Colleges and Universities Want to be Your Friend: Communicating via Online Social Networking

Like it or not, communicating via online social networking sites is what millions of young people do each day.

Read the full article here. Then use this blog's capability to comment or share additional, related resources. Thanks.

This article presents a compilation of data regarding the role of online social networks within campus communities, specifically for nonacademic purposes. Both qualitative and quantitative data methodologies are used to provide a unique perspective on a constantly evolving topic. Interviews of students and administrators allow for candid discussion, while primary and secondary data offer an understanding of current use and trends within the realm of online social networking. Theories of self-esteem and interpersonal communication are integrated throughout the article.

From the October–November–December 2008 issue of Planning for Higher Education, this "SCUP Links Blog" post provides an opportunity for you to share comments or additional resources/links about the focus of the article, Colleges and Universities Want to be Your Friend: Communicating via Online Social Networking, v37n1, pp. 35–48, by Tamara L. Wandel. You can read the entire article here.

Note that this issue of Planning is the first of a two-part themed volume with the overall title, Student Life. The second part will be published in January 2009. Assembled, the two parts will be available in late January 2009 for purchase as a single PDF document for your quick and easy reference.