The Utilization of Social Media by Generation Z in Information Seeking: A Systematic Review

Abstract

The aim of this study is to identify the use of social media by Generation Z (Gen Z) in information seeking. This study employs a systematic review method with planning, implementation, and reporting phases. The databases utilized in this research are Google Scholar and Portal Garuda, with a publication timeframe of the last 10 years (2013-2023). The search yielded a total of 85 articles. After the elimination process, there were a total of 10 articles analyzed in this study. The research results indicate that Gen Z uses social media to seek information related to health, education, entertainment, and religion. Some Gen Z validates the information they obtain on social media, while others do not. The Ellis and Kuhlthau, information-seeking behavior (ISB) model is used to elucidate the information-seeking patterns of Gen Z. This systematic review is expected to serve as a consideration for educators and policymakers that social media can be used as a tool in the integration of formal and non-formal education.
 Keywords: generation Z, information seeking, social media