Visiting scholar to discuss influence of social media

KALAMAZOO—A visiting scholar will take an in-depth look at persuasion in social media when he presents a free, public lecture Thursday, Nov. 1, at Western Michigan University.

Dr. Joseph B. Walther, professor of communication and of telecommunication, information studies and media at Michigan State University, will speak on "Social Influence in Social Media" from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. in 1920 Sangren Hall.

During his talk, Walther will explore implicit persuasion in a variety of social media, including Facebook, YouTube and Amazon.

Dr. Joseph B. Walther

Walther focuses his teaching and research on the dynamics of computer-mediated communication and the Internet in interpersonal relationships, work groups, social support and educational systems.

He is nationally and internationally recognized for pioneering research on the social and interpersonal dynamics of computer-mediated interaction. His contributions include social information processing theory and the hyperpersonal model of computer-mediated interaction.

Previously, Walther has held appointments in information technology, psychology, and education and social policy at universities in the United States and England. He also was chair of the Organizational Communication and Information Systems division of the Academy of Management, and the Communication and Technology division of the International Communication Association.

For more information about Walther's visit, contact Dr. Autumn P. Edwards, WMU associate professor of communication, at @email or (269) 387-0358.