communication patterns through social media of …...approval sheet communication patterns through...
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COMMUNICATION PATTERNS THROUGH
SOCIAL MEDIA OF SELECTED FAR EASTERN
UNIVERSITY MASS COMMUNICATION
STUDENTS DISTANT WITH THEIR FAMILIES
KARL ALLAN CORPUZ
CLARISSE MHEI DAMMAY
JONINE CHLOE DELA CRUZ
FRETZIE FALCO
JEFFREY REYES
DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATION
Far Eastern University
N.Reyes Sr. St., Sampaloc, Manila
March 2015
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APPROVAL SHEET
COMMUNICATION PATTERNS THROUGH SOCIAL MEDIA
OF SELECTED FAR EASTERN UNIVERSITY MASS
COMMUNICATION STUDENTS DISTANT WITH THEIR
FAMILIES
By
CORPUZ, KARL ALLAN
DAMMAY, CLARISSE MHEI
DELA CRUZ, JONINE CHLOE
FALCO, FRETZIE
REYES, JEFFREY
has been accepted, in partial fulfillment of the requirements, for the degree of
BACHELOR OF ARTS IN MASS COMMUNICATION
by
MIGUEL LIMON
Thesis Adviser
CHRISSY USTARIS RODERICK BARTOLOME KRISTOFFER BRUGADA
Panelist
MIGUEL LIMON
Research Faculty
And approved for the
Far Eastern University Department of Communication
by
BABSIE M. MORABE
Program Head
_____________________
Date
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ACKNOWLEDGMENT
First of all we would like to thank our Lord Jesus Christ for seeing us through
from the beginning till the end of our thesis. Without Him, we would not have been
able to carry out this very challenging endeavor.
Secondly, our sincerest gratitude to our Thesis Adviser and Research Faculty,
Prof. Mike Limon, for his patience, kindness, encouragement and continual help and
advice.
We would also like to thank our families namely Corpuz Family, Dela Cruz
Family, Dammay Family, Falco Family, Reyes Family for helping and serving us as our
inspiration while doing this study. We are also extending our sincerest thanks to our
Department of Communication and to the Mass Communication students who have
participated in our research undertaking. And to our thesis defense panelists, Prof.
Roderick Bartolome, Prof. Kristoffer Brugada, Prof. Chrissy Ustaris.
The Researchers
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ABSTRACT
Corpuz, K., Dammay, C., Dela Cruz, J., Falco, F. and Reyes, J. (2014). Communication
Patterns Through Social Media of Selected FEU Mass Communication Students Distant with
their Families. Unpublished undergraduate thesis, Department of Communication, Far
Eastern University, Manila.
Communication means sending of messages from one person to another. It could
be in several forms such as intrapersonal, interpersonal, group and mass
communication. Each communication may vary depending on the pattern of their
exchange of message.
This thesis looks into the different communication patterns used by the students
who are away from their family with the help of social media sites (SMS) that they have
chosen. The researchers conducted a content analysis regarding on the effects of the
social media that they use in their communication patterns and also the effectiveness of
the SMS that they used as the mean of communication. The frequency of their
communication depends on the emergence of the discussion as well as the relationship
of the student to the family member they are communicating with. The researchers also
surveyed fifty (50) respondents which are selected Far Eastern University Mass
Communication students who are away with their family by the reason of studying in
Manila. Using Media Dependency Theory, results revealed that students who are away
with their family depend on the social media that they use in communicating with their
distant family to discuss their personal concerns and to be updated with their relative.
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Title Page
Approval Sheet
Acknowledgment
Abstract
Table of Contents
List of Tables
List of Figures
INTRODUCTION
Background of the Study
Statement of the Problem
Objectives
Significance of the Study
Scope and Limitations
REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE
STUDY FRAMEWORK
Theoretical Framework
Conceptual Framework
Operational Framework
Definition of Terms
STUDY DESIGN
Methods and Sampling
Units of Analysis
Instruments
Data Analysis
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
CONCLUSION AND
RECOMMENDATIONS
REFERENCES
APPENDICES
RESEARCHER’S PROFILE
TABLE OF CONTENTS
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LIST OF TABLES
Title
Page
Table 1 Frequency of Communication 35
Table 2 Choice of Family Member 36
Table 3 Topics of the Conversation 37
Table 4 Choice of social media
38
Table 5 Advantage of the Social Media Site 38
Table 6 Advantage of Social Media Site Chosen Compared to Others 39
Table 7.1 Openness through Social Media
40
Table 7.2 Openness through Social Media 40
Table 8 Advantages of Communicating Through Social Media 41
Table 9 Disadvantages of Communicating Through Social Media 42
Table 10
Recommendations of the Respondents to the Social Media Site
they Use
43
Table 11 Satisfaction for the Social Media Site 44
Table 12 Effectiveness of the Chosen Social Media site 45
Table 13
Effectiveness of Chatting Through Social Media in Terms of
Emotions
45
Table 14 Suggestions of the Respondents 46
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LIST OF FIGURES
Number Title Page
1 Theoretical Framework 27
2 Conceptual Framework 28
3 Operational Framework 29
FAR EASTERN UNIVERSITY – DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATION S.Y. 2014-2015
Communication Patterns through Social Media of Selected Far Eastern University
Mass Communication Student Distant with their Families
Corpuz, Dammay, Dela Cruz, Falco, Reyes
1
Chapter 1
INTRODUCTION
Nowadays, student who are about to enter college choose universities in Manila
to take up their chosen degree. Being away with their family cause them to have
difficulties to stay intact, sustain the closeness with each member of the family and to
communicate when in times of need. The way of communication is already modernized
by the use of social media sites. However, internet-based communication may be
difficult because of lack of either verbal or non-visual clues.
The researchers are conducting a study that involves students who are using
social media as a medium to communicate with their families in provinces. The
researchers believe that the communication pattern varies based on the distance and
availability of the new technology to their places.
Technology is offering a whole host of brand new ways to bring families closer
together for happier relationship (Dunn, 2014). It deals that some technology can
encourage stronger emotional connections within family’s connection within families.
If they are in the province they don’t have to rack up gigantic phone bills or loads.
They can just connect via Skype, FaceTime, ooVoo, Facebook, Twitter, Viber, WeChat,
or any social media sites.
FAR EASTERN UNIVERSITY – DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATION S.Y. 2014-2015
Communication Patterns through Social Media of Selected Far Eastern University
Mass Communication Student Distant with their Families
Corpuz, Dammay, Dela Cruz, Falco, Reyes
2
People switched to simpler communication services. In general, online relationships
contain much weaker ties than face-to-face relationships. Social networking sites is a
tool for person to keep in touch with his distant friends by following their updates,
sending a message or posting comments – users have a quick and easy way to stay
connected thus keep the relationship healthy when they are too busy to commit more
time to face-to-face interaction (Vitak, 2008).
Social Media are very useful for communication and to remain in contact with
their relatives even though they are far from their parents. Social Media allow them to
communicate with their families for free use of these mediums. It increases their social
interaction and gives them more ways to make social connections. How? By not seeing
their relatives, Social Media sites offering brand new ways to bring them closer.
Face-booking, tweeting and texting are not only the prevalent but also the
preferred forms of communication for many college students and young adults today.
Social media interaction now dominates both online and offline conversations. In a
society where interacting and over-sharing online is the norm, you’re probably more
likely to speak to friends and family through electronic devices than face-to-face.
Social Media gives the distant students the opportunity to maintain relationships
with their family, regardless of distance. Beyond social media’s role in dating, they can
now stay in touch with their family through sites like Facebook, Twitter, Skype,
WeChat, and etc. This is to keep them updated to who’s getting engaged, having
children, etc. Parents are able to keep in close contact with their children who are going
away to a university so they can stay connected and be a part of each other’s lives.
FAR EASTERN UNIVERSITY – DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATION S.Y. 2014-2015
Communication Patterns through Social Media of Selected Far Eastern University
Mass Communication Student Distant with their Families
Corpuz, Dammay, Dela Cruz, Falco, Reyes
3
Statement of the Problem
This research aims to answer the following problem:
How do social media affect the communication patterns of distant Far Eastern
University students with their families?
Objectives
To determine the communication patterns of distant FEU students – respondents
with their families, in terms of the following:
- Frequency
- Choice of member of the family they are communicating with
- Topics of conversation
- Choice of social media
- Nature of communication
To find out how social media affect the communication patterns of FEU distant
students respondents with their families.
To identify the level of effectiveness of social media in communicating with their
families as perceived by distant FEU students – respondents
To know how satisfied is the FEU students – respondents with the social media
site they are usually using.
To identify strengths and weaknesses of social media sites used by FEU distant –
FAR EASTERN UNIVERSITY – DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATION S.Y. 2014-2015
Communication Patterns through Social Media of Selected Far Eastern University
Mass Communication Student Distant with their Families
Corpuz, Dammay, Dela Cruz, Falco, Reyes
4
respondents in communicating with their families
To solicit suggestions on how to improve communication using social media
involving distant FEU students
Significance of the Study
The study focuses on identifying the most effective medium in social media
between the distant Far Eastern University Mas Communication students and their
families to be able to communicate despite of long distance. Moreover, the results of
the study will be beneficial to the following:
Upcoming FEU students. The upcoming respondents will have awareness on the
most effective and most accessible site for them to communicate with their families
when they start taking up college and be far from their families.
Upcoming family of the respondents. The result of the study will help the
upcoming family of the upcoming FEU students – respondents to know what site
they will use to communicate with their son/daughter who are studying in FEU
Manila.
Media Studies. The result of the study will also be beneficial to some scholarly
researches about the most effective medium or social media site in improving the
student-family relationship despite of long distance.
The researchers. The researchers who will make this study will learn more about the
help of different mediums to the long distance student-family relationship.
The faculty. The result of this study will help teachers to have a deeper
FAR EASTERN UNIVERSITY – DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATION S.Y. 2014-2015
Communication Patterns through Social Media of Selected Far Eastern University
Mass Communication Student Distant with their Families
Corpuz, Dammay, Dela Cruz, Falco, Reyes
5
understanding and will also help as their reference for their future students.
Scope and Limitations
The study focuses on the communication patterns established between distant
FEU Mass Communication students and their family, basically living in the province
or outside Metro Manila. The respondents of the study are composed of FEU Mass
Communication Students only.
The researchers considered working on this study to find out the most effective
medium of communication of FEU Mass Communication students between their
families from the province. Also, to assess the effectiveness of the said medium to
improve the relationship of students between their families despite of long distance.
Also, the researchers no longer focused on the parents working abroad and the
view of the distant family in regards on how they perceived communicating through
social media sites.
This study no longer discussed about how the communication patterns
evolved from generation to generation, as well as the features of the social media
sites discussed.
FAR EASTERN UNIVERSITY – DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATION S.Y. 2014-2015
Communication Patterns through Social Media of Selected Far Eastern University
Mass Communication Student Distant with their Families
Corpuz, Dammay, Dela Cruz, Falco, Reyes
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Chapter 2
REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE
Having relatives who went to college had a lot of changes in the family. The
relationship of the college-aged students changed as their independence grew. They
began to interact with their emerged adult self. For many students, this was the first
time they have lived apart from their families.
Communication could be difficult for a family that was in the state of a long
distance relationship. Keeping strong family-ties was a problem because of the space
between the college student and relatives. Having someone far from you especially
when you needed emotional support from them could be tough.
This Chapter was composed of related literature and studies which contained
facts and information on the research problem at hand. It also provided explanations
and logical connections between previous researches and the present work.
