Knowledge sharing in social networksDeveloping a paradigmatic model based on grounded theory

The increasing advances in technology and the emergence of new communication technologies such as social networking websites facilitate the process of knowledge sharing by exploiting the knowledge repositories. Indeed, knowledge is a resource that its value is not only diminished by use but also is increased. The purpose of the current study is to develop a paradigmatic model for knowledge sharing in social networks by utilizing the grounded theory method and qualitative approach. Research question was as follows: what is the appropriate model of knowledge sharing in social networks from Iranian information science specialists' point of view? Accordingly, statistical population was comprised of information science specialists across the country. Theoretical sampling led to a sample size of 15 operating in three different fields, and data gathering tool was structured interviews. We used open coding, axial coding, and selective coding in order to export concepts and categories from interviews. Based on grounded theory, research results were provided in the form of a paradigmatic model which encompasses theoretic features and is capable of predicting the executive process steps.