I’m Kai, a PhD student in human-computer interaction at the University of Washington. I research how technologies can be anti-distraction and pro-meaningfulness.
Colleagues and I recently studied the “junk food” effect: the idea that some smartphone use is highly engaging in-the-moment, but ultimately devoid of meaning. Participants reported that entertainment and passive social media were low in meaning, while active communication, information-seeking, and productivity all rated higher. We also found that it wasn’t just which apps were being used, but how they were being used. So chatting with close friends on Facebook Messenger was seen as meaningful, while browsing the newsfeed was not.
I also started a separate thread in the forums here on how academics can unite around a research agenda in support of humane tech. See here for more.
I’m thrilled that this community exists and hope to connect with many of you!