Biography
I hold a Ph.D. in Instructional Psychology & Technology with a focus on Chinese as a second language acquisition, as well as an M.A. in Second Language Acquisition, both from Brigham Young University. My academic journey began at National Tsing Hua University (國立清華大學) in Taiwan, where I earned a B.A. in Chinese Literature and Linguistics. Over the years, I have been honored to receive two university awards: the Karl G. Maeser Professional Faculty Excellence Award (2013) and the Douglas R. Stewart Teaching and Learning Faculty Fellowship (2016).
Research Interests
My current research interests center on the use of video games as a tool for language learning, with a specific focus on the game Black Myth: Wukong. This study investigates how the game can immerse learners in Chinese language and culture, aiming to enhance advanced language proficiency. The research employs qualitative methods, including reflective journaling, to track learners’ experiences and analyze how the game’s authentic language contexts and expressions contribute to language development. Additionally, the character Wukong, rooted in Journey to the West, provides a cultural and historical backdrop that deepens learners’ understanding of Chinese history, philosophy, and societal values. Through this study, I aim to assess the effectiveness of video games in language education, comparing learners’ perceptions of game-based learning to interactions with native speakers and examining the broader impact on both language skills and cultural understanding.Teaching Interests
My professional interests encompass second language acquisition, pedagogy, and the design of Chinese media courses and curricula. Over the past two decades, I have prioritized the integration of multimedia technology into classroom teaching, believing that mastering Mandarin TV news broadcasts is a vital skill for advanced learners. My current collaboration with two colleagues focuses on developing an innovative approach to exploring China’s evolving influence through a contemporary lens. By engaging students with diverse audiovisual materials—ranging from podcast-style dialogues to news-style reports—this method bridges language registers, fosters critical thinking and debate, and equips learners with the tools to articulate complex ideas confidently and effectively.In addition to curriculum development, I have been privileged to mentor and guide students in the prestigious Chinese Bridge Competition from 2006 to 2023. Competing on the international stage against top contestants from over 100 countries, my students achieved remarkable results, including five regional championships in Washington, D.C., a top-10 global placement (2016), second prize (2023), and the Championship of the American Continent (2019). These experiences have reinforced my commitment to cultivating not only language proficiency but also confidence and cultural understanding in my students.
Education
- Ph.D. , Instructional Psychology & Technology (Second Language Acquisition Emphasis) , Brigham Young University (2007)
- MA, Second Language Acquisition , Chinese, Brigham Young University (2002)
- BA, Chinese Literature and Linguistics , National Tsing Hua University (國立清華大學) (1992)
Licenses and Certifications
- ACTFL, ACTFL OPI Full Tester Certification in Chinese (2015 - 2019)
Honors and Awards
- The Second Prize in the Chinese for Specific Purposes Lesson Plan Contest, The 3rd International Symposium on Chinese for Specific Purposes (CSP) (2025 - 2025)
- Best Podcast Award (Advanced level) for《试说新语》“Try to Speak the New Chinese” Chinese Podcast Contest, Columbia University National Resources Center & CUNY Queensborough Community College (2023 - 2023)
- Douglas R. Stewart Teaching and Learning Faculty Fellowship, Brigham Young University (2016 - 2019)
- Karl G. Maeser Professional Faculty Excellence Award, Brigham Young University (2013 - 2014)
Memberships
- Chinese Language Teachers Association (2022 - 2026)
- ACTFL (2014 - 2026)