Dr Yuhua Wang

My profile

Biography

I am a Lecturer in Business Information Systems. I lead and teach a range of units, including Introduction to Technology and Big Data, Data Analytics, and Customer Lifecycle Management. Prior to joining Manchester Metropolitan University, I taught in the Information School at the University of Sheffield, contributing to the planning and delivery of a wide range of teaching activities across Information Systems and Data Science programmes. I am a Fellow of Higher Education Academy (FHEA). 

I hold an MSc in Technology Management (UCL) with distinction. I completed my PhD in Information Studies/Health Informatics from The University of Sheffield with a Faculty of Social Science Doctoral Academy Scholarship. I am also a certified Project Management Associate. I worked in the banking sector for three years, shortly after completing my BMgt in Business Administration in China and Germany.

Besides teaching, I am involved in several international research projects. My PhD (Sheffield) investigated older people’s use and learning of digital technologies under the debates surrounding digital divide/digital inclusion and active and healthy ageing, with a focus on everyday life routines/practices and informal learning, sustainability in digital engagement and resilience in community-led social and digital inclusion activities. I have since developed a strong research interest in data and digitalisation in everyday life and the corresponding social, cultural, ethical, and technical (e.g., data management, information systems) challenges.

In 2022 I served as Interim Head of the Health Informatics Research Group in the Information School, The University of Sheffield. In 2023, I was elected to the position of Chair-elect for the ASIS&T European Chapter. In 2024, I serve as Chair of the ASIS&T European Chapter.

Interests and expertise

I am interested in triangulating theories and models on information-related behaviour/practice. In 2022 I was accepted to the practice theory course (Lancaster) convened by Prof Elizabeth Shove, Prof Ted Schatzki and Dr Stanley Blue, following my interest in social theories of practice and the theorisation of individual and institutional change under the waves of digitalisation.

I am particularly interested in understanding (digital) exclusion/divide and the means to promote digital inclusion (ultimately, health and wellbeing) in a sustainable way. For the former, I developed an interest in researching digital humanities such as popular culture in the digital domain and the management of cultural heritage data and information systems. In this vein, I have a particular interest in understanding ageing and exclusion in relation to the change and development of digital media and digital culture. For the latter, I am interested in innovative ways of informal learning to enhance digital literacy/skills, and the use of digital technologies for the improvement and management of health. 

PhD Supervision: I currently have the capacity to supervise PGR students in the areas of AI/digital literacy and inclusion, digital health, experiences of using and learning AI in everyday life, ethics, and responsible use of data and digital technologies including generative AI.

Projects

I am currently working on several international and multi-disciplinary research projects that align with my research interest and my expertise in digital inclusion and mixed methodology, including

Funded by The Centre for Learning Enhancement and Educational Development (LEED) 

This project pioneers a transformative approach to learning and teaching, we involve students in co-investigating the impact of AI on the evolution of digital culture and the changing dynamics of how people learn and work. The overarching goal is to empower students with essential AI skills and literacy, addressing the growing demand for an AI-literate workforce.

Research outputs