Janette Hughes

Janette Hughes is a Professor and Canada Research Chair (Tier 2) in Technology and Pedagogy at the Mitch and Leslie Frazer Faculty of Education, Ontario Tech University. Her work focuses on transforming literacy practices through digital technologies and maker-oriented pedagogies. She holds a PhD in Curriculum (Language and Literacy) from the University of Western Ontario and has taught courses ranging from undergraduate programs to doctoral research methods.

Education:

• PhD in Curriculum (Language and Literacy), University of Western Ontario, 2006
• MA in Teaching (Curriculum/English), OISE/University of Toronto, 1995
• BEd (Concurrent IS English/History), Queen’s University, 1988
• Bachelor of Arts (Honours English Literature), Queen’s University, 1987

Research Interests: Digital literacies, maker pedagogies, STEAM education, critical making, social media and identity construction, and fostering global competencies through design thinking. Her work emphasizes how digital tools empower learners to critique, create, and drive social change.

Awards & Recognition:

• Ontario Ministry of Research and Innovation’s Early Researcher Award
• Ontario Research Fund—Research Excellence Award
• UOIT Research Excellence Award

Lab & Collaborations: Directs the STEAM-3D Maker Lab, exploring innovative learning spaces and technologies. Engages in collaborative research on topics like virtual professional learning and inclusive curriculum design.