Date of Award
2022
Document Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
Department
Education
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to examine the use of social media, specifically Twitter, as a way for women in higher education to connect with one another. Seven women who developed a specific hashtag were interviewed in a semi-structured initial process followed by a reflective follow up. These interviews were transcribed, coded, and sent to the women for their review. The following major themes emerged from the womens stories as they reflected on their use of Twitter and the #wlsalt hashtag: (a) the origin story of the hashtag, (b) the purpose of the hashtag, (c) the impact of the hashtag community on the personal and professional development of the founders, and (d) the lasting impact of the hashtag. Online communities in social media spaces have grown exponentially as people have begun to seek and connect with likeminded individuals as they share and curate information. Using feminist theory, social capital, and Oldenburgs third place theory as theoretical underpinnings, these women shared experiences and perceptions of the #wlsalt community they cocreated with other intentional users. The connections these women made with each other and those who used the #wlsalt hashtag exhibited how shared connections can be meaningful in personal and professional realms. Leveraging the use of these community spaces was a significant source of support for women in higher education.
Recommended Citation
Berry, Laurie A., "Seven Women And A Hashtag: A Qualitative Study Of The Founding Of A Twitter Hashtag Community For Women In Higher Education" (2022). All-Inclusive List of Electronic Theses and Dissertations. 2061.
https://scholars.indianastate.edu/etds/2061