Jakarta, October 30, 2026 – Human interaction and digital trust have become important issues in communication studies amid the rapid development of artificial intelligence (AI). These topics were explored by Prof. Walton from INTI International University, Malaysia, in a presentation entitled “Research Communication in the Age of AI: Understanding Human Interaction and Digital Trust.”
In his presentation, Prof. Walton discussed the relationship between AI advancements and the dynamics of human communication. The use of AI in various activities, ranging from chatbot conversations and content creation to customer service, has opened up new research opportunities. These include examining how individuals interpret messages, assess information credibility, and develop trust in digital technologies.
Beyond the mere exchange of information, human interaction also involves emotions, cultural contexts, personal experiences, and social relationships. Therefore, AI-mediated communication needs to be examined by taking users’ experiences into account. For instance, AI responses that sound friendly can serve as a research subject to explore how people perceive empathy and emotional connection when interacting with digital systems.
Another equally important aspect is digital trust. Source transparency, disclosure of AI usage, and information accuracy are among the factors that influence audience trust. In this context, critical thinking remains essential to ensure that information is not merely convincing in appearance but is also supported by reliable evidence and credible sources.
For students of the Faculty of Communication Sciences at Universitas Tarumanagara (Fikom Untar), this discussion offers various opportunities to develop communication research relevant to current technological developments. Potential research topics include audience perceptions of AI-generated content, experiences interacting with chatbots, brand message authenticity, and self-disclosure in digital interactions.
Furthermore, the use of AI as a research tool must be accompanied by academic responsibility. Researchers remain accountable for verifying the accuracy of sources, protecting participants’ privacy and data, and carefully interpreting research findings. In this way, technology can be utilized effectively without compromising ethical principles and academic integrity.
Through this discussion, Fikom Untar students are encouraged to view AI not merely as a technological advancement but also as a communication phenomenon that presents various research opportunities and challenges. An understanding of human interaction, message interpretation, and digital trust is expected to equip students with the knowledge and critical perspective needed to produce communication research that is relevant, insightful, and responsible in the age of AI. (SA/FD)