CM Seminar – Robby Ratan, “Examining AI-Infused Pedagogy in Non-Technical Undergrad Classes: AI-vatars, Book-bots, and CompAInions, Oh My”

Presented by: Rabindra (Robby) Ratan

Description: “Novel communication technologies have always presented challenges and opportunities in education. Since my days as a wee assistant professor of media and information, I have embraced this chaos. In 2015, I implemented avatar-based discussion forums into my classes to study the Proteus effect (i.e., the phenomenon of avatar characteristics influencing user behavior). In 2022, I began teaching my undergraduate classes in virtual reality to study how this medium enhances classroom engagement. Most recently, I have been experimenting with AI-integrated assignments, such as personalized AI-vatar learning assistants, a book-bot that supports my flipped-classroom model, and AI companions that help students learn longitudinal research methods. This talk will share some early research findings on these pedagogical AIpproaches, highlighting potential contributions to theories of media psychology and the broader scholarship of teaching and learning (SOTL).”

Bio: Rabindra (Robby) Ratan (PhD, USC Annenberg; MA/BA, Stanford University) is Professor and AT&T Endowed Chair at Michigan State University’s Department of Media and Information, where he directs the Social and Psychological Approaches to Research on Technology-Interaction Effects (SPARTIE) Lab. His research examines how media technologies (e.g., avatars, AI, XR) influence meaningful outcomes (e.g., learning, well-being) across societal contexts (e.g., education, health, industry), with particular focus on avatar-mediated communication, human-AI interaction, teaching with VR and AI, and the Proteus effect (i.e., avatar characteristics influencing user behaviors). He has published over 85 peer-reviewed articles and his first book, Avatars: What they are and why they matter, is forthcoming in late 2026.

Hosted by: Professor Katherine Isbister

When: Monday, November 3, 2025 from 12:30PM to 1:30PM

Location: 

IN-PERSON @ UCSC Main Campus, E2-280.

Viewing room @ SVC 3212.

LUNCH WILL BE PROVIDED AT BOTH LOCATIONS! Faculty and students are highly encouraged to attend.

Zoom info:

https://ucsc.zoom.us/j/98277318572?pwd=sv92ivYkB6OjhHrAORcMh5oPHFv8kt.1
Meeting ID: 982 7731 8572
Passcode: 235127