UROP Project
Analyzing AI Use in Popular Culture
artificial intelligence, culture, qualitative content analysis, media studies, social construction
Research Mentor: Dr. Britney Cotton,
Department, College, Affiliation: Interdisciplinary Social Sciences, Social Sciences and Public Policy
Contact Email: bcotton@fsu.edu
Research Assistant Supervisor (if different from mentor):
Research Assistant Supervisor Email:
Faculty Collaborators:
Faculty Collaborators Email:
Department, College, Affiliation: Interdisciplinary Social Sciences, Social Sciences and Public Policy
Contact Email: bcotton@fsu.edu
Research Assistant Supervisor (if different from mentor):
Research Assistant Supervisor Email:
Faculty Collaborators:
Faculty Collaborators Email:
Looking for Research Assistants: Yes
Number of Research Assistants: 2
Relevant Majors: Open to all majors but may be particularly suitable for ISS, Sociology, Anthropology, or Media & Communication Studies majors.
Project Location: On FSU Main Campus
Research Assistant Transportation Required: Remote or In-person: In-person
Approximate Weekly Hours: 5-10 hrs per week, Flexible schedule (Combination of business and outside of business. TBD between student and research mentor.)
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link:
Number of Research Assistants: 2
Relevant Majors: Open to all majors but may be particularly suitable for ISS, Sociology, Anthropology, or Media & Communication Studies majors.
Project Location: On FSU Main Campus
Research Assistant Transportation Required: Remote or In-person: In-person
Approximate Weekly Hours: 5-10 hrs per week, Flexible schedule (Combination of business and outside of business. TBD between student and research mentor.)
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link:
- Day: Wednesday, September 2
Start Time: 1:00
End Time: 1:30
Zoom Link: https://fsu.zoom.us/j/96040400515 - Day: Thursday, September 3
Start Time: 1:00
End Time: 1:30
Zoom Link: https://fsu.zoom.us/j/94088547052 - Day: Friday, September 4
Start Time: 1:00
End Time: 1:30
Zoom Link: https://fsu.zoom.us/j/97690722348
Project Description
This project examines the role of AI-generated content, particularly images, within popular culture. It seeks to analyze the prevalence, characteristics, and potential societal impacts of increasing exposure to AI-generated media. As these technologies become more integrated into everyday life, understanding how they shape perception, representation, and cultural norms is increasingly important.The research will involve collecting and analyzing data from a range of media sources, alongside qualitative content analysis to identify recurring patterns and themes. These findings will be interpreted through relevant social theory to better understand the broader cultural and societal implications of AI-generated content.
Because the project is in its early stages, students will play an active role in shaping its direction. They will contribute to the development of research questions, help define the study’s focus, and participate in collaborative analysis. This structure provides an opportunity for undergraduate students to engage meaningfully in the research process from its inception, fostering critical thinking, intellectual ownership, and collaborative skills.
Research Tasks: Students will help develop the research design for this project and assist with literature reviews, data collection, and analysis.
Skills that research assistant(s) may need: No experience required, but interest in the topic is preferred. Advanced critical thinking and writing skills would be a valuable asset throughout this project, but the mentor is willing to help develop necessary research skills.
Mentoring Philosophy
I view mentorship as a cyclical and collaborative process in which both mentor and mentee learn from one another. Undergraduate researchers bring valuable perspectives and insights, and I aim to foster an environment in which they feel confident sharing their ideas while also developing the ability to receive and apply constructive feedback.Because this project is in its early stages, I am especially interested in allowing students’ individual interests to help shape the direction of the research. Together, we will build a collaborative project that reflects the shared goals and motivations of both mentor and mentees, encouraging a sense of ownership and intellectual investment.
Open and consistent communication is central to this process. I encourage students to ask questions, express their perspectives, and seek guidance throughout the mentorship. We will meet regularly over the course of the semester to discuss progress, exchange ideas, and reflect on our work, fostering a supportive and engaging environment.
Ultimately, my goal is to create a mentorship experience in which both my students and I grow intellectually and professionally, learning from one another through a shared commitment to inquiry and discovery.