Usage of WhatsApp and Voice Calls (Phone Call): Preference of Polytechnic Students in Ghana

Abstract

With the surge of social network and more improving technological messaging functionalities, Polytechnic students in Ghana are more likely to rely on WhatsApp application for their day-to-day communications than mobile voice calls (phone calls). Cost efficiency, effective, quick and easier mode of communication, confidential, and convenient usage are some of the major factors which might influence their decision. However, not much is known empirically of students’ preference of voice calls and WhatsApp applications. Thus, the objective of the study was to empirically investigate students’ preference of WhatsApp and voice calls in Ghana. A cross sectional approach was used from January to June, 2014. Both primary data and secondary data were used. A structured questionnaire was employed to collect data from a sample of 600 students in three polytechnic institutions in Ghana. Descriptive statistics- tables, pie charts and percentages were used to present the data. The empirical evidence suggests that students’ attention is switching to WhatsApp application as their most preferred mode of their day-to-day communications than it is to mobile voice calls. But it was observed that the kind of the situation and circumstances relating to the communication determines what choice they make. Most prefer using phone calls for situations where they need to be more expressive and effective, as well as in their formal communications. However, in communications involving peers and mates such as to say hi, sharing of academic materials etc., WhatsApp emerged as a preferred choice. It was found that, although WhatsApp is making in-roads per students’ preference, voice calls still remain more important to them as they rely on it at certain situations and circumstances for their communication.