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<\/p>\nCollege of Communication and Information (CCI) students Jad and Angel-Amon presented their research at the Florida Undergraduate Research Conference (FURC) in Jacksonville.<\/p>\n
Like many undergraduate researchers, their work began with a simple question. From there, their topics ranged from the digital ethics of the Metaverse to the representation of Black-Canadian hip-hop artists. Both researchers share a common goal: stepping outside the \u201cacademic bubble\u201d to see how their work impacts the real world.<\/p>\n
Jad Dargam, an Information Technology student at CCI\u2019s School of Information (iSchool) expresses how self-representation through virtual avatars is a core driver of identity and engagement in immersive environments.<\/p>\n
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He uses qualitative methodology, conducting a series of interviews to examine how interviewees\u2019 senses of identity, social belonging, and psychological welfare connect to consistent use of the metaverse.<\/p>\n
\u201cInterviewees expressed that avatars were a digital extension of their personal and social identity. Avatars assisted them in expressing themselves, joining specific groups, and projecting an optimal social status,\u201d said Dargam. \u201c\u200bAvatars are a medium for identity experimentation, allowing users to explore alternative versions of themselves without the constraints present in the physical world. They are not just playable characters, but instead a dynamic tool to create accessible interaction and collaboration within the metaverse.\u201d<\/p>\n
Angel-Amon Wildgoose, a CCI Media Communications Studies student, presented qualitative research on Black-Canadian hip-hop artists. She uncovered that Canadian media had anti-Black practices, often suppressing Black voices.<\/p>\n
\u201cAs na\u00efve as that question was, it led me down a path of questioning how the Canadian media communicates Black-Canadian hip-hop artists,\u201d Wildgoose said. \u201cAre Black voices limited, muted, or marginalized, and why? What I have found is that Canadian broadcasting and media groups have used anti-Black practices that were detrimental to the Black community; however, through education centers (UofT HartHouse) and social media, Black-Canadian hip hop artists are securing their own opportunities to tell their stories.\u201d<\/p>\n
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<\/a> \u00a0essential step in building a professional identity and preparing for a successful career in any path.<\/p>\n