On our Perception on Internet-based Communication
According to the study of Asilo et.al (2010), ‚Social Networking Sites (SNS) were
increasingly popular nowadays. Many SNS developers like Facebook, MySpace, Twitter
and others were competing to give the best features in terms of socialization,
interaction, privacy and even entertainment.‛ The researchers knew that people
nowadays were really hooked with this internet-based communication which was very
easy to use because of its free access and handy usage since they could use them
through mobile phones.
Hence, from these discussions, the effectiveness of the SNS to the interpersonal
FAR EASTERN UNIVERSITY – DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATION S.Y. 2014-2015
Communication Patterns through Social Media of Selected Far Eastern University
Mass Communication Student Distant with their Families
Corpuz, Dammay, Dela Cruz, Falco, Reyes
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communication was questioned. Both parents and children viewed modern social
media as having both positive and negative consequences, and largely maintained that
face-to-face communication was more desirable than communicating through social
media. This study examined social media and parent-child communication in the
context of Instructional-Affective Communication. (Rose, 2011)
Communicating together involved a two-way sharing of information and helped
develop a common understanding, which mean parents, careers and staffs have an
easier support to one another. Effective communication also helped families and staff
built a trusting partnership and developed honest and respectful relationships. When
families and staff have a genuine interest in one another, people are able to be open
about their thoughts and feelings. Effective communication of families allowed early
childhood staff to understand what has happened at home or how they liked their
children’s behaviour managed in the service. Moreover, effective communication of
staff abled parents to understand what has happened in their child’s day and how they
progressed at the service. Shared information from families and staff awoke everyone
regarding children’s strengths and challenges and worked together to support
children’s social and emotional wellbeing. (http://www.kidsmatter.edu.au/)
People walked through this world with their heads down. Immersed in the
technological realm, individuals disregarded the real. They conversed with their hands
rather than their mouths, tapping keyboards and touchpads based on the rhythm of
their thoughts. This was the way people communicated in the 21st century. In the last
decade, advances in information technologies have substantially altered the way
humans interact. Between email, texting, social networking, instant messaging, and
Skype, people now have the resources that made it possible to spend days or months
without coming face-to-face with another person, yet still remained connected with the
world. From 1995 to the present, the number of Internet users worldwide rose from 16
FAR EASTERN UNIVERSITY – DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATION S.Y. 2014-2015
Communication Patterns through Social Media of Selected Far Eastern University
Mass Communication Student Distant with their Families
Corpuz, Dammay, Dela Cruz, Falco, Reyes
8
million to 2280 million as of March of 2012, which was 32.7% of the world’s total
population (Internet World Stats, 2012). Today, 77% of teens have cellular phones
wherein only 39% made daily phone calls, whereas 63% made daily text messages.
(Dokoupil, 2012)
Communication through Social Media
Use of these new methods of communication, as traditional voice-based methods
which have diminished, has reduced communication to as few textual characters as
possible. Many researchers and individuals were thankful for these innovations, that
they promoted relationship building and maintenance and allowed individuals to
communicate while standing at opposite ends of the world.(Kavanaugh, Carroll,
Rosson, Zin, & Reese 2005)
New technologies made many easier and faster interactions, and enabled people
with social anxiety to communicate with others in a more comfortable social
environment. Therefore, it was no surprise that research has found 20% individuals
preferred online communication or texting to in-person communication. (Thompson,
2012)
Multiple determinants of life quality: the roles of Internet activities, use of new
media, social support, and leisure activities
The quest for quality of life (QoL) was a growing concern for individuals and
communities who seek to find sustainable life satisfaction in a technologically changing
world. Industry, consumer groups, academics, and policy makers sought to better
understand how the Internet contributed to or detracted from society. This study
examined the effects of Internet activities, new media use, social support, and leisure
activities on perceived quality of life. Correlational results showed that Internet
FAR EASTERN UNIVERSITY – DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATION S.Y. 2014-2015
Communication Patterns through Social Media of Selected Far Eastern University
Mass Communication Student Distant with their Families
Corpuz, Dammay, Dela Cruz, Falco, Reyes
9
activities, such as using the Internet for sociability, fun seeking and information
seeking, and new media use, correlated positively with various dimensions of social
support. However, use of the Internet, especially for sociability, and computer use were
inversely linked to QoL. (Leung,2013)
Furthermore, hierarchical regression analysis revealed that affectionate, positive
social interaction, and emotional and informational social support, received from either
online or offline sources, were the strongest determinants of quality of life. More
important, QoLwas enhanced in suitable amounts of time that were spent on media-
related activities, namely, less time on using the Internet for intimate self-disclosure and
in playing computer games, and more time on listening to music on CD/MD/MP3.
Finally, participation in community or religious activities for leisure was also a
significant predictor of QoL. Implications regarding policy formulation to improve life
quality were discussed. (Lee, 2012) (http://www.sciencedirect.com/)
Use of social media by college students: Relationship to communication and self-
concept
The purpose of this study was to examine social media use among college
students and how it affected communication with others, and college students' self-
concept. In this study, students completed a questionnaire which assessed personal use
of social media, communication skills with friends and family, and effects on self-
concept. Results indicated that all of the sampled college students were using at least
one form of social networking website. There was a .586 Pearson correlation between
usage of social media and communication with family and friends. There was a .658
Pearson correlation between usage social media and self-concept. These findings
provided implications for future research on why these social networking sites have
FAR EASTERN UNIVERSITY – DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATION S.Y. 2014-2015
Communication Patterns through Social Media of Selected Far Eastern University
Mass Communication Student Distant with their Families
Corpuz, Dammay, Dela Cruz, Falco, Reyes
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gained popularity.
The findings of this study suggested that almost all college students were using
some form of social networking website. This was significant since Lenhart et al. (2010)
found that 71% of young adults have a Facebook account. The current study indicated
that Facebook and e-mail were the social network websites of choice, with 99% of
college students using Facebook and 90% using e-mail. These findings concurred with
research by Lenhart et al. (2010) which found that Facebook was the most popular form
of social media. (http://www.aabri.com/manuscripts/121214.pdf)
Perceived Communication Skills via Social Networks
There were many reasons for young adults to join social networking websites as
they tried communications within their social system. The principal reason reported
was the maintenance of relationships with existing acquaintances that were already part
of their social network (Sheldon, 2008). Although there were exceptions, most social
network site users primarily interacted on these sites to support pre-existing social
relations, as opposed to meeting new people (Boyd & Ellison, 2007). Another study
found that Facebook and instant message were not used to meet new people, just to
maintain existing social ties (Quan-Haase et al., 2010). Passing time and entertainment
were other major factors in using social media sites (Sheldon, 2008).
Social media websites allowed users to keep in touch with family and friends in a
fairly easy and convenient way (Quan-Haase et al., 2010). Although students
communicated with friends and family by posting information, they spent much of the
time viewing information without interacting in any way.
Social media fulfilled different communication needs for different users.
FAR EASTERN UNIVERSITY – DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATION S.Y. 2014-2015
Communication Patterns through Social Media of Selected Far Eastern University
Mass Communication Student Distant with their Families
Corpuz, Dammay, Dela Cruz, Falco, Reyes
11
Interactions via computer facilitated communication by the tolerance of users keep in
touch with family and friends in a convenient way, learned about social events, and
found out about activities of other users. The gratification received from this social
information helped users feel that they were a part of peer network who knew what
was going on about events and activities (Quan-Haaseet al., 2010).
Immediate communication benefits of Facebook users were seen for individuals
reported various levels of shyness. Shyness caused individuals to avoid social, face-to-
face interaction altogether, that led persons accept less communication and less social
support.
In a study looking at the association between online social media and friendship
quality of shy individuals, results indicated that online social networks provided a
comfortable environment in which shy individuals could interact with others (Baker &
Oswald, 2010).
Data has shown that individuals who used Facebook for communication had
better quality friendships. Using social media sites helped improve the quality of
relationships between users. Some reasons for improving quality of relationships
through using Facebook included: it was easier to get to know others better without
having face-to-face conversation, users felt more comfortable, and users spent more
time communicating over the computer so they gained more social support (Baker &
Oswald, 2010).
Further, ‚social grooming‛ was an aspect of social networking that has received
attention in a comparison of users and non-users of social media sites. Social grooming
included expressive activities of social interaction, communication, gossip, and
entertainment. Users have expressed enjoyment from keeping track of their friends’
lives and activities, but non-users were less interested in these activities (Tufekci, 2008).
FAR EASTERN UNIVERSITY – DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATION S.Y. 2014-2015
Communication Patterns through Social Media of Selected Far Eastern University
Mass Communication Student Distant with their Families
Corpuz, Dammay, Dela Cruz, Falco, Reyes
12
This social interaction of users may make it easier to communicate with others by
keeping in touch with friends and family on a regular basis more often than non-users.
Perceived communication was reported as being more satisfying in same-sex
relationships rather than in cross-sex relationships (Baym et al., 2007). This was true for
both woman-to-woman and man-to-man interactions. It is also not surprising that
communication relationships were more satisfying with friends and family rather than
with mere acquaintances (Baym et al., 2007).
Parenting through Facebook
The concept of internet as a ground-breaking communication tool is not new
anymore as it has been given emphasis by a number researchers and communication
scholars in the past. Internet is an innovative forum for the exchange of information and
ideas as described by Burgstahler (1997). It unites people into a sole global community.
Classification of websites in the internet developed into many forms over the years.
Social networking sites are widely used by internet users for it provides an avenue for
self expression.
According to Boyd and Ellison (2007) these sites are web-based services that
allow individual to construct public or semi-public profile within a bounded system.
Social networking sites allow users to view other users connected to them and the
list of other members of the system.Constant communication is necessary for lowering
the levels of emotional disturbances such as anxiety and loneliness as mentioned by
the study of Parrenas (2002). Thus, it can be inferred that communication through
various mediums can contribute to the wellness and minimize stress of OFW
children.
FAR EASTERN UNIVERSITY – DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATION S.Y. 2014-2015
Communication Patterns through Social Media of Selected Far Eastern University
Mass Communication Student Distant with their Families
Corpuz, Dammay, Dela Cruz, Falco, Reyes
13
The availability of communication tools proved to be convenient to families
where in parents are migrant workers. More recently, it has been ascertained that new
communication tools help maintain healthy relationships both social and within the
family. Aguila’s study (2006) confirmed that long distance relationships can be
maintained through computer mediated communication. With the increasing
development in computer technology and internet OFW families now prefer new media
in communicating. In the Philippines, although internet usage is still not as big
compared to television and radio, the audience for the new media is increasing fast.
Social networking sites are of a great popularity in the Philippines. In fact, the country
has been tagged as the “Social networking capital of the world” as revealed by the study
conducted by Universal McCann entitled “Power to the People – Wave 3” in 2008. This
implies that Filipinos are now becoming aware of the functions of social networking
sites especially as a communication tool. Internet is especially useful for Overseas
Filipino Workers with children and family left in the Philippines.
It is one of the primary tools in connecting people across the world.
Originally, Facebook started as student directory in Harvard University in year 2004,
but when it became a hit in Harvard, it spread largely throughout the world. The
greatest utility of social networking sites (Bryant and Marmo as cited by Walther and
Ramirez, 2009) has yet to be explored. These systems provide a dramatically new way
to enact relational maintenance.
FAR EASTERN UNIVERSITY – DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATION S.Y. 2014-2015
Communication Patterns through Social Media of Selected Far Eastern University
Mass Communication Student Distant with their Families
Corpuz, Dammay, Dela Cruz, Falco, Reyes
14
Through the years, Facebook developers have been adding new features to
improve their services for their users, and one of the newest features of Facebook is
Facebook Video Chat which is done in partnership with Skype. In the article by Jerry
Liao in www.mb.com last July 17, 2010, video chatting is not something new because in
Yahoo Messenger, Gmail, and Skype, this kind of chatting is already possible. Liao also
added that the positive usage of video chatting is that people can talk in more personal
manner, business discussion can be done also, and physicians can now see their patients
in simple conversation.
