Social Media Knowledge Networks in Youth Organizing: A Social Network Analysis

• In Event: Roundtable Session 25
  In Roundtable Session: 21st-Century Youth: Unlocking the Potential of Peer Networks and Identity in Youth Activism

Abstract

Among community based organizations (CBOs) working on education issues there is a growing social media presence, with many groups now using popular social-networking sites like Twitter or Facebook to connect with members and the public (McDonald, Geigel, & Pinguel, 2011). However, there is a dearth of empirical research regarding the structure of these networks and their use as an organizing tool. This paper uses social network analysis to focus on one youth organization’s creation of a virtual knowledge network using the micro-blogging site Twitter. Findings indicate that youth organizers can increase their knowledge and influence by networking with other CBOs and non-mainstream media outlets and become a source of information for members, raising awareness of education news and community actions.

Authors

• Michael P. Evans, Miami University - Oxford

• Sean C. Duncan, Indiana University