Dr. Guan Soon Khoo is an Assistant Professor in Communication Studies teaching Research Methods, Communication Theory, and an INQ 120 (Storytelling Cinema) in the Spring. He has a PhD in Mass Communications in the Media Psychology, Media Effects field with a specialty in Entertainment Research and Narrative film.
Dr. Guan Soon Khoo
1. Tell us a little bit about your research.
My research is on media entertainment, particularly films. We often think of film as “entertainment,” the out of sight, out of mind kind. However, some of us seek out and watch movies that provide us with a different experience, ones that we’d consider meaningful; some of us go to the cinema for a good cry or to be moved by these narratives, particularly dramas. So, I am interested in looking at our cognitive and emotional responses to these meaningful experiences when we expose ourselves to somber films. One over-arching research question would be “to what extent could media entertainment make us better individuals?
2. What attracted you to Roanoke College?
The atmosphere in the department in which I was hired and the feeling of belonging with faculty members who were curious and interested in my research.
3. What do you do when you’re not at work?
I am rarely not at work or thinking about it; I blame my intense but captivating graduate work. Occasionally, I practice strumming on my ukulele, which may prove to be therapeutic, and I try to watch movies on my shamelessly large projection screen at my residence after sundown.
If you see Dr. Khoo on campus, please welcome him to Roanoke College!