Julian Koegel

Abstract

This study explored young people's consumption of and willingness to pay for traditional news websites with both uses and gratifications and diffusion of innovation theory as theoretical frames. Based on a survey sample of U.S. college students, it revealed similarities and differences among certain groups of adopters. Regression analyses found when aiming for new young readers and potential payers, news producers should focus on addressing needs for surveillance, understanding, and entertainment, give as many people the opportunity to try out the website, and target particularly e-book readers, but avoid those playing a lot of online games. Social media features, expressed through the observability characteristic, were found to still underperform and currently work best for those already engaged with the sites.

Library of Congress Subject Headings

Electronic newspapers--Psychological aspects; Diffusion of innovations; College students--United States--Attitudes; Electronic newspapers--Access control--United States--Public opinion; Electronic newspapers--Prices--United States--Public opinion

Publication Date

8-2-2013

Document Type

Thesis

Department, Program, or Center

Department of Communication (CLA)

Advisor

Hickerson, Andrea

Advisor/Committee Member

Perotti, Victor

Comments

Note: imported from RIT’s Digital Media Library running on DSpace to RIT Scholar Works. Physical copy available through RIT's The Wallace Library at: PN4833 .K64 2013

Campus

RIT – Main Campus

Plan Codes

COMMTCH-MS

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