Social media is transforming societies with the ease in which users can disseminate information online. The usage of WhatsApp in India has exploded in recent years, with more than 400 million users in the country. The popular messaging platform serves an important role in spreading information; whether related to personal matters, COVID-19 updates, politics, or sports.
In a new field experiment, UBC’s Matt Lowe and UCSD’s Gareth Nellis will examine the effects of WhatsApp on knowledge, well-being, and social attitudes in West Bengal, India.
The results – due in summer 2021 – will inform technology policy and illuminate social media’s role in young democracies.
To learn more about the research, click here or call (236) 888-9485