The Role of Information Technology and Social Networks in Enhancing Knowledge Exchange Among Students and Employees of King Abdulaziz University

Abstract

This study aimed to investigate the role of information technology and social networks in enhancing King Abdulaziz University students’ and employees’ ability to share knowledge. For this purpose, the researcher designed a questionnaire consisting of (60) paragraphs distributed into two sections. Three dimensions were covered in each section: reason for use, its role in promoting knowledge exchange and impediments. The study sample consisted of 200 university male and female students and 200 employees. The results of the study showed that social networks had a moderate effect on improving knowledge exchange among university students and employees, whereas information technology had a significant impact. According to the type of affiliation with the university (student or employee), the results also showed statistically significant variations in the effectiveness of enhancing knowledge exchange between university employees and students through the use social networks and information technology, with the results favoring university employees. Additionally, the results revealed that there were statistically significant differences based on the gender variable, with the gender disparities favoring males. In view of these findings, the study recommended establishing academic communication networks backed by the newest educational technology tools and methods as well as enhancing the  technological infrastructure. The ultimate objective is to disseminate and make scientific knowledge accessible to everyone. To improve knowledge exchange both locally and internationally, the study urged academics and students to invest in social networks and the need to create a bylaw that would govern appropriate usage of these networking sites.