Facebook video chatting provides the people a “package deal” because this social
networking site gives the users’ need in one easy access unlike in other social
networking sites people cannot do chatting, video chatting, status viewing at the same
time only Facebook can provide it.
Some studies have concluded that it can lead as a source of relationship
problem. In the article by David Gardner in dailymail.co.uk last December 2, 2010, that
in the present time, one out of five divorces happened in United States of America that
the social networking site, Facebook was involved according to the American Academy
of Matrimonial Lawyers. Most divorce lawyers in America also reported that number of
cases use social media for the evidence of cheating but despite issues and criticisms,
Facebook remains the number one social networking site in the Philippines and in
many other countries because it is said to pave way for creating lasting and well-
maintained relationships despite the distance.
FAR EASTERN UNIVERSITY – DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATION S.Y. 2014-2015
Communication Patterns through Social Media of Selected Far Eastern University
Mass Communication Student Distant with their Families
Corpuz, Dammay, Dela Cruz, Falco, Reyes
15
In relationship maintenance, the role of technology played a major part in this
situation specifically Internet. Beebe et al. (2007) stated that e-mails, instant messaging,
and online chatting are more economical ways to maintain relationships than carrying
on long-distance telephone service or traveling to be together. They also added that
online communication is much faster and more immediate, in that you can transmit
what you’re thinking and get a rapid response. According to Multi-User Dimensions
(MUD), these virtual communities can be as just supportive and sustaining as any in-
person community established on campus or in a neighborhood. So, in a sense,
technology has brought us closer together as a nation and a world, because we can
communicate quickly and regularly, an economically across great distances. They
concluded that as a communication channel, e-mail, is better for some relationships
than others. It is a great way to communicate information, check perceptions, and stay
in touch with busy colleagues and friends, both near and far. But close or intimate
relationship, family relationships, friendships, and romantic relationships, typically
require more than just e-mail to maintain closeness. E-mail is also better for some topics
than others. In close relationships, e-mail tends to work best for quick updates or brief
expressions of affection and to make plansand share ideas.
Vanessa Van Petten wrote in her article that there are three useful parenting tools
in Facebook. People should know that Facebook is not only for teenagers, but the
adults can use it too especially in parenting. First is the Status Updates where the
parents don’t need to constantly ask their children where they are going. The parents
can easily see it in their updates, and Facebook has a special feature where users can tag
their friends in their status, so the parents will see also who the company of your
children with. Second is Photos because profile picture or simply other photos say
FAR EASTERN UNIVERSITY – DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATION S.Y. 2014-2015
Communication Patterns through Social Media of Selected Far Eastern University
Mass Communication Student Distant with their Families
Corpuz, Dammay, Dela Cruz, Falco, Reyes
16
something about their children. Third is Profile where in this feature the parents can see
the child’s status update, their friends list, and the wall posts. Once, the parents see the
child’s profile, the parents can find out anything about their child, and the parents can
access their child’s friend profile, and that alone can is a lot of information to anyone.
(www.radicalparenting.com).
In fact, Kim Daugherty said in her article in associatedcontent.com, parenting
tools evolve too with the technology surrounding the modern environment. Parents can
also adapt to the trend of their children which can really help them with their children’s
need. This new way of parenting can really help busy parents to reach their children
especially if they are having a hard time getting along with them. In the article made by
Karl Forehand in suite101.com entitled, Benefits of Social Networking in Parenting
(January 26, 2010), there are three things that parents can get from social networking
sites. One is social networks use to encourage. In his direct statement, “Facebook, and
other social networking sites, provide a lunch box to instantly “post” thoughts that we
have about our friends and family. We can either display an “I am proud of you”
message for all their friends to see or a private “you do this really well” encouragement
that doesn’t embarrass them publicly.” Second is social networks can be used to
monitor. Forehand (2010) stated: We can see their conversations and interactions; but if
we do not respond to everything they post, it most likely doesn’t feel as much like
stalking after the first day. We still have to use discernment about what to say, how
much to poke around and when to simply just observe. But, how they respond to others
and even what they do not say helps us in so many ways be a better parent. Ever ask a
teenager what he is thinking and get a one-word answer? We get much more than that
from Facebook.
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Last in Karl Forehand’s article is that social networks can be used to share gifts
where gifts and talents can be displayed immediately through these social networking
sites. He stated: I can observe not just their physical talents, but also their soft skills of
interacting with people. I can see how they encourage others and how they interact
even with those they disagree. I can notice how they handle rejection and praise and
approval from others and, hopefully, guide them gently lest they fall. In relation to Karl
Forehand’s article of Benefits of Social Networking, there is another factor that can be
added to the benefits of social networking sites. From the site, adventuresinparents.org
with the article Parents on Facebook published last October 3, 2008, they stated that
every parent should join all the trending social networking sites that mostly hanged out
by their kids on the computer. Mainly because parents might find some conversation
starters for their kids especially if the parents are having hard time talking with their
kids, but if the parents learn to understand their computer language, it will start
opening up new communication channel.
With all these new communication methods used by the children, it became a
possible hindrance to the relationship of the parents between their children, but
adapting to children’s’ generation might help to understand them better. In the article
by Marsali Hancock in protectme.webroot.com, she said: Facebook is an arena intended
for the older set. Younger children are not developmentally ready to navigate the
scrutiny and politics that often take place in this social space. Teens and adults prove to
have a hard enough time with it themselves, as evidenced by the daily news. That
doesn’t mean parents should wait to introduce their boys and girls to the concept of
digital citizenship. Instead, they should carefully choose online environments that are
specifically created with tweens in mind. Parenting is no easy job especially this 21st
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century with all the technologies affecting their mental growth and interpersonal
relationship. But with these technologies, it provided a new way of relationship
maintenance to all users of it. Also, it is very important for the researchers to find a link
between parenting and communication technologies such as Facebook in order for them
to well establish and explain the results of this study.
OFW Parenting and Family Communication
Overseas Filipino Workers are said to be heroes because they are a big help in the
country’s economic prosperity but their social and family relationships are being
compromised. While more and more Filipinos are going abroad, more and more
children are being left behind and carry the burden of being independent at their young
age. Also, when non-OFW children compare their family and personal relationship with
OFW families and children, they tend to view the latter in more problematic terms.
This scenario reinforces what Asis (1995) observed as the consequences of migration.
Besides social consequences, parenting is a more concerning issue for parents abroad
and their children left in the Philippines. It is undeniable that labor migration gives high
economic benefits. Similarly, OFW families are the primary recipients of such benefits.
A recent study by Asis (2006) showed that OFW remittances improved the quality of
life of the migrant and their families. Also, the study revealed that aside from getting
better income and job opportunities in other countries, OFW parents went abroad so
that their children will have better educational chances. Also, the decreasing economic
status of the country is also a cause of huge rate of labor migration.
In the Bureau of Labor and Employment Statistics Updates, it is stated that:
Family expenditures in the country and most of its regions grew much faster than
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income. Large increase in family expenditures during the 2003-2006 periods was
observed in Regions IX (32.0%), X (28.6%), and Caraga (28.2%). In the succeeding period
(2006-2009), increase in family expenditures was much more prominent in Regions XII
(37.5%), ARMM (30.7%), and IV-B (30.1%). Then, during the administration of the late
President Ferdinand Marcos the Philippines was in great debt because Marcos tried to
make the Philippines, a third world country, to look like first world. He made the
country build numerous buildings throughout the city. The country borrowed money
from different international banks, thus bringing the country a very huge debt.
In 1970, the period where the Philippines was clenched by severe
unemployment, the third wave came in the structure of contract labor. Before Martial
law was declared, there was the Immigration Act of 1965 which gave an opportunity to
many Filipinos to leave the Philippines, follow their families abroad and work there for
them to survive their daily living. Although working abroad yields benefits to their
families, this also gives negative effects on the development of the children left behind
as stated in the study of Reyes (2008). Yeoh and Lam (2006) confirmed that separation
from parent/s along with other variables have different effects on the children left
behind. In particular, according to Aguila (2006), left-behind children experienced a
sense of abandonment, loneliness, and inadequacy. Anonuevo (2002) supported this
finding through his study by concluding that migration could have both positive and
negative effects on children. Precisely, these children were happy in terms of financial
condition but sad due to lack of parental care and guidance. Also, the study of Yeoh
and Lam (2006) revealed that OFW’s left-behind children were less happy compared to
those of non-OFWs. They were also prone to the feeling of anxiety and loneliness.
Furthermore, children of migrant workers were poorly developed socially and delayed
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in psychological development. (Battistela and Conaco, 1998). However, in contrary to
this, the survey conducted by SMC et al. yielded a result that indicates that left-behind
children can be well adjusted when they have good relationships and had strong
support from other remaining family members and relatives.
In the case studies conducted by United Nations International Children's
Emergency Fund (UNICEF), now known as United Nations Children’s Fund in 2005 in
six countries ( Ecuador, Albania, Moklova, Philippines, Mexico and Morocco) it was
revealed that migration of husband/fathers resulted to increased responsibilities for left-
behind families. On the other hand, in the same research, it was shown that the absence
of mothers had greater impact on left-behind children than the absence of their fathers.
This finding is complemented by various studies (Asis, 2006: Parrenas, 2002). According
to UNICEF (2005), having absentee mothers often lead to negative psycho-social effects
on children. This include poorer health and education of children and child abuse. In
the article Physical Distance Hurts: How Long Distance Parents Can Bridge the Gap
with Words of Affirmation (2010) by Justine Camacho-Tajonera in her site
smartparenting.com, she said, “Being a long distance parent means having to cope with
imperfect ways of communicating. Maximize your communication channels.” She gave
emphasis to the technology that surround the world, and those parents can really make
a difference in terms of relationship with their children. Also included in the articles are
ways how long distance parents can use the words of affirmation to strengthen the
relationship. These are reassure (the parents should their children that they always love
them), coach (where the parents need to ways to coach their children to fend for
themselves), make them feel safe (assuring their children that they will be safe in the
future), protect them from stress (the parents should try to reduce the stress that the
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children feeling), protect them from fights (whenever the parents fight, they should
keep it to themselves only), and keep order and structure (enforce their daily routines,
even though the parent/s are not physically in there).
In the last statement, Tajonero added that if the parents are left with fewer
options then use what communication channel available because psychologically those
children are hurt in the situation. There is also a book titled, “Nawala ang ilaw ng
tahanan” by Dr. Honey Carandang (2007) where it looks into the problems when the
child started growing up without their mothers at home and supervision. For OFW
phenomenon, the mothers have the large probability of working abroad, and they also
have the largest number working abroad. The result is the men are dong the house
chores which is usually done by the women or the mothers. There was, on the other
hand, a debate on the effect of the absence of both parents in child development. Some
studies showed no variation from the performance of children academically when both
of their parents are at home Jones, 1995; : Lu, 2005). However, the study of Bryant as
cited in Cortes (2008) indicated that the dual parental absence actually “jeopardized
educational achievements”. Other empirical research likewise supported the negative
effects of parental migration on left-behind children’s development. (Battistela and
Conaco, 1998: Asis, 2006).Similarly, the literature showed that migration of both parents
affected the social behavior, relationships, and socialization of left behind children in
different ways. Also, according also to Glenda Ilano Chairperson on the Committee on
Advocacy, Legislation and Multimedia of the Philippine Psychiatric Association: “They
*OFW parents+ fail to navigate through the air pockets and storms in life. Since
adolescence is a period of experimentation, there are always areas of conflict and issues
that inevitably arise from this period. Some of the behaviors that trouble parents may
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be normal symptoms of growing up. She implies that several conflicts can result in this
situation like sibling rivalry, experimentation on drugs, alcohol, and pre-marital sex,
being too much involved in video games, internet, and cellphone. She also added: “Since
teen-agers are short on personal substance and accomplishments, the external trappings
assume a primary role in defining their social status. When they feel that they have
failed to measure up to the standards of their peers, their self –esteem suffers a blow
that can diminish their ability to cope with life’s problems.”The only temporary solution
for OFW parenting is that they need to have a solid and warm relationship in their
home even though distance hinders their relationship.
