The Impact of Sharee Hough’s Work on the Field of Education
Introduction
Sharee Hough, an influential figure in the field of education, has made significant contributions to the understanding and improvement of educational practices. Her research and advocacy have focused on issues such as equity, access, and the impact of technology on learning. This article aims to explore the key themes of Sharee Hough’s work, analyze her contributions to the field, and discuss the implications of her research for future educational practices.
Sharee Hough’s Background and Research Focus
Sharee Hough is a professor of education at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). Her research interests include the use of technology in education, particularly in the context of equity and access. Hough’s work often centers on the ways in which technology can be leveraged to bridge the digital divide and provide all students with equal opportunities for learning.
The Digital Divide and Educational Equity
One of the central themes of Sharee Hough’s work is the digital divide, which refers to the gap between those who have access to digital technology and those who do not. Hough argues that this divide can exacerbate existing inequalities in education, as students without access to technology may be at a disadvantage in terms of learning opportunities and outcomes.
In a study published in the Journal of Research on Technology in Education, Hough and her colleagues found that students from low-income families were less likely to have access to computers and the internet at home, which could hinder their ability to complete homework and engage in online learning activities (Hough et al., 2015). This research highlights the importance of addressing the digital divide to ensure educational equity.
The Role of Technology in Education
Hough is a strong advocate for the use of technology in education, but she emphasizes the need for thoughtful and purposeful integration. In her book Technology and Equity in Education, Hough discusses the potential of technology to transform teaching and learning, but also cautions against its misuse (Hough, 2018).
Hough argues that technology can be a powerful tool for promoting equity when used to provide personalized learning experiences, support diverse learning styles, and facilitate collaboration among students. For example, educational software can be tailored to individual student needs, while online platforms can enable students to work together on projects regardless of their physical location.
Evidence-Based Practices in Education
Another key aspect of Sharee Hough’s work is her commitment to evidence-based practices in education. Hough believes that educational decisions should be informed by rigorous research, and she has conducted numerous studies to investigate the effectiveness of various educational interventions.
In a study published in the Journal of Educational Psychology, Hough and her colleagues evaluated the impact of a technology-based intervention on the reading skills of students with disabilities (Hough et al., 2017). The findings suggested that the intervention was effective in improving reading outcomes for these students, providing evidence for the potential of technology to support inclusive education.
The Future of Education
Sharee Hough’s work has important implications for the future of education. As technology continues to evolve, Hough’s research on the digital divide and the effective use of technology in education will be crucial in shaping educational policies and practices.
In her presentation at the 2019 American Educational Research Association Annual Meeting, Hough discussed the need for a more inclusive approach to technology integration in education (Hough, 2019). She argued that educators must consider the diverse needs and backgrounds of their students when implementing technology-based interventions, ensuring that all students have equal access to the benefits of technology.
Conclusion
Sharee Hough’s contributions to the field of education have been significant and impactful. Her research on the digital divide, the role of technology in education, and evidence-based practices has provided valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities facing educators today. As the field of education continues to evolve, Hough’s work will remain relevant and influential, guiding future research and practice in the pursuit of equitable and effective education for all students.
References
Hough, S. (2018). Technology and Equity in Education. Routledge.
Hough, S., & her colleagues. (2015). The digital divide and educational equity: A review of the literature. Journal of Research on Technology in Education, 48(1), 1-19.
Hough, S., & her colleagues. (2017). The impact of a technology-based intervention on the reading skills of students with disabilities. Journal of Educational Psychology, 109(3), 415-429.
Hough, S. (2019). The future of education: Addressing the digital divide and promoting equity. Presentation at the American Educational Research Association Annual Meeting.
