Utilisation of social media tools to enhance knowledge sharing among knowledge workers at the Nelson Mandela African Institution of Science and Technology (NM-AIST)

Abstract

This study investigated the utilisation of social media tools to enhance Knowledge Sharing (KS) practices among knowledge workers at The Nelson Mandela African Institution of Science and Technology (NM-AIST) of Tanzania. A case study design was used in this study. Data was collected by adopting a combination of document content analysis and semi-structured interviews from library and Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) staff. Data was analysed thematically. The study showed that social media tools can be implemented effectively according to institution goal, users’ need and capacity building among knowledge workers. The findings also reviewed the strong commitment of the institution to ensure knowledge dissemination and exchange among its employees through the establishment of an electronic library, reliable internet connection, and having an ICT centre. This is a comprehensive study focusing on knowledge workers’ ability and willingness in utilising social media tools for KS initiatives in Higher Learning Institutions (HLIs); and reveals findings that are useful for planning and implementing social media tools initiatives for KS in other HLIs in the country.