DMAIL faculty include researchers from top institutions who are available in the lab to help with research problems and answer questions, according to the College of Arts and Sciences announcement<\/a>.<\/p>\n \u201cWe aim to be a central hub for anyone interested in researching digital media or AI tools\u2014anything from commercials and PSAs to AI chatbots,\u201d said Rachel Riggs Achorn, assistant professor of public relations and DMAIL lab director.<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n Cutting-edge technology & research tools<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n The lab hosts specialized technology and equipment for advanced media analysis, according to the DMAIL website<\/a>.<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n Technology and equipment include Meta Quest 3 virtual reality headsets, which researchers and students can use to study immersive media environments, 360-degree videos, and user experiences.<\/p>\n For visual attention tracking, the lab features Tobii Pro Fusion eye-tracking technology paired with Tobii Pro Lab software. This setup allows researchers to record and analyze eye movements while participants interact with online media, offering valuable insights into information processing, decision-making, and visual engagement.<\/p>\n DMAIL also provides dial-testing technology, enabling participants to record continuous feedback on a 0\u2013100 scale using remote dials while viewing content. This method captures real-time emotional and cognitive reactions to media stimuli, reducing reliance on post-study recall.<\/p>\n Current projects & opportunities<\/p>\n Since the lab\u2019s initial planning, faculty members have secured funding, acquired cutting-edge technology, and launched initial research initiatives.<\/p>\n Two major projects are currently under way, according to the DMAIL website<\/a>:<\/p>\n \u201cBringing the Saltmarsh Home<\/a>:\u201d Led by Riggs Achorn and funded by UNF\u2019s Coastal and Marine Biology Program, this project develops 360-degree landscape and soundscape videos of local salt marshes to study their effects on nature appreciation and mental health. DMAIL faculty are actively seeking students and collaborators to join research projects, said Riggs Achorn. While formal internships are not yet established, lab leadership plans to offer structured student opportunities as operations expand.<\/p>\n \u201cIf you have a research question related to how people interact with media, we encourage you to reach out\u2014we would love to help,\u201d said Riggs Achorn.<\/p>\n To learn more about the lab, inquire about research resources, or get involved, contact the team at [email\u00a0protected]<\/a> or visit Room 2029 in Building 14D following the Oct. 19 opening.<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Hallway-sign-450x600.jpg\")
Ashlyn Blalock<\/a><\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Door-sign-450x600.jpg\")
Ashlyn Blalock<\/a>
UNF\u2019s new Digital Media and AI Innovation Lab (DMAIL) is being unveiled on Oct. 19 at 10:30 a.m. in Building 14D, Room 2029.<\/p>\n
\n\u201cGenAI Content Impacts on Donor Intentions<\/a>:\u201d Led by Wanzhu Shi and funded by The Community Foundation for Northeast Florida, this study examines how AI-generated video content influences donor perceptions and charitable giving behaviors.<\/p>\n