Information Changes Everything

Not your Mamdani’s dating site, plus the latest information science updates

University of Michigan School of Information — Fri, 05 Dec 2025 07:00:00 -0500

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Six signs of phone addiction, plus the latest information science updates

University of Michigan School of Information — Fri, 07 Nov 2025 07:00:00 -0500

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AI Darwin Award needs nominees, plus the latest information science updates

University of Michigan School of Information — Fri, 03 Oct 2025 07:00:00 -0400

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World’s first robot Olympics, plus the latest information science updates

University of Michigan School of Information — Fri, 05 Sep 2025 07:00:00 -0400

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Learn more about UMSI’s fully online master’s degree in applied data science: umsi.info/mads

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“Click to Cancel” canceled, plus the latest information science updates

University of Michigan School of Information — Fri, 01 Aug 2025 07:00:00 -0400

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Windows 10 on life support, plus the latest information science updates

University of Michigan School of Information — Thu, 03 Jul 2025 07:00:00 -0400

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UMSI: New minor in human-centered AI

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Learn more about the Master of Applied Data Science online program

This podcast has a companion newsletter, and you can get the monthly email version for free! Subscribe at umsi.info/digest.

AI’s “imminent threat to humanity”, plus the latest information science updates

University of Michigan School of Information — Fri, 06 Jun 2025 07:00:00 -0400

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UMSI Student Hamza Naveed Among 50 Selected Nationwide for Google Summit (UMSI)

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This podcast has a companion newsletter, and you can get the monthly email version for free! Subscribe at umsi.info/digest.

Facebook offers friends-only feed, plus the latest information science updates

University of Michigan School of Information — Fri, 02 May 2025 07:00:00 -0400

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UMSI team’s XR classroom tool takes top prize in campus-wide James A. Kelly Learning Lever competition

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This podcast has a companion newsletter, and you can get the monthly email version for free! Subscribe at umsi.info/digest.

People are funny, but AI is funnier, plus the latest information science updates

University of Michigan School of Information — Fri, 04 Apr 2025 07:00:00 -0400

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Archiving Nation's Wild Heart: UMSI Students Expand Access to Yellowstone's History

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Data scientist couch potatoes, plus the latest information science updates

University of Michigan School of Information — Fri, 07 Mar 2025 07:00:00 -0500

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Global leaders in tech and AI join UMSI Advisory Board

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This podcast has a companion newsletter, and you can get the monthly email version for free! Subscribe at umsi.info/digest.

UMSI Faculty Share Breakthrough Research in Information Science

University of Michigan School of Information — Tue, 19 Nov 2024 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode of "Information Changes Everything", we highlight three lightning talks from UMSI's 2024 Alumni Homecoming Celebration. The talks examine cutting-edge research in the information science field. Rebecca Frank discusses the role of citizen-based nuclear disarmament verification through satellite imagery, emphasizing trust in data. Jiayu Zhou presents his work on using AI and machine learning for Alzheimer's detection and disease progression modeling. Finally, Yan Chen explores how social media promotion can improve job outcomes for underrepresented groups in STEM.
Speakers: Rebecca Frank | umsi, Yan Chen | umsi, Jiayu Zhou | umsi
Headlines: UMSI Alumni Homecoming Celebration, UMSI welcomes new 2024-25 faculty, 2024 UMSI employment reports show versatility of information science degree

Navigating disinformation surrounding elections: Insights from University of Michigan experts

University of Michigan School of Information — Mon, 04 Nov 2024 10:42:05 -0500

In this episode of "Information Changes Everything", University of Michigan professors Barbara McQuade, Ariel Hasell, and Ceren Budak join moderator Christian Sandvig to discuss the challenges of disinformation and misinformation in the digital age. They explore the role of social media platforms, the impact of technology on elections, and potential regulations to address these issues. The conversation also touches on how institutions, platforms, and individuals can work to mitigate the spread of false information and promote a healthier information environment. You can watch the full panel here.
To learn more about voting or registering to vote visit vote.gov.

