Name: Hanna J. Neroj

Dissertation Proposal Meeting

Date: Wednesday, January 21, 2026

Time: 12:00 PM

Location: JS Coon - Room 150

Advisor: Bruce N. Walker, Ph.D. (Georgia Tech)

Dissertation Committee Members:

Bruce N. Walker, Ph.D. (Georgia Tech

Richard Catrambone, Ph.D. (Georgia Tech)

Eric Schumacher, Ph.D. (Georgia Tech)

Mark Himmelstein, Ph.D. (Georgia Tech)

Nina Dalkner, Ph.D. (Medical University Graz, Austria)

Title: Development and Validation of the Model of the Acceptance of Futuristic Technologies (MAFT)

Abstract: Normative models of technology acceptance (i.e., TAM, UTAUT) focus on simple and accessible technologies. However, as the world becomes increasingly sophisticated and intricate, technologies that were once confined to science fiction movies are now becoming a reality. Consequently, there is a need to develop a model that accurately captures the behavioral underpinnings of early adoption intention decisions among potential consumers. The model should encompass both the data-limited decision-making processes and the perceived psychological distance, which refers to the perceived future existence or likelihood of the technology. This research program responds to the gap in the literature, aiming to develop and test the Model of the Acceptance of Futuristic Technologies (MAFT), which explains how psychological distance affects the adoption intention of nonexistent, futuristic technologies. The study uses a flying car as an exemplar futuristic technology, including surveys on emotions and beliefs, Structural Equation Modeling, and simulated exposure via Virtual Reality. Outcomes will make a significant contribution to the literature on technology acceptance by offering a framework that elucidates the perceptions of individuals when encountering highly advanced, novel technologies. MAFT can provide support to designers, manufacturers, marketers, and policymakers by enhancing their comprehension of adoption-influencing factors in the absence of direct product experience.