Twitter's Role in the Formation of Public Knowledge About COVID-19

Abstract

This article analyzed the role of Twitter in the formation of public knowledge regarding COVID-19. During the pandemic, public knowledge became essential to take concrete actions for the prevention and handling of the situation. The authors used a qualitative descriptive method to describe in general terms information related to the pandemic that they found on Twitter. The results showed that Twitter is an effective communication network to provide public information. Central accounts can be created on Twitter that can act as information centers. As such, the public not only gains more diverse knowledge but can also participate in active virtual discussions. The authors thus view Twitter as a helpful form of collaborative learning to spread awareness about COVID-19.
 Keywords: public knowledge, Twitter, COVID-19, communication network