Abstract

Through a survey of college students, this study explained the process and aspects of how Generation Z interacted with information while collaborating on a daily basis. Applying the Radical Change Theory, the study investigated the platforms through which university students engaged in challenges and their information behaviors. University students primarily participated in challenges using platforms such as Instagram and Naver Blog. In terms of changes in information seeking, which is the first type of information seeking in the theory, a wide and diverse range of information behaviors were observed, with the way of searching for information being quite different from when the digital age arrived 10 years ago. Information sources included not only digitalized ones but also traditional sources such as printed materials and personal contacts. The utilization of various media types was prominent, and collaborative efforts were voluntarily undertaken for challenges. In terms of changing perspectives, type 2 of information behavior, the main motivation for acquiring information and securing knowledge led to participation in the challenge. Participants exhibited a sense of community consciousness, including mutual influence awareness, social participation consciousness, and emotional connection.