Media Consumption Research Study
The Wharton Neuroscience Initiative is conducting a study looking at media viewing habits. Healthy adults ages 30-60 are invited to participate and help us learn more about how people process different types of media content.
Fast Facts
Generally Healthy Adults Ages 30-60
Normal or Corrected Vision
Compensation Provided
Conducted in Philadelphia, PA
Study Background
What happens in your brain when you’re watching TV? How about your phone? You can help us discover the differences.
In the modern world, humans are inundated with information and media almost constantly. Previous research has shown that people engage in information-seeking through the devices they have on hand, and that they find new information rewarding. We also know that people often engage in information-seeking and media processing from multiple sources (such as a phone or television). However, there is limited research examining the brain activities associated with processing information across multiple sources – particularly among different age groups.
In this research study, we will use eye tracking and continuous measurements of physiological arousal and focus (such as heart rate, EEG, and skin conductance) to better understand how individuals process media from young adulthood into old age. This research will help us to understand how and when physiological processing impacts how you receive media content, as well as your attitudes and opinions about it, and whether this processing varies at different stages of life.
Study Background
What happens in your brain when you’re watching TV? How about your phone? You can help us discover the differences.
In the modern world, humans are inundated with information and media almost constantly. Previous research has shown that people engage in information-seeking through the devices they have on hand, and that they find new information rewarding. We also know that people often engage in information-seeking and media processing from multiple sources (such as a phone or television). However, there is limited research examining the brain activities associated with processing information across multiple sources – particularly among different age groups.
In this research study, we will use eye tracking and continuous measurements of physiological arousal and focus (such as heart rate, EEG, and skin conductance) to better understand how individuals process media from young adulthood into old age. This research will help us to understand how and when physiological processing impacts how you receive media content, as well as your attitudes and opinions about it, and whether this processing varies at different stages of life.
Additional Information
We are interested in understanding how people process different types of media content, such as advertisements and videos, through different modalities (sources) like television or a smartphone.
You may qualify for the study if you meet the following criteria.
Inclusion Criteria:
- 30-60 years old
- Generally healthy
- Have normal vision, or corrected vision (contacts preferred if correction is needed)
If you are eligible and choose to participate, you will come in to our lab at the University of Pennsylvania. Upon arrival, you will review and complete the consent form and then complete several questionnaires.
Then, you will get set up with a comfortable EEG headband (no gel) and eye tracking glasses before watching media content (like advertisements and videos) either on a television screen or an iPhone. After you have watched the content, you will fill out more surveys. That’s all!
Yes, eligible participants will receive $50 for their time. Payment is issued via ClinCard by the end of the day you participate.
There is no cost for you to participate in our research study.
