Lecturers’ Preference on Whatsapp Usage in The Work Environment at Malaysian Private Universities

Abstract

The use of social media platforms and applications at the workplace has gained much prominence and relevance. Similarly, there is evidence that these digital tools are used widely in institutions of higher learning in Malaysia. While there are studies that have investigated their effectiveness as teaching tools, there is not much discussion or debate on their role as the main medium of communication among academics in universities. Hence, this qualitative study aims to explore the perception towards the use of the ubiquitous WhatsApp application among seven academics where it is widely used as a communication channel for work-related matters. The seven academics from different private universities in Malaysia were interviewed through semi-structured questions. Their responses were then analysed thematically using the Technology Acceptance Model. The results reveal that communication via WhatsApp at these universities is used in both formal and non-formal contexts although the communication is within groups set up for work purposes. Largely, the study found that the participants had positive perceptions on the use of WhatsApp as a communication channel, claiming that it is effective and beneficial.