Gender Differences in Virtual Community Knowledge Sharing

Abstract

Over the years, Web 2.0 and Web 3.0 have promoted and prospered user-generated content, ease of use, interoperability, and virtual communities. Indeed, a growing number of online platforms and virtual communities contribute to our society and economy by maximally sharing knowledge among numerous participants. Hence, it is necessary to understand the participation-motivation of knowledge sharing in various virtual communities. Using a sample of American virtual communities of interest, this study examines a model of knowledge sharing based on social capital theory and social cognitive theory. This research echoes prior studies with similar and even stronger evidence. Also, the results suggest a significant moderating effect of gender difference on knowledge sharing in virtual communities – when participants share a common language and vision.