Research group

Hybrid Realities

Between online and offline: this is how our society is changing

In our daily lives, the boundaries between online and offline, between the virtual and the physical, are fading. Our world is becoming more and more hybrid: on the train, we follow wars via social media; in the school playground, online and offline interactions intertwine; algorithms control what we see; and AI helps us make choices. Against this backdrop, Amsterdam University of Applied Sciences (AUAS) and the Rathenau Institute are joining forces in the L.INT Hybrid Realities research group. This research group focuses on practice-oriented research into the impact of the increasing interconnection between digital media technologies and physical environments.

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This is what we’re working on

Hybrid realities in personal life
How do hybrid realities influence our well-being, social relationships and identity development? Digital technologies, such as social media, AI agents and online communities, are increasingly intertwined with our everyday physical world. Within this line of research, we investigate how these hybrid environments affect mental well-being, social relationships and identity development. We collaborate with organisations such as Offlimits and the Netherlands Youth Institute, focusing, amongst other things, on young people, online social interactions and new forms of human-machine relationships.
Hybrid realities in professional life
How are hybrid realities transforming the media sector and the creative industries? In the media and creative sectors, digital and physical experiences are increasingly blurring into one another. Journalists, creators, museums and event organisers are seeking new ways to reach and engage audiences. Within this line of research, we are developing knowledge and design methods for responsible innovation in media and communication, for example in the areas of AI, immersive technology and hybrid live experiences.
Hybrid realities in public life
What does ‘hybridisation’ mean for public debate and the public sphere? Digital platforms are playing an increasingly significant role in how people share information, form opinions and engage in debate with one another. In this line of research, we investigate how hybrid information flows, online communities and digital platforms influence public debate and shape our public sphere – and, by extension, democratic society. In doing so, we also examine issues surrounding disinformation, polarisation and the design of digital and physical public spaces. The aim is to develop knowledge that helps to safeguard public values in a hybrid society.

Get to know us

Esther Hammelburg

Professor by special appointment Hybrid realities

Esther Hammelburg researches media (technologies) in our society. She is particularly interested in hybridisation: the increasing overlap between digital media (technologies) and physical environments. In her work, she always examines what this means for people and society.