VECTOR Lab: Researching Social Media Use

This project is part of an ongoing UX research study at OSU’s VECTOR Lab focused on social media use and decision making. I worked as a UX research assistant responsible for collecting primary research data through interviews, surveys, and think aloud studies with participants. My role emphasized careful observation, consistent methodology, and accurate documentation in alignment with ethical research standards. While analysis and results are still in progress, this experience strengthened my research execution skills and my understanding of user behavior in complex digital environments.
Project Overview
This ongoing research project investigates how people engage with social media and how these interactions influence their emotional and psychological health. My role centered on ensuring high-quality participant experiences and precise data collection, supporting a large team of researchers under the guidance of Dr. Jesse Fox.
My Role
  • Guided participants through instructions and consent forms.
  • Conducted semi-structured interviews exploring motivations, triggers, and emotional responses.
  • Facilitated think-aloud tasks to observe participant behavior in real time.
  • Administered post-session surveys.
  • Maintained organized documentation and files in collaboration with a team of a dozen research assistants.
  • Communicated observations and process updates to Dr. Jesse Fox promptly and effectively.
Process
  • Rigorous data collection: taking detailed notes, administering surveys, and supporting structured observations.
  • Documentation: organizing files, maintaining participant records securely, following OSU IRB protocols.
  • Team communication: coordinating with a dozen other research assistants and the lead researcher.
  • Human-centered facilitation: leading participants through sensitive topics with care and empathy.
  • Ethical research: CITI-certified in human subjects protection and responsible conduct of research.
Research Methods
  • Interviews: semi-structured questions about social media use and emotional experiences.
  • ‍Think-aloud tasks: observing participant behavior as they navigated Instagram.
  • ‍Surveys: capturing self-reported reflections on use patterns and emotional effects.
  • Fictional example quote (for demonstration purposes): “Sometimes I find myself scrolling Instagram without meaning to. I feel like I unconsciously open the app when I'm bored.”
Collaboration & Teamwork
  • Coordinated with a dozen research assistants to ensure consistent note-taking and data integrity.
  • Communicated efficiently with Dr. Jesse Fox, escalating questions or clarifications as needed.
  • Supported a smooth participant experience while balancing multiple sessions and team logistics.
    Ongoing Study and
    Ethical Considerations
    What This Experience Built
    • Comfort facilitating research sessions with real users
    • Attention to bias, consistency reminders, and protocol fidelity
    • Strong note taking and documentation habits
    • Ability to observe patterns without jumping to conclusions
    The study is still ongoing. Data has not been synthesized or published. All participant data is confidential. Portfolio visuals are limited to drawings and graphics to protect the privacy of participants and the integrity of the research.

    Reflection

    Working at the VECTOR Lab showed me how much I thrive at the intersection of people and process. I saw how researchers bridge data and humanity without letting bias interfere, and it confirmed that this is a path I want to continue. Guiding participants, asking questions, and making them feel heard was energizing. Collaborating with other assistants and Dr. Jesse Fox reinforced the value of clear communication and attention to detail. This experience strengthened my curiosity, empathy, and drive to help teams understand complex human behavior.

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