Data: I will conduct qualitative data, by conducting 10 – 16 interviews with Bowdoin students. I intend to have all interviews completed by April 29th. During this time I also intend to send a survey to all Bowdoin students to collect general data on Instagram usage amongst the student body.
Methods:
Interviewing: I will use purposive sampling to choose interview participants. I looking to conduct interviews with people across both grade years and of different gender identities. All interviews will be anonymous. Below are some of the questions I intend to use in my interviewing.
How long have you had Instagram? And why did you get it?
How often do you post on Instagram?
What do you primarily use Instagram for?
What type of content do you post on Instagram?
Does Instagram influence or play a role in the formation of your identity?
Does your identity as a Bowdoin student influence how you engage with Instagram?
Do you engage with Bowdoin peers on Instagram? How does this compare to engagement with those who do not attend Bowdoin?
Has your relationship with Instagram changed throughout your college career?
Is there any specific part of your identity or one of your identities that you express the most or least on Instagram?
Did you follow anyone before coming to Bowdoin?
How does the Bowdoin community in the physical space translate on instagram? Is the Bowdoin community reflected on instagram?
Survey: I will send a survey to the entire student body to collect data on general engagement with Instagram. Survey questions will include:
What is your grade year?
- 2025, 2024, 2023, 2022
What is your gender identity?
- Male, Female, gender nonconforming, other
Do you have an Instagram account?
- Yes or no
On average how many times a day do you check Instagram?
- 2-5
- 5-10
- 10-20
- more than 20
How often do you post on Instagram?
- Weekly, monthly, yearly, never
Did you follow Bowdoin students on Instagram prior to arriving in your first year at Bowdoin?
- Yes or no
How many Bowdoin Students do you currently follow on Instagram?
- Less than 30
- 30-60
- 60-90
- More than 100
Do you like instagram posts?
- yes or no
Do you comment on Instagram posts?
- yes or no
Do you engage with Instagram stories?
- Yes or no
Is there anything else you would like me to know about your instagram engagement?
(open ended)