Social & Interactive Media Lab
Southern Illinois University Edwardsville
We study the humans who use social platforms, virtual environments, and interactive media — from Twitch streams to VR workplaces. Our work spans computational methods, mixed-method design, and behavioral data science, led by Dr. Alex P. Leith and student researchers at SIUE.
02 — Research Focus
Virtual Environments
We examine social interaction and behavior within immersive digital spaces — from videoconferencing fatigue and team cohesion in virtual meetings to social support in VRChat. Supported by a $1.6M NSF grant on the future of work in VR.
Gameplay & Livestreaming
We study video game players and the communities that form around gameplay on livestreaming platforms like Twitch — investigating parasocial relationships with streamers, avatar identity, and synchronous chat dynamics.
HCI
Our HCI work focuses on designing and evaluating interactive computing systems — from open-source educational software to VR user experience research aimed at enhancing well-being and equity.
03 — Lab Updates
Stay updated with our latest news, papers, and announcements on Medium.