Uses and Gratifications of Online Social Networks by the Sultan Qaboos University Students: Analytical Study
Abdullah K. Al-Kindi, journalism Department, College of Arts and Scocial Sciences, Sultan Qaboos University, Oman.
Hilal A. Al-Rashiedi, Reseracher in journalism and electronic publishing, Sultan Qaboos University, Oman.
Abstract
This study aimes to describe and interpret the uses and gratifications of online social networks (OSN) by the Sultan Qaboos University's students, using a questionnaire of a quota sample of 394 volunteer of undergraduate students, during spring 2013. The study concluded that YouTube is the most network used by the respondents, followed by Google Plus, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. The study indicated that subjects recreational, cultural and social issues are most preferred topics. The results showed that students depends on OSN to communicate, access news and information, and to exercise the freedom of expression.
The study revealed that most of the male respondents present their real names on OSN. The results showed that the use of these networks does not exceed three hours per day for most respondents, and the use of on OSN reduced the use of other media. The study results indicated that the most important uses of OSN are: curiosity, search for news and information, and the most important gratifications are: access to news and information, communicate with friends, and entertainment.
Key Words: Uses, Gratifications, and Online Social Networks.