Explaining the use of text-based communication media: an examination of three theories of media use.
The present study examined the factors associated with individuals' use of three different text-based communication media: e-mail, cell-phone texting, and Facebook Wall postings. Three theoretical perspectives, including media richness theory, uses and gratifications, and perceived network effects, were examined. Using data from a survey of college students (N=280), the study found that the theoretical constructs from these theories play different roles when applied to different technologies. The results suggest that a simultaneous consideration of technological attributes, users' motivations, and social circumstances in which users select and use the technology is useful for fully understanding the dynamics of the selection and the use of a given technology.
Gaylord College of Journalism and Mass Communication, University of Oklahoma, Norman, Oklahoma 73019, USA. npark@ou.edu
Namkee
N
Park
Jae Eun
JE
Chung
Seungyoon
S
Lee
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D057218:Blogging; D003142:Communication; D003625:Data Collection; D034742:Electronic Mail; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D020407:Internet; D007398:Interpersonal Relations; D008297:Male; D009042:Motivation; D060756:Social Networking; D013334:Students; D060145:Text Messaging; D014495:Universities