Janet Richards

Dr. Janet Richards is a Professor at the University of South Florida's College of Education, specializing in culturally responsive/sustaining teaching, critical literacy, and transdisciplinary inquiry. She has published over 150 journal articles and 12 books, focusing on literacy theory and practical applications for K-8 students.

• Ph.D., University of New Orleans (1985)
• M.Ed., Tulane University
• B.S., New Jersey City University

Her work integrates qualitative research methods with arts-based approaches, emphasizing student empowerment and self-directed learning. Recent publications analyze reflexive thematic analysis, ethnographic mapping, and evidence-based strategies for early childhood literacy development.

• 2008 Landsdowne Visiting Scholar, University of Victoria, Canada
• 2016 Award for Scholarly Research from International Literacy Association SIG

Dr. Richards serves as Senior Editor of Literacy Practice and Research and has led international initiatives through the International Reading Association's Reading and Writing for Critical Thinking Project in multiple countries. She has advised graduate students in qualitative research, though specific names are not listed here.