The parents need to do some action like supporting whenever the children need
them. Given these effects of labor migration and parenting with geographicalse
paration, ambiguity in family communication is inevitable but with the rise of new
media and modern communication mediums, this negativity can be lessened. Related
literature showed that the current developments in information and communications
technology (ICTs) have reduced the harsh effects of parentchild separation brought
about by labor migration (Parrenas, 2002: Asis, 2006). Parrenas (2002), discovered that
increased frequency and regularity in communication led to lower levels of emotional
disturbances such as loneliness and anxiety. This finding was supported by Asis (2006).
Thus, it can be safely inferred that communication, through various forms of media, can
serve as a coping mechanism to minimize the stress and loneliness associated with
separation of family members due to labor migration.
Meanwhile, earlier studies about family communication focused on the medium
used such as snail mail, landline phones, and cellular phones (Nicholas, 1993: Paragas,
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1996). Prior to the emergence of more recent communication tools, snail mail was the
main form of long distance communication. This was because the snail mail was readily
available and less expensive during the time. (Paragas, 1996) compared to overseas
landline telephone calls. As revealed by several research works, the availability of
communication media has increased communication between migrants and their left-
behind families. Fortunately, with the emergence of newer communication gadgets,
bridging the gap became faster, easier and more convenient. In the last few years,
numerous studies have been conducted on the use of cellular phones in terms of
development and maintenance of social relationships. Newer communication
technology, particularly text messaging has replaced older ones. OFW families have
preferred it over snail mails. Greater access and cheaper costs of cellular phones have
made lone-distance communication even more attainable.
As a result, the presence of various mediums of communication has brought a
sense of connectedness to OFW families. (Aguila, 2006). Pascua (2004) noted that
children used cellular phones mainly to discuss their school and non-school activities,
personal matters, and monetary needs with their parents. Furthermore the medium is
said to be almost as good as face to face communication when it comes to showing of
emotion and feelings. More recently, it has been established that new communication
tools maintain intimate relationship whether social or filial. Aguila’s study (2006)
verified that long distance relationships can be maintained through computer mediated
communication, specifically the internet. It was also found that internet-based
communication was a useful venue in exchanging thoughts and ideas.
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All in all, these varying conclusions by different authors may be because of the
different situations that the left-behind children are in. All the same, these finding have
implications on the relationship of an OFW parent/s with their children left in the
Philippines and since the family communication process is unique in each family,
understanding how OFW families communicate helped the researchers analyze each
family.
SYNTHESIS
People nowadays depend on technology in order to communicate with people.
People get more dependent on social media that it becomes the most effective means of
communication, especially to distant families. Social media websites also allows distant
families to keep in touch with their families by chatting and/or video call in a very
convenient way. Also, communicating through online application and social media
sites help individuals improve understanding and connection with their families,
friends and work mates to support one another even without the presence of face-to-
face communication.
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Chapter 3
STUDY FRAMEWORK
Communication is an act of transmitting and conveying meaning where people
participate for a certain purpose. Nowadays, people communicate more through social
media sites. Since, the medium used in communication already evolve, fewer people
communicate in a face to face basis.
Therefore, the researchers in this chapter seek to explain the communication
process of a distant student and a relative by using communication model and theory.
The theory was used as the foundations of the study Communication Patterns of
Selected Distant Far Eastern University Students with their Families.
Theoretical Framework
Media System Dependency Theory (MSD), or simply media dependency, was
developed by Sandra Ball-Rokeach and Melvin Defleur in 1976. The theory is grounded
in classical sociological literature positing that media and their audiences should be
studied in the context of larger social systems. ( Ball-Rokeach, et al.,1976). MSD ties
together the interrelations of broad social systems, mass media, and the individual into
a comprehensive explanation of media effects. At its core, the basic dependency
hypothesis states that the more a person depends on media to meet needs, the more
important media will be in a person's life, and therefore the more effects media will
have on a person. ( Ognyanova et al., 2012)
Media dependency theory states two specific conditions under which people's
media needs, and consequently people's dependency on media and the potential for
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media effects, are heightened.
The first condition of heightened media needs occurs when the number of media
and centrality of media functions in a society are high.( Ball-Rokeach et al., 1976) For
instance, in modernized countries like the United States, there are many media outlets
and they serve highly centralized social functions. In the United States alone, the media
act as a "fourth branch" of government, an alarm system during national emergencies,
and as a tool for entertainment and escape, whereas in the underdeveloped world the
media are not as numerous and serve far fewer functions. As such, the media have a
greater opportunity to serve needs and exert effects in contemporary America than in a
third world country.( Ball-Rokeach et al., 1979)
For more than three decades, media dependency theory (MDT) has provided a
theoretical basis for explaining the relationship among individuals, institutions, and
media at both macro and micro levels. During that period, digital media have grown to
become an integral part of daily life for many people. In 1998 Ball-Rokeach1 discussed
the implications of this growth, anticipating the impact of the Internet on media
dependency, when she wrote: ‚The Internet thus intrudes on traditional relations by
being integrated into an expanded media system that may expand the reach of
understanding, orientation, and play goals that individuals, groups, and organizations
may attain through media dependency relations."
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Fig. 1.Media System Dependency Theory (MSD)
This model is more elaborated and shows more specific effects of the
dependency theory. This framework represents the focus of the model: ‚Society" refers
to the degree of structural stability varies; "Media" refers to the number and centrality of
info function varies; "Audience" describes the degree of dependency on media
information varies; "Effects" indicates the cognitive, affective and behavioral effects of
media message.
This figure presents the relationship of society and media are regarded as
important antecedents to an individual’s experience with the media. The nature of
media dependence on societal systems varies across political, economic, and cultural
system. Between the relationship of audience and media the key variable in this theory
affects the use of mass medium and also varies across media system. Between the
relationship of society and audience the distant families influence by the society for
media use, values, provide norms, knowledge and laws for their members. The function
of social system offers similar services of the media.
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CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK
Fig 2.Media System Dependency Theory (MSD)
This figure presents the relationship of students and social media sites are
regarded as important antecedents to an individual’s experience with the social media
sites. It depends on the social media site used on what could be the positive or negative
effects of it to the students. The nature of social media sites depends on the family
members who are using it to communicate with the student. Between the relationships
of family members to the positive or negative effects of social media sites also varies to
the social media sites they are using. Between the student and family members the
relationship is positively or negatively affecting it depending on the social media sites
that they use.
STUDENTS SOCIAL MEDIA
SITES
FAMILY MEMBERS
POSITIVE OR NEGATIVE EFFECTS OF
SOCIAL MEDIA SITES
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OPERATIONAL FRAMEWORK
Fig. 3 Media System Dependency Theory (MSD)
This figure presents the relationship of the selected distant Far Eastern
University students and social media sites like facebook, twitter, instagram, viber and
etc. are regarded as important antecedents to an individual’s experience with the social
media sites. The social media sites like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Viber and etc.
have different effectiveness to the communication of the selected FEU student to
his/her parents, relation or guardian. The nature of social media sites depends on the
students’ relative, parents or guardians who are using it. Between the relationships of
students’ relative, parents or guardians to the effectiveness of the communication also
varies to the social media sites like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Viber and etc. that
they use.
SELECTED FEU
MASSCOMMUNICATI
ON STUDENTS
FACEBOOK, TWITTER,
INSTAGRAM, VIBER
ETC
PARENTS, RELATIVES,
GUARDIAN
HOW EFFECTIVE DOES COMMUNICATION
THROUGH SOCIAL MEDIA SITES ON
DISTANT STUDENTS AND REATIVES
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Definition of Terms
The following terms were defined for better understanding to the study and the
common reference on their meanings.
Channel. A system of communication to transmit information between a sender and
receiver.
Communication Patterns. The modes of communication that people frequently used in
different situations and different people.
Distant Family. Member of a family that lives far away from original home.
Facebook-ing. The act of using the social media site Facebook as the means of
communication.
Family. It is a group of people that is related to each other.
Internet-based Communication. It is a kind communication wherein people
communicate via internet and/or using any communication based sites like Facebook,
Twitter, Skype, E-Mail and etc.
Interpersonal Relationship. A kind of interaction that is between two or more people
that fulfills each other emotional and physical needs.
Mass Communication Students. Far Eastern University students that studies about the
mass media which lives far away or separated from their family because of entering
college.
Media Dependency Theory.A systematic approach to the study of the effects of mass
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media on audiences and of the interactions between media, audiences, and social
systems.
Media Studies.A study that deals in the field of history and effects of mass media to the
society.
Online Relationship. Is a relationship between people who have met via internet or the
relationship only develops through online.
Social Media.An internet-based application that is used in socializing with other
people.
Students.Far Eastern University Mass Communication students that is away or living
far from their families due to the need of studying college in Manila.
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Chapter 4
STUDY DESIGN
This research used quantitative and qualitative design. The researchers used both
design to be able to be explanatory and descriptive in nature as it aimed to find out the
different communication patterns through social media of the selected FEU students in
communicating with their distant families.
METHODS AND SAMPLING
The researchers have conducted a survey with the use of the questionnaires
about the communication patterns between FEU Mass Communication students with
their distant families.
Survey method has done between November to December 2014. The respondents
answered the surveys based on their own perception of what is the most effective
medium of communication they are using.
The researchers also conducted a focus interview with the guide questions in
relate to the objectives of this research.
UNITS OF ANALYSIS
FEU Mass Communication students and their distant families are the key players
in this study. The research was based on the phenomenon that social media is the new
medium of communication nowadays between distant families.
There are five major units of analysis studied in this research.
The effects of social media to distant FEU students on how they communicate
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with their families.
The strengths and weaknesses of social media sites used by FEU distant
respondents in communicating with their families.
Level of effectiveness of social media as a mean of communication between FEU
Mass Communication students and their families.
Suggestion on how to improve communication using social media.
Kind of communication patterns used and the frequency of communicating with
the chosen family member depending on its Frequency, Choice of family
member they are communicating with, Topics of conversations, Choice of social
media, and Nature of communication.
INSTRUMENTS
The researchers conducted a survey questionnaire as the main data gathering
tool for the research. The survey consist questions for the respondents to answer the
main purpose of the research, which is to know the most effective medium of
communication the respondents are using to communicate with their distant families.
The questionnaire included questions about the respondent’s demographic
profile, perception towards the research topic, knowledge on the social media sites, and
their practices in using social media.
Survey questionnaire was designed by the researchers with the professional
guidance and inputs from their research adviser.
The researchers chose 15 respondents for the pre-test and 50 respondents for the
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actual survey.
DATA ANALYSIS
Data analysis will be conducted as simultaneous activity with data collection,
categorization of information and interpretation.
Respondents will answer the survey questions based on the following criteria:
Strengths and weaknesses of social media sites used by FEU students –
respondents and their distant families.
Level of effectiveness of social media as a mean of communication between FEU
Mass Communication students and their families.
Suggestions on how to improve communication through social media.
To identify the social media sites used as the means of communications based on
frequency, choice of the member of the family they are communicating with,
topics of conversation, choice of social media and their nature of communication.
