A Uses and Gratifications Approach to Examining Electronic Mail Use.

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Bibliographic Details
Title: A Uses and Gratifications Approach to Examining Electronic Mail Use.
Language: English
Authors: Bruning, Stephen D.
Peer Reviewed: N
Page Count: 29
Publication Date: 1994
Document Type: Speeches/Meeting Papers
Reports - Research
Descriptors: College Students, Communication Research, Communication Skills, Electronic Mail, Higher Education, Interpersonal Communication, Technological Advancement
Abstract: A study examined the variables that influence the use of electronic mail. The Uses and Gratifications perspective was employed to determine the antecedent factors that motivate individuals to engage in electronic mail communication. Subjects, 105 students enrolled in graduate-level courses at a small midwestern university and 252 individuals who worked in public and private organizations that had electronic mail systems, completed a self-report questionnaire. Results indicated that privacy was a major factor that influenced electronic mail use, that interpersonal communication factors influenced motivation to use electronic mail, and that individuals used electronic mail for a variety of purposes. Findings suggest that, since computers are increasingly being used for communication, failure to prepare students will result in a workforce that is ill-equipped for a technologically advanced work environment. (Contains 32 references and 4 tables of data.) (RS)
Entry Date: 1995
Accession Number: ED373380
Database: ERIC
Description
Abstract:A study examined the variables that influence the use of electronic mail. The Uses and Gratifications perspective was employed to determine the antecedent factors that motivate individuals to engage in electronic mail communication. Subjects, 105 students enrolled in graduate-level courses at a small midwestern university and 252 individuals who worked in public and private organizations that had electronic mail systems, completed a self-report questionnaire. Results indicated that privacy was a major factor that influenced electronic mail use, that interpersonal communication factors influenced motivation to use electronic mail, and that individuals used electronic mail for a variety of purposes. Findings suggest that, since computers are increasingly being used for communication, failure to prepare students will result in a workforce that is ill-equipped for a technologically advanced work environment. (Contains 32 references and 4 tables of data.) (RS)