Professor Mario Haim Combines Communication Science and IT at LMU
New professor Mario Haim researches computational communication at LMU Munich, identifying a paradigm shift in his discipline driven by algorithms and big data.
Professor Mario Haim at Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München (LMU) is merging communication science with information technology to study the influence of algorithms and big data on contemporary communication. His work addresses emerging questions in the field, such as the impact of constant smartphone use on well-being and the role of digital platforms in news dissemination.
Haim's research delves into how algorithms shape public communication, examining the "platformization" of news. He highlights how individuals, through curated online environments, can develop a skewed perception of public opinion, linking this to classical theories like the spiral of silence, amplified by algorithmic content distribution.
A significant focus of Haim's research is methodological advancement. He argues that traditional survey methods are insufficient for studying digital communication behavior, as individuals often misjudge their own usage patterns. The analysis of vast datasets requires new approaches, including automated observation, tracking technologies, and machine learning.
Haim describes a methodological "paradigm shift" occurring in communication and social sciences. He emphasizes the need for developing new standards and ethical guidelines for these evolving research practices. Challenges in accessing data are being addressed through collaborations with the public, involving data donations compliant with EU regulations.