Sa Liu
Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction, 2018
I received my Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction specializing in Learning Technologies at the University of Texas Austin in the summer of 2018. Before joining UT, I taught Computer Science in a High School for one year in China, because I have a B.S. in Computer Science and M.A. in Educational Technology. My research interests include educational uses of interactive technologies, learning analytics, and data visualization. I am currently a member of an editorial review board for the Journal of Online Learning Research and the International Journal on E-Learning. I am a big fan of various indoor and outdoor games, including but not limiting to board games, video games, snow skiing, fishing and hiking.
Why UT?
Prior to joining the Learning Technologies (LT) program at UT, I had never been to Austin. I was solely attracted to UT by the LT faculty’s rigorous research and publication reputation. Particularly, I read about Dr. Min Liu’s research on Alien Rescue, which motivated me to pursue a doctoral degree at UT Austin. I was looking for a program that could enhance my research and technical skills in interactive technologies. Meanwhile, I hoped to gain more experience in instructional design. Therefore, I contacted Dr. Liu and applied for the program. While in the program, I benefited greatly from working with knowledgeable faculty and enthusiastic peers. I also had the opportunity to work as the Graduate Research Assistant at the Office of Instructional Innovation to put theory into practice while studying at UT.
Life After UT
Currently, I am an Assistant Professor of Interactive Technologies in the Interactive Media program at the Harrisburg University of Science and Technology (HU). At HU, I teach undergraduate and graduate students Information Design and Data Visualization, Web Design and Web Development, Introduction to Computing, Game Design and Development, and Mobile Experience Design and Development. I also conduct research on Interactive Technologies, such as Mobile Experience, Serious Games, Augmented Reality and Virtual Reality. Using the research and technical skills I learned at LT, especially via the Alien Rescue research team, I started my current career and advanced my knowledge.
Advice for Students
My first advice would be to fully utilize the resources at UT, including the libraries, gym, computer labs, and writing center. Secondly, I suggest collaborating with faculty on research and development projects. Thirdly, build friendships with your peers and colleagues. Graduate school will be much less stressful with peer support. Lastly, go to conferences. Connecting with scholars in the field will greatly benefit your career.
