Virtual People—Virtual Interactions: Psychological and Social Dimensions of Avatar Engagement

Event Date: Apr 30, 2025 (Wednesday)

Time: 12:10 PM - 1:30 PM, Apr 30, 2025

Location: Computer Center, B1 Lecture Hall

Registration Link: https://moltke.nccu.edu.tw/Registration/registration.do?action=conferenceInfo&conferenceID=X24765

Organizer: GCIT 全創碩

Contact Person: Ms. Rao, Ext. 69117, Tel: 0229393091

E-mail: peichiuu@g.nccu.edu.tw

Introduction:

Speaker's Name: Makana Chock

Current Position: Professor, Newhouse School of Public Communications, Syracuse University

Lecture Introduction:

How do we relate to digital beings that aren’t quite human—but feel like they are? Drawing on communication and psychological theories, we’ll examine the psychological and social factors through which avatars are perceived and evaluated. We’ll also discuss how well-designed avatars can build trust and even persuade users—sometimes more effectively than real people. Special emphasis is placed on the impact of language use, behavioral norms, and emotional expression on message persuasiveness and credibility. Join us for a deep dive into the surprising ways we treat virtual people like real ones.

Speaker: Makana Chock

Professor of Communication and Director of the Extended Reality Lab at the S. I. Newhouse School of Public Communications, Syracuse University

Host: Trisha T.C. Lin (Distinguished Professor, College of Communication and International College of Innovation (joint appointment), Director of GCIT Program)

★ The event provides refreshments for registered attendees.