Biography

Dr. Jihyun Kim is an Associate Professor in the Nicholson School of Communication and Media at the University of Central Florida. Dr. Kim’s research is focused on the effects and implications of new technology for meaningful outcomes. Her research examines the role of technology not only as a tool but also as a digital agent, which is centered on human-machine communication. In particular, she is interested in social and psychological impacts of AI (artificial intelligence) from a communication perspective. Her research is primarily driven by the theoretical understanding of presence, especially social presence.

Dr. Kim’s research has been published in reputable international Journals such as Computers in Human Behavior, Telematics and Informatics, International Journal of Human-Computer Interaction, Journal of Medical Internet Research, JMIR: Serious Games, Journal of Media Psychology, and Mass Communication and Society. Also, she edited a book titled “Technology and health: Promoting attitude and behavior change” published in Elsevier, an internationally recognized publisher. Dr. Kim’s research has been presented at international and national conferences and earned several top paper awards. Additionally, Dr. Kim’s research has been featured in a variety of media outlets. To learn more about her research publications, visit her Google Scholar page.

Research Interests

• Social and psychological effects and implications of new technology (e.g., AI, digital games, social media) for meaningful outcomes (e.g., health, education, media enjoyment)
• Human-machine communication
• Human-AI communication
• Theoretical notion of presence (especially, social presence) in a technology-mediated environment
• Health promotion/prevention via new technology