What Is AI, Really?: Reflections and Recent Research on Human–AI Communication

07 Nov 2025 (Fri)

On November 3, 2025, Prof. Mike YAO delivered a professional lecture entitled, “What Is AI, Really?: Reflections and Recent Research on Human–AI Communication”. Prof. YAO is jointly appointed as Professor of Digital Media in the College of Media and Professor of Business Administration in the Gies College of Business at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. His research focuses on the intersection of emerging technologies and social behavior, with particular emphasis on human–AI interaction, immersive media, and the dynamics of digitally mediated communication.



In the seminar, Prof. YAO shared recent work from the Media Technology and Social Behavior (MTSB) research group exploring what “AI” really is when examined through the lens of human communication. Rather than treating AI simply as a tool or an extension of Information systems, his research investigates its different ontologies: AI as technology, media, social actors, and infrastructure, to understand how people make sense of, interact with, and are shaped by intelligent technologies. Drawing on several ongoing projects in his lab, Prof. YAO discussed how these perspectives challenge traditional models of communication and open new questions about agency, meaning, and social connection in an AI-mediated world.

Nearly 40 participants attended, including faculty, doctoral students, and scholars. Following the seminar, Prof. YAO led an engaging discussion with graduate students, sharing insights from his research journey and sustaining a stimulating intellectual atmosphere throughout the event.