Research Approach

Multi-pronged approach to internet studies.

The research activities of CTIC is anchored on three key pillars:
1. Technology – Researchers will leverage state-of-the-art artificial intelligence and data science technologies for the study of the Internet and its implications. This includes the detection and mitigation of the spread of false information through online media, and the automatic assessment and verification of the trustworthiness of information sources.

2. Human – Researchers will conduct studies to improve the understanding of individual cognitive and socio-psychological factors that motivate the producers and consumers of information, which could in turn influence the consumption and spread of information (including misinformation), the patterns of information use and the dissemination of information.

3. Policy – Researchers will study regulations in areas such as privacy and freedom of expression that shape the design and use of the Internet, as well as emerging institutions and processes of Internet governance that can be used to discourage and mitigate misinformation.

Applying research to improve digital well-being.

The insights gained from the research activities under the above three pillars will be integrated and applied to address the following:

1. Public Security - Generate a deep understanding of the various implications of the use of the Internet, such as how bias and misinformation can be weaponised, and the challenges of the digital divide.

2. Public Discourse - Collaborate with stakeholders to build an ecosystem to encourage responsible public discourse.

3. Public Education and Resources - Inculcate a culture that prioritises facts over misinformation. CTIC will host an online repository of commentaries written by academics and other subject matter experts, as well as organise talks and public lectures to increase public awareness on the use of the Internet, misinformation and digital well-being.