IU Incubator Impression Management through Synthetic and Digital Human Avatars

This incubator project seeks to understand how synthetic avatars and digital human avatars impact learner engagement, learning outcomes, and educational experiences in online learning environments. By introducing an entirely new framework, Avatars Developing Learning Interactions Meaningfully (ADLIM), our research aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of the effectiveness of two distinct avatar types, i.e., synthetic (fictional) avatars and digital human avatars with the latter representing real academics or experts. Central to our investigation is the concept of impression management, exploring how avatars can be strategically designed and implemented to shape learners’ perceptions and interactions within digital learning spaces.

The following research questions incorporate thinking around impression management emphasising the strategic role avatars play in shaping perceptions and interactions (deliberate actions) within online learning environments:

1. How do synthetic avatars and digital human avatars differ from humans in impact on student engagement in online learning environments using the lens of impression management?

2. In what ways do the two avatar types influence the learning outcomes of students relative to a human?

3. How do synthetic and digital human avatars compare with humans, as tools of impression management, affect the educational experiences of learners, particularly in terms of perceived relevance, satisfaction, and the interplay of motivation, inspiration, and curiosity?

4. Considering the role of impression management, how does the incorporation of curiosity into the learning experience, influenced by human or avatar interactions, enhance engagement and educational outcomes?

5. What is the comparative effectiveness of human lecturers versus avatars in student engagement?