U ISTRAŽIVANJU UTJECAJA KULTURNIH AKTIVNOSTI NA DRUŠTVENI I GOSPODARSKI RAZVOJ LOKALNE ZAJEDNICE

Abstract

The research offers a comprehensive insight into the interplay between participation in cultural activities, digital engagement, and the perceived socio-economic impact of culture within the local community. The findings show that respondents report a moderately high level of involvement in cultural events and strongly recognise culture as a driver of social cohesion, which is further confirmed by the nearly perfect correlation between cultural participation and the sense of connectedness. Digital platforms, although somewhat less frequently used, display a remarkably strong association with overall cultural engagement, indicating that digital culture complements rather than replaces traditional forms of participation. Respondents also acknowledge the economic benefits of cultural manifestations—particularly through tourism and local spending—although the link between economic perception and individual participation remains modest. Agerelated differences suggest that younger participants most strongly emphasise culture’s cohesive role, while middle-aged respondents show greater sensitivity to its economic potential. Taken together, these findings support the need for an integrated cultural development model that combines digital transformation, active community participation, and systematic statistical monitoring of cultural impacts, with the aim of enhancing long-term quality of life within local communities.