Still Life
Commencement across Penn State: Spring 2012
Spring commencement 2012 under way
Penn State, Moroccan students problem-solve together
Finals Week Spring Semester 2012
Children explore career options at University Park
Painting the Lines at Beaver Stadium
Did They Get It Right? - RedTails
Iconic Penn State elm taken down over spring break 2012
We ... are Penn State (December 19, 2011)
Disease stricken matching elm tree slated for removal
Penn State's creamery, from the cow to the cone
Although many Internet services and sites allow customization and personalization that make visits online more efficient and enjoyable, two recent studies found that privacy concerns limit how both the most technology-savvy users and those with less expertise utilize opportunities to customize or personalize their online experiences. Results of the research by Penn State Distinguished Professor S. Shyam Sundar and Sampada S. Marathe of the Media Effects Laboratory in the College of Communications appear in the current issue of Human Communication Research. (more)
Helen Kollar-McArthur, a Penn State student majoring in women's studies, doesn't have to worry about poor reception, dropped calls or overage charges. That's because she doesn't have a cell phone. In a mobile journalist video, she defends her decision and asks a Penn State communications expert to explain research examining the disconnection some feel when they call and text-message rather than communicate face to face. (more)
Research Unplugged begins its 13th season at noon today (Oct. 14), in the gallery of the Penn State Downtown Theatre Centre on Allen Street, State College. The series brings researchers from diverse fields into a casual forum open to the entire community to discuss their field in plain language, with an emphasis on inclusive conversation. The event is free and open to the public. (more)
As the ever-growing network of digital media speeds through the start of the 21st century, adding "interactive" options at an almost dizzying pace, a group of Penn State communications researchers plans to evaluate how all that interactivity really affects those who consume the media. (more)
"Shows like American Idol have completely changed how audiences watch television," according to S. Shyam Sundar, distinguished professor of communications. The real change, he said, came when the audience became part of the production. "It's the tantalizing possibility of shaping the show that is offered to viewers week in and week out." (more)
The interactive look and feel of a corporate Web site could help shape positive perceptions about the organization if the site includes a likeable design and features that engage the target audience, especially job seekers, according to Penn State media researchers. (more)
Video games that energize players and induce a positive mood could also enhance creativity, according to Penn State media researchers. However, the study also finds that players who were not highly energized and had a negative mood, registered the highest creativity. (more)
