David Xu has simple goals: Be a good researcher and educator.

Xu, who came to Wichita State University in 2011, is assistant professor of management information systems. He specializes in e-commerce and human/computer interaction.

In less than a year at Wichita State, Xu’s research is already garnering national attention, specifically his work on a study that compares the level of deceit people use in a variety of media, from text messages to face-to-face interactions.

In the world of iPods, iPads and everything between, learning how and why humans interact with technologies is vital, Xu said.

“I am interested in answering broad research questions of how do technologies’ attributes influence users’ beliefs and behavior,” Xu said. “The research results can provide insight for the design of new products, and make human experiences with technologies more pleasant and rewarding, thus generating greater personal value for individuals and more profitable business value for organizations.”

Collaborative research

Xu, 32, is originally from China. He is married and has a 4-year-old son.

Xu earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Hong Kong and was then accepted into the graduate program at the University of British Columbia, where in July 2011 he earned his Ph.D. in management information systems.

He said his training and supervisors from UBC provided a solid foundation for launching his academic career.

He chose Wichita State because of the reputation of the W. Frank Barton School of Business.

“The faculty are outstanding, and we share common research interests,” Xu said. “It is easier to create the synergy required to conduct collaborative research.”

He finds his work exciting because he works with cutting-edge technology. And passing on his knowledge to his students is important, he said, because there’s an ever-growing demand for management information systems professionals who can help firms better manage technology and information.

“I have greatest satisfaction in teaching when I watch my students grow and mature intellectually, and apply what they learn in class to impact the practice,” Xu said. “This is one of the most fulfilling aspects of the profession.”