HOW GENERATION Z EVALUATES NEWS ACROSS MULTIPLE SCREENS: A FOCUS GROUP STUDY OF NEWS CONSUMPTION AND VERIFICATION PRACTICES

Abstract

The advancement of digital technology has changed how Generation Z absorbs, assesses, and verifies news information. Unlike preceding generations, Gen Z uses multiple devices to access the news, such as smartphones, laptops, tablets, television, and social media, producing a multi-dimensional media setting. This research examines Generation Z’s methods of assessing news credibility through different screens, and the techniques that they employ for verification. It utilizes qualitative research methodology through conducting focus groups among graduate students aged between 18 and 26 years. Two focus groups with ten respondents each were organized. The analysis employed thematic analysis. The results of the study show that Gen Z's respondents consume news mostly through social media even though they are doubtful about the information available online. The common verification methods applied are cross-checking, assessing the credibility of sources, using fact-checking sites, and debating with peers. Most importantly, factors related to digital literacy, media literacy, and trustworthiness of a specific media outlet indicate major importance when it comes to verification methods.