Spotlight David Yang
Introduce Yourself
Hello, my name is David Yang. I’m a new faculty member. I am an Assistant Professor in the Department of Education Leadership and Inclusive Teaching. I am thrilled to be a part of the vibrant academic community here at Woodring College of Education. I was born in China and immigrated to Canada, where I became a proud Canadian citizen. I speak English and Mandarin Chinese. My multicultural experiences have not only broadened my worldview but have also shaped my approach to education research.
I recently moved to Bellingham from Kingston, Ontario, Canada, after completing my Master’s and PhD degrees in Special Education at Queen’s University. My wife and I are proud parents to two wonderful boys, aged 13 and 4, who keep us endlessly entertained and motivated. In addition, we share our home with a delightful standard poodle, adding an extra layer of joy to our lives.
What brought you to the field of special education?
What led me to the field of special education was a convergence of personal experiences and a profound desire to make a difference in the lives of students with diverse learning needs. My journey began as a high school teacher in the Seattle Public Schools, where I had firsthand encounters with students facing various learning challenges in my classroom. It became evident to me that I was not adequately equipped to support these students effectively. This realization served as a catalyst, inspiring me to delve into the realm of special education. I was determined to explore the resources available to me and acquire the necessary skills to meet the unique needs of my students.
Additionally, a deeply personal reason fueled my passion for this field: my older child was diagnosed with autism. As a parent, I found myself confronted with a whirlwind of emotions – worry, confusion, and disorientation – following his diagnosis. However, I swiftly recognized the importance of equipping myself with knowledge and expertise to provide the best possible support for my child. This realization motivated me to embark on an academic journey in the field of special education.
These experiences, both professional and personal, have profoundly shaped my dedication to this field. They have instilled in me a fervent commitment to enhancing the educational experiences of individuals with diverse learning profiles. I am driven by a desire to create inclusive and supportive environments where every student can thrive academically and personally.
Can you talk about your research and how your research could impact society?
My academic pursuits center around interdisciplinary studies in the areas of Special Education, Early Childhood Education, Language and Literacy, and Multilingual Education. One of the driving forces behind my interest in these fields of study is my personal experience as a parent raising a child with autism in a bilingual and bicultural household. The significance of providing early language and literacy education to children on the autism spectrum cannot be overemphasized and has the potential to significantly improve their developmental outcomes. Consequently, my doctoral research delved into the examination of language and literacy development in young children on the autism spectrum, with a focus on those from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds. Specifically, my research investigated how Chinese Canadian immigrant parents read with their children on the autism spectrum within the context of their bilingual home environment. This study recruited participants from across Canada, and employed innovative research methods, combining Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) with multimodal storytelling, to gain a comprehensive understanding of the intricacies of language use and parent-child shared reading experiences. The outcomes of my study advanced the growing field of research at the intersection of bilingualism, autism, and shared reading, and informed the development of tailored early reading programs and services that are mindful of the unique cultural and linguistic contexts in which these families are immersed. I am currently working on publishing two peer-reviewed articles based on this research project. The first article focuses on parental perspectives on bilingual language use and practices, while the second investigates their shared reading practices. I am also working on publishing a book titled “Reading with Children on the Autism Spectrum: Insights from Chinese Immigrant Families in Canada” aimed at providing guidance to parents and educators. This research project was awarded the Joseph-Armand Bombardier Canada Graduate Scholarship – a prestigious national award funded by the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council in Canada.
Currently, I serve as a co-PI collaborating with Dr. Timmons at Queen’s University’s ECE lab on a research project investigating shared reading practices between parents and their infants and toddlers from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds. This research project is currently in the data collection phase. The findings of the study will help researchers and practitioners to better understand the unique experiences of this population, which can enable professionals to craft early reading programs that are not only culturally sensitive but also linguistically appropriate. I am deeply committed to this research, as it aligns with my belief in the power of inclusive education. I am enthusiastic about the potential impact my research can have on shaping educational practices and policies, ultimately promoting equitable opportunities for every child, regardless of their cultural or linguistic background.
What is your favorite class to teach at WWU and why?
During the fall quarter, I teach only one course, SPED 469 Professional Collaboration – a course that holds a special place in my heart. This course focuses on the vital aspects of working collaboratively with families, colleagues, and the community to enhance student success. Teaching this course has been immensely rewarding for me, as it seamlessly aligns with my personal experiences as a parent, my professional background as a teacher, and my research endeavors as a scholar. A central theme of my research revolves around investigating effective collaboration among schools, families, and communities to better cater to the diverse needs of students. This course serves as an exciting platform for me to share my insights and knowledge with my students. I am genuinely enthusiastic about engaging with my students as we explore a myriad of topics related to this course. Together, we delve into the intricate dynamics of collaboration, fostering an environment where ideas are exchanged, perspectives are broadened, and meaningful learning takes place. In the future, I eagerly anticipate the opportunity to instruct additional courses, including Introduction to Special Education, as well as Language & Literacy.
What do you like about working at WWU?
Working at WWU has been a truly enriching experience, and several aspects have made this institution a rewarding environment for me. First, the emphasis on liberal arts education at WWU aligns with my teaching philosophy. I am deeply passionate about nurturing well-rounded individuals, and the liberal arts approach allows me to do just that. The smaller class sizes here have been invaluable. They enable me to forge meaningful connections with my students, understanding them on a personal level. This closeness allows me to tailor my instruction to cater to their specific needs, fostering a dynamic and engaging learning environment.
Moreover, the collaborative atmosphere among colleagues at WWU has been a source of inspiration. The sense of camaraderie and mutual support among faculty members and staff enhances our teaching and research endeavors. These collegial relationships foster a sense of community, making every day at work a genuinely enriching experience.
Lastly, the campus itself is a jewel. The serene and picturesque surroundings of WWU provide a beautiful backdrop to our academic pursuits. This scenic environment not only enhances the overall experience for both students and faculty but also serves as a constant reminder of the importance of fostering a harmonious relationship with our natural surroundings.
In essence, WWU offers me the opportunity to blend my passion for teaching with a supportive and collaborative community on a beautiful campus. I have to say that it is a unique and fulfilling professional journey that I am excited to be a part of.
What do you like most about Bellingham?
Oh, where do I start? It’s the whole package, really! The breathtaking environment here in the Pacific Northwest is just something else. I mean, we’ve got the ocean right at our doorstep, inviting us with its serene beauty. And don’t even get me started on the hiking trails. They are like a maze of surprises.
But it’s not just the great outdoors that steals my heart here. The downtown area is buzzing with life, with cozy restaurants and cute coffee shops on every corner. There’s this vibrant energy in the air, and it’s contagious! Plus, the fact that we’re so close to both Vancouver and Seattle adds that extra dash of excitement. I would say Bellingham is not just a place. It’s a feeling. It’s a whole vibe. It’s the sound of waves, the scent of pine trees, the taste of local delights, and the warmth of a welcoming community. It’s home.