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Fully autonomous or “self-driving” vehicles are emerging mobility technology with potential benefits over conventional motor vehicles. Proponents argue that the widespread adoption of autonomous vehicles may save countless lives and millions of dollars annually by minimizing the likelihood of deadly vehicle crashes. However, widespread adoption of automated-driving technologies is required to realize such benefits, which research suggests, may be undermined by consumer concerns about vehicle operation transparency. Further, there is insufficient research into consumer perceptions of an autonomous vehicle’s communication and information-sharing behavior, which may impact their likelihood of purchasing one. We conducted a study using a 63-question internet-based survey distributed in the United States to licensed drivers 18 years of age and older (n=996) to examine consumer perceptions of autonomous vehicles across accountability, communication, information sharing, and concerns. Our findings show that consumer perceptions of the four dimensions vary significantly across race, gender, and ability. 

Effective advisement can help to address the disproportionately lower self-efficacy, identity, and sense of belonging experienced by Black students in computing degree programs.. Black social media influencers who produce video log (vlog) commentary content on the YouTube platform were investigated to determine the influence they have on improving computing identity for Black students. This exploratory study consists of three studies: (1) a synthesis of vlog commentary college and career advisement videos, coding for the quality of advisement, usability, and user experience; (2) an advisor effectiveness and user experience survey using a selected Black social media influencer who provides computing college and career advisement; and (3) a user experience and interaction preference survey using a selected Black social media influencer. Findings suggest YouTube influencers could be effective, particularly for beginners in the computing field. Future studies intend to further explore Black computing advisement through social media over a long term and at varying levels of interaction.