The Internet, selective learning, and the rise of issue specialists

Authors

  • S. Mo Jang University of Michigan
  • Yong Jin Park Howard University

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.5210/fm.v17i5.3888

Keywords:

the Internet, selective learning, by-product learning, issue publics, issue knowledge, specialist

Abstract

Using national survey data (N = 1,208) in the U.S., the present study found that individuals relying upon the Internet translated their interest in the health care issue into issue–specific knowledge. However, those who depended on network TV, newspapers, and radio failed to display a high level of issue–specific knowledge, even when they were interested in the issue. The findings suggest that the Internet plays an important role in fostering issue specialists rather than generalists.

Author Biographies

S. Mo Jang, University of Michigan

PhD Candidate in Communication Studies Department at University of Michigan Ann Arbor.

Yong Jin Park, Howard University

Assistant Professor, Radio TV, Film, School of Communications, Howard University (PhD, University of Michigan)

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Published

2012-04-23

How to Cite

Jang, S. M., & Park, Y. J. (2012). The Internet, selective learning, and the rise of issue specialists. First Monday, 17(5). https://doi.org/10.5210/fm.v17i5.3888

Issue

Section

Articles