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Social media and the undergraduate experience: recommendations and multi-method design research in attention and social media use
Thesis   Open access

Social media and the undergraduate experience: recommendations and multi-method design research in attention and social media use

Michael James Olk
Master of Science (M.S.), Drexel University
Jun 2023
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.17918/00001692
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Abstract

Attention Design--Research Persuasive technology Social media TikTok Mass Communication Mental Health
Modern social media (SM) platforms function under an economy of maintaining the attention of its users. This sets business-driven goals for SM companies to prolong user screen-time on their platforms. Numerous studies within the past decade suggest the negative relationship between screen-time and mental health, well-being, and academic performance. A prototyped two-part study was conducted to inform primary research which involved a product analysis of TikTok, an online survey and interviews with undergraduates, and market research on existing app solutions. The research was synthesized through a creative process of concept development. The outcome of this project was research-informed design recommendations and a framework that supports the development of app solutions for young adults. This research contributes to the existing knowledge of persuasive tactics within SM, how these tactics can impact undergraduate students, and the development of solutions that mitigate the risks of these tactics.

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