Each week we're featuring a Q&A with a member of our faculty in the School of Computing. Get to know some of our professors! This week we're featuring Charles Bessey Professor Leen-Kiat Soh.
What are your research areas or areas of specialty/interest?
My research areas are (1) multiagent systems and simulation, (2) computer science education, and (3) intelligent data analytics. In the first area, I am investigating how agents plan and reason and learn in open environments, and I have also worked on agent-based modeling to investigate how social unrest spread across time and space. In the second area, I have worked on improving student learning in computing via computational creativity, and on improving professional development of K-12 CS teachers. In the third area, I have developed systems and solutions that use image processing, machine learning, and artificial intelligence to solve real-world problems such as detecting poems in historical documents, and improving learning using computer-aided education systems.
What courses are you teaching this year?
In the fall, I will be teaching CSCE 100: Introduction to Informatics.
How did you first become interested in computing or your specific area of computing?
I first became interested in computing when I was a student in high school. We developed an end-to-end computer-based teaching using the programming language Basic to teach about brickwork. It was fun to be able to create graphics, animation, content, and customized flow of the tutorial. Our system won the 4th place in the national competition in Malaysia.
What are some of your hobbies and interests outside of computing? What do you enjoy most about those?
I have quite a bit of hobbies and interests outside of computing. Writing music, photography, painting, practicing Chinese calligraphy, writing, and reading. In terms of outdoors activities, hiking and running.
What is your favorite weekend activity?
Spending time with my family, doing things outdoors — hiking at the local parks or at a state park — when the weather is nice; or working on my art work or music if it is too cold out.
Where is your favorite place you've traveled?
Utah’s Big 5 National Parks. Tibet. Machu Picchu.
What is your favorite food?
Typical Malaysian dishes that I have enjoyed since I was a kid: Nasi Lemak, Laksa, Wonton Noodles, Char Kway Teow. Just thinking of these dishes here responding to his question makes me hungry.
What is a fun fact or something other members of the school may not know about you?
I have a twin brother. I am five minutes older than he is!
What is your favorite thing about being a part of the School of Computing?
The School of Computing is where I have matured as a professional, where I have grown to have a strong sense of belonging, where I have learned about myself, my friends, our community, and our world. My favorite thing about being a part of the School of Computing is that it is where one of my roots is, in addition to my hometown in Malaysia and my alma mater in Kansas, US.