Knowledge Dynamics in Social Networks: Types of Knowledge Postgraduate Students Share in Tanzanian Higher Education

Abstract

Rationale of Study – This study investigates the types of knowledge postgraduates prefer to share through social networks among higher Education institutions in Tanzania. 

Methodology – The study used a convergent mixed-methods research design. The study population comprised 633 postgraduates from selected higher education institutions (HEIs) in Tanzania. Probability sampling was used to select postgraduates to participate in the study, while purposive sampling was used to select eight heads of academic departments for the interview component. Questionnaires were emailed to 239 postgraduates from the four selected HEIs, of which 171 were filled out. Quantitative data was analysed using SPSS version 24, and results were presented in tables and figures, while qualitative data was thematically analysed.

Findings – The study revealed that postgraduates preferred to share various types of knowledge through social networking sites, such as declarative, procedural, explicit, and others. Some of the reasons for sharing knowledge that were provided included the desire to strengthen their knowledge base. It is then recommended that postgraduates frequently use social networking to share academic-related knowledge. 

Implications – The study recommended that the management of HEIs in Tanzania encourage postgraduate students to use social networking sites ethically by exchanging knowledge that will help them strengthen their knowledge base and enhance their academic performance.

Originality—The originality lies in its mixed-methods approach, which combines qualitative interviews and quantitative surveys to comprehensively understand knowledge-sharing behaviours.