Rate My Professor Joan Rhodes

Rhodes's research specializations encompass instructional strategies and clinical programs for at-risk readers and English learners, the impact of study abroad programs on pre-service and in-service educators, instructional technology integrated with literacy such as digital study skills, media literacy, and social networking, early literacy development, and human trafficking prevention. She has led nine study abroad programs to countries including New Zealand, Hungary, Italy, and Costa Rica, and served as principal investigator for multiple grant-funded projects exceeding $9.7 million in total funding, including U.S. Department of Education Early Reading First grants and a National Professional Development grant. Notable awards and honors include the School of Education Unsung Hero Award in 2024, Professors of Literacy and Teacher Educators International Distinction Award in 2018, Virginia College Literacy Educators Jones-Daly Award for Faculty Involvement in 2018, School of Education Alumni Council Faculty Award for Exemplary Application of Technology in 2012, and School of Education Distinguished Scholar Award in 2007. Key publications feature co-authored works such as Kamat et al. (2025) 'Remote literacy instruction and curriculum for pre-K: Educators’ and parents’ perspectives' in Journal of Childhood Literacy and Societal Issues; Deeney et al. (2024) 'Family Perspectives of University Reading Clinic/Literacy Lab Experiences: What Matters' in Journal of Teacher Education; Laster et al. (2022) 'Literacy clinics during COVID-19: Voices that envision the future' in Literacy Research and Instruction; and Zammit, Rhodes, & Milby (2022) 'International approaches to writing instruction' in The Australian Journal of Language and Literacy. Rhodes contributes to professional organizations through roles such as Chair of the International Innovative Community Group for Literacy Research Association.