Rethinking Water Conservation and the Finite Nature of Water

University of Michigan School of Information — Thu, 17 Oct 2024 17:57:42 -0400

In this episode of "Information Changes Everything", we hear from Jon Allan, Senior Academic and Research Program Officer at the University of Michigan School for Environment and Sustainability. Allan challenges the perception of water as an infinite resource, explaining that while the total amount of water remains constant, its usability varies based on its state and location. He discusses the complexities of water management, including decentralized decision-making and the importance of evidence-based policies. Allan also highlights technological opportunities like data analysis and innovation to address water issues and emphasizes the role of storytelling and social cohesion in promoting effective conservation efforts. For the full talk click here
Headlines:
Study: Can mobile apps influence healthy behaviors among people with hypertension? | umsi
Teenage dream: MSI student uncovers adolescence in the archives | umsi
Working from home, kids version

Nathan TeBlunthuis examines how online communities thrive together

University of Michigan School of Information — Mon, 16 Sep 2024 12:25:52 -0400

In this episode of Information Changes Everything, we explore why online communities on platforms like Reddit and Facebook often thrive together rather than compete. NathanTeBlunthuis, a computational social scientist, shares his research using concepts from organizational ecology to reveal that overlapping communities frequently support each other instead of clashing. He also shares the implications of these findings for understanding digital media and designing better online spaces. To watch the full video of this 2023 talk click here.
Headlines: Peterson-Salahuddin: Can Kamala Harris turn memes into votes? It depends, UMSI assistant professor Robin Brewer earns Henry Russel award, Check out the American Archive

Andrea Thomer and the Power of Citizen Science

University of Michigan School of Information — Tue, 20 Aug 2024 15:32:24 -0400

In this episode of Information Changes Everything, we focus on the power of citizen science, as we hear from UMSI assistant professor Andrea Thomer. Thomer shares her unique journey from a fossil excavator to a data curation expert, highlighting the critical role of data curation in preserving scientific data. She discusses a current project where volunteers contribute to transcribing historical fish population data using the Zooniverse platform. The talk emphasizes the importance of combining technology with the invaluable contributions of citizen scientists. For the full video of this talk click here.
Headlines: Meet UMSI alumna and “Jeopardy!” super-champion Adriana Harmeyer, Batool: Deepfake sexual content disproportionately harms women, A Helpful Song That Makes It Easier to Memorize 200 Digits of Pi

"The future of water conservation" with Drew Gronewold

University of Michigan School of Information — Tue, 13 Aug 2024 12:18:10 -0400

In this episode of "Information Changes Everything", we explore the topic of water conservation and access, aligning with the University of Michigan School of Information's 2024 Theme Year. Drew Gronewold, an Associate Professor at the University of Michigan School of Environment and Sustainability, brings his expertise, highlighting key water conservation challenges and the obstacles in addressing them. He also examines the potential of information and technological advancements to create solutions. For the full video of this talk click here.
Headlines: UMSI announces 2024 DEI Awards recipients, UMSI students advance wildlife research with motion-sensor camera data, Team Pursues Virtual, Physical Historic Preservation of Disappearing Black Schools.

Essential lessons for entrepreneurs with Jason Blessing

University of Michigan School of Information — Tue, 06 Aug 2024 09:24:45 -0400

Ever dreamt of becoming an entrepreneur? In this episode of "Information Changes Everything", Jason Blessing, CEO of Plex Systems and current UMSI advisory board member, offers invaluable insights and practical tips for aspiring entrepreneurs. In his 2015 talk at the University of Michigan School of Information, titled "Eight Lessons from the Trenches," Blessing shares his experiences and lessons learned. For the full video of this talk, click here.
Headlines: New social media tool measures hateful, offensive and toxic speech on social platforms, First Paper Friday: David Gamba, The Pudding: "this is a teenager".

Transforming education through AI with Dora Demszky

University of Michigan School of Information — Tue, 30 Jul 2024 11:21:49 -0400

In this episode of Information Changes Everything, Dora Demszky, an assistant professor at Stanford University, discusses the unprecedented potential of large language models (LLMs) in scaling various aspects of education. Demszky synthesizes findings from three papers that evaluate the ability of LLMs to provide feedback to educators on their discourse. For the full video of this talk click here.
Headlines: Robert: The rewards and risks of using AI-powered technologies on our pets, UMSI students give RoosRoast new website designs that fit the vibe, The End of an Era: Women Who Code Closing

