Clickstream Mosaic: A Mixed-Methods Study of Photo Dumping's Impact on Laguna College Students' Communication, Lifestyle, and Self-Discovery

Abstract

The popularity of photo/video dumps has captured the attention of many social media users, particularly during the peak of the pandemic wherein in-person interactions were limited or strictly prohibited in order to safeguard everyone's health and well-being. This mode of virtual engagement allowed individuals in the digital sphere to share their moments, memories, and experiences through a curated collection of photos and videos or a combination of both digital mediums. However, there’s an existing debate whether this form of online interaction prioritizes an idealized perception of oneself to follow a trend or gain some public attention. Others argue that its essence lies in authentic and genuine sharing of personal experiences transparently and in an enjoyable manner. Notably, this trend has resonated notably with the Gen Z demographic, particularly among college students, including those in the Filipino college community. As these students navigate post-pandemic challenges with the return to face-to-face learning nvironments, they face a unique set of hurdles and adjustments.

The researcher's objective was to explore the influence of photo/video dumps on the lifestyle and self-discovery of college Instagram users, with a focus on students in Laguna, Philippines. Employing a Convergent Parallel design, combining both quantitative and qualitative research methods, the study aimed to comprehend user engagement, communication, and behavior related to photo/video dumps. A total of 100 eligible respondents were surveyed, and from these, 10 respondents were selected for Online Interview and Observation to delve deeper into the research. The data collected were analyzed using descriptive statistics, including frequency distribution and percentages. Transcriptions were also made to further understand the data obtained from the Online Interview and Observation phase.