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PhD Researcher, Department of Sociology, University of Cambridge
Richard Dent is a PhD researcher in the Department of Sociology. His research into digital society examines the following areas:
- Social interactions on digital platforms
- The sharing economy & channel shift
- Online social capital
- Virtual assistants (social bots) for mental health and education.
Local social networking websites, like Nextdoor.com, are online communities where local people connect for a variety of social interactions, both online and offline. These sites are beginning to replace traditional community venues such as schools, churches and community centres. This is a type of 'channel shift' may have serious implications for society when individuals without competent digital social skills are left behind.
Richard is also developing a methodology for creating human-like virtual assistants (social bots) which can offer a range of services. This includes alleviating mental health issues caused by social isolation and improving digital literacy. His approach focuses on improving non-essential 'bonding' interactions between users and virtual assistants.
Richard has a professional background in public relations, project management and science communication. Previous clients include: European Commission funded Energy Union, The Tree from Global Campaign Climate Action & Leonardo DiCaprio’s The 11th Hour documentary and James Cameron's Avatar Alliance Foundation.