Welcome to Information Changes Everything by UMSI

University of Michigan School of Information — Mon, 29 Jul 2024 14:19:37 -0400

Jeff Furman on the evolution of Ben & Jerry's social mission

University of Michigan School of Information — Tue, 23 Jul 2024 11:41:06 -0400

In this episode of "Information Changes Everything,", we put the spotlight on Jeff Furman, chair of the board of Ben & Jerry's Ice Cream. Join us as Jeff takes us back to the early days of Ben & Jerry's in the 1980s, sharing how the company’s humble beginnings evolved into a powerful social mission. This mission has propelled Ben & Jerry's to the forefront of socially responsible business practices. Celebrating Ben & Jerry’s 35th anniversary, Jeff provides insights into the company’s journey and its ongoing commitment to making a positive impact. For the full video of this talk visit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9HApxrdrqVA
Headlines: UMSI community mourns the passing of distinguished alumna Nancy Gwinn, Faces of UMSI: Rachael Zuppke, https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbesbusinesscouncil/2024/02/01/ais-energy-appetite-meeting-the-demand-for-innovation/?sh=48aa396b46d1

Lise Vesterlund exposes the invisible labor holding women back

University of Michigan School of Information — Tue, 16 Jul 2024 18:10:21 -0400

In this episode of "Information Changes Everything,", we hear from economist and professor Lise Vesterlund, who examines why women in the workforce are disproportionately asked to perform “non-promotable work.” This work, often essential yet undervalued, leaves women overcommitted and underutilized in their careers. Lise Vesterlund is the Andrew W. Mellon Professor of Economics at the University of Pittsburgh, director of the Pittsburgh Experimental Economics Laboratory, and co-author of "The No Club: Putting a Stop to Women’s Dead-End Work," a Financial Times top business book. For the full video of this talk visit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2tvpavrr2AE&ab_channel=SchoolofInformation
Headlines: Faculty Research Highlight: Sile O’Modhrain | umsi, A year of water: Snapshots from UMSI’s first theme year | umsi, https://www.searchenginejournal.com/google-launches-how-search-works-series-to-demystify-seo/508425/

Anticipating AI failures in healthcare with Dr. Karandeep Singh

University of Michigan School of Information — Tue, 09 Jul 2024 16:42:18 -0400

Anticipating AI failures in healthcare with Dr. Karandeep Singh | In this episode of "Information Changes Everything," Dr. Karandeep Singh, a leader in machine learning within health systems, discusses the common challenges and failures in AI model implementation in healthcare. Using real-world examples, Dr. Singh addresses issues such as reproducibility, transportability, and intervention efficacy. He offers insights on anticipating these challenges, estimating their impact, and designing better interventions to improve patient care. Tune in to learn practical strategies for overcoming AI implementation roadblocks in healthcare. For the full video of this talk visit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X19dfN5ZM6c&ab_channel=SchoolofInformation
Headlines: Jurgens: U-M is taking the lead on creating AI tools for faculty, students | umsi | Where do Nextdoor communities exist—and what do they talk about? | umsi, https://news.ncsu.edu/2024/04/nc-state-researchers-use-machine-learning-to-create-a-fabric-based-touch-sensor/

Transforming libraries, archives, and museums to fight epistemicide with Beth Patin

University of Michigan School of Information — Tue, 02 Jul 2024 12:11:09 -0400

In this episode of "Information Changes Everything," Beth Patin, an assistant professor at Syracuse University's School of Information Studies, looks into the transformative potential of libraries, archives, and museums in combating epistemicide. Through compelling case studies and historical analysis, Patin discusses the profound impact of epistemicide on individuals, communities, and societies, and emphasizes the urgent need for action. For the full video of this talk visit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f1_aGn63nKs&ab_channel=SchoolofInformation
Headlines: Christian Sandvig earns U-M 2023 presidential award for public engagement | umsi, Steven Ong brings data science into his everyday life with the Master of Applied Data Science program | umsi, https://zapier.com/blog/best-url-shorteners/

Enhancing remote work sustainability through human-centered data science with Xuan Lu

University of Michigan School of Information — Tue, 25 Jun 2024 09:58:54 -0400

In this episode of "Information Changes Everything," we look at the shift from in-person workplaces to remote work. UMSI research fellow Xuan Lu shares a human-centered data science approach to improving the sustainability of remote workers and teams. For the full video of this talk visit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TOpBxxAkj4c&ab_channel=SchoolofInformation
Headlines: Shadowbanning: Some marginalized social media users believe their content is suppressed | umsi, UMSI launches Global Engagement Fellowship, https://royal-needlework.org.uk/rsn-collection-archive-online-for-first-time/

