Although Mary Beth Oliver’s research in the psychology of media has focused on issues of stereotyping for many years, she wanted to expand the scope of her studies to explore additional cultures and marginalized populations. Consequently, she was delighted to be named as a Fulbright Scholar, enabling her to explore how existing theories of media stereotyping apply to issues of media influence in New Zealand.
During her stay in Dunedin, New Zealand, Oliver enlisted the aid of students and colleagues at the University of Otago in the development of a questionnaire pertaining to perceptions of racial and ethnic groups both in New Zealand and in the United States. Subsequently, approximately 150 individuals participated in completing the questionnaire. In addition, Oliver collected a sample of five weeks of national television news to be analyzed for its coverage of racial and ethnic groups and issues.
“Having the chance to study and do research in New Zealand was the opportunity of a lifetime,” Oliver said. “The university colleagues, the culture, the students, and the beauty of the county were spectacular. Fulbright has given me a truly inspiring and life-enriching experience.”
In addition to conducting research on media and stereotyping, Oliver delivered lectures and talks at the University of Otago. Her topics included media and racism, viewers’ memory of racial issues presented in the news, and viewers’ emotional responses to media entertainment.
“The students and faculty at the University of Otago were absolutely fantastic,” Oliver noted. “They were generous with their time, they were helpful in their feedback, and they were stimulating with their ideas. I believe that I’ve made long-term friends and colleagues, and I’m very much looking forward to our continued contact.”
Beyond her scholarly pursuits, Oliver and her partner John Christman took every opportunity to explore the beauty of the New Zealand landscape and culture. Among their many activities was a scuba-diving trip to Milford Sound, an overnight stay at a marea during their Fulbright orientation, a hike to the Rob Roy Glacier, and many lovely walks on the Otago Peninsula.
“Our time in New Zealand is a gift we’ll carry with us forever. I’m an enthusiastic cheerleader for what the Fulbright program provides, and I am very grateful to have had this outstanding opportunity,” concludes Oliver.
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