Bio

About Me

My name is David Beyea. I am an Assistant Professor at the University of Wisconsin – Whitewater (CV). My academic research revolves around computer-mediated communications, human-technology interactions, immersive media, and games. Specifically, I examine the effects digital environments (i.e., virtual and extended realities, the metaverse, social media) have on interpersonal communication, with an eye on influencing meaningful outcomes (e.g., equity, inclusion, and prosocial attitudes and behaviors). I am also a Co-PI on a National Science Foundation (NSF) grant examining how virtual meeting spaces/platforms can better support well-being and social equity. I have peer-reviewed articles in publications such as the Journal of Media Psychology, Communication Research, and Computers in Human Behavior. As an educator, I have taught classes in Communication Research Methods, Interpersonal Communication, and Social and New Media Technologies. Additionally, I have begun teaching in hybrid virtual reality environments in 2021, to help increase attention, interactions, and well-being among students when participating in online learning.