To know the suggestions of the FEU students – respondents on how to improve
communication using social media.
The researchers used the descriptive statistics approach to draw analysis from the
percentage of the answers on each question listed in the survey questionnaire and
qualitative approach to gather an in-depth understanding on the communication
patterns of the selected FEU students with their distant families using social media sites.
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Chapter 5
RESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS
This chapter presents and discusses the results of the survey of selected distant
Mass Communication students of Far Eastern University with their families on what
means of communication they choose in order to communicate with each other and
how do social media affect the communication patterns of distant Far Eastern
University students with their families.
RESULTS OF SURVEY
Table 1. Frequency of Communication
Question
Frequency
N=50
Percentage
How often do you
communicate with
your family using
social media site?
A. 1-2x a week 23 46%
B. 3-4x a week 11 22%
C. 7x a week 11 22%
D. 5-6x a week 5 10%
Table 1 shows that less than half (46%) of the respondents answered that they
communicate with their distant family member once to twice a week. While equally,
few (22%) of the respondents answered that they communicate with their distant family
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member three to four times a week, five to six times a week and seven times a week, or
every day.
Table 2. Choice of member of the family they are communicating with:
Question
Frequency
N=50
Percentage
Who among your
family member do
you usually
communicate with?
A. Parents 40 80%
B. Siblings 7 14%
C. Aunt/Uncle 2 4%
D. Others 1 2%
Table 2 shows that almost all (80%) of the fifty respondents answered that they usually
communicate with their parents through social media sites. While few (14%) of the
respondents answered that they usually communicate with their siblings through social
media sites.
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Table 3. Topics of the Conversation
Question Frequency
N=50
Percentage
What do you and your distant family
members usually talk about when you
communicate through social media sites?
A. Financial concerns: tuition fee,
allowance
23 46%
B. School concerns: events, grades,
school projects
9 18%
C. Health/Emotional concerns 14 24%
D. Others: random stuffs, telling
different stories, love life,
anything happened with in the
day
4 8%
Table 3 describes that a great majority (62%) of the respondents answered that the usual
topic of their conversation whenever they communicate with their distant family is
financial concerns. And few of the respondents answered that the usual topics of their
conversation with their distant family is about their health or emotional concerns and
school concerns and others.
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Table 4. Choice of social media
Question
Frequency
N=50
Percentage
What social media site do you
usually use to communicate
with your distant family?
A. Facebook 37 74%
B. Viber 8 16%
C. Skype 5 10%
D. WeChat 0 0
Table 4 shows that a great majority (74%) of the respondents answered that the social
media site they usually use in communicating with their distant family members is
Facebook. While few (16%) of the respondents uses Viber, and few (10%) uses Skype.
Table 5 Choice of Social Media Site
Question Frequency
N=60
Percentage
Why did you choose that social
media site in communicating with
your distant family?
A. Easy 13 21.67%
B. Features 13 21.67%
C. Active and it is the only account they
have
10 16.67%
D. Convenient 8 13.34%
E. Fast 8 13.34%
F. Free 7 11.67
G. Availability in the country 1 1.67%
Multiple responses
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Base respondents=50
f=60
Table 5 shows that most of the reasons of the respondents why they choose the social
media site they are using to communicate with their distant family is that it is easy to
use and the features of the social media site like it has video calling feature, they can
also see the updates of their families through posts.
Table 6 Advantage of the Social Media Site Chosen Compared to the Others
Question
Frequency
N=50
Percentage
What do you think
is the advantage of
the social media site
that you use
compared to others?
A. It has easy
phone access
15 30%
B. Fastest 14 28%
C. Available
always
8 16%
D. Video calling
feature
8 16%
E. They get
instant replies
5 10%
Table 6 shows that some of the respondents (30%) answered that the advantage of the
social media site they usually use is that it has free access and some (28%) answered
that it is the fastest social media site while equally few (16%) of the respondents
answered that its advantage is that it is available always and, few (10%) said that it also
FAR EASTERN UNIVERSITY – DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATION S.Y. 2014-2015
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has a video calling feature and they also get instant replies with the site they usually use
Table 7.1-7.2 Openness through Social Media
Table 7.1
Question Frequency N=50 Percentage
Does
communicating in
social media sites
help you to become
more open with
your family
member/ guardian?
A. Yes 40 80%
B. No 10 20%
Table 7.2
Why?
A. Yes
- Easy to use 18
- Improves openness 17
- They get updates 3
- It makes sharing interesting 2
B. No
- Non Personal 7
- Hard to communicate because it is not
always available
4
Table 7.1 – 7.2 Shows that a great majority (80%) of the fifty respondents agree that
FAR EASTERN UNIVERSITY – DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATION S.Y. 2014-2015
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social media sites help them to be more open with their distant family members because
they can easily talk to them because it is an easy access while few (20%) of the
respondents did now agree because they said that it lacks personal connection.
Table 8. Advantages of Communicating Through Social Media
Question
Frequency
N=50
Percentage
What is the advantage
of communicating
through social media
sites with your distant
family?
A. Easier
especially in
times of
emergency
19 38%
B. It is convenient
and has easy
access
17 34%
C. Cheaper than
sending
traditional
mails
2 4%
D. All of the
above
12 24%
Table 8 shows that many (38%) of the respondents answered that the advantage of
communicating through social media site is that it is much easier especially in times of
emergency and some (34%) also said that it is convenient and has easy access. Few
(41%) of them answered that it is cheaper than sending traditional mails. And some
FAR EASTERN UNIVERSITY – DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATION S.Y. 2014-2015
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(24%) answered all of the above.
Table 9. Disadvantages of Communicating Through Social Media
Question
Frequency
N=50
Percentage
What is the disadvantage
of communicating
through social media sites
with your distant family?
A. Communication
lacks of emotional
connection
17 34%
B. It decreases
understanding and
thoughtfulness of
message
8 16%
C. It has many
distraction
5 10%
D. All of the above 18 36%
E. Others: need wi-fi 2 4%
Table 9 shows that many (36%) of the respondents answered all of the above, that
the disadvantages of communicating through social media are: it lacks emotional
connection, it decreases understanding and thoughtfulness of the message, and it
has many distractions.
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Table 10.1-10.2 Recommendations of the Respondents to the Social Media Site
They Use
Table 10.1
Question Frequency N=50 Percentage
Would you
recommend the
social media site
that you are usually
using to other
students with
distant families?
A. Yes 39 78%
B. No 11 22%
Table 10.2
Why?
C. Yes
- Features 15
- Easy 14
- Common / Popular 6
- Useful 4
D. No
- My lead to communication 5
- Prefer to talk personally
- Prefer to talk through SMS or phone
calls
- Lacks of privacy
3
2
1
Table 10.1 – 10.2 shows that a great majority (78%) of the fifty respondents will
recommend the social media site they usually use because of its easy access and it
FAR EASTERN UNIVERSITY – DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATION S.Y. 2014-2015
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has best features while few of the respondents will not recommend the social media
site they are using because it may lead to miscommunication and they prefer to talk
in personal.
Table 11. Satisfaction for the Social Media Site
Question
Frequency
N=50
Percentage
How satisfied are
you with the social
media site you
usually use in
communicating with
your distant family?
A. Very satisfied 23 46%
B. Satisfied 19 38%
C. Neutral 8 16%
D. Dissatisfied 0 0%
Table 11 shows that less than half (46%) of the fifty respondents are very satisfied with
the social media site they are using to communicate with their distant family member.
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Table 12. Effectiveness of the Chosen Social Media Site
Question
Frequency
N=50
Percentage
How effective is the
social media sites
that you usually use
in communicating
with your distant
family member/s?
A. Very effective 34 68%
B. Somewhat
effective
16 32%
C. Not effective 0 0
Table 12 Shows that a great majority (68%) of the fifty respondents believes that the
social media site they are usually using is very effective.
Table 13. Effectiveness of Chatting through Social Media in terms of Emotions
Question Frequency
N=50
Percentage
Do you think it is
effective to show your
emotions and feelings
by chatting and video
chatting to your distant
family member/s?
A. Yes 39 78%
B. No 11 22%
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Table 13 shows most (78%) of the fifty respondents believe that it is effective to show
their emotions and feelings by chatting and video chatting to their distant family
member/s. While few (22%) of the respondents that it is not effective to show your
emotions and feelings by chatting and video.
Table 14. Suggestions of the Respondents
Question
Frequency
N=50
Percentage
Please make any suggestion/s to
make the social media that you
use to communicate with your
distant family to be improved.
- Make it free for
prepaid users
36 56.25%
- No more
suggestions because
satisfied
11 17.19%
- Provide emergency
load for emergency
calls
7 1f0.93%
- Easy and high
quality video call
- Make it faster
6
4
9.38%
6.25%
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Multiple Response=64
Table 14 shows the solicited suggestions from the respondents in order to improve the
social media site they use. Majority (56.25%) of the respondents suggest making that
social media site free for prepaid users while few suggest that it should provide
emergency load for emergency calls, to have high quality video call and to make that
site faster. Few (17.19%) of the respondents has no more suggestions because they are
already satisfied with the site they usually use to communicate with their distant
family.
There are seven respondents for the focus interview. When they were
asked on when do they feel like communicating with their distant family member,
majority of their answers states that it is important to tell distant family members about
their updates about what they were doing or what they’ll do, distant family member
should also know their needs, specifically their financial needs. Jigo Ballesteros, a 2nd
year Mass Communication student said ‚Umm, kapag halimbawa, may mga important
updates ako na feeling ko kailangan nila malaman, parang tuition fee, kailangan na magbayad, o
kaya naman halimbawa, aalis kami ng friends ko, syempre kailangan nila malaman diba. Tyaka
syempre manghihingi ako ng pocket money, mga ganun. Tas kasama na din dun yung
kakamustahin mo sila dapat diba.” (If for example I have important updates and I feel they
ought to know like I have to pay already my tuition fee or going out with my friends,
and if I ask for pocket money, these I have to tell them, but of course I make it a point to
ask how are they). One of them has different answer, Joan Mallari, a 4th year Mass
Communication student said, ‚Everytime na may kailangan ako. Like for example may
babayaran, ganun, o kaya pag kinapos ako ng budget. Minsan naman nagpapaalam ako kapag
may gala ako. Pinakaimportante talaga is kapag nagoopen ako ng problems. Feeling ko sila kasi
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makaktulong sakin eh‛. (Every time that I fell I need something. Like for example I need
to pay something at school or if I got short on my budget. Sometimes, also when I need
to ask for their permission. But the most important thing that we discuss is my
problems. I feel that they are the one who can help me).
When they were asked how often and how long do they communicate with their
distant family, the respondents have different answers. Yana Matel, a 4th year Mass
Communication student said, ‚Depende sa pag-uusapan eh. Kapag nag kakamustahan lang,
‘dun ‘yung inaabot ng matagal kasi chikahan, diba, tsaka hindi naman makakapag-reply agad-
agad eh. Kaya umaabot ng 4 hours hanggang sa mag-good night na lang.” (It depends on the
conversation. Whenever we are talking about ‚how they are‛, it takes long, and it also
depends because replies from their love ones are not fast. So I guess, it takes almost four
hours until we say good night to each other). Jigo Ballesteros, a 2nd year Mass
Communication student said, ‚Siguro, hindi naman ganun kadalas. Mga twice or once
a week lang, ganun. Tapos kapag nag-uusap kami siguro from 10 ng gabi, which is
kadalasan online din sila. Tuwing bago sila matulog ganun‛. (It’s not that frequent.
Maybe once or twice a week, and if we talk, possibly from 10:00 pm, but because most
of that time they are usually online. We can make it usually before they go to sleep).
