An information dissemination model for scholars on cryptocurrencies

Abstract

This dissertation reports on an information dissemination model for scholars on cryptocurrencies. This disruptive technology of cryptocurrencies acts as a virus that goes viral. The objectives were to review the existing information dissemination models, identify known factors influencing an information dissemination process, and propose an information dissemination model for scholars on cryptocurrencies. The research questions were on why the epidemic models could be used for understanding cryptocurrencies, what were the known factors influencing the relevant information dissemination model, and how could an information spreading model on cryptocurrencies work for scholars. The methods used in this research were survey questionnaire, interview, content analysis and triangulation. Survey questionnaire conducted on two cryptocurrencies companies, while content analysis for ten cryptocurrencies companies and interview five scholars. Triangulation was done to produce the upgraded info dissemination model. A pilot study was run for content analysis and interview. The findings included variables (security system, user interaction, known identities, legal activities and user support) and themes (epidemic form, information dissemination model, virus/viral, spread the information, proposed model of information dissemination, scholars play a big role, information dissemination process, approval for information from scholars and spreading to others) for disseminating information following the SIER epidemic model. An information dissemination model was proposed, and expert opinions were gathered.