Two highly relevant and internationally significant guest lectures were held at the University of Dubrovnik as part of the Erasmus+ mobility programme.
Dr. Jasmine McNealy, a researcher from the University of Florida, where she heads ICED Labs (Infrastructure for Communities, Ecology for Data) at the College of Journalism and Communications, delivered a lecture on May 16 focusing on the ethical aspects of scientific research, with particular emphasis on artificial intelligence and data ethics.
Dr. McNealy’s work explores the impact of infrastructures and technologies on communities, particularly within the context of ethical challenges, data governance, and algorithmic decision-making. In Dubrovnik, she presented key insights related to responsible research practices, community inclusion, and the risks and implications of algorithmic harm and consent.
Her lecture covered core areas of ethical concern, raising the following key questions:
• Who is considered a participant, and what are the limits of consent?
• How can the community play an active role in the research process?
• How can potential harm be minimized?
Key responsibilities of researchers were also discussed:
• Respect for autonomy and human dignity
• Fairness, transparency, and integrity
• Informed consent and data protection
• Avoidance of conflicts of interest
Through illustrative examples of algorithmic harm and the role of inclusive consent, Dr. McNealy emphasized the need for research approaches that are not only responsible and ethical, but also sensitive to the experiences of marginalized communities.
On May 14, Dr. Lindita Camaj, also from the University of Florida’s College of Journalism and Communications, delivered a lecture titled: “The Audience Logic as an Antidote to the Crisis of Trust in Journalism.”
Her talk focused on how understanding the expectations and needs of audiences can contribute to restoring trust in media, especially in a digital environment overwhelmed by disinformation and algorithmically driven content. As a case study, Dr. Camaj presented her research on how Croatian national media engage with audiences through WhatsApp and Viber communities.
She analyzed the benefits, limitations, and user perceptions of this type of direct, digital media communication.
These two lectures opened important discussions on the relationship between science, technology, and society, and highlighted the importance of inclusive and responsible research approaches. The collaboration between the University of Florida and the University of Dubrovnik continues to grow and deepen through such academic exchanges.
