This document discusses a study investigating the use of social networking tools by PhD researchers at Brunel University. The study aimed to understand researchers' personal digital literacies before recommending tools to support them. Researchers had varying views on social media, with some finding tools helpful for sharing information while others felt they were ineffective for research. The conclusion recommends the university library offer digital literacy sessions tailored to PhD students' needs to help them effectively use social networking tools.

1. No social media
please, we’re
researchers!
Robert Gordon university
MSc Dissertation
Shazia Arif

2. Background
Investigation into the use of social networking
tools by PhD researchers throughout their
doctoral activities at Brunel University

3. Aims
“We need to understand
learners’ personal
digital literacies before
ploughing into
'supporting' them”.
(White, 2012)


4. Academic research cycle

5. #StudentVoices

6. I use the tools
where I feel they
benefit me but
am not a slave
to tech.
Training and
advice in how
and why and
when to use
would be FAB!!
I am not using
social media as of
now but believe
they will be
supportive tool as
a researcher.
I rely
heavily on
sharing
sites such
as Dropbox
I'm quite
comfortable in
using the ones I
need
These tools are
not effective for
obtaining or
disseminating
research material

7. Conclusion
 Important role for
libraries/librarian
 Digital literacy
sessions focusing on
social networking
tools should be
offered
 Tailor them to the
needs of PhD students