"Is technology killing privacy?” with Florian Schaub

University of Michigan School of Information — Tue, 18 Jun 2024 10:23:59 -0400

In this episode of "Information Changes Everything," we hear from Florian Schaub, an Associate Professor at the University of Michigan School of Information and the U-M College of Engineering. Schaub discusses the intricate relationship between privacy and technology, focusing on how companies like Google and Facebook track user actions and the implications of this data collection on our daily lives. He also explores potential solutions to better inform and protect consumers. For the full video of this talk visit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dk86nXAijos&t=796s
Headlines: Severance: “Anyone can learn Python and even be a cab driver, so why not?” | umsi, In due course: How an experimental intro class shaped UMSI students’ paths, https://apnews.com/article/new-york-times-wordle-clones-takedown-dmca-35d32b7548f7312ea74a2065b2cd31a6

Paul Woods on designing the future of automotive UX

University of Michigan School of Information — Tue, 11 Jun 2024 09:35:16 -0400

In this episode of "Information Changes Everything," we hear from Paul Woods, an award-winning designer, author, and the CEO of the global design agency Edenspiekermann. Paul shares his insights on why Automotive User Experience (UX) is one of the most exciting areas for designers today. He discusses his journey from public transport enthusiast to a leading figure in automotive tech, emphasizing the importance of user-centric design, rapid prototyping, and inclusive design principles.For the full video of this talk visit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v3GyeQGeocc&ab_channel=SchoolofInformation. Learn more about Paul Woods: http://paulthedesigner.us/
Headlines: Robin Brewer named one of ten scientists “on the cusp of changing the world” by Popular Science | umsi, ChatGPT acts more altruistically, cooperatively than humans | umsi, What can I do with an information science degree? | umsi, Get a UMSI online master’s degree in applied data science
Reach out to us at umsipodcast@umich.edu & follow us for more updates and upcoming events at umsi.info/events.

The path to global AI regulations with Merve Hickok

University of Michigan School of Information — Tue, 04 Jun 2024 14:40:34 -0400

In this episode of "Information Changes Everything", we look at the complex world of AI policy and regulations with Merve Hickok. Hickok is a globally renowned expert on AI policy, ethics, and governance, and the founder of AIethicist.org. She brings a wealth of knowledge from her roles at the University of Michigan's School of Information and the Michigan Institute of Data Science. For the full video of this talk visit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qg99mO0X9Rw&list=PLZFSaKAB4aZgLbocQT0_vv7Qn-bZfNcm3&index=4&ab_channel=SchoolofInformation
Explore Merve Hickok's work: AIethicist.org
Headlines: UMSI students design a makeover for the university's archives, Brick by Brick: PhD candidate Elsie Lee-Robbins is transforming data with Lego visualizations | umsi, U-M School of Information extends free tuition program to include graduate programs | umsi, Sign up for UMSI’s Research Roundup
Reach out to us at umsipodcast@umich.edu & follow us for more updates and upcoming events at umsi.info/events

Critical librarianship in action with ALA president Emily Drabinski

University of Michigan School of Information — Tue, 28 May 2024 09:39:43 -0400

In this episode of "Information Changes Everything," we spotlight the critical role libraries play in providing safe spaces. Join us as we revisit a talk by Emily Drabinski, the 2023-24 President of the American Library Association, librarian, educator, and scholar. Drabinski shares her personal journey, discusses the importance of critical librarianship, and explores how libraries can promote equity and access for all. For the full video of this talk visit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AO8I4h1zSes Learn more about the American Library Association: https://www.ala.org/
Headlines: Emotion-tracking AI on the job: Workers fear being watched – and misunderstood | umsi, Faces of UMSI (Aayana's Version), UMSI assistant professor Abigail Jacobs earns Microsoft Research AI and Society Fellowship,
Reach out to us at umsipodcast@umich.edu & follow us for more updates and upcoming events at umsi.info/events.

How Dr. Medusa uses humor to tackle injustice

University of Michigan School of Information — Tue, 21 May 2024 07:02:18 -0400

In this episode of Information Changes Everything, we hear from comedian and satirist Dr. Medusa, a prominent content creator who started her journey at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Dr. Medusa, whose real name is kept secret for her protection, shares her inspiration, the challenges she faces, and her creative process in producing satirical videos that comment on India's political landscape.
For the full video of this talk visit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0v8G9NneRe0&ab_channel=SchoolofInformation
Find Dr. Medusa on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ms.medusssa
Headlines: UMSI faculty developing new online courses about GenAI in the workplace, Faces of UMSI: Christine Carethers, What is information science?
Reach out to us at umsipodcast@umich.edu and follow us for more updates and upcoming events at umsi.info/events.