Uncovering inter-specialty knowledge communication using author citation networks

Ruimin Ma () and Erjia Yan
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Ruimin Ma: Shanxi University
Erjia Yan: Drexel University

Scientometrics, 2016, vol. 109, issue 2, No 11, 839-854

Abstract: Abstract Knowledge communication plays a fundamental role in studies of science of science. This paper aims to examine inter-specialty communication patterns within a discipline using author citation networks. Two metrics are designed, including average knowledge flow and average shortest distance. They are used to identify the impact and diffusion characteristics of inter-specialty knowledge communication. We apply these metrics to an empirical data set of Chinese library and information science (CLIS) publications. We find that the two metrics portray different aspects of knowledge communication in CLIS and conclude that indirect paths, the size of specialties, and the communication structure among specialties may lead to the differences.

Keywords: Knowledge communication; Knowledge flow; Shortest distance; Library and information science; Author citation networks (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2016
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DOI: 10.1007/s11192-016-2091-2

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