The use of social networks by African Americans and emerging trends

Material Information

Title:
The use of social networks by African Americans and emerging trends
Series Title:
Barry University Theses -- Honors Program
Creator:
Smith, Kelecia
Place of Publication:
Miami, Fla.
Publisher:
Barry University
Publication Date:
Language:
English
Physical Description:
viii, 88 leaves : ill. ; 28 cm

Thesis/Dissertation Information

Degree Disciplines:
Honors Program

Subjects

Subjects / Keywords:
Online social networks ( lcsh )
Social media ( lcsh )
Social networks ( lcsh )
African Americans ( lcsh )
Genre:
Academic theses ( lcsh )

Notes

Abstract:
Despite the issue of the digital divide, in which African Americans are least likely to have access to computer technology, it was noted that African Americans’ use of social networks has increased. However, there has not been much research regarding how this particular demographic uses social networks. The primary purpose of this study is to observe not only how social networks are being used by African Americans, but also to identify any particular trends based on this usage. The two most popular social networks, Facebook and Twitter, were used to gather data or rather postings of African Americans on public groups. The findings of this research were similar to those of past related studies, revealing that African Americans use social networks primarily for entertainment. Specific trends observed included African Americans reading or posting news about celebrities, in particular, but also athletes and politicians. Although the study highlighted this, it was seen that African Americans are using social networks for other worthwhile or beneficial purposes. However, these findings also hint that African Americans should not only use technology more as more of them have access to technology, but also use it to empower and make themselves, marketable and competitive, within this Digital Age.
Thesis:
Thesis (Honors)--Barry University, 2011.
Bibliography:
Includes bibliographical references (leaves 62-69).

Record Information

Source Institution:
Barry University
Holding Location:
Barry University Archives and Special Collections
Rights Management:
Copyright Kelecia Smith. Permission granted to Barry University to digitize, archive and distribute this item for non-profit research and educational purposes. Any reuse of this item in excess of fair use or other copyright exemptions requires permission of the copyright holder.
Resource Identifier:
HM742.S65 2011_SmithKelecia ( BU-Local )
Classification:
HM742.S65 2011 ( lcc )

BUDC Membership

Aggregations:
Barry University
Theses and Dissertations