Intergenerational Transmission of Digitized Intangible Cultural Heritage: A Study from the Perspective of Innovation Diffusion Theory

In the face of the challenges posed by the globalisation and digitalisation trends, the intergenerational transmission of intangible cultural heritage (ICH) is confronted with issues such as the ageing of heritage bearers and insufficient youth participation. However, the emergence of technologies like generative AI and the Metaverse presents new opportunities for the living transmission of ICH. Currently, the digitisation of ICH faces bottlenecks such as insufficient technical compatibility and the loss of cultural authenticity. This paper uses the theory of innovation diffusion as a framework, focusing on two aspects: technology bridging generational cognition and digital empowerment and cultural authenticity. Through a literature review and case analysis, it systematically explores the mechanisms by which digital technology reshapes the transmission subjects, cultural spaces, and value logic of ICH. The study found that short videos and generative AI enhance young people's participation through scenario-based narratives, but excessive entertainment can easily lead to the symbolic dislocation crisis of intangible cultural heritage techniques and the rupture of cultural identity. Based on the above situation, a 3+2+1 collaborative path is proposed to construct a practical paradigm that balances innovation diffusion and cultural protection, providing theoretical and practical implications for the sustainable intergenerational transmission of intangible cultural heritage.