UROP Project
TikTok, Privacy, literacy
Research Mentor: Sein Oh,
Department, College, Affiliation: Information Studies, Communication and Information
Contact Email: so19c@fsu.edu
Research Assistant Supervisor (if different from mentor):
Research Assistant Supervisor Email:
Faculty Collaborators:
Faculty Collaborators Email:
Department, College, Affiliation: Information Studies, Communication and Information
Contact Email: so19c@fsu.edu
Research Assistant Supervisor (if different from mentor):
Research Assistant Supervisor Email:
Faculty Collaborators:
Faculty Collaborators Email:
Looking for Research Assistants: Yes
Number of Research Assistants: 2
Relevant Majors: Information studies,
statistics
Project Location: On FSU Main Campus
Research Assistant Transportation Required: Remote or In-person: Partially Remote
Approximate Weekly Hours: 10,
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link: 2pm - 2:30pm and 4pm - 4:30pm on September 4th
3pm - 3:30pm on Sep 6th
https://fsu.zoom.us/my/seinoh
Number of Research Assistants: 2
Relevant Majors: Information studies,
statistics
Project Location: On FSU Main Campus
Research Assistant Transportation Required: Remote or In-person: Partially Remote
Approximate Weekly Hours: 10,
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link: 2pm - 2:30pm and 4pm - 4:30pm on September 4th
3pm - 3:30pm on Sep 6th
https://fsu.zoom.us/my/seinoh
Project Description
Background:Generation Z , also known as digital natives, have been the main contributing factor for making social media interaction part of our daily lives. Gen Z, having grown up in an era of constant digital connectivity, navigates the internet and social media platforms as a natural extension of their lives. However, despite using the platform for a significant length of time, the level of privacy literacy of the generation with respect to TikTok remains largely underexplored.
Problem Statement:
Generation Z’s use and importance of social media, like TikTok in particular, have raised concerns about privacy management on their part. Despite the tendency towards self-expression and peer recognition, this comes at the cost of personal privacy. Despite TikTok's prominence as a platform for information and entertainment, there is limited research on how college students within this age group (18-24) perceive and handle privacy issues. Given recent actions, such as Florida State University's prohibition of TikTok on campus networks due to cybersecurity concerns, understanding these students' attitudes towards privacy on TikTok is more pertinent than ever. Given recent actions, such as Florida State University's prohibition of TikTok on campus networks due to cybersecurity concerns, understanding these students' attitudes towards privacy on TikTok is more pertinent than ever.
Research Aim:
The aim of the study is to assess the privacy literacy of Gen Z students aged 18-24 years towards TikTok and their privacy management strategies while using the platform.
Objective:
To evaluate the levels of privacy literacy among Gen Z college students using TikTok.
To explore students’ attitudes towards personal privacy and data privacy when using the TikTok phenomenon.
To identify the privacy management strategies used by the Gen Z college students on the platform due to the increased rates of data security concerns.
Methodology:
A mixed-method approach will be used where the study will collect data using a qualitative interview and a survey. The survey will be used to assess the level of privacy literacy and the general attitudes of the college students towards TikTok, whereas an in-depth analysis will be used to capture the experiences and attitudes.
Research Tasks: data collection and data analysis
Skills that research assistant(s) may need: recommended: Knowledge or skills in statistics, Knowing how to use Nvivo and codebook, other research skills related to this project.
Mentoring Philosophy
As a mentor, my primary goal is to empower my mentees by fostering an atmosphere of mutual respect, trust, and open communication. In my opinion, mentoring is a collaborative process in which both mentor and mentee can grow and learn from one another.Key principles of Mentoring Philosophy:
First of all, I understand every mentee has its own goals, strengths, and areas for development. When mentoring, I strive to identify and understand these aspects early on to tailor my guidance accordingly. In this way, I can help my mentees set realistic and meaningful goals that are aligned with their professional and personal goals.
Second, I encourage my mentees to take responsibility for the projects they are undertaking and the learning experiences they are having. Not only does this promote accountability, but it also encourages a sense of self-confidence and independence. They will receive support from me when they navigate challenges and celebrate their successes, and I encourage them to view setbacks as opportunities for growth.
Third, a key component of my mentoring philosophy is creating an environment in which mentees feel comfortable expressing their thoughts, asking questions, and making errors. Inclusivity is also central to my approach, ensuring that all mentees feel valued and respected regardless of their background.
Lastly, I've regularly assessed my mentoring practices for improvement. For the past three years, I taught undergrad courses at FSU. My experience has led me to provide better support to my mentees and to demonstrate the importance of continuous improvement.