Faculty Spotlight: Yi-An (Jason) Chen

1. What are your primary research interests or areas of specialization?

My primary research interests lie at the intersection of sociolinguistics, computer-mediated communication, and computer-mediated discourse analysis. I’m particularly fascinated by the ways in which internet users develop ideas, beliefs, values, and stereotypes about different language varieties and their speakers in digitally mediated environments, such as social media platforms, online forums, and multimedia sites. In my current work, I examine what and how Chinese internet users say about Taiwan Mandarin and its speakers on Bilibili, a Chinese video-sharing site, and analyze how their online comments reflect broader language attitudes and language ideologies.

 

2. What current or upcoming projects are you most excited about?

I’m currently working on a project that looks at how Chinese online commenters keep conversations going on Bilibili. Even though online comments are often scattered and posted at different times, Chinese internet users find creative ways and use humor to keep the conversation flowing. I’m excited about this project because it shows how online speech communities can create a sense of bonding, even in a fast-paced digital environment.

 

3. What courses are you teaching this year, and what do you hope students take away from them?

I’m teaching Beginning Mandarin Chinese I and Introduction to Chinese Linguistics this fall, and I’ll be teaching Beginning Mandarin Chinese II and Third Year Mandarin Chinese II in the spring. Rather than simply learning the language passively, I encourage my students to actively engage with the historical events, cultures, values, and customs that shape Chinese languages and dialects. Through this process, they gradually develop an understanding of how language is used appropriately with different interlocutors in various social contexts. An essential part of the language learning journey is stepping out of their comfort zones. In addition, extensive exposure to both native and non-native speakers of Chinese and to authentic cultural materials also helps them gain confidence and communicate more effectively.

 

4. How do your research interests shape your teaching approach?

One of my previous research projects focused on language anxiety. I found that second language speakers often experience anxiety or feelings of inferiority because they worry about speaking with an accent or fear that their proficiency doesn’t match that of native speakers. My research directly informs my teaching approach. I constantly encourage my students, especially novice learners, not to focus on achieving a native-like accent, an expectation that is often unrealistic, but instead to aim for intelligible speech and to express their ideas with confidence and ease.

 

5. Was there a particular moment, mentor, or experience that had a major impact on your academic journey?

My Master’s advisor, Dr. Rosemary Henze, and my Ph.D. advisor, Dr. Susan Herring, have undoubtedly been two of the most important mentors in my academic journey. I’m grateful for their guidance, support, and expertise. Their mentorship has profoundly shaped the way I approach research and will very likely influence how I mentor and supervise my own students in the future.

 

6. What do you enjoy doing outside of your academic work?

I’m very new to Salt Lake City and the U. Getting used to this new position and environment has been quite a big transition from my Ph.D. life in Indiana, so much of my time has been devoted to teaching, preparing class materials, and service work. Outside of academic work, I enjoy exploring local restaurants with the new colleagues and friends I’ve met. As a foodie, this has been one of my favorite ways to get to know the city. I was surprised to discover that there is even a Chinatown here, as well as many authentic Chinese restaurants scattered across the city. In the coming months, I plan to join an exercise group and hope to find a balance between work and life.

 

7. Are there any books, films, podcasts, series, etc. that have especially inspired you recently?

I’ve been listening to several Taiwan-based podcasts during my commute to campus. I wouldn’t say these podcasts are particularly inspiring in my new life; most of the series I follow are related to lifestyle, popular culture, and politics in Taiwan. However, listening to podcasts as part of my daily routine not only keeps me connected to what’s happening back home in Taiwan but also gives me a moment to recharge before or after a busy day.

 

8. What are you most looking forward to as you join the World Languages & Cultures community at the U?

I’m very fortunate to work with so many supportive colleagues and truly appreciate those who have made me feel part of this warm and welcoming community. It is such a joy for me to teach Chinese and Linguistics courses and get to know many talented and promising students. I’m also very excited about the Chinese movie events planned for this academic year, which will give students more opportunities to engage with language and culture outside the classroom. In addition, I’m looking forward to seeing our school’s and department’s collaboration with National Taiwan University (NTU) take shape through a faculty-led Chinese learning abroad program in Taipei, Taiwan.