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John Acquaful – PhD Researcher
PhD Researcher · BGSU

Theory guides
practical solutions.

Knowledge grows through investigation.

I study how social media, political communication, and emerging technologies shape public discourse — with a focus on African digital public spheres and the role of AI in consumer communication.

3+
Courses Taught
2
Research Projects
1
Podcast
John Acquaful
John Acquaful
Media & Communication · BGSU

About
Me

I am
John Acquaful

I am a doctoral student in the School of Media and Communication at Bowling Green State University (BGSU), where I study the intersection of political communication, social media, and emerging technologies.

"My research explores how digital platforms shape political identity, influence voting behavior, and spread misinformation — particularly in African contexts."
Full Bio & CV

Research,
Teaching & Community

My work spans academic inquiry, classroom instruction, and community building — grounded in a commitment to ethical communication and inclusive education.

01
Research

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02
Teaching

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03
Community

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What I'm Working On

All Research
Digital Gatekeepers Publication
Research · Publication
Framing Geopolitical Crises: A Comparative Study of U.S. and Middle Eastern Media Narratives, Bias, and Influence

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Academic Milestone Feature
News · Feature
Academic Milestone Feature — Radio Univers

Read Feature

Graduate Students Den Podcast
Podcast · Community
Graduate Students Den Podcast

Listen on Spotify

Courses Taught

Instructor of record at Bowling Green State University, committed to critical and inclusive communication education.

ADV 1010
Principles of Advertising
Instructor of Record · BGSU · Fall 2024 – Present

Advertising Media Planning Brand Strategy Ethics
COMM 1020
Introduction to Public Speaking
Instructor of Record · BGSU · Fall 2024 & Fall 2025

Public Speaking Rhetoric Ethics Open Access

Graduate Students Den

A podcast for and about graduate students — navigating research, coursework, campus life, and the unique challenges of studying far from home. We talk to scholars, alumni, and everyday grad students about what it really takes to thrive in academia.

Co-hosted with Kelsey Stanfield Halima Lul Ali
Listen on Spotify
Graduate Students Den Podcast
Graduate Students Den
Available on Spotify · New Episodes
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What People Say

Voices from Those I've Worked With

"

[As a former student of John Acquaful, I appreciated how passionate he was about teaching. He wanted his students to succeed and grow creatively. The classroom environment he created was fun and always encouraged participation.]

AF
Adisyn Frankevic
Student · BGSU
"

[He made the class interesting and easy to follow. He was helpful, explained things clearly, and cared about helping students be engaged witin the classroom. I would recommend him other students]

XL
Xavier Lautzenheiser
Student · BGSU
"

[John, as my team lead, created an environment where everyone felt supported, valued and motivated. His exemplary leadership and genuine care for the team allowed us to complete tasks efficiently while also looking out for one another. I would wholeheartedly recommend him for any leadership role.]

PO
Priscilla Olarinde
Colleague · Envision by Worldstrides