Communication, collaboration and identity: factor analysis of academics’ perceptions of online networking

Jordan, Katy and Weller, Martin (2018). Communication, collaboration and identity: factor analysis of academics’ perceptions of online networking. Research in Learning Technology, 26, article no. 2013.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.25304/rlt.v26.2013

Abstract

Since the advent of online social networking sites, much has been written about their potential for transforming academia, as communication and collaboration underpin many scholarly activities. However, the extent to which these benefits are being realised in practice is unclear. As the uptake of tools by academics continues to grow, there is a question as to whether differences exist in their use and if any patterns or underlying factors are at play. This article presents the results of an online survey addressing this gap. A disciplinary divide was evident in terms of preferred academic social networking platforms, while perceptions about how academics use online networking for different purposes are linked to job position. Exploratory factor analysis identified four components representing different strategies used by academics in their approaches to online networking, including maintaining a personal learning network, promoting the professional self, seeking and promoting publications, and advancing careers.

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About

• Item ORO ID
• 54364
• Item Type
• Journal Item
• ISSN
• 2156-7077
• Project Funding Details

• Funded Project Name	Project ID	Funding Body
  CREET doctoral project	Not Set	The Open University

• Academic Unit or School
• Institute of Educational Technology (IET)
• Copyright Holders
• © 2018 The authors
• Depositing User
• Katy Jordan