Current Research

The following is a list of ongoing research activities at the Media lab:

Adult Lifestyle Project - This research deals with the lifestyles of young adults and examines the effectiveness of media messages. If you need more information about this project, please go to the News & Events page. If you wish to participate in this project, please fill out this short form.

Hypertext and Cognition - This research investigates the different hypertext formats and examines their effects on human cognitive information processing. The results of this research will be useful in defining the best way to present information on the internet, so as to achieve efficient information access.

Human-Computer Interaction - This research involves the development of a computer software agent that can interact adaptively with young adults to promote healthier lifestyles as opposed to drinking or smoking. The unique aspect of this project is that we are trying to incorporate existing communication research findings (including Dr. Lee's research) of persuasive communication into this software agent, so that it can interact with and learn from an individual to produce the best known communication strategies tailored for that individual. This research idea is based on the most primitive software agent called 'Eliza', which was developed quite some time ago. For purposes of this research, another much advanced agent called 'Jane' developed right here in the Media lab will be used, which will have the ability to interact more intelligently with an individual.

For further information about ongoing research, please contact the Medial Lab, and we will be happy to answer your questions.