Advisers

Ms. Dympna M. Gatpandan

Discipline

Education

Abstract

Yearbooks play a significant role in preserving students' memories and strengthening their connection to the school community. While printed yearbooks document the school year in a traditional format, digital yearbooks provide a more interactive, creative, and easily shareable alternative (Henderson, 2018). Studies show that schools are increasingly adopting digital tools because interactive platforms enhance engagement, accessibility, and personalization (Smith & Johnson, 2020). The extended Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology also explains that individuals choose media based on their needs, such as social connection, entertainment, information, and identity formation. With the decline of printed yearbooks and the rise of digital platforms, there is a need to modernize this tradition. This study aims to design a digital yearbook for St. Mary's College, Inc., Quezon City, that preserves the sentimental value of traditional yearbooks while incorporating the benefits of digital interactivity and accessibility. This study uses a mixed-method approach. An online survey of 57 Grade 12 students assesses perceptions of a digital yearbook, and two staff alumni are interviewed. Data are analyzed using mean scores and thematic analysis. Students and staff alumni viewed a digital yearbook at St. Mary's College, Inc., Quezon City, as feasible and beneficial. Surveys showed that it preserved memories, highlighted achievements, and included class photos, write-ups, batch features, and graduation highlights. Students valued accessibility, convenience, affordability, and long-term preservation. Emotional aspects, such as nostalgia and sentimental value, scored high. Preferred features included interactive elements, videos, and personal reflections, such as "messages to future self" and student quotations. Interviews confirmed these findings, emphasizing identity preservation, accessibility, and environmental benefits. The findings indicated that a digital yearbook was practical, cost-effective, and emotionally meaningful. It maintained traditional elements while embracing modern technology, allowing easy access and long-term storage of memories. Cost and environmental benefits made it sustainable, while personalized features preserved sentimental value. Privacy and data security were essential for ethical implementation. Overall, a digital yearbook balanced tradition and innovation, engaged students and alumni, and supported the school community.

Keywords

student engagement, digital yearbook, memory preservation, cost-effective, sentimental value