Unit 5 - Innovation-Decision Process and Diffusion Model

Discussion

Once you have completed the readings for this Unit, address Questions #1 and #2 on the Blackboard Discussion Board and and in your Course Journal. To participate in the Discussion Board, follow these steps:

• Click on Blackboard's Discussion Board and scroll down to find, read, and participate in this week's Forum.
• Click on the Forum title for this week (Unit 5 - Innovation-Decision Process and Diffusion Model).
• Add a new response/thread to this Forum. Please post your initial response/thread by Wednesday, February 11. Read and respond to posted threads by Saturday, February 14. In responding to posted threads you may want to build on their comments with your own experiences and expertise or address the following questions: Do you agree or disagree with others' statements? Why?
• I will assess your contributions on their relevance, thoughtfulness, and degree to which they reflect an engagement with the reading.

Discussion Questions

1. What is the relationship between the innovation-decision process (adoption process) and the diffusion process?
2. This question relates to the role of adopter categories in the diffusion process. Rogers views "early adopters" as important role models within a particular group or as "local missionar(ies) for speeding the diffusion process." Other researchers have noted the importance of the role of early adopters as opinion leaders who have widespread social visibility primarily through the media. In your opinion, which "type" of early adopter plays a more important role in the diffusion process? Why?