Understanding preprint sharing on Sciencepaper Online from the perspectives of motivation and trust

Abstract

The objective of this study is to explore preprint sharing in the context of quick sharing of scientific papers through the lens of knowledge sharing, which is largely overlooked by the previous literature. In this study, we developed a research model from the perspectives of motivation and trust basing on the Theory of Reasoned Action. We carried out an online survey of authors who had contributed their preprints to the Chinese preprint system, Sciencepaper Online. The results showed that trust is the key determinant of Attitude towards preprint sharing, while Anticipated Extrinsic Reward impacts both Image and Sense of Self-Worth which further impact Attitude. Attitude and Subjective Norm both impact Intention. These findings and their implications for theory and practice are discussed. We believe that the current research usefully contributes to the theoretical development of the structural model concerning quick sharing of preprints both in the specific context of Sciencepaper Online and other quick sharing platforms more generally, and also provide useful insights into and helpful suggestions for Chinese preprint sharing practice.