How to research diffusion of information on the internet

Author / Creator

McEwan, Bree, author

Available as

Online

Summary

This How-to Guide provides an overview of multiple methods used to study online information diffusion. The guide provides definitions of information diffusion as well as common types of manipulated...

This How-to Guide provides an overview of multiple methods used to study online information diffusion. The guide provides definitions of information diffusion as well as common types of manipulated information that also flows through information networks, including disinformation, misinformation, and propaganda. Technical, message, social, and networked aspects of online information diffusion are overviewed. An introduction to several methods is provided, including statistical modeling and machine learning as well as methods that capture the influence of individual network nodes such as survey methods, interviews, and content analysis. Online information diffusion research can help investigate important and timely topics such as the spread of political information and disinformation, tracking public health campaigns, and understanding information diffusion during natural disasters.

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