DIGITAL CONSUMER BEHAVIOR AND ONLINE PURCHASING PATTERNS OF GRADUATE STUDENTS IN A UNIVERSITY
Olan Marjorie N., Mengote Ma. Lelibeth B., Sumallo Ma. Emma G., Gerale Jeffrey G., Pecayo Ma. Gracia I., Mugao Jodina N., Jatulan Alleah Marie D., Quiloña Janice Dyan G
Eastern Samar State University-Can-avid (ESSUC), Philippines
Abstract
The rapid expansion of e-commerce platforms and mobile technologies has significantly transformed the purchasing behavior of consumers, including graduate students. This study explored the digital consumer behavior and online purchasing practices of graduate students at Eastern Samar State University and examined their implications for educational management. The investigation focused on the respondents’ demographic characteristics, online shopping patterns, technology adoption factors grounded in the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology, e-commerce experiences, and the influence of online purchasing behavior on time management, budgeting behavior, and perceived well-being. A quantitative-descriptive approach was employed in the study. Data were gathered through a researcher-made survey questionnaire administered to 102 graduate students enrolled in the Master of Arts in Education major in Educational Management and Master in Management programs during Academic Year 2025–2026. Statistical tools such as frequency counts, percentages, weighted means, and verbal interpretations were utilized in processing and analyzing the collected data. Results showed that most respondents were female, employed, and within the young adult age group. Smartphones emerged as the primary device used for online shopping. The respondents commonly purchased products online one to five times monthly, with most transactions ranging from ₱200 to ₱499. Clothing, footwear, household items, electronics, and beauty products were identified as the most frequently purchased items, while TikTok Shop and Shopee were the most preferred online shopping platforms. The findings further revealed that respondents viewed online shopping platforms as practical, accessible, easy to navigate, enjoyable, and cost-efficient. Despite these favorable perceptions, concerns regarding scams, fraudulent transactions, delayed deliveries, product inconsistencies, and data privacy remained evident among the respondents. The study also found that online purchasing activities produced moderate effects on graduate students’ academic routines, spending practices, and emotional well-being. The study demonstrates that digital consumer behavior has become closely embedded in the daily experiences of graduate students. Although online shopping offers convenience and flexibility, it also presents challenges related to financial discipline, academic focus, and responsible digital engagement. The findings emphasize the need for higher education institutions to strengthen programs related to digital wellness, financial literacy, and responsible online consumer practices among graduate learners.
Keywords: Digital Consumer Behavior, Online Purchasing Patterns, Graduate Students, Educational Management, E-Commerce Experiences.
Journal Name :
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EPRA International Journal of Multidisciplinary Research (IJMR)
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Published on : 2026-05-27
| Vol | : | 12 |
| Issue | : | 5 |
| Month | : | May |
| Year | : | 2026 |