The P20 Motivation and Learning Lab is pleased to have invited guest speaker, Dr. Xiaoxia “Silvie” Huang, visit the lab this fall. Dr. Huang (Western Kentucky University) will be sharing her journey writing a National Science Foundation CAREER proposal with our lab on Monday, September 26, at 4:30 (63 Dickey Hall). Caihong Li, a doctoral research assistant in the lab hadn an opportunity to do a little interview with Dr. Huang to learn more about her work. Here is an excerpt from their interview.
Caihong Li: What is your personal educational background?
Dr. Huang: I completed my undergraduate degree in English Language and Culture in China. After graduation, I taught English as a Second Language at my alma mater for two years before I went to Singapore to pursue a Master’s degree in English Studies (Applied Linguistics). Then I decided that I liked staying in schools and learning more about education, so I came to the United States and completed my Ph.D. degree in Instructional Systems from Florida State University.
Caihong: Please tell us about your major area of study and your research interests.
Dr. Huang: My major area of study is instructional design and technology. My research interest focuses on designing optimum learning environments with research-based learning strategies (e.g., self-efficacy theory, cognitive load theory) and technologies in various formal and informal settings (e.g., distance learning, eLearning, computer-based learning).
Caihong: What projects are you currently working on?
Dr. Huang: I’m currently working on a one-year project focusing on the design, development, and testing of a computer-based intervention to increase students’ self-efficacy in learning mathematical skills. This project has been funded by the Research & Creative Activities Program (RCAP) at Western Kentucky University. I’m excited about this project and hope to have it completed in several months. The project findings are expected to inform the design and development of larger-scale, computer-based interventions to develop math self-efficacy.
Caihong: What sorts of things do you like to do in your spare time?
Dr. Huang: I love travelling and taking photos of nature. I’m a tea/food enthusiast and like to try different kinds of tea/food! I also like playing badminton and listening to music.
Caihong: That’s great. Last but not least, how do you feel about living in Kentucky?
Dr. Huang: Kentucky is beautiful, with rolling hills, caves, and white squirrels! I especially like the late spring/early summer and early fall seasons here. I have heard of Cumberland Falls’ Moonbow, which sounds amazing, and I want to take a trip there in the near future!
Caihong: Thank you so much for sharing this information about yourself. We are excited to welcome you as a guest to our lab!
Dr. Huang: I look forward to meeting with you all!
Xiaoxia “Silvie” Huang is an assistant professor in instructional design at School of Teacher Education at Western Kentucky University. She has a Ph.D. degree in Instructional Systems from Florida State University. Her research focuses on designing optimum learning environments with research-based learning strategies (e.g., self-efficacy theory) and technologies in various formal and informal settings. Her work has been published in journals such as Computers in Human Behavior, Interactive Learning Environments, British Journal of Educational Technology, and Open Learning: The Journal of Open, Distance and e-Learning.
