International Journal of Education and Development using ICT

International Journal of Education and Development using ICT > Vol. 21, No. 3 (2025)

Exploring the Effectiveness of WhatsApp as a Knowledge Management Tool in Accounting Education

Paschal Kpimekuu Boruzie, University of Eastern Finland
Emmanuel Awuni Kolog, University of Ghana
Jarkko Suhonen, University of Eastern Finland, Jeonsuu

Abstract
Emerging technologies in accounting education are crucial for equipping recent graduates and early-career professionals with the skills necessary to achieve organizational success. This study explores the effectiveness of WhatsApp as a knowledge management tool among undergraduate accounting students in Ghana. While studies have examined WhatsApp utilisation in higher education, this study focuses specifically on its application in accounting education. Grounded in Social Constructivism Theory, this study provides insights into students’ perceptions, benefits, and challenges of using WhatsApp for learning accounting. Data from semi-structured interviews and focus groups were thematically analyzed using a qualitative approach. The findings revealed that, although WhatsApp facilitates real-time interaction and collaborative learning, the platform faces limitations in supporting the specialized needs of accounting education, including handling intricate financial transactions. Furthermore, the informal nature of WhatsApp limits its utility in explaining complex financial calculations, demanding a structured approach for effective use. The study proposes a framework to address these challenges, offering structured strategies to integrate WhatsApp effectively into accounting education. This framework emphasizes the best practices for knowledge sharing, maximizing the platform’s benefits while mitigating its shortcomings. These findings contribute to understanding how WhatsApp can complement accounting education and support the learning needs of students in higher education.

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