The introduction of a new technology provides individuals and organizations with a large, unowned, and limitless space for communication and organization. How do individuals use or misuse this space in their decision making? Using online discussion platforms, we will analyze what types of discussions thrive - those with depth of discussion or topical complexity or those with cohesive contours? We’ll ask, are there high status actors who are particularly good at recognizing topic gaps which need new conversations? Using social psychological theories with a large-scale archival dataset, we’ll learn more about the impact of new technologies on group decision-making processes.

The selected student will be co-mentored by a Columbia tenured professor and a current PhD student. Tasks may include data scraping and cleaning; writing, reviewing and testing scripts, identifying key predictive variables; and summarizing key results depending on interest and background.

One selected candidate will receive a stipend via the DSI Scholars program. Amount is subject to available funding.

Faculty Advisor

  • Professor: Sheena Iyengar
  • Department/School: Columbia Business School - Management Department
  • Location: Uris Hall, 7th Floor
  • Considered one of the world’s leading experts on choice, Iyengar’s seminal research focused on the psychology of choice and decision-making, addressing how humans face challenges in a world where they are inundated with options. Iyengar’s current research has expanded to examine how we construct our selves and social networks, and how we experience authenticity in an increasingly technological and uncertain world.

Project Timeline

  • Earliest starting date: 3/1/2020
  • End date: 5/15/2020
  • Number of hours per week of research expected during Spring 2020: ~10

Candidate requirements

  • Skill sets: Python, web scraping, experience with large datasets preferred
  • Student eligibility: freshman, sophomore, junior, senior, master’s
  • International students on F1 or J1 visa: eligible