When it comes to choosing a distant family member to talk to, most of them
usually communicate with their parents. For them, parents should be the first one to be
updated with the things they need, things they do and/or just simply a way of venting
out their problems especially in school. Joan Mallari 4th year student, ‚ Si Mommy. Siya
kasi ung mas demanding eh, kaya siya madalas kong ka. usap. Ung tipong kelangan talaga
namin magusap at least once a week.” (My mother. She is the one who is demanding that’s
why she is the one I usually talk to.). For Yana Matel,4th year student, she usually talk
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with her big sister. ‚‘Yung ate ko, kasi parang mas okay siya kausap kapag chikahan. Tsaka
online naman lagi siya sa Facebook kasi home-based naman ‘yung work niya. Tsaka para hindi
rin masyadong naka-focus sa akin yung atensyon, na kapag nag-chachat, kailangan reply agad.
Yung ganun.” (My sister, because I think, it is better to talk with her most especially
about chitchats. And she is always online on Facebook because her work is home-based.
And to let her don’t focus on waiting for my reply. Something like that.). Choosing the
distant family member to talk to really depends on how they are comfortable with the
person they are talking with.
We all know that a lot of people already have a Facebook account. That’s why all
of the respondents chose it as their medium in talking with their distant family. Their
reasons are it is easy to use, it’s more accessible, it’s a popular social media site and it’s
features suits the kind of service that they need. Christian Tamming, 2nd year student,
‚Facebook kasi uso na ‘yun ngayon. ‘Yung mommy ko mahilig naman mag-Facebook. Haha”
(Facebook, because it’s the new trend now. My mom usually spend her time using
Facebook. (Laughs) ). Yana Matel, 4th year student, ‚Facebook, kasi kahit nakikipag-chat ako,
nakakagawa pa din ako ng mga bagay-bagay, like, magbasa ng mga post, mag-watch ng mga
videos sa feeds, ganun.” (Facebook, because even I am chatting, I can still do other things
like watching videos on the feeds, something like that.).
For the respondents they think that talking through SMS did not hinder them to
become close with their families. Instead, it became a way for them to be more open. As
Joan Mallari, 4th year student, said ‚Oo, di ako naaawkwardan na mag-open sakanya. Di
naman kasi ganun ka-formal. Parang feeling ko kaibigan ko lang din ung kausap ko.” (Yes, I
really don’t feel any awkwardness to open anything to her. I think because it is not that
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formal. So, I feel like I’m just talking to a friend.)
For them, social media sites are very helpful when it comes with communicating
with their distant families. As a matter of fact, they say that social media sites are the
cheapest, easiest and fastest way to communicate. Jigo Ballesteros, 2nd year student,
said ‚Umm, parang it makes hard things easy kasi imbis na magsulat pa ako ng mga mail tapos
padala sa LBC, it can be one type away nalang. Isang type ko lang ng message marereceive na
agad nila.” (Hmm, it’s like it makes hard things easier. Isn’t it? Instead of writing mails
and sending them thru LBC, I just type and in an instant the message is already
relayed‛. Lack of emotional connection may lead to misunderstanding. This is also the
reason why the generation today is not that good in speaking face-to-face or in
personal. As Jiyo Ballesteros, 2nd year sttudent, said ‚...dramatic decrease in face-to-face
communication, hmm, which I think reduces our generation’s ability to interact with
others on a speaking level.‛
For now, they are all satisfied with the chat features of the social media that they
are using. When it comes to voice message, Viede Sosa, 4th year student, requested to
make it a little longer. Another reason they don’t like about it, is that social media sites
needs an internet connection. We all know that internet connection here in our country
is not centralized. Which means you cannot use social media sites not unless you have a
connection. Yana Matel,4th year student, ‚Suggest ko nasana always available ‘yung free fb
para sa mga prepaid users.” (I suggest that, hopefully, free Facebook is always available
for the prepaid users.).
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DISCUSSION
Students with distant family members depend on social media sites nowadays in
terms of communicating with their loved ones who are far away from them. Social
media sites make the communication of the respondents with their distant family
members easy especially in times of emergency, it is convenient and has easy access,
and it is also cheaper than sending text messages or traditional mails. However, using
social media sites in terms of communicating with their distant families also has a
negative effect for the respondents because their communication lacks of emotional
connection, it decreases the understanding and thoughtfulness of the message and it
also has many distractions. Nevertheless, on the survey that the researchers conducted,
34 out of 50 respondents or 68% believes that communicating of the respondents to their
distant family member through social media is very effective.
There are lots of social media sites to be used in communicating with distant
family members. Based on the survey, the respondents were asked on what specific
social media site they usually use in communicating with their distant family members.
A great majority of the respondents answered ‘Facebook’. Some said that
communicating through Facebook is not effective in showing their emotions through
chatting using Facebook Messenger and video call, because it is not a personal
communication and it is hard to communicate because it is not always available. Most
of the respondents find Facebook effective because it is easy to use, and it makes
sharing interesting because of the updates they get whenever their distant family
member posts something.
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The researchers also determined the communicating patterns of distant FEU
students- respondents with their families in terms of frequency. Based on the survey,
less than half of the respondents communicate with their distant family once to twice a
week only. Almost all of the respondents said that their distant parents are the ones
they usually communicate with and their usual topic of conversation is more about
financial and emotional concerns.
Using social media are already part of our lives. These sites offer its users to aim
and satisfy the student needs and will give the explanation as to why people seek out a
type of media that satisfied their specific needs. People have a specific motive as to why
they use a specific type of media tool particularly the social networking sites.
Consequently, people’s dependency on media and the potential for the specific media
effects for the student’s lives were heightened.
It has been showed in this study that the respondents relied on the social media
to communicate with their distant families because they become more dependent on the
media nowadays. As the hypothesis of our theory states that the more a person depends
on the media to meet needs, the more important media will be in a person’s life and
therefore the more effects media will have on a person.
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Chapter 6
CONCLUSION AND RECCOMMENDATION
CONCLUSION
This chapter presents the summary, conclusion and recommendation based on
the previously presented, interpreted and analysed data about the social media that
been using by the selected distant FEU Mass Communication students.
The researchers determined communication patterns of distant FEU students-
respondents with their families. In this part we knew the number of times they used to
communicate with their family members using social media and most of our
participants in this study answered that only 1-2x a week they communicate with their
parents and most of the mass communication students revealed the main purpose or
the usual topic of their conversation. More than half of our respondents admit that they
talked to their parents especially when they have financial concerns followed by health
and emotional concerns. The respondents revealed the most effective social media site
that they usually used and determined the communication patterns with their families.
Participants in this study indicated that the website they update the most was
Facebook.
The FEU student – respondents proved to the fact that they seem to enjoy
discussions using Facebook and interactions with their families because it is easy,
convenient and free access tool. Therefore, they still have suggestions for the
improvement of facebook and still they are looking for the best features of this site. At
certain times this social media site is very accessible because some of cellular phone
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networks are offering free unlimited access which means you can use it even without
internet connection compare to the other site. Thus, having Facebook account is very
easy and we come-up with the answers that most of our respondents are very satisfied
using it. Facebook made it much easier for the students to communicate with their
family members.
The FEU student – respondents used a variety of ways to communicate with
friends and family on social networking sites. Wall posts and status updates were the
most common ways to communicate, but students sent private messages and posted
photographs as well. Probably, posting wall posts and status updates was easier and
faster to communicate than sending private messages or posting photographs. Results
also showed that social media has helped students maintain contact with their family
who are not usually buying load for their cellular phones. And even they were not
talking to their parents often they can still look for each other updates and wall post.
But our respondents also said that this have a disadvantage through emotional
effectively. Our participants said that there is lack of interpretation because sometimes
their parents misunderstood their posts and updates. This indicates that quality of
communication over the computer is not ideal, but it still provides easy and fast
communication service.
This study also answered the effectiveness of the social media. Majority of the
fifty respondents believe that the social media sites they are usually using are very
effective. The survey also proves that most of the respondents usually communicate
with their parents through social media and but this goes to show that there are
advantages and disadvantages of using it.
In addition to this we asked the students on what they want to suggest for the
improvement of the social media that they used to communicate their distant families
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and most college students preferred to communicate face to face rather than over a
computer. However, with friends and family living in provinces and other far places,
communicating via a computer was a more convenient option.
Therefore, they have different answers and satisfaction through the media they
are using. Some wants an improvement and additional features like high quality video
call which is only for free. This study makes an important contribution to create new
and faster ways of communication because of increasing rates of the people who are
using it.
In this study the researchers realized how social media plays a big role in filling
the relationship gap between distant families, that our generation today is very lucky
because of the rise of technology. Since today's generation no longer experience
difficulties of communication with their distant families. However, communication
through social media is not that successful because of the absences of emotional
connections and physical presence, that they cannot fully distinguish the feelings of
their distant family member.
RECOMMENDATIONS
Practical. The researchers recommend that the students should limit and be
aware of their usage of social media sites in communicating with their distant family.
Thus, we encourage them to still practice proper communication with their distant
family, especially in their free time, for them to build strong relationship and to remove
uncertainty that was created because of the distance that they had. In addition the
researchers recommended that FEU Mass Communication students that they should
utilize more their technology capabilities and use it as a tool for an ultimate bond
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communication to their family, friends etc.
Research.The study in the communication patterns between student and their
distant family varies depending on the social media site that they use, the relationship
of the student with his or her family, as well as the importance of the message that they
are discussing. The researchers recommend to research more about the relationship
between the society, media and audience to know how affects people using a mass
medium.
Theoretical. will be recommended in this research developed by Sandra Ball-
Rokeach and Melvin Defluer. This theory seeks to explain the relationship among
individuals, institutions, and media at both macro and micro levels. And to show how
the future respondents on how they depend to the social media in terms of
communicating. In addition this theory aims to present sociological framework for the
analysis of the macro and micro determinants of those media system dependencies. The
configuration of determinants that constitute this framework includes structural
dependencies between media and other social systems.
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REFERENCES
Online Sources
http://scholarworks.rit.edu/theses/30/
http://www.scribd.com/mobile/doc/27327211
http://www.sciencedirect.com/
http://pediatrics.aappublications.org/
http://www.sciencedirect.com/
http://digitalcommons.conncoll.edu/ http://www.aabri.com/manuscripts/121214.pdf
http://www.kidsmatter.edu.au/
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Media_system_dependency_theory
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lasswell's_model_of_communication
Shoemaker, Pamela; Tankard, Jr., J. and Lasorsa, D. (2004). How to Build Social Science
Theories. Thousand Oaks: Sage Publications. p. 109.
Ball-Rokeach, Sandra J; DeFleur, ML (1976). "A dependency model of mass-media
effects". Communication Research 3 (1): 3–21. doi:10.1177/009365027600300101.
Baym, N. K., Zhang, Y.B., Kunkel, A., Ledbetter, A., & Mei-Chen, L. (2007). Relational
quality and media use in interpersonal relationships. New Media & Society, 9(5), 735-
752. doi:10.1177/14614444807080339
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APPENDICES
Questionnaire:
Name (optional): __________________________________
Age: ________________
Province: ______________
We are 4th year Mass Communication students who would like to conduct a survey for our story entitled Communication Patterns of Selected Distant Far Eastern University Mass Communication Student with Their Families.
Instruction: Encircle the letter of your answer.
1. How often do you communicate with your family using social media site? *Please choose one.
a) 1-2x a week
b) 3-4x a week
c) 5-6x a week
d) 7x a week
2. Who among your family member do you usually communicate with? *Please choose one.
a) Parents
b) Siblings
c) Aunt/Uncle
d) Others pls. specify________________________
3. What do you and your distant family members usually talk about when you communicate through social media sites? *Please choose one.
a) Financial concerns Pls. specify further: ________________________________
b) School concerns Pls. specify further: ________________________________
c) Health/emotional concerns
d) Others pls. specify ________________________
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4. What social media site do you usually use to communicate with your distant family? *Please choose one.
e) Facebook
f) Skype
g) WeChat
h) Viber
i) Others pls. specify _________________
5. Why did you choose that social media site in communicating with your distant family?
______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
6. What do you think is the advantage of the social media site that you use compared to others?
________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
7. Does communicating in social media sites help you to become more open with your family member/ guardian?
Yes. Why? Please explain.________________________________________________________________
No. Why? Please explain.________________________________________________________________
8. What is the advantage of communicating through social media sites with your distant family?
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a) Communicating is much easier especially in times of emergency
b) It is convenient and has easy access
c) It is a lot cheaper than sending traditional mails
d) All of the above
e) Others pls. specify ___________________________________
9. What is the disadvantage of communicating through social media sites with your distant family?
a) Lacks emotional connection
b) Decreases understanding and thoughtfulness of your message
c) It has many distraction
d) All of the above
e) Others pls. specify ___________________________________
10. Would you recommend the social media site that you are usually using to other FEU distant students?
Yes. Why? ________________________________________________________________________
No. Why? ________________________________________________________________________
11. How satisfied are you with the social media site you usually use in communicating with your distant family?
a) Very satisfied
b) Satisfied
c) Neutral
d) Dissatisfied
e) Very dissatisfied
12. How effective is the social media sites that you usually use in communicating with your distant family member/s?
a) Very effective
b) Somewhat effective
c) Not effective
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13. Do you think it is effective to show your emotions and feelings by chatting and video chatting to your distant family member/s
a. Yes
b. No
14. Please make any suggestion/s to make the social media that you use to communicate with your distant family to be improved.
________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
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Guide Questions for Focus Interview:
A. When do you feel like communicating with your distant family member?
B. How long do you spend your time communicating with your family and how often?
C. Who among your distant family member you usually communicate with?
D. What social media site do you use when communicating with your distant family member?
E. Do you think social media sites help you to become more open too your family?
F. What are the advantages of social media for you?
G. What are the disadvantages of social media sites for you?
H. Are you satisfied with the social media site you are using in terms of communicating with
your family.
I. What are your suggestions for the social media site you are using?
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Aika Sena , 4th year Mass Communication student
A.Pag walang ginagawa or kapag may kailangan tapos minsan kinakamusta ko sila tsaka kapag
may ibabalita ako.
If I do nothing or if I need something and sometimes I ask if how are they and when I
got to tell them something.
B.Uhm... mga 1-2 hours lang kasi madalas busy sila kasi may work kaya di kami nakakapag usap
ng matagal.
I think 1-2 hours only because they were busy in their work so we can’t talk that long.
C.Mother. Si mama kasi siya yung napagkukwentohan ko ng mga nangyayari, tsaka sa kanya
ako nanghihingi ng allowance at ibang gastos.
My mother,because I usually tell her of what’s happening and she’s the one I ask for my
allowance and other expenses.
D.Facebook and skype. Pero mas madalas skype. Uhm..Mas gusto kasi ni mama video call dahil
nahihirapan na sya magbasa ng text dahil medyo Malabo na ang kanyang paningin.
Facebook and skype. But most of the time skype. My mom preferred the use of video
call because she has a difficulty in reading text because of her eye problem.
E. Oo, compare mo sa phonecall. Mas maganda sya kasi free tapos may video call.
Yes, compare it on a phone call. It is better because it’s free and there’s video call.
F. Mas mabilis yung communication,unlike before na sabi nila mama noong nag aaral daw sila
swerte nang makausap nila parents nila sa isang buwan. Ngayon anytime na gusto naten
pwede, lalo na kapag mabilis ang internet connection tsaka di kailangang gumastos sa load.
Faster communication. My mom told me that when they study before they were lucky
enough if they had a chance to communicate with their parents in a month. But now we
can communicate to them anytime we want especially when there’s a fast internet
connection and we don’t need to spend money for the load.
G.Hmmm pag walang internet connection wala din.
If there’s no internet connection, no communication as well.
H.Oo syempre, madami na kasi pwede gamitin e, Facebook, Skype, Viber at madami pa,
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Compare kasi before na kokonti lang.
Yes of course, now we can use facebook, skype, Viber and many more, compare before
that it’s exiguous.
I.Siguro free use ng social media, yung magagamit kahit walang internet. hahaha
Maybe free use of social media, the available even without internet.(laughs)
Christian Tamming, 2nd year Mass Communication student
A. Uhm…feeling ko every time na may update sa’kin na feeling ko kailangan nilang malaman,
for example, nagpunta ako sa ganito, sa ganyan. O minsan naman kapag kailangan ko g
allowance o kaya naman kinapos ako sa allowance, mga ganun..
I think, every time I feel that I should be informing them on my updates that they need
to know, like for example, I went here, I went there. Or sometimes, every time that I
need allowance or every time I am short of my allowance.
B. Yun nga, uhm, madalas, updates and ‘yung pag hingi ko na rin ng allowance or any other na
babayaran. So feeling ko once a week lang para naman ma-miss nila ako ng konti. Hehe.
Like what I said, I talk to them often about my updates and whenever I ask them to give
my allowance or any other payments. So I think, I communicate with them once a week,
so that they will miss me. (laughs)
C. ‘Yung mommy ko, kasi wala naman na ‘yung dad ko.
My mom, because I don’t have a father anymore.
D. Facebook kasi uso na ‘yun ngayon. ‘Yung mommy ko mahilig naman mag-Facebook. Haha
Facebook because it’s a trend now. My mom usually spend her time using Facebook.
(Laughs)
E. Yes, I guess, kasi kung wala ‘yung ganung socal media site, baka bihira na lang kami mag-
usap. Mahal kasi load ngayon eh.
Yes, I guess, because I think if there has no social media site like that, I think we can no
longer communicate often. Because electronic load for cell phones are expensive these
days.
F. Yun nga, parang laki ng help niya sa sitwasyong ganito. Kasi magiging mahirap ‘yung means
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of communication kapag walang ganito.
Like what I’ve said, it’s like it has a big help for this kind of situation. Because it will be
harder to communicate if there is no means of communication like this.
G. Uhm, feeling ko naman wala.
I feel like there’s no disadvantage.
H. Satisfied naman, kasi habang tumatagal, gumaganda features eh.
I am satisfied because the features become more and more usable as time pass by.
I. Feeling ko, wala na. Hehe, keri na.
I think, there’s no more can I suggest. (Laughs). It’s enough.
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Yana Matel, 4th year Mass Communication student
A. Siyempre, for the updates, kamustahan, ganun. Para malaman ko kung anong meron, kung
ano bago sa kanila. Makiki-balita lang sa kanila. Kasi miss ko sila palagi eh. Tsaka siyempre
kapag may kailangan din ako like ‘yung sa allowance, ganun. Tsaka ‘yung mga dapat bayaran.
Of course, for the updates, knowing they’re okay, like that. To let me know what is new
to them. I just want to know updates about them, because I always miss them. And of
course, sometimes I need allowance.
B. Depende sa pag-uusapan eh. Kapag nag kakamustahan lang, ‘dun ‘yung inaabot ng matagal
kasi chikahan, diba, tsaka hindi naman makakapag-reply agad-agad eh. Kaya umaabot ng 4 hours
hanggang sa mag-good night na lang.
It depends on the conversations. Whenever we are talking about ‚how they are‛, it
takes long, and it also depends because replies from their love ones are not fast. So I
guess, it takes almost four hours until we say good night to each other.
C. ‘Yung ate ko, kasi parang mas okay siya kausap kapag chikahan. Tsaka online naman lagi siya
sa Facebook kasi home-based naman ‘yung work niya. Tsaka para hindi rin masyadong naka-
focus sa akin yung atensyon, na kapag nag-chachat, kailangan reply agad. Yung ganun.
My sister, because I think, it is better to talk with her most especially about chitchats.
And she is always online on Facebook because her work is home-based. And to let her
don’t focus on waiting for my reply. Something like that.
D. Facebook, kasi kahit nakikipag-chat ako, nakakagawa pa din ako ng mga bagay-bagay, like,
magbasa ng mga post, mag-watch ng mga videos sa feeds, ganun.
Facebook, because even I am chatting, I can still do other things like watching videos on
the feeds, something like that.
E. Yes, kasi noon naman, hindi kami close ni ate eh! Naging close lang naman kami dahil sa mga
chikahan naming sa Facebook. Nawawala kasi ‘yung awkwardness minsan kapag hindi personal
eh. Feeling ko.
Yes, because me and my sister are not close before. We only became close to each other
because of our chitchats on Facebook. I feel like there’s no awkwardness if it’s not
personal.
F. Advantage ng social media is ang laki ng naitutulong niya para sa koneksyon ng mga tao sa
isa’t isa. Isa na nga ‘dun ‘yung pagiging tool niya sap ag-improve ng relasyon sa mga
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magkakalayong tao.
I think the advantage of social media is that, it plays a big role for the connection
between people. One of those is it serves as a tool to improve the relationships of people
with long distance.
G. Disadvantage naman niya is ‘yung advantage niya rin mismo na sa sobrang pinapa-
dali niya ‘yung communication ng tao, masyado naman nagde-depende ‘yung mga tao
dito. Siyempre nasa isip nila ‚Nandyan lang naman yung Facebook eh, anytime pwede
ko kausapin ‘yan‛, na nagle-lead sa hindi nalang makakausap.
It’s disadvantage is it’s advantage itself. The more it makes the communication easier,
the more people depend on it. It’s like people would think: ‚Facebook is always there,
anytime I can communicate with that person‛ that leads to not talking with that person
later on.
H. Sobrang satisfied ako kasi diba nga, sa case ko, na malayo ako sa pamilya ko, parang hinahain
niya na sa akin ‘yung mga kailangan ko para makausap sila sa pamamagitan ng mga features
like chat, comments, wall posts, tags, ganun.
I am very satisfied because like what I’ve said, in my case that I am far away with my
love ones, it’s like Facebook is already offering me my needs in order to communicate
with them in the means of chatting, comments, wall posts, tags.
I. Suggest ko nasana always available ‘yung free fb para sa mga prepaid users.
I suggest that, hopefully, free facebook is always available for the prepaid users.
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Viede Ann Sosa, 4th year Mass Communication student
A.Uhm, I feel like talking to my family whenever I have problems, most especially, in
financial matters. I also communicate with them when I need to update them what are
my plans aside from school stuff like ‚gala‛ or what.
B. Whenever I have time, it is sure that I’ll try to find a way to communicate with them
C. My aunt. My dad doesn’t have social media account so most of the time, I just ask
my aunt to tell my dad regarding my problems or needs.
D. Hmmm…sometimes Skype but most of the time, Facebook.
E. To be honest, No.
F. It is much cheaper and it is easier to use.
G. I’m not sure if they feel my emotions. Hahaha (laughs). I mean I don’t know if they
take my emojis in Facebook seriously.
H. Very satisfied. There’s no more I can ask.
I. Hmmm. Maybe longer voice message because for what I have remembered, Facebook
only allows one and a half minute of voice messaging.
Jigo Ballesteros 2nd year student
A. Umm, kapag halimbawa, may mga important updates ako na feeling ko kailangan nila
malaman, parang tuition fee, kailangan na magbayad, o kaya naman halimbawa, aalis kami ng
friends ko, syempre kailangan nila malaman diba. Tyaka syempre manghihingi ako ng pocket
money, mga ganun. Tas kasama na din dun yung kakamustahin mo sila dapat diba.
Umm, If for example I have important updates and I feel they ought to know like I have
to pay already my tuition fee or going out with my friends, and if I ask for pocket
money, these I have to tell them, but of course I make it a point to ask how are they.
B.Siguro hindi naman ganun kadalas. Mga twice or once a week lang ganun. Tapos kapag
naguusap kami siguro from 10 ng gabi which is kadalasan online din sila. Twing bago sila
matulog ganun.
It’s not that frequent. Maybe once or twice a week, and if we talk, possibly from 10:00
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pm, but because most of that time they are usually online. We can make it usually
before they go to sleep.
C. Umm, sila mama at papa. Kasi sila naman talaga yung responsible sa mga concerns ko, tyaka
syempre responsibility ko na din bilag anak na mag-update sa kanila.
Umm, my dad and my mom are primary responsible for my concerns, it’s my
responsibility as their child D.Para sa akin, Facebook e. Kasi okay yung chat ng Facebook,
tyaka yun din yung ginagamit nila na hindi sila nalilito, ganun! Medyo familiar na sila gamitin
yung Facebook.
For me, Facebook, because Facebook’s chat is okay and that is what they’re using so
they won’t get confused anymore. They are already familiar with the use of the
Facebook.
E. Kasi yun nga, kahit malayo kami sa isa’t isa possible pa din na magkausap kami. Kumbaga
parang ganung feeling pa din tulad ng nasa bahay. Pisikal na katawan ko lang wala don pero
ganun pa din.
Because even if we’re far apart, communication is also possible as if we are still together
in the house, except for me being physically absent there, nothing really matters.
F.Umm, parang it makes hard things easykasi imbis na magsulat pa ako ng mga mail tapos
padala sa LBC, it can be one type away nalang. Isang type ko lang ng message marereceive na
agad nila.
Umm, it’s like it makes hard things easier. Isn’t it? Instead of writing mails and sending
them thru LBC, I just type and in an instant the message is already relayed.
G. Yun lang, yung parang nagdedepend na masyado yung tao sa social media yung tipong isang
hagdan lang ang pagitan, icha-chat mo pa sa Facebook yung nga ganung eksena.
The thing is, people seem to depend a lot on social media, as if, between them, is only
the stairs and you have to chat them in Facebook. Scenes like that.
H. I am very satisfied with Facebook kasi gaya nga ng sabi ko it makes hard things easy.
I am very satisfied with Facebook because like what I’ve said, it makes hard things
easier
I. No more na, wala naman na.
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I have no more suggestions.
Jiyo Ballesteros 2nd year student
A. I always give updates to my distant family for them to know what are the things I
am doing. Hmm, for them to be updated.
B. Always. Like at least 4 to 6 times a week.
C. Mama and Papa. I think they are the one who needs the updates and also they are
the head of the family. Sooo, yes, Mama and Papa.
D. Facebook and viber. Hmm, i think these two social media site are a lot more easier to
use rather than other sites. Hmm, beside these are the sites that my parents know how
to use.
E. Definitely, yes. Hmm, even that I’m far away from my parents, I can still talk to them
hassle-free without any payment except for my internet connection.... Which is I guess
cheaper.
F. Advantage is easier access.
G. Disadvantages, there is a dramatic decrease in face-to-face communication, hmm,
which I think reduces our generation’s ability to interact with others on a speaking
level.
H. No suggestions because it has many options on communicating with our distant
family like video call etc.
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Joan Mallari 4th Year Student
A.Everytime na may kailangan ako. Like for example may babayaran, ganun, o kaya pag kinapos
ako ng budget. Minsan naman nagpapaalam ako kapag may gala ako. Pinakaimportante talaga is
kapag nagoopen ako ng problems. Feeling ko sila kasi makaktulong sakin eh.
Every time that I fell I need something. Like for example I need to pay something at
school or if I got short on my budget. Sometimes, when I need to ask for their
permission. But the most important thing that we discuss is my problems. I feel that
they are the one who can help me.
B. Every week naguusapan naman kami. May schedule na kasi kami e. Every Friday actually,
since un ung free day ko and sakto din na wala pasok si Mommy sa work. Pero minsan naguusap
din kami sa comments sa Facebook, pero ung formal talaga sa Facebook Messenger.
We talk to each other every week. We actually have our schedule, every Friday.
Since,that is my free day and good thing it is also my mommy’s free day. But sometimes
we also talk in Facebook comment, but the fomal way is by the use of Facebook
messenger.
C. Si Mommy. Siya kasi ung mas demanding eh, kaya siya madalas kong kausap. Ung tipong
kelangan talaga namin magusap at least once a week.
My mother. She is the one who is demanding that’s why she is the one I usually talk to.
D. Facebook, ung videocall ng Facebook. Mommy ko nagdecide na un ang gamitin. Madali lang
daw kasi gamitin saka di ganun kabagal, di siya kumakain ng internet speed.
Through Facebook, Facebook video call. My mother is the one who decided to use that
social media site because for her it is easy to use and fast to use.
E. Oo, di ako naaawkwardan na mag-open sakanya. Di naman kasi ganun ka-formal. Parang
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feeling ko kaibign ko lang din ung kausap ko.
Yes, i really don’t feel any awkwardness to open anything to her. I think because it is
not that formal. So, I fell like I’m just talking to a friend.
F. It’s advantage is that it promotes easy communication with the use of internet. Isang connect
mo lang makakausap mo na ung gusto mo makausap diba?
It’s advantage is that it promotes easy communication with the use of internet. With just
one connect you can already talk to anyone you want to talk to.
G. It’s disadvantage is that it has a limited access kasi kailangan may internet connection ka. Eh
pano pag wala? Edi di na kayo, ‘di ba?
It’s disadvantage is that it has a limited access because you need to have a internet
connection so you could use it. But, what if you don’t have any internet connection
H. Yun na nga, dapat monthly nagbibigay sila ng promo like free access sa facebook, ganun, para
nakikinabang din ung mga di nakaka-avail ng net.
I think they should give promo everyone month, like free internet access through
Facebook.
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Karl Allan Corpuz Permanent Address: Blk 6B Lot 9 James St. Cielito Homes, Caloocan City
Contact Number: 0916-259-21-01
E-mail Address: [email protected]
Education
Bachelor of Music in Musical Theatre-Voice Major
University of Sto. Tomas-Espana, Manila
Related coursework: Theatre Arts, Acting, Singing
Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communication
Far Eastern University-Manila
Related Coursework: Advertising, Drama and Theatre Arts, Journalism, Radio, Television and
Film Production, Photography, Broadcasting, Investigative Journalism, Communication
Research
Competencies
Communication
1. Fluent in English and Filipino
2. Good Communication Skills
Leadership
1. Associate Producer, FEU Radio and Television Production, Unlock Your Luck, 2015
2. Video Editor, FEU Rizal, 2015
3. Film Director, FEU Radio and Television, Singil, 2013
Technical
Basic Skills in MS Office, Adobe Premier, Adobe Photoshop
Production Process (Pre-production, Production, Post-production)
Personal Profile
Nickname: Karl
Height: 5’4‛
Age:22
Birthday: January 3, 1993
Interest and Hobbies: Dancing, Singing, Acting, Video Editing
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Clarisse Mhei F. Dammay Permanent Address: Blk 17 Lot 9 Ph 1-A Mangga St.
Palmera Homes Novaliches Q.C.
Contact Number: 0926-497-5431
E-mail Address: [email protected]
Education
Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communication
Far Eastern University-Manila
Related Coursework: Advertising, Drama and Theatre Arts, Journalism, Radio, Television and
Film Production, Photography, Broadcasting, Investigative Journalism, Communication
Research
Competencies
Communication
1. Fluent in English and Filipino
2. Good Communication Skills
Leadership
1. Production Designer, FEU Theater Production, Agunya, 2013
2. Executive Producer, FEU Film Production, Lipstik, 2014
3. Executive Producer, FEU Television Production, Unluck Your Luck, 2014
Technical
Basic Skills in MS Office, Adobe Premier, Adobe Photoshop
Production Process (Pre-production, Production, Post-production
Personal Profile
Nickname: Chyn
Height: 5’2‛
Age:21
Birthday: May 14, 1993
Interest and Hobbies: Dancing, Singing, Playing Sports
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Jonine Chloe D. Dela Cruz Permanent Address: #10B Rodriguez Drive, Jordan Valley Subdivision,
Baesa, Quezon City
Contact Number: 0927-576-6321
E-mail Address: [email protected]
Education
Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communication
Far Eastern University-Manila
Related Coursework: Advertising, Drama and Theatre Arts, Journalism, Radio, Television and
Film Production, Photography, Broadcasting, Investigative Journalism, Communication
Research
Competencies
Communication
1. Fluent in English and Filipino
2. Good Communication Skills
Leadership
1. Production Designer/Actor, FEU Theatre Production, Doble Kara, 2013
2. Assistant Director, FEU Film Production, Lipstik, 2014
3. Associate Producer, FEU Television Production, Unlock Your Luck, 2014
4. Segment Writer, FEU Television Production, Unlock Your Luck, 2014
Technical
- VTR Playback, Unlock Your Luck
Basic Skills in MS Office, Adobe Premier, Adobe Photoshop
Production Process (Pre-production, Production, Post-production
Personal Profile
Nickname: Chloe
Height: 5’3‛
Age: 19
Birthday: June 30, 1995
Interest and Hobbies: Dancing, Singing, HTML editing
FAR EASTERN UNIVERSITY – DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATION S.Y. 2014-2015
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Fretzie V. Falco Permanent Address: 44D- CV Francisco Street, UP Diliman,
Quezon City, Philippines
Contact Number: 09156364425
E-mail Address: [email protected]
Education
Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communication
Far Eastern University-Manila
Related Coursework: Advertising, Drama and Theatre Arts, Journalism, Radio, Television and
Film Production, Photography, Broadcasting, Investigative Journalism, Communication
Research
Competencies
Communication
3. Fluent in English and Filipino
4. Good Communication Skills
Leadership
4. Production Manager, FEU Theatre Production, Huling Teatro, 2013
5. Associate Producer, FEU Film Production, Feels Trip Production( Smile), 2014
6. Segment Writer, FEU Television Production, Unlock Your Luck, 2014
Technical
Basic Skills in MS Office, Adobe Premier, Adobe Photoshop
Production Process (Pre-production, Production, Post-production
Personal Profile
Nickname: Fretzie
Height: 5’5‛
Age:21
Birthday: January 8, 1994
Interest and Hobbies: Dancing, Watching movies, Singing, Playing Sports
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Jeffrey A. Reyes Permanent Address: 2640 Felix Huertas Blumentritt Sta. Cruz Manila.
Contact Number: 0927 558 1038
E-mail Address: [email protected]
Education
Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communication
Far Eastern University-Manila
Related Coursework: Advertising, Drama and Theatre Arts, Journalism, Radio, Television and
Film Production, Photography, Broadcasting, Investigative Journalism, Communication
Research
Competencies
Communication
1. Good in English and Filipino
2. Good Communication SkillsTechnical
Skills
Basic Skills in MS Office, Adobe Premier, Adobe Photoshop
Production Process (Pre-production, Production, Post-production)
Personal Profile
Nickname: Jeff
Height: 5’8‛
Age: 19
Birthday: August 13, 1995
Interest and Hobbies: Dancing, Singing, Social Networking
FAR EASTERN UNIVERSITY – DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATION S.Y. 2014-2015
Communication Patterns through Social Media of Selected Far Eastern University
Mass Communication Student Distant with their Families
Corpuz, Dammay, Dela Cruz, Falco, Reyes
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