TikTok and informational practices in university generation Z
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Abstract
Introduction: This study examines the characteristics of users, as well as patterns of use and information consumption on TikTok by university students at Universidad Latina de Costa Rica, with particular attention to the media practices of Generation Z. Methodology: A quantitative survey was conducted with 530 students born between 1995 and 2008, analyzing variables such as frequency of use, types of content consumed, and perceptions of the platform as an information source. Results: The data reveal intensive, mostly passive, and highly personalized use, with entertainment as the dominant content, although specific forms of technological appropriation also emerge. Discussion: While TikTok is not yet established as a consolidated source of information, students show interest in educational content and develop practices that combine leisure with casual information seeking. Conclusions: It is concluded that the relationship between Generation Z and TikTok should be understood as a practice mediated by algorithms, characterized by personalization and low levels of original content production.
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