Jason Tham's CV: Research, Experience, and Publications

Could a single individual truly bridge the chasm between technical expertise and human-centered design? The career of Jason Tham, a multifaceted figure straddling the worlds of rhetoric, technology, and user experience, suggests a resounding yes, demonstrating a powerful synergy between these often-disparate fields.

Jason Tham's professional trajectory offers a compelling case study in the evolving landscape of academia and its intersection with real-world application. His work, characterized by a commitment to understanding and improving the user experience, reflects a deep understanding of how technology shapes communication and how effective design can enhance human interaction. This commitment is evident in his publications, his teaching, and his ongoing research into the nuances of digital rhetoric and emerging technologies.

At Texas Tech University, Tham holds the position of Associate Professor of Technical Communication and Rhetoric. This role places him at the forefront of a discipline increasingly vital in our digitally driven world. His focus areas include UX research, information design, and design thinking. He not only teaches these subjects but also actively researches and publishes on them. His work serves as a bridge between academic theory and practical application, helping students and professionals alike to better understand and navigate the complex terrain of digital communication.

Tham's expertise is not confined to the classroom. He is actively involved in the field, serving as a chief editor of Computers and Composition, a prominent journal in the field. This demonstrates his commitment to scholarly discourse and his influence within the academic community. He is also the co-director of the UX Research Lab, where practical applications of research are explored.

The University of Minnesota, where Tham earned his doctoral degree, played a crucial role in shaping his academic foundation. His dissertation, focused on multimodality, makerspaces, and the creation of a maker pedagogy, offers a glimpse into his scholarly interests. These areas are a testament to his commitment to a holistic understanding of communication, integrating traditional rhetorical principles with emerging technologies and hands-on design approaches.

Tham's impact extends beyond his scholarly publications and his teaching. He is known for his dedication to his students, often making himself available outside of office hours to offer guidance and feedback. Student reviews highlight his helpfulness and his genuine desire to see his students succeed. This dedication reflects a strong commitment to fostering a positive learning environment.

The intersection of technology and rhetoric is a central theme in Tham's work. He understands the power dynamics inherent in digital platforms and the impact they have on how we communicate and perceive information. His master's thesis, which explored rhetoric and politics in massive open online courses (MOOCs), provides a foundational examination of these issues. His work consistently explores how technology shapes our interactions and what it means to design these interactions ethically and effectively.

Tham's background includes a deep understanding of design thinking, a methodology that prioritizes user needs and iterative prototyping. His ability to integrate this approach into his teaching and research underscores his focus on creating practical solutions to real-world problems. This is reflected in his courses and his work within the UX Research Lab. It is also evident in his interest in emerging technologies, demonstrating a forward-thinking approach to the ever-changing digital landscape.

The diverse nature of Tham's work highlights the importance of interdisciplinary approaches. He seamlessly blends elements of rhetoric, design, and technology, providing a comprehensive perspective on communication in the digital age. His contributions to the field of technical communication have been recognized both through his research and by his position as editor of a leading academic journal.

Tham’s journey underscores the significance of user experience in shaping the future of design and communication. His dedication to this field is a testament to the profound impact that thoughtful design can have on how we interact with technology, with each other, and with the world around us. His work offers a valuable blueprint for others seeking to navigate the complex world of digital communication, user experience, and technical rhetoric.

The field of technical communication has evolved at an unprecedented rate in the last decade, and Tham has been at the vanguard of this evolution, guiding students and influencing the direction of research. His work reflects the increasing need for professionals who can bridge the gap between technical expertise and human understanding. His experience and expertise continue to be essential in the fast-evolving landscape of technology, design, and user interaction.

Tham’s focus on research and teaching offers valuable insight into the complexities of the digital world. His commitment to user experience, combined with his deep understanding of rhetoric and design, positions him as an influential figure in an increasingly important field. From his work in the classroom to his publications and editorial responsibilities, Tham's contributions are shaping how we think about and interact with technology.

Jason Tham’s career is a clear demonstration of the necessity of adaptability and a holistic understanding of the dynamic nature of technology and rhetoric. His continuous learning and the application of these ideas in teaching and research reflect a true dedication to creating a better future of the users’ experience. His commitment to sharing his knowledge further strengthens his impact on the field of technical communication and design.

In his capacity as a professor and a researcher, Tham plays a crucial role in shaping the future of technical communication and user experience. His dedication to his craft and the impact he has on his students and the wider academic world are clear indications of his influence. His work will continue to be essential as the fields of technology, design, and rhetoric become increasingly intertwined.