Jingyao (Lydia) Li has joined Cal State Fullerton’s College of Business and Economics as a professor in the Department of Information Systems and Decision Sciences, bringing research and teaching interests focused on the societal impact of artificial intelligence, data analytics and emerging technologies.

Li earned her Ph.D. in computer information systems from Bentley University.

“I am interested in understanding how emerging technologies affect society, what new ethical challenges they create, and how we can develop effective ways to govern their development and use,” Li says.

Her recent research has focused on emerging technologies as new technologies, or new applications of existing technologies, whose effects are still being understood. She notes that while technological and regulatory challenges have existed before, AI presents distinct difficulties because it is increasingly accessible and embedded in everyday life.

Through her research, Li hopes to encourage greater public participation in discussions about how AI is being developed and governed. She believes society should play an active role in shaping technological change rather than simply responding after new technologies are introduced.

AI also will be an important part of Li’s perspective in the classroom. She sees the rapid integration of generative AI and large language models into workplaces and everyday life as one of the most significant trends affecting business today. While the future of the job market remains difficult to predict, she expects businesses will continue experimenting with ways to balance machine learning capabilities with human expertise.

For business students preparing for an AI-driven workplace, Li emphasizes curiosity, critical thinking and continuous learning.

“My advice to business students is to stay curious and keep learning about AI and its applications,” she says. “Use AI as a tool to facilitate learning, but don’t let it replace your own thinking.”

This fall, Li is teaching ISDS 210 – Principles of Business Data Analytics and ISDS 310 – Business Analytics. Both courses emphasize the role of data in modern business decision-making. Students will learn to analyze and interpret data, communicate insights and apply analytical tools to real-world business problems.

Li wants students to understand that analytics involves more than numbers or software. “It is about asking the right questions, understanding business problems, and using evidence to make informed decisions,” she says.

Beyond her academic interests, Li has a passion for fencing. She began fencing epee while in graduate school and took up foil about four years ago. She enjoys the sport because it combines physical activity with strategy, requiring participants to anticipate an opponent’s moves while reacting in real time.

For Li, fencing offers both a challenge and a welcome break from academic work – a fitting complement to her interest in thoughtful decision-making.