Digital Media
At the professorship Digital Media, we research the use, transformation, and impact of digital media. Our research focuses on the integration of digital media and communication in everyday life, on diffusion patterns of media innovations, and on the digital transformation of society. We examine how digital media infrastructures influence public communication and knowledge acquisition – and how these processes are shaped by politics, organisations and individuals. Special emphasis is placed on the topics of digital well-being, social inequality, privacy, and methodological development. This knowledge serves to advance practice-oriented research: authorities and NGOs are striving to promote positive digitalisation, media companies aim to optimise their services, and individuals seek to strengthen their digital self-determination. From a societal perspective, this research also supports democratic governance by examining how digital media both require and facilitate access to resources.
In focus
Digital well-being model
Our research is underpinned by the theoretical and methodological development of the concept of digital well-being. The model makes it possible to integrate a wide range of individual studies on digital media with respect to their impact on individual and societal well-being. The digital well-being model aims to establish theoretically and empirically validated links between three levels: media use and digitalisation, short-term positive and negative outcomes, and long-term well-being.
Digital PATHS: Digital Practices and Adolescent Thriving in Switzerland
Digital media shape adolescents' everyday lives – with opportunities and risks for well-being. A longitudinal mobile-diary study reveals which digital practices affect them how, when, and where.
Evolving Digital Information Practices: How Emerging Adults Use AI Tools (DIP)
The uptake of chatbots marks the beginning of a profound transformation of everyday media use – at a time when disinformation is perceived as a critical threat. The project unpacks the information repertoires of emerging adults under these conditions, how they are socially structured, what role AI plays, and how this is connected to personal resources.
UNICEF Study: risk perception and sexting behaviour among young people
In collaboration with the UNICEF Global Office of Research and Foresight, this study analysed data from 13 countries in Eastern and Southern Africa as well as in Southeast Asia. By analysing the internet use of approximately 10,000 adolescents, the study revealed that 7% sent naked photos or videos of themselves in the past year. A higher degree of risk perception reduces the likelihood of adolescents engaging in sexting. Understanding the psychological factors of sexting can contribute to the development of risk-reducing communication interventions.
Projects
Research-based teaching
The research conducted by the professorship Digital Media is integrated into teaching at both the Bachelor's and Master’s level as well as in continuing education programmes. We equip students with a social science perspective to critically analyse the digitalisation of communication and society, helping them to derive insights to shape their own professional practice. We place particular focus on the application of scientific methods and the communication of data-driven findings on digital media use.
