Digital Documentary Cinema: The Social and Cultural Impact on Media Students at Yarmouk University

Abstract

Objectives: To examine the cultural and social influences resulting from journalism and media students at Yarmouk University being exposed to documentary films via digital platforms. The study also explores the relationship between artistic construction elements in digital documentary films and their impact on students.

Methodology: A descriptive survey method was employed using a questionnaire to collect data. The study population consisted of journalism and media students at the Faculty of Media, Yarmouk University, with a purposive sample of 285 students.

Results: The findings indicate that smartphones are the most commonly used device for watching digital documentary films (45.3%). The most frequently used platforms are Al Jazeera 360 (75.8%), YouTube (51.6%), and Netflix (41.1%). Artistic and creative elements in digital documentary films play a major role in attracting viewers, achieving a high general arithmetic average of 2.46. Respondents perceived digital documentary films as highlighting both positive societal behaviors and topics conflicting with Arab customs and traditions. The digital transformation of documentary cinema has introduced new production and consumption methods, significantly impacting cultural and social aspects.

Conclusion: Digital documentary cinema has a strong cultural and social influence on students, particularly in fostering an interest in heritage, diverse cultures, and enriching knowledge of scientific and